Classes start Jan 2nd!
For more info call 469-742-0383
Save the Date - Spring Recital June 1-3!
The exquisite grace of ballet.
The powerful expression of jazz.
The perfect precision of tap.
The unstoppable attitude of hip-hop.
The never-ending passion of lyrical.
Dancers that embody grace, expression, precision, attitude and passion
train at
Taylor Dance Center.
We invite you to find out more about our studio and how we train our students to become beautiful, well-rounded dancers. Explore our website.
Visit our studio for a tour. Witness one of our performances.
And experience Taylor Dance Center for yourself.
Do you DREAM
about your little girl in a beautiful tutu and pink ballet slippers? Have you been wanting to start your child in dance but have some questions? We can help answer some of your questions to see whether dance is right for you!
LEARN MORE...
In April 2011, Taylor Dance embarked on a new adventure. After 10 years of services the Mckinney area, it was time to make a change. And not a little one!
Latest News
Members of the Taylor Dance Competitive Company participated and performed in the PULSE DANCE CONVENTION held November 5-6 at the Hyatt Regency in Dallas.
Who we are
Taylor Dance Center was founded in 2001 with one basic goal in mind - to develop disciplined dancers that love dance and appreciate music & movement while respecting themselves and others. We want our dancers to be well-rounded kids that grow into well-rounded responsible adults.
We take pride in our strong technical instruction that focuses on quality over quantity. We know our kids - inside and outside the studio. Our studio is a family and many of our teachers are our former students who have come back home to help others explore their love of dance. We love what we do, and we love sharing it with others.
Our Staff
The heart of a dance studio is its teachers. And we have some of the best teachers around. Click on the names to learn more about the heart and soul of Taylor Dance Center.
Suzan Taylor - Owner & Creative Director
Destine' Grobe (Ms. Dee)
Katie Taylor
Amber Thornton
Emilie Rupp
Chelsea Wells
Susan Glenn
Stephanie Grubb
NEW Studio Location
5801 Virginia Parkway
Suite #100
McKinney, TX 75070
469-742-0383
info_taylordancecenter.com
Connect with us!
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Our Specialties
The exquisite grace of Ballet
Ballet is the foundation of all dance. It is characterized by grace, precision of movement and flexibility. In TDC ballet classes, students learn proper body alignment, proper turn-out, and technique.
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The powerful expression of Jazz
Jazz incorporates strong conditioning, high kicks, and a variety of leaps, turns and movement combinations. It is a smooth modern style often used in Broadway shows and stage performances. The movements are big and expressive.
The never-ending passion of Lyrical
Lyrical fuses the best of ballet and jazz into a powerful and expressive dance form. Dancers interpret music and express deep emotions through this technical and beautiful style.
The perfect precision of Tap
Tap uses a dancers feet as percussion instruments creating an energetic, rhythmic dance performance. It teaches dancers precise timing, rhythm and control.
The unstoppable attitude of Hip Hop
Hip Hop originated in the streets of NY and LA and is a funky dance style. TDC hip-hop promotes positivity and encourages dancers to try everything from breaking to locking to popping to krumping. This style is often featured in pop concerts and music videos.
Schedule & Class Levels
Age Levels
Two y/o: Age 2 Level D: Ages 9-10
Intro I: Age 3 Level E: Ages 10-11
Intro II: Age 4 Level F: Ages 11-12
Level K: Age 5 Jr: Ages 11-15
Level A: Age 6 Int: Approval required
Level B: Age 7 Sr: Approval required
Level C: Age 8
Skill Level
Each age level has 3 levels - I, II and III.
Level I - Beginner
Level II - Intermediate level with some experience
Level III - Experienced dancer - approval required.
Fall Schedule 2012 - final.pdf
2011-2012 Fees
Class Options Per Month
Two year old classes: $45
1 class 45 min: $55
1 class 60 min: $65
2 classes: $95
3 classes: $120
Additional classes: $20
Pay for your full year upfront and Save 10%! Pay for the full Semester and Save 5%! Payment must be made in full by September 15th to qualify for discount.
Tuition is based on a semester system we have broken the semester tuition into monthly payments for the convenience of our clientele. For this reason, there is no adjustment made for short or long months. For example, one 60 minute class tuition fee is $275 broken into monthly payments of $65 per month. You can pay the full amount at the beginning of the year or semester for a discounted rate.
Each semester is 5 months long - Fall/Winter Semester runs August through December. Spring Semester runs January through May. Summer classes are available June - July.
Please note prices are subject to change.
Family Tuition Discount
There is a family discount of $6 per month for additional enrolled family members.
Private Lessons: Private lessons should be scheduled through the front desk. The rate is $50.00/hour. They may be scheduled in ½ hour or full hour increments. Please note that payment is expected at the time of service.
Rules & Regulations 2011-2012
Tuition: Tuition is due at the first of each month. Tuition is due regardless of holidays or absences. A $10 late fee will be assessed at midnight on the 10th of the month in which payment has not been received. Statements will not be sent until an account is past due. Tuition is based on a semester system, and is divided into monthly payments for your convenience. For this reason, no adjustment is made for short or long months. A $6/month family discount is available for each additional family member. New this year: Tuition and recital fees may be paid in full at the beginning of the year/semester for a discount.
Full year and semester tuition must be paid within one month of the start of the semester to qualify. Payment for the full year receives a 10% discount. A full semester receives a 5% discount. Tuition and recital fees are non-refundable.
Returned Checks: All returned checks receive a $30 charge to cover bank fees and processing.
