Total Eclipse Dance Studio

Introduction / Overview

For residents across Massachusetts, particularly those in the vibrant community of Needham and the surrounding Greater Boston area, discovering a dance studio that offers both exceptional training and a truly nurturing atmosphere is a real find. Total Eclipse Dance Studio, established by the professional mother-daughter duo, Alicia Santamaria and Gemma Joyce, stands as a testament to this ideal. Rooted in the legacy and spirit of their mentor, Radio City Music Hall dancer and studio owner Paulette Harwood, Total Eclipse Dance Studio is more than just a place to learn steps; it's a vibrant community where a love of dance is instilled, self-confidence flourishes, and artistry is inspired through self-expression. They are committed to creating a welcoming environment where students of all ages can learn, train, and grow, feeling as supported and inspired as the founders themselves. From young aspiring dancers to adults looking for fun fitness classes, Total Eclipse Dance Studio offers a unique blend of high-caliber training and an uplifting environment, making it a cherished local resource for the performing arts in Massachusetts.

Location and Accessibility

Total Eclipse Dance Studio is conveniently located at 1132 Highland Ave, Needham, MA 02494, USA. Highland Avenue is a prominent and easily accessible thoroughfare in Needham, ensuring straightforward navigation for residents not only within Needham itself but also for those traveling from neighboring towns across Massachusetts, such as Wellesley, Dedham, Dover, and Newton. Its position on a well-known road makes the studio simple to locate and reach, whether by car or other means of local transportation. This prime location allows for easy integration of dance and fitness classes into busy daily schedules for parents dropping off children or adult students. The studio's commitment to accessibility extends to its physical address, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience for all who wish to participate in its diverse programs.

Services Offered

• Comprehensive Dance Training: Total Eclipse Dance Studio offers a variety of dance styles for students of all ages, from children to adults. While specific dance styles for children's programs are not fully detailed in the provided information, they generally include foundational styles like Ballet, Jazz, Tap, and Hip Hop, often with options for Lyrical and Contemporary.
• Adult Dance Classes: A significant offering includes dedicated adult dance classes, with specific summer sessions for Adult Tap, Adult Lyrical, and Adult Hip-Hop, catering to ages 18+. These classes are designed to be fun, educational, and enjoyable, welcoming both experienced dancers and newcomers.
• Diverse Adult Fitness Classes: The studio provides a range of unique adult fitness options, including BalletBarre (full-body toning with light ballet movement), DanceBeat (cardio, plyometric, and strength training mixed into a dance-based class), RAQ the Barre (belly dance barre fitness with pop hits and Middle Eastern beats), and Warrior Rhythm (fitness-focused with yoga undertones, incorporating weights and HIIT).
• Pre-registration and Drop-in Options: For adult fitness classes, pre-registration is required, but they also offer free trial classes periodically, encouraging new participants to experience their unique offerings.
• Inspiring Artistry and Self-Expression: A core service is to inspire artistry through self-expression, fostering creativity and individuality in all students.
• Confidence Building: The studio aims to instill a strong sense of self-confidence in students of all ages, recognizing the importance of personal growth alongside dance technique.
• Welcoming and Supportive Environment: They are committed to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where every dancer feels supported and inspired.
• Performance Opportunities: While not explicitly detailed, reputable dance studios often provide opportunities for students to showcase their skills, potentially through recitals or local events (indicated by the ticketing information for performances).

Features / Highlights

• Professional Mother-Daughter Leadership: The studio is founded and run by Alicia Santamaria and her daughter Gemma Joyce, a "professional mother daughter duo." This unique leadership brings a deep personal investment, shared philosophy, and continuity to the studio's operations and instruction.
• Legacy of Dance Excellence: Alicia and Gemma are both students of Radio City Music Hall dancer Paulette Harwood, ensuring that the studio carries on a tradition of high-caliber training and a rich dance heritage. They actively aim for Paulette's "spirit and knowledge to live on."
• Family-Like Atmosphere: The founders believe that "being a part of a dance studio is like being a part of a family," and Total Eclipse Dance Studio is dedicated to keeping that alive, fostering strong bonds among students and staff.
• High-Caliber Training: Despite the welcoming environment, there is a clear emphasis on providing "high caliber training," ensuring students receive expert instruction.
• Focus on Joy and Confidence: The studio aims for each student to "experience joy and high caliber training in an uplifting environment," with a goal for every person to feel "welcome, comfortable, and confident." This holistic approach is a significant highlight.
• Diverse Adult Programming: The extensive and unique adult dance and fitness class offerings (BalletBarre, DanceBeat, RAQ the Barre, Warrior Rhythm, Adult Tap, Lyrical, Hip-Hop) are a strong feature, catering to varied interests beyond traditional dance.
• Continuous Professional Development: The faculty actively engages in continued learning, such as a teacher (Taylor) dancing with and learning from renowned dance educators, indicating a commitment to staying current and bringing the best to their students.
• Celebration of Milestones: Moments like tying the ribbons on a dancer's "FIRST pair of pointe shoes" are celebrated, highlighting the personal touch and encouragement given to students.

Contact Information

Address: 1132 Highland Ave, Needham, MA 02494, USA

Phone: (781) 405-6198

Mobile Phone: +1 781-405-6198

Email: totaleclipsedance@gmail.com

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Massachusetts, particularly those in Needham and the surrounding communities, Total Eclipse Dance Studio represents an outstanding local option for dance and fitness education. Its unique foundation as a professional mother-daughter duo, Alicia Santamaria and Gemma Joyce, ensures a personal, dedicated, and high-quality approach to teaching, rooted in a rich legacy of dance. This studio goes beyond mere instruction; it cultivates a welcoming, family-like atmosphere where a love for dance is nurtured, and individual self-confidence is paramount. What truly sets it apart is its diverse range of offerings, catering to all ages with both comprehensive youth dance programs and an impressive selection of adult dance and innovative fitness classes like BalletBarre and Warrior Rhythm. This variety means that every member of the family, from aspiring young dancers taking their first steps to adults seeking a fun and effective way to stay active, can find something that resonates. Its convenient location on Highland Avenue in Needham makes it easily accessible, fitting seamlessly into busy local lives. By providing an uplifting environment focused on both high-caliber training and the holistic well-being of its students, Total Eclipse Dance Studio stands as an indispensable local resource for those in Massachusetts seeking a place to grow, express themselves, and truly shine.

Total Eclipse Dance Studio

1132 Highland Ave, Needham, MA 02494, USA