Ask The Director
Is it ever too late to start dance?
Never! Dance is about movement, joy and learning - things we can all use a bit of, no matter how old. Whether you are 4, 14, or 40, dance will bring you invaluable gifts. I receive so many calls from adults who loved dance as a child. To them I say, "It's just like riding a bike. The hardest part is making time for the ride, not the ride itself."
Do you do recitals? If so, what are the fees associated with them?
Yes, we do recitals. Peformance is a very important part of dance education and a wonderful way to celebrate your child’s progress and achievements. Our annual recital is a highlight for us, and we do it as professionally as possible. Parents tell us the shows are entertaining and enjoyable, and bring back great memories.
The recital is held at the Charleston Municipal Auditorium in early May and involves one rehearsal and one performance. You will have to purchase a costume for your child, which is often around $70.00; there is one costume per class. We do not charge a recital fee.
We also stage an original ballet each year. This is done in the spring with a full orchestra and is always a huge success. We perform for over 2,000 school kids as well as the local community. Auditions are held for these so that we may cast children for the right parts. Check out our JADCO page to learn more about the shows or call us for more details.
Why choose Dance over another sport?
If you are like so many of the parents I know, you are trying to find the right activities for your child while at the same trying to keep from overscheduling them and to leave time each week for your family. There are so many excellent activities to choose from - dance, soccer, tennis, swimming, piano... but which one?
I would, of course, steer you toward dance. Yet as a dance teacher, my reccomendation carries its bias - as would that of your soccer coach or piano instructor. Nonetheless, I believe from the bottom of my heart that studying dance puts us in touch with ourselves in a way that no other sport can. It adds depth and artistry to our lives, and is it so good for the brain! Blending cerebral and cognitive thinking with muscle memory is a unique combination presented by dance.
I can always pick a dancer out of a crowd, and I bet you can too. They are confident, have great eye contact and are very comfortable in social settings - qualities that help children develop into successful and motivated leaders.
Does it matter where we take lessons?
I’d love to say Yes! Come to our school! The truth, however, is that as long as you find a school where the teachers are knowledgable, properly trained and compassionate, you will be in good hands. Proper technique is critical in developing strong and proficient bodies, while improper training can lead to bad habits and injury. Find a school that cares about your kids and one that has an impressive and professional staff.
How much do lessons cost?
Fees for dance lessons vary widely across the country, and pricey classes can be disenchanting when selecting an activity. We charge an affordable $18.00 per class.
We also have a "Discount Learn to Dance Saturday" program designed to help families who want to explore dance inexpensively for the first time. These classes require no special shoes or dance wear, and cost $42.00 for a month of classes.
We also have an audition-based pre-professional program for our more serious dancers. Fees for this program start at $135.00 per month for unlimited classes. This design encourages students to take as many classes as they feel necessary to achieve their goals.
How do I register for a class or ask more questions?
Call us, email us, visit us on Facebook or browse the rest of the website to learn more - you can even register online. Our class schedule is listed online as well as upcoming events and master classes. I personally answer all of our emails and try my hardest to answer within 24 hours.
All of us at January’s truly love what we do and we hope it shows! Give us a call.
Looking forward to talking to you
~January
