The Meredith Gravely School of Dance

For generations of families across Virginia, particularly within the historic city of Danville, The Meredith Gravely School of Dance stands as an iconic institution, synonymous with excellence in dance education. With a rich history spanning decades, this beloved dance school has nurtured countless aspiring dancers, instilling not only technical prowess but also a profound love for the art form. From the foundational steps of ballet to the dynamic rhythms of jazz and hip-hop, The Meredith Gravely School of Dance offers a comprehensive curriculum in a supportive and inspiring environment. As one enthusiastic parent aptly puts it, their daughter "loves attending her dance classes at this establishment," highlighting the engaging and positive experience that awaits students of all ages.

The Meredith Gravely School of Dance is centrally located at 415 Main St, Danville, VA 24541, USA. This prominent address in the heart of Danville's vibrant River District makes the studio easily accessible for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas. Being situated on Main Street, the school benefits from high visibility and convenient access, allowing for straightforward drop-offs and pick-ups. The studio's expansion into the River District underscores its commitment to remaining a vital part of Danville's revitalization efforts, making it a convenient and integral part of the local community's artistic landscape. The ease of access contributes significantly to its suitability as a primary destination for dance education in Virginia.

The Meredith Gravely School of Dance offers a diverse and comprehensive array of dance styles, catering to students from early childhood through adulthood. Their curriculum is carefully structured to provide a strong technical foundation while encouraging artistic expression and personal growth.

Services Offered:

• 3-Year-Old Program: A 45-minute class focusing on stretching, basic ballet positions and steps, jumping, skipping, "song and dance" routines, and creative movement, preparing students for ballet study.
• Combination Pre-Ballet & Tap: Classes for ages 4-7, offering fundamental dance movement tailored to younger children's emotional and physical development, including elementary exercises and 15 minutes of tap for rhythm.
• Classical Ballet: Open to students 8 years of age through adult, forming the fundamental core of dance education. Classes include barre, center, adagio, and allegro movements, applying best practices from Cecchetti, Russian, Royal Academy of Dance, and Dance Masters of America syllabi. All students are required to take ballet.
• Tap: Open to students 3rd grade and older (8+ years), focusing on rhythm building, quickness of step, and precision in movement through one hour of tap techniques and routines.
• Jazz: Open to students 2nd grade and older (7+ years), showcasing individual style and originality with energetic moves, fancy footwork, big leaps, and quick turns, requiring a strong ballet background.
• Pointe: Open to students 10 years of age and older with at least two years of classical ballet technique and fundamental control, requiring director/teacher consent for participation.
• Contemporary: Open to students 5th grade and older, a compilation of lyrical, ballet, and modern dance, encouraging integration of mind, body, and spirit and emotional connection to movement.
• Skills Classes (3 levels): Offered for 3rd grade and older, focusing on developing a strong ballet foundation, improving flexibility, core strength, body alignment, turns, leaps, and advanced tricks. Required for all company members.
• The Meredith Gravely Performance Group (Dance Company): For dedicated dancers aged 12 through college, with opportunities for local performances and regional/national competitions.
• Online Registration and Parent Portal: Convenient online system for class registration, updates on schedules, attendance, and tuition.
• Multiple Studio Locations: While primarily focused on Danville, the school has expanded to multiple locations, providing wider access.
• Master Classes and Performances: The studio supports bringing professional dance companies for master classes and concert series, enriching students' exposure to the broader dance world.

Features / Highlights:

• Rich Legacy and History: The school has been a cornerstone of dance education in Danville for over 50 years, initially founded by Meredith Gravely and now directed by her daughter, Anne Gravely Moore. This continuity speaks to deep roots in the community and enduring quality.
• Highly Qualified and Experienced Faculty: Anne Gravely Moore, a 34-year member of Dance Masters of America and a graduate of James Madison University with a Bachelor of Science in Dance, leads a team of dedicated instructors. The faculty's extensive training and commitment to continuous education ensure top-tier instruction.
• Comprehensive Curriculum Based on Established Syllabi: The application of Cecchetti, Russian, Royal Academy of Dance, and Dance Masters of America syllabi in graded classes ensures a rigorous and well-rounded dance education.
• Emphasis on Holistic Development: Beyond technical skills, the studio's mission includes promoting self-awareness, discipline, perseverance, teamwork, inspiration, and a love for the art of dance, fostering well-rounded individuals.
• Performance Opportunities: The Meredith Gravely Performance Group offers dedicated dancers the chance to perform locally and compete regionally and nationally, providing invaluable stage experience.
• Community Engagement: The school actively supports local initiatives, such as The Danville Concert Association, bringing professional dance companies to the area, enriching the local arts scene. Anne Gravely Moore has also received an award for her dedication to Danville and her work in bettering the region via arts, dance, and entrepreneurship.
• Positive Learning Environment: Customer reviews consistently highlight the positive experience, with students loving their classes, indicating a supportive and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Award-Winning Choreography: Anne Gravely Moore's record of choreographing award-winning numbers and her dancers receiving highest score awards at competitions underscore the studio's artistic excellence.
• Dedicated Staff Beyond Instructors: The presence of a long-standing Costume Manager and a Technical Director/Webmaster speaks to a well-rounded and supportive team that contributes to the overall success of the studio and its performances.

Contact Information:

Address: 415 Main St, Danville, VA 24541, USA

Phone: (434) 799-8072

For residents of Virginia, particularly in Danville and its surrounding areas, The Meredith Gravely School of Dance represents an unparalleled choice for dance education. Its profound legacy, comprehensive range of classes spanning all ages and styles, and a faculty deeply committed to both technical excellence and holistic student development make it truly exceptional. The consistent praise from local parents, describing it as "simply the best dance school," reinforces its esteemed reputation within the community. Whether you're looking for an introductory class for a young child, rigorous training for an aspiring performer, or a joyful way to engage with dance as an adult, this studio provides a nurturing and professional environment. By choosing The Meredith Gravely School of Dance, locals are not just enrolling in classes; they are becoming part of a rich tradition of artistic growth, discipline, and community spirit that has shaped generations of dancers in Danville, VA. It is undoubtedly a cornerstone of the arts in our region and an ideal place for anyone passionate about dance.

The Meredith Gravely School of Dance

415 Main St, Danville, VA 24541, USA