The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild

For decades, the vibrant community of Jamaica, Queens, has been home to a true gem in the performing arts landscape: The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild. This esteemed institution is more than just a dance school; it's a living legacy, deeply rooted in the artistic traditions of New York City and spearheaded by a figure whose life story is as inspiring as the art form itself. If you're a local in the New York region seeking a place where passion for movement meets professional guidance and a nurturing environment, you've found your destination.

The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild, originally established as the St. Benedict School of Dance in the early 1960s, was founded by the legendary Frances Rhymes. Ms. Rhymes is a retired professional dancer who toured nationally with the renowned Katherine Dunham Dance Company in the 1950s and graced Broadway stages. Her dedication to sharing the joy of movement and the importance of poise and posture has shaped generations of performers. Today, she continues to run the program with her daughter, Terri Rhymes-Lowery, ensuring that her invaluable wisdom and experience are passed on to every student. This enduring commitment from a celebrated artist makes the Guild a truly unique and enriching establishment within New York's performing arts scene.

At The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild, the focus extends beyond mere steps and routines. It's about instilling a sense of self-respect, discipline, and artistic integrity in every participant. As Ms. Rhymes famously tells her students, "I don't look 90. Why? Because I danced. Keep trying to do your best, and you'll go places." This philosophy underscores the Guild's holistic approach to arts education, emphasizing not just technique but also the life lessons that come from dedication and perseverance in the pursuit of artistic excellence.

The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild is conveniently situated at 171-17 110th Ave, Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11433, USA. This location places the Guild right in the heart of Jamaica, Queens, a diverse and accessible borough within New York City. For local residents, the studio's address means easy access, making it a practical choice for regular attendance.

Jamaica, Queens, is well-served by an extensive network of public transportation, making The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild readily accessible from various parts of New York City. The nearest subway lines, including the E, J, and Z trains, connect to Jamaica Center – Parsons/Archer, which is a significant transportation hub. From there, numerous local bus routes operate, making the final leg of the journey to 110th Ave convenient. For those traveling by car, Merrick Boulevard is a major thoroughfare, and street parking or nearby parking options are typically available, though it’s always wise to allow extra time in a bustling New York neighborhood. The Guild's strategic location ensures that aspiring dancers and performers from across Queens and beyond can easily reach this invaluable resource.

The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild offers a focused yet comprehensive range of services tailored to developing well-rounded performers:

• Dance Instruction: Providing fundamental and advanced training in various dance forms, emphasizing technique, rhythm, and artistic expression. While specific styles like ballet, jazz, or hip hop are not explicitly detailed in public information, the emphasis on a "school of dance" and "joy of movement" suggests a diverse curriculum.
• Theater Arts Training: Integrating dramatic elements into the curriculum, likely focusing on stage presence, storytelling through movement, and potentially acting fundamentals.
• Poise and Posture Development: A unique and core offering, directly reflecting Frances Rhymes' personal philosophy and professional background, teaching students how to carry themselves with grace and confidence.
• Youth Programs: Primarily focused on young people, developing their dance abilities and artistic creativity from an early age, helping them to unleash their potential.
• Community Engagement: Operating out of St. Benedict the Moor Parish church hall, the Guild serves as a vital community resource, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural enrichment.

The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild stands out due to several distinctive features and highlights:

• Founding Legacy: The most significant highlight is its direct connection to Frances Rhymes, a celebrated professional dancer with a rich history, including touring with the Katherine Dunham Dance Company and performing on Broadway. This provides an unparalleled level of experience and mentorship.
• Holistic Development: The Guild's philosophy extends beyond dance steps, emphasizing "the joy of movement and the importance of poise and posture." This focus on overall physical and personal development, including self-respect, differentiates it from many other dance studios.
• Community Roots: Operating for decades out of the St. Benedict the Moor Parish church hall, the Guild is deeply embedded in the local Jamaica community, providing accessible and culturally relevant arts education. This long-standing presence signifies a commitment to the neighborhood and its residents.
• Intergenerational Leadership: The fact that Frances Rhymes continues to run the program with her daughter, Terri Rhymes-Lowery, ensures the continuity of its unique philosophy and a multi-generational approach to teaching and nurturing talent.
• Focus on Life Skills: Beyond dance, the instruction aims to teach young people "how to respect themselves and their bodies," summarized by Ms. Rhymes' motto, "Always stand up tall. You do not have to be a model to look like one." This emphasis on character building alongside artistic training is a key differentiator.

For individuals interested in enrolling or learning more about the programs offered at The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild, please use the following contact information:

Address: 171-17 110th Ave, Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11433, USA

Phone: (516) 261-2273

For locals in the New York region, particularly those in Queens and surrounding boroughs, The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild is an exceptional "point of interest" for anyone passionate about dance and performing arts. Its deep roots in the Jamaica community, combined with the unparalleled legacy and wisdom of its founder, Frances Rhymes, make it more than just a dance school; it's a cultural institution.

This Guild is particularly suitable for locals because it provides high-quality artistic instruction within a supportive and community-oriented setting. Parents seeking an enriching and character-building activity for their children will appreciate the emphasis on poise, self-respect, and discipline, alongside dance technique. For aspiring performers, the opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals with real-world Broadway and touring experience is invaluable. The accessible location in Jamaica, Queens, further reinforces its suitability, making regular attendance feasible for families in the bustling New York landscape.

In a city brimming with artistic opportunities, The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild stands out as a beacon of dedicated instruction and cultural heritage. It offers a unique blend of professional training and personal development, ensuring that every student not only masters dance steps but also gains confidence, grace, and a deep appreciation for the performing arts. For any New Yorker looking to embark on an artistic journey or deepen their existing skills, this Guild promises a transformative experience, right here in the heart of Queens.

The Rhymes Lowery Dance Theater Arts Guild

171-17 110th Ave, Merrick Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11433, USA