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TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH MOVEMENT

Since 1987, Young Dance has encouraged youth in our community to build body and spirit through the art of dance. Our mission is to transform lives through movement. We are an inclusive community where creativity flourishes, encouraging personal and artistic excellence through diverse forms of dance.

CLASS PROGRAMS  | PERFORMING COMPANY 

Register Fall/Spring 2024/25 Session Brochure (PDF)


News

Young Dance 2023–24 Annual Report

We are proud to share our latest impact report!

Young Dance is proud to reflect on a year marked by growth and community impact. In the 2023–24 fiscal year, we expanded our reach, serving over 1,500 individuals of all ages and abilities. Our commitment to transforming lives through movement includes work at our studios and beyond, offering classes and strategic partnerships with schools, libraries, and community organizations.

Young Dance 2024 Annual Report (PDF) Text Only Version of 2024 Annual Report


All Abilities Teacher Training — Open to All Educators!

Join Gretchen Pick, Executive Director of Young Dance, in a training focused on teaching dance to individuals with disabilities.

Sunday, December 8, from noon–2:00 p.m.
Young Dance Studios: 655 Fairview Ave S., St. Paul, MN 55104

This training will introduce the Young Dance practice and philosophy of integrating people with and without disabilities in dance classes. Participants will receive practical information through movement activities and a training manual to use as a resource in their classes. 

The participation fee is a suggested donation – $25 or whatever works for you.

Register for the All Abilities Dancing Teacher Training on December 8
Dance & Photography Starts March 5


Experience the intersection of dance and photography! This class will explore the many shared principles of dance and visual art, like composition, texture, motion, emotion, perspective, repetition, shape, and more. Participants will engage in group photo walks—indoors or outdoors, depending on daylight and weather conditions—to learn photography fundamentals. These sessions will be followed by creating movement scores, allowing participants to apply these newly acquired skills to dance-making. A digital device with photography capabilities is recommended but not required. If possible, a digital camera is preferred instead of a cell phone if the dancer can access one. 

Mini-Session March 5–May 11, plus an extra opportunity to perform in the Spring Performances.

More information on the registration page!


Camille “Cici” Blanchette Memorial Scholarship

Cici Blanchette (1999 to 2019) pursued artistic inquiry through dance, music, film, photography, and writing. She loved international travel, understanding diverse cultures, and advocated for social justice through all her creative expression. 

Created in her memory, the Camille “Cici” Blanchette Memorial Scholarship honors teens who want to explore artistic expression through dance. The scholarship is available to teens to support their participation in any Young Dance program. BIPOC teens and those who have an interest in diverse areas of art are encouraged to apply. 

For more information, visit the link below.

Camille "Cici" Blanchette Memorial Scholarship (PDF)
Young Dance has T-shirts and other merchandise for purchase.

You can order Young Dance merchandise through our online store. Choose from pants, shirts, and sweatshirts in various styles and sizes, all made to order.

Young Dance T-shirts and more!

Directions

Download Directions

Young Dance Values:

  • Young people are artists with something important to say.
  • Social justice is an embedded component of our classes and organization.
  • Every body is capable of creative expression.
  • The creative process is a model for civil discourse.
  • A healthy somatic dance practice is grounded in a developmentally appropriate curriculum.

“We’re always so impressed with EVERYTHING Young Dance does. Thank you for wonderful curriculum, dedicated teachers, and a body-positive approach. We’re so grateful to have this resource in our community!”

-Young Dance parent