Dance is where Mind-Builders Creative Arts Center began—and it remains at the heart of who we are.
From students taking their first creative steps at 3.5 years old to those auditioning for specialized high school or professional careers the Dance Department offers instruction grounded in technique, tradition, and purpose. Here, students learn choreography and performance skills that develop focus and confidence that extend far beyond the studio.
Ages: 3.5–Adult (Summer classes begin at age 4)
Levels:
Entry Level (ages 3.5 – 6): Creative Movement, Mini Movers, Fundamentals
Beginner (ages 7 – 11): Pre, Level A, Teen
Intermediate/Advanced (ages 12 – 18+): Levels B, C, D, Audition Prep
Sessions: Summer, Fall-Spring
WHAT WE OFFER
The Dance Department provides structured, sequential training led by professional artists in the following styles.
| Acro | Tumbling and dance skill integration. |
| Ballet | Technique, balance and artistry. |
| Creative Movement | Early movement and coordination development. |
| Dance to Bond | Movement-based bonding experience for parent-child. |
| Hip-Hop | Urban movement with rhythm and edge. |
| Modern Dance | Expressive modern technique and movement dynamics. |
| Tap | Precision footwork and rhythmic training. |
| West African Dance | Traditional rhythms, movement and live percussion. |
Offerings vary by session through classes, intensives and camps.
Performance Opportunities
Recitals • Special events
Mind-Builders is a safe haven for my daughter...[Her] progression and growth have risen constantly because of Mind-Builders guidance. —Andrew Y., Parent
DANCE MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM (Ages 10 – 18)
The Dance Merit Scholarship Program supports students pursuing advanced, performance-focused training.
This audition-based program includes:
- Free mandatory modern and/or ballet training
- At least one elective in Tap, Jumps/Leaps/Turns, Modern, West African or Hip-Hop at discounted rates.
- Repertory development with faculty and guest choreographers
- Participation in master classes, field trips, professional learning and community service
Auditions are held each June and September for the following Fall-Spring session.
Pre-Professional Workshop and Dance Ensemble
Dance Merit students invited to the Pre-Professional Workshop receive additional intensive training with actively performing professionals. Selected students also perform with the Dance Ensemble. The Dance Ensemble focuses on repertory development with faculty and guest choreographers. In addition, the Dance Ensemble is featured in annual community events, festivals, and celebrations throughout the city.
WHO DANCE AT MIND-BUILDERS IS FOR
Mind-Builders Dance serves:
- Young children discovering movement
- Students building technical foundations
- Dancers pursuing advanced or pre-professional training
- Students preparing for arts high schools or auditions
- Adults seeking technical and invigorating instruction
Placement is based on age, experience, and faculty recommendations. Beginners and experienced dancers are welcome.
I aim to help artists think and feel empowered to develop skills in the arts—through artistic expression, personal growth and problem-solving. —Noelani Love, Faculty
Mind-Builders gives everyone a chance to participate in something meaningful. That’s what makes it so special. —Sabine D., Parent
OUR ROOTS IN DANCE
Mind-Builders was founded in dance. Dance is not simply one department among many—it is the origin of the institution.
Since 1978, Mind-Builders has expanded access to high-quality dance education in the Bronx, making rigorous training available to children, teens and adults.
The Dance Department continues this legacy by:
- Providing affordable, high-level instruction
- Employing actively performing professional artists
- Honoring cultural dance traditions
- Preparing students for performance and advanced study
Dance at Mind-Builders reflects our mission: expanding access to excellence in the arts.
Alumni include Omarion Burke, Kalima Walker and Mark Bloomfield, among others.
READY TO BEGIN?
Whether your child is exploring dance for the first time or preparing for advanced opportunities, Mind-Builders offers a clear and purposeful path forward.
