// Southwest Dance
Southwest Dance is a studio-based program offering regular classes in ballet, tap, jazz, breakdance, hip hop, pre-dance, creative movement, salsa and modern to students ages three to adult. Founded in 1999 by Christine Blunden, Southwest Dance was born out of her realization that the youth of Southwest Detroit had no access to programs that advance the art of dance. She began by teaching 19 students one night a week in ballet, tap and jazz. Today Southwest Dance serves more than 200 students each year. Students also have opportunity to attend regular field trips to professional dance performances at metro Detroit venues.
Southwest Dance is set up on a prerequisite system. Students are placed according to age and skill level. Classes are offered at both the beginner and intermediate levels. The program runs September through June.
Classes are taught at two studio locations in Southwest Detroit:
Ford Resource and Engagement Center at the Mexicantown Mercado
2826 Bagley
Detroit MI 48216
COMPAS (Center of Music and Performing Arts Southwest)
8701 W Vernor
Detroit, MI 48209
Mentorship Component: As teenage students reach a certain level in their dance training, it is our aim to develop some as apprentice teachers. The student will then gain the experience of working closely with a professional adult instructor and have opportunity to act as mentor to the younger program participants. After two to three years as an apprentice, students then start teaching beginning level classes.
