Business Details
Your Premier Dance Education Destination in Virginia
Founded with a mission to inspire students to cultivate a passion for dance and life, The Dance has become a cornerstone of dance education in Mechanicsville, VA. Our philosophy centers on the belief that dance education enriches all aspects of life, fostering self-confidence, healthy body image, and essential life skills. Through diverse programs spanning ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary styles, we provide structured training that balances technical excellence with creative expression. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our American Ballet Theatre curriculum, experienced faculty, and state-of-the-art facilities featuring sprung floors and professional sound systems. Under the leadership of industry veterans Dina Sink Golding and Glenda Sink Hale, we combine financial expertise with artistic vision to deliver affordable, high-quality programs that engage both students and families.Our alumni have pursued successful careers at prestigious institutions like Ballet West and Disney, while our competition teams consistently earn national recognition. We prioritize personalized instruction, with class placements based on skill development rather than age alone, ensuring optimal growth for every dancer. From toddler introductions to adult classes, our inclusive environment nurtures artistic potential at every stage. The studio's 5,000-square-foot space includes a retail store for dance essentials and four studios designed for both safety and inspiration. For over two decades, we've built a reputation as a trusted partner in dance education, combining technical rigor with life-enriching values.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Jazz
Hip-Hop
Modern
Pointe
Lyrical
Adult Classes
Competition Program
Pre-Professional Training
Highlights and features
- We follow the American Ballet Theatre curriculum for technical excellence
- Our instructors include industry professionals with Broadway and national tour experience
- We offer 5,000 sq ft facility with sprung floors and professional dance studios
- Our competition teams have earned multiple national awards for excellence
- We provide personalized class placements based on technical skill development
Associations and certifications
- American Ballet Theatre
Services
Ballet Training
Our ballet program combines French, Russian, and Italian techniques with ABT curriculum standards. Students develop proper alignment, classical terminology, and technical proficiency through age-appropriate instruction. Classes emphasize classroom etiquette, group collaboration, and individual skill development while building flexibility, strength, and musicality.
Hip-Hop Classes
High-energy hip-hop instruction focuses on rhythm, athleticism, and self-expression. Students learn both old-school and contemporary styles using clean music selections, with emphasis on individual creativity while mastering foundational hip-hop techniques and movement patterns.
Competition Program
Our competitive dance program offers advanced training with professional feedback at regional competitions. Dancers receive technical coaching, choreography instruction, and performance preparation while developing discipline, teamwork, and stage presence through judged performance experiences.
Adult Dance Classes
Designed for adult learners, these classes combine jazz and tap fundamentals with fitness benefits. Participants enjoy a supportive environment for skill development, physical exercise, and creative expression without performance obligations.
Birthday Parties
Our birthday packages include 45-minute dance sessions followed by party room celebrations. Each event features themed decorations, professional instruction, and all necessary supplies for up to 10 children, with options for additional guests and customized party planning.
People
Dina Sink Golding
Owner / Executive Director
Former banking executive with 20+ years in financial industry, bringing organizational expertise to dance operations. Holds MS in Criminal Justice and Business Administration from VCU. Oversees business strategy and expansion initiatives.
Glenda Sink Hale
Owner / Artistic Director
BFA in Dance Education from VCU, with professional experience working alongside Broadway performers. Developed award-winning competition programs and trained students accepted to top dance conservatories nationwide. Directs curriculum development and staff training.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, lyrical, and contemporary styles with specialized pointe and competition training programs.
Do you have classes for different age groups?
Yes, we provide classes for toddlers starting at age 3 through adult programs, with skill-based placements for optimal development.
Are there performance opportunities?
Students participate in annual spring recitals and optional winter shows, with competition teams receiving professional judging feedback.
What are your tuition payment terms?
Monthly payments are due by the 15th with a 10% discount available for full-year payments made by September 15th.
Do you offer facility rentals?
Yes, our studios accommodate birthday parties, special events, and meetings with rental packages including staff support.
