Zeal For Life Dance Company

For families across the North Carolina region, especially those in the bustling community of Matthews, finding a dance studio that balances professional instruction with an engaging and positive atmosphere is a common goal. Zeal For Life Dance Company aims to provide just that, offering a space where young dancers can explore their passion for movement. As one parent enthusiastically shared, "Zeal for Life has been a positive experience for myself and child. My daughter loves Ms. Danielle and the other staff. She comes home showing me a new technique she's learned each week. She's currently participating in the Summer Camp sessions and is looking forward to the next set of dance sessions. I feel like it's an awesome dance studio. Very affordable and professional." This positive feedback highlights the studio's commitment to instruction and student engagement. However, it is also important for prospective families to be aware of all policies and communication practices, as other experiences have shown the critical importance of clarity regarding commitments and fees. This article will provide an overview of Zeal For Life Dance Company, encouraging local users to gather all necessary information to ensure a positive and transparent experience.

Zeal For Life Dance Company (ZFLDC) was born out of the profound passion for dance of its owner, Danielle Terrell, a native Charlottean. Ms. Terrell began her dance journey at the tender age of five and has since accumulated over 29 years of experience, including competitive dance at national dance competitions. Her extensive background also includes significant roles such as head coach for the Charlotte 49ers Gold Dusters for 16 years, a dancer for the WNBA Charlotte Sting, and a member of the UNC-Chapel Hill Dance Team. This wealth of experience and immense knowledge of dance forms the foundation of ZFLDC. Ms. Danielle, along with her talented staff, is dedicated to teaching students the beautiful art form of dance, with instruction encompassing dance education and a strong commitment to fostering confidence and self-worth in each and every dancer. The studio aims to provide a professional and affordable environment where students can learn and grow.

Zeal For Life Dance Company operates from two locations, making it accessible to a broader range of North Carolina families. The address provided, 11014 Monroe Road, is one location in Matthews, NC 28105, USA. Additionally, ZFLDC also has a presence at 2925 E. WT Harris Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28213 (specifically in the Rocky River Shopping Center). These locations strategically serve communities in Matthews, Charlotte, and surrounding areas in Mecklenburg County, providing convenient access for many local residents.

The dual-location approach enhances accessibility, allowing families to choose the studio that is most convenient for their commute. Ample parking is typically available at commercial centers like these, facilitating easy drop-offs and pick-ups for parents. The studio's commitment to being "very affordable and professional" also contributes to its accessibility, aiming to make quality dance education within reach for diverse families. While no specific details on viewing areas or parent amenities were provided, a well-run studio typically strives to create a comfortable environment for waiting parents. Prospective families are encouraged to inquire about specific amenities and observation policies when they contact the studio.

Services Offered:

• Recreational Dance Classes: Offering a diverse range of styles for students aged 3 and up, designed for enjoyment and skill development without the commitment of competition.
• Competition Program: An intensive program for dancers interested in competitive dance, requiring a mandatory audition process (Competition Intensive).
• Summer Camps: Engaging multi-day sessions providing immersive dance experiences during school breaks, often themed.
• Private Sessions: Personalized instruction for students seeking individualized attention and accelerated progress.
• Diverse Dance Specialties, including:
  • Ballet (Beginner Ballet for ages 3-5, Ballet 1 for ages 6+ focusing on terminology, posture, and barre skills)
  • Jazz Dance (emphasizing solid technical base, expressive movements)
  • Hip Hop (learning choreographed movements and improvisation)
  • Tap Dance (focusing on rapid heel-toe moves, music, and rhythm fundamentals)
  • Modern Dance (highly expressive, abstract movements)
• Sibling Discount: A financial incentive for families with multiple children enrolled.
• Refer-A-Friend Discount: Encouraging community growth through referrals.
• 50% off Boys Tuition: An initiative to encourage male participation in dance.
• Performance Opportunities: Including annual recitals (though families are urged to clarify all related terms and conditions).

Features / Highlights:

• Experienced and Passionate Owner/Instructors: Owner Danielle Terrell brings extensive experience (over 29 years, including competitive dance and coaching at collegiate and professional levels) and a deep love for dance. Her talented staff is committed to dance education and fostering confidence and self-worth in students.
• Focus on Technique and Skill Development: Students consistently learn new techniques each week, indicating a strong emphasis on foundational dance education across various styles.
• Affordable Pricing: One parent explicitly highlighted the studio as "Very affordable," which is a significant factor for many families seeking quality dance instruction without prohibitive costs.
• Professional Approach: The studio is described as "professional" in its instruction and overall operation.
• Positive Child Experience: Many children, like the daughter who loves Ms. Danielle and the staff, genuinely enjoy their time at the studio, indicating engaging classes and a supportive environment for students.
• Summer Camp Engagement: The positive experience with summer camps, leading to anticipation for future sessions, suggests that these programs are well-received and keep children interested in dance.

Contact Information:

Address: 11014 Monroe Road, 2925 E. WT Harris Blvd, Matthews, NC 28105, USA

Phone: (704) 999-2335

For locals in North Carolina, particularly those in the Matthews and Charlotte areas, Zeal For Life Dance Company offers an appealing option for dance education due to its commitment to affordability and professional instruction. The positive experiences shared by some parents highlight the studio's strengths: "Zeal for Life has been a positive experience for myself and child. My daughter loves Ms. Danielle and the other staff. She comes home showing me a new technique she's learned each week." This indicates effective teaching and a nurturing environment for students. The recognition of the studio as "Very affordable and professional" is also a significant draw for local families looking for quality dance training that fits their budget. The enthusiastic participation in summer camps further suggests that the programs are engaging and well-received by children.

However, it is crucial for prospective local users to thoroughly review and understand all of Zeal For Life Dance Company's policies regarding tuition, recital fees, participation, and withdrawal. While the studio strives for professionalism, one review highlighted a very concerning experience regarding recital participation and refunds: "Regretfully, I had an unfortunate experience... my child was denied her opportunity to participate in the end-of-year recital... unless I agreed to re-register for another year. Not allowing her to participate and refusing to refund the recital fee was a breach of contract. Shameful!" This review also described issues with costume quality and customer service. Therefore, while Zeal For Life Dance Company offers valuable dance opportunities, it is highly advisable for local families to engage in clear and direct communication with the studio management, clarify all financial and participation terms in writing before enrollment, and ensure they fully comprehend all policies to avoid potential misunderstandings and ensure a positive overall experience for their child.

Zeal For Life Dance Company

11014 Monroe Road, 2925 E. WT Harris Blvd, Matthews, NC 28105, USA