The VIVA School of Dance

The VIVA School of Dance, located in Washington, D.C., is a truly distinctive and impactful institution in the realm of dance education. Far more than a typical dance studio, VIVA is a haven designed to nurture "naturally gifted students to fearlessly nurture their talents in community with others who see their limitless potential." While offering diverse dance styles for adults, its core mission revolves around centering young dancers of color, ages 6-18, within a progressive model that merges world-class training with robust leadership development. For locals in the District of Columbia seeking not just dance instruction but a transformative educational experience, The VIVA School stands out as a beacon of excellence and community.

Established in 2017, The VIVA School of Dance emerged from a direct collaboration with local students who voiced a need for dedicated space and opportunities for professional dance training. Co-founded by artistic director Chandini Darby and executive director Kelli Quinn, VIVA is committed to breaking down longstanding barriers in dance education by providing access to high-level training, often through full-merit scholarships. The philosophy is "culturally conscious," rejecting dominant norms and embracing students' unique identities. As highlighted by reviews, VIVA is recognized as a "Very professional dance studio!" and a "Great Dance Space," underlining its dedication to providing a top-tier environment for all its participants. This singular focus on cultivating the "creative leaders of tomorrow" through dance makes The VIVA School a vital and dynamic part of D.C.'s cultural landscape.

The VIVA School of Dance is conveniently situated at 1923 Vermont Ave NW Suite T002, Washington, DC 20001, USA. This location places the studio in a central and accessible area of Northwest Washington, D.C., making it a highly convenient destination for residents across the District. Vermont Avenue NW is a well-known thoroughfare, ensuring straightforward navigation for students and parents.

Being in Northwest D.C., The VIVA School is easily reachable from various neighborhoods within the city. This area benefits from Washington, D.C.'s extensive public transportation network, including multiple Metro bus routes and proximity to several Metro rail stations, which significantly enhances accessibility for those who rely on public transit. While specific parking details for Suite T002 might require direct inquiry with the school, commercial areas in D.C. typically offer a mix of street parking (metered or zoned) and commercial parking garages. The accessible location allows for less time spent on commuting and more time dedicated to the rigorous and rewarding dance programs offered at The VIVA School. This strategic placement ensures that a broad segment of the D.C. community can benefit from VIVA's unique and impactful approach to dance education.

• Youth Pre-Professional Program: This integrated artistic and educational curriculum for students in grades 3-12 offers intense dance study, dance wellness education, academic programming, leadership development, and college mentorship. Admission is by audition only, with all accepted students training on full-merit scholarship.
• Youth Pre-Training Program: For students aged 6-7, this program introduces dance fundamentals, body awareness, curiosity, and confidence, preparing them for potential entry into the Pre-Professional Program. Students take classes one hour per week during the school year and participate in a two-week summer camp.
• Diploma Program: For select students in grades 7-12, this secondary education program integrates intensive dance training (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM, plus evenings and weekends) with academic coursework through an additional scholarship to Laurel Springs School (an accredited online private school).
• Diverse Youth Dance Styles: The comprehensive youth curriculum includes ballet, modern dance, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, and African dance, along with a summer intensive.
• Adult Ballroom & Latin Dance Classes: Offering classes for all levels, from "Beginner's Ballroom" (Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango) to "Latin Fever for Beginners" (Cha-Cha, Rumba, Salsa), and intermediate/advanced options. Emphasizes passion, grace, and fun.
• Adult Hip Hop Dance Classes: Catering to all levels, from "Hip-Hop Fundamentals" to "Intermediate Grooves," "Advanced Techniques," and specialized "Breaking and Popping." Focuses on full-body workouts, creative expression, and stress relief.
• Private Lessons: Available for both youth (as part of specialized programs or supplementary to group classes) and adults (tailored to individual needs and goals in Ballroom, Latin, or Hip Hop).
• Performance Opportunities: Students in youth programs participate in numerous solo and group performances annually, and adult classes may also offer opportunities to perform at studio events and showcases.
• Comprehensive Wellness Support: Youth programs include weekly Pilates classes and access to full-time dance physical therapists on-site, along with education on functional anatomy and performance enhancement.
• College and Career Mentorship: A significant component of the youth program, providing guidance on postsecondary options and connecting students with professionals who reflect their backgrounds.

• Unique Mission: The VIVA School's singular mission is to "advance the position of young dancers of color" by providing world-class training through "culturally conscious approaches" that embrace students' identities.
• Full-Merit Scholarships for Youth: A groundbreaking feature, all accepted students in the Pre-Professional Program receive full-merit scholarships, eliminating financial barriers to excellence in dance education.
• Holistic Youth Development: Beyond dance technique, the youth programs integrate academic support, leadership development, and college mentorship, aiming to cultivate well-rounded "creative leaders."
• Experienced and Diverse Faculty: The school intentionally hires faculty of color who mirror the communities they serve, bringing years of knowledge and passion to their instruction.
• Individualized Student Programs: Unlike many schools that group by age, VIVA customizes each student's program as they progress, ensuring personalized attention and tailored growth.
• High Student Retention Rate: An impressive 85-90% retention rate for such an intensive program speaks to the quality of instruction and supportive environment.
• Strong College Acceptance Rate: 100% of VIVA students are accepted into college, including esteemed programs in major cities, showcasing the success of their holistic approach.
• Emphasis on Health and Wellness: On-site physical therapists and Pilates classes demonstrate a strong commitment to dancers' physical well-being and injury prevention.
• Inclusive Adult Offerings: While focusing on youth, VIVA also provides a welcoming and diverse range of classes for adults in Ballroom, Latin, and Hip Hop, catering to broader community needs.
• Community and Advocacy: The name "VIVA" (meaning life, or live) reflects the school's rallying cry for student talent and its role in advocating for and cheering on its community.

Address: 1923 Vermont Ave NW Suite T002, Washington, DC 20001, USA

Phone: (202) 506-7252

Mobile Phone: +1 202-506-7252

For residents of Washington, D.C., The VIVA School of Dance represents an exceptional and deeply suitable choice for dance education, particularly for families seeking a nurturing and empowering environment for young dancers. Its unique mission to center and uplift young dancers of color, combined with a commitment to full-merit scholarships for its pre-professional program, addresses critical needs within the local community, making world-class training accessible right here in D.C.

Beyond technical dance mastery, VIVA's holistic approach to youth development—integrating academics, leadership skills, and college mentorship—ensures that students are prepared for success both on and off the stage. This makes it an invaluable resource for D.C. parents who prioritize comprehensive personal growth alongside artistic training. The presence of experienced, culturally conscious faculty who reflect the student body further strengthens the connection and understanding within the learning environment.

For adults in D.C., The VIVA School also offers dynamic and engaging Ballroom, Latin, and Hip Hop classes, providing excellent opportunities for fitness, social connection, and creative expression. The "Very professional dance studio!" and "Great Dance Space" reviews affirm the high-quality facilities and welcoming atmosphere available to all. Choosing The VIVA School of Dance means investing in a local institution that is not only a leader in dance education but also a powerful force for community building, equity, and the cultivation of future leaders in the arts and beyond, all conveniently located in the heart of Washington, D.C.

The VIVA School of Dance

1923 Vermont Ave NW Suite T002, Washington, DC 20001, USA