Joan Lynn Dance

The Joan Lynn Dance Company (JLDC) has been a cornerstone of the Hamden and Greater New Haven dance community for over three decades. Founded in 1986 by Executive Artistic Director Joan Christensen, JLDC has proudly cultivated a nurturing and inclusive environment that celebrates the transformative power of dance. Over the years, we have grown into a full-service dance studio, offering comprehensive training in a wide range of disciplines for dancers of all ages and aspirations.

From our inception, JLDC has been dedicated to providing high-quality dance education grounded in a rigorous yet supportive curriculum. Our faculty comprises seasoned professionals with a passion for sharing their expertise and fostering the artistic growth of each student. We believe that everyone has the potential to find joy and fulfillment in dance, whether they pursue it recreationally or as a path towards a professional career.

Our Dance Offerings

JLDC offers a diverse and comprehensive dance program, encompassing styles that appeal to a wide range of tastes and interests. Our curriculum includes:

*Ballet: The foundation of classical dance, our ballet program emphasizes proper technique, posture, and artistry. We offer classes for all levels, from beginner to advanced, providing a strong technical base for dancers of all aspirations.

*Pointe: Through our dedicated pointe program, students who meet the necessary strength and technique requirements can begin exploring the graceful and challenging world of pointe work. Our instructors provide individualized attention, ensuring safe and effective progress towards mastery of this prestigious technique.

*Tap: From traditional rhythm to contemporary styles, our tap program emphasizes precision, syncopation, and musicality. Students develop a keen sense of rhythm and learn to express themselves through the vibrant language of tap.

*Jazz: Energetic and dynamic, our jazz program infuses technical training with expressive movement. Students explore a range of jazz styles, from classic Broadway to contemporary fusion, enhancing their versatility and stage presence.

*Lyrical: A blend of ballet and jazz, lyrical dance is characterized by its flowing movements and emotionally expressive qualities. Students develop a deep understanding of musicality and storytelling through this captivating style.

*Modern: Our modern dance program explores a wide range of contemporary techniques, emphasizing improvisation, self-expression, and physical exploration. Students cultivate a strong sense of body awareness and the ability to convey emotion through movement.

*Contemporary: This constantly evolving style fuses elements of ballet, modern, jazz, and other forms. Our contemporary program encourages creative exploration, individual interpretation, and a deep understanding of movement dynamics.

*Hip Hop: JLDC offers a variety of hip hop classes, from beginner to advanced levels, encompassing diverse styles such as street, popping, locking, and breaking. Students develop rhythm, improvisation skills, and a strong sense of community.

*Musical Theatre: Our musical theatre program provides comprehensive training in singing, dancing, and acting, preparing students for the demands of the stage. We offer classes for all ages and levels, culminating in exciting productions throughout the year.

*Acro: Combining the athleticism of acrobatics with the artistry of dance, our acro program develops strength, flexibility, and coordination while introducing students to exciting performance techniques.

Nurturing Growth Through Intensive Programs

JLDC enriches the dance experience through specialized intensive programs aimed at honing specific skills and deepening technical expertise.

Our dance intensives and camps provide focused instruction in areas such as flexibility, stretching, and technique, allowing dancers to make significant progress within a structured and supportive environment.

Our Commitment to the Community

From our foundation, Joan Lynn Dance Company has been dedicated to nurturing the artistic growth of the community and providing opportunities for dancers of all backgrounds and aspirations to thrive. We believe that dance has the power to inspire, connect, and transform lives, and we are committed to maintaining our role as a vibrant hub for dance education and expression in Hamden and the Greater New Haven area.