Registration fee: An annual non-refundable registration fee of $30 is required from each dancer at the beginning of their dance year. A $10 family discount is available for each additional family member. In January the fee drops to $20, with additional family members paying $10. Returning students registration fee is $25; the family discount still applies.
Recital fee: An annual recital fee of $55/dancer is due on March 1st. Each dancer performing in the spring show must pay this non-refundable fee. Additional family members are $45 each. This fee covers auditorium rental, sound and light technicians, programs, scenery, security, janitors, guest artistsan endless list of expenses!
Recital Costumes: Recital costumes are ordered over the Holiday break. Costumes must be paid for by the studio in advance, and once ordered can not be canceled or returned. Costumes usually range in price from $45 - $65 depending on the style selected and size of the dancer. Sizes are selected based upon measurements taken during class in November. Two fingers of growing room is allowed for all growing children. A costume deposit of $35 is required for each performing class a dancer will participate in by November 1st. The balance of the costume is due when classes resume in January. Costume sizes are selected from measurement charts specific to each costume company. Recital costumes are not custom, they are sized to fit the average person of that girth. We usually error on the large side, as costumes are easier to take up than to let out. We make every effort to give each dancer the best fit possible with standard size costumes, but most dancers should expect to need some alterations. Any costumes not picked up by the start of the following fall semester become property of Taylor Dance Center.
Holiday Performance: Each year we have a holiday performance in early December. Costumes are basic and usually cost $15-30 each. Holiday costume money is collected in November along with spring recital costume deposits. The holiday performance fee is $55 per dancer with the same $10 family discount. This fee is to help to cover the many expenses related to having a performance such as those listed under the recital fee section earlier.
Absences and make-ups: The best way for your dancer to reach their potential is with regular attendance at the most appropriate class level. We understand that this is not always possible. Make-up classes are available upon request and should be scheduled with the front desk. Any dancer who misses two consecutive classes should be contacted by the studio office. Make-ups are discouraged during the final months before a performance.
Contacting your instructor: Classes are scheduled back-to-back. In an effort to run as close to schedule as possible, instructors will not be able to visit with parents or students between classes. All of our instructors will be happy to speak with you outside of class. Please visit the reception area and leave them a message to call you along with how late you receive calls in the evening.
Placement: Students will be placed in classes which are most appropriate for their age and ability. It is important that students do not advance too rapidly, missing important training along the way. Placement will be decided by class instructors.
Cancellations: Taylor Dance Center reserves the right to cancel or reschedule any class which does not have sufficient enrollment.
Holidays and Closings: Taylor Dance Center will close for
Labor Day, Sept. 5;
Thanksgiving, Nov. 21-26;
Christmas and New Year, Dec. 19 - 31;
Spring Break, March 12 - 17; and
Memorial Day, May 28.
In the event of bad weather, call the studio to check for closings. Missed classes due to inclement weather may be made up as covered above under absences.
Drop Off/Pick Up: Students should be dropped off and picked back up within ten minutes of their scheduled class time. We are not staffed to supervise children for extended periods of time outside of the classroom. If you have an emergency or get caught in traffic, please call the studio so we can let your dancer know where you are.
Withdrawals: Tuition payment is expected until the studio is officially notified that a student has withdrawn by the parent/guardian.
Attire: Proper dance attire is important so that our instructors can properly train their students, and is an important part of the discipline instilled in a young dancer. Proper attire and shoes are required for each class. Hair should be pulled back out of your face for all classes. Cover ups should be worn whenever not in the studio.
Introductory students: Solid color leotard and tights. No attached skirts. Hair pulled out of face. Pink leather ballet shoes and black tap shoes with tap ties. Tap shoes should be brought into class in bags labeled with names.
Ballet/Pointe: Girls: Black leotard and pink tights for all lower levels. Advanced dancers may wear any solid color leotard and pink or black convertible tights. Fitted knit warmers are acceptable. No skirts. Hair should be secured tightly in a bun or similar fashion, no pony tails. Pink ballet shoes. Split soles are preferred. Canvas shoes may be worn in class, but leather is required for performances. Pointe shoes are selected on an individual basis with instructor approval. Boys: Black tights or fitted sweat pants, plain white T-shirt, black or white ballet shoes, and a dance belt.
Jazz/Tap/Lyrical: Fitted dance clothing, jazz pants and bike shorts are acceptable, also fitted camisole tops. Be sure that clothing is properly sized. Pants which are too large can be unsafe. Hair should be secured such that it does not hit your face when turning. Shoes: Tap Capezio CG09 is preferred for older dancers; Jazz - Black leather or canvas shoes are acceptable, either laceable or the pull on gore boot; Lyrical - Same as jazz for class, but will probably need the tan gore boot for performances or foot thongs depending on costumes.
Hip Hop: Comfortable clothing. Remember that hip hop usually involves floor work, so long pants should be worn to help comfort your knees and to prevent skin rubbing on the floor. Jazz or clean tennis shoes are acceptable, but shoes should not leave scuff marks or debris (such as mud or dirt).
Personal Property: Be sure to label your belongings, and do not bring toys, purses, cell phones or any other item which you do not want to lose. Shoe bags/backpacks may be brought in the classroom and placed in the designated area. Taylor Dance Center is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. Unlabeled items we find will be placed in Lost and Found. They will be stored until it becomes full, then they will be given to Goodwill. Remember, if your lost item is labeled it will be much easier for us to return it to you! Cell phones should be turned off or silent during class.
Pictures/Videos/Costumes: Any pictures, costumes, tights or videos that have not been picked up by the beginning of the following fall semester become property of Taylