Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Education for All Ages
Founded in 1974, Nina's School of Dance has dedicated over four decades to cultivating dance artistry and technical excellence. Our founder, Nina, began her dance journey at age 3 under the mentorship of Olive Godwin, later completing advanced training at the Dance Educators of America and affiliating with New York University. With locations in Raleigh and Durham, North Carolina, we've nurtured thousands of students through diverse disciplines including jazz, ballet, acrobatics, and contemporary. Our commitment extends beyond technique to character development, emphasizing integrity, dedication, and community service through initiatives like Multiple Choices for the Children, which supports Duke Children's Hospital.Recognized for producing award-winning choreography and serving as mentors to the Miss North Carolina Scholarship Pageant, we combine rigorous training with values-driven education. Our instructors, including university-affiliated faculty, maintain a legacy of excellence while fostering individual growth. The Company Dancers program, established in 1987, exemplifies our philosophy of dance as a holistic art form that builds confidence and citizenship. Through annual performances like the Jazz Show and community festivals, we connect artistic expression with social responsibility. This enduring mission reflects Nina's belief that dance education should inspire personal growth and gratitude for life's opportunities.
Services
Jazz Dance
Tap Dance
Ballet
Acrobatics
Lyrical Dance
Modern Dance
Contemporary Dance
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- 44 years of dance education excellence since 1974
- Community-focused programs supporting Duke Children's Hospital
- University-affiliated instructors with professional performance experience
- Award-winning Company Dancers program since 1987
- Founder's personal mentorship from Dance Educators of America
What people say
Award-winning instructors
Community-focused programs
Excellent technique development
Supportive environment
University affiliations
Services
Jazz Dance
Jazz dance instruction combines isolated movements with proper technique, emphasizing stamina and strength. Classes integrate upbeat music while building foundational skills from ballet and tap. Students develop musicality through rhythm patterns and choreography suitable for all experience levels.
Ballet
Ballet classes focus on alignment, terminology, and classical movement foundations. Younger students build technical proficiency through structured exercises, while advanced learners refine their artistry. This discipline serves as the technical base for multiple dance genres.
Acrobatics
Acrobatics instruction develops flexibility, strength, and control through tumbling techniques. Classes safely progress from basic skills to advanced aerial movements, emphasizing proper body mechanics and injury prevention for dancers of all ages.
Private Lessons
Personalized dance instruction with qualified faculty members. Tailored sessions address individual goals, whether improving technique, preparing for performances, or developing choreography. Available for all dance styles and skill levels.
Company Dancers
Advanced training program for serious students since 1987. Combines technical mastery with performance experience and community service. Participants develop as 'total dancers' through rigorous training in clean technique, body control, and artistic expression.
People
Nina
Founder & Director
Established the school in 1974 after training with Dance Educators of America. Teaches at Elon and Duke Universities. Created Multiple Choices for the Children charity benefiting Duke Children's Hospital.
Tommi
Program Coordinator
Nina's sister who initiated the Multiple Choices charity. Oversees community outreach programs and coordinates fundraising efforts for Duke Children's Hospital through dance events.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach jazz, tap, ballet, acrobatics, lyrical, modern, contemporary, and offer private lessons for all styles.
Are there classes for different age groups?
Yes, we provide instruction for children starting at age 3 through adult learners at all skill levels.
How does the scheduling work for group classes?
Parents provide preferred days and times, and we create schedules based on family availability to accommodate busy households.
What community involvement programs exist?
Our Multiple Choices for the Children program raises funds for Duke Children's Hospital through annual performances and events.
Can students join the Company Dancers program?
The Company Dancers program accepts dedicated students through audition, focusing on advanced training and community service since 1987.
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