In most dance studios, it is common to see young dancers in pink attire carrying bags adorned with glitz and ribbon coming in and out of the studio, but at MoveNation Dance Academy, you often see adults carrying bulky dance bags to the studio for their own dance classes.
Have you ever wondered what happens to those dance students that you see on stage? Most of us realize that the chances of becoming a professional dancer requires significant dedication and effort and that most will not become professional dancers. But does that mean that those who don’t pursue dance as a career just stop dancing and find something else that feeds that emotional/physiological/creative outlet that dance provides? —No, they likely try to serve that missing part of their life with other things, but nothing will be the same and they will still miss dance.
We are not saying this to discourage dance classes, rather we are simply emphasizing the powerful impact dance has on one’s body, mind and soul. It is an amazing thing that you can now find adult classes popping up in urban areas all over the country. Now we don’t have to worry about whether or not our children will be disappointed by having to choose a career outside of dance if they never make it to professional level because there is growing support for adult dance programs that they can continue to express themselves in such a positive avenue for the rest of their lives within their local adult dance community.
“That was one of my reasons for opening the studio,” Director/Owner Jennifer San Miguel said about the adult classes at her studio. “I wanted to create a space for adults who danced as children, or who are looking for a new way to exercise, to come together and dance.”
Not only does MoveNation Dance Academy (MNDA) offer classes, many of their adult students enjoy performing in the Annual Recitals. They conquer battles of self doubt and anxiety and they find comradery, joy, and a confident power within them that inspires success in other realms of their lives.
While there are many dance styles offered at MoveNation, two classes unique to MNDA are worth checking out.
1) Dance 4 Life was developed to be the entry level dance class for people who need a slow transition into movement and exercise. This class accommodates both adults who have never danced before or who used to dance but need to rebuild their dancer body before stepping into a full fledged dance class. This class incorporates components of meditation, stretching and strengthening, somatic movement, dance steps and a bit of cardio to get anyone ready to be confident and avoid injury in a full on dance class.
2) Vibe is an upbeat choreography-based class. There is no technique or experience necessary. Come to class ready for a workout, self discovery, and to meet some of the most positive people in town.
“We have a few instructors who rotate through, and they each have their own style,” San Miguel said. “One week, you’ll have a hip-hop vibe, the next may be sultry jazz, and the next cheer dance vibe! But no matter what, you will leave feeling confident. These instructors know how to create a fun class.”
Adult Technique classes in tap, jazz, ballet, pointe, contemporary, etc are even offered in all skill levels, so adults can tailor their dance experience. Special classes and events offer even more variety, so there really is a class for just about everyone.
Adult dancers at MoveNation see a social benefit to adult dance classes, as well as physical benefits.
“I started here as a dancer because it was something I loved growing up,” dancer and Assistant Director Bethany Meyferth said. “I needed a way to move my body, and I was looking to connect with others. Making friends post-college is hard, so it’s nice to meet people who you already have something in common with…like dancing!”
Meyferth says the community at MNDA has helped her through big life changes, such as the loss of her dad, as well as the births of her babies.
“Through everything life throws at me, the studio and the people have become a big support system for me,” Meyferth said.
MNDA adult classes are offered as a drop-in or as a regular recurring student. They are taking new students every day and it is easy to inquire or register online. www.MoveNationDanceAcademy.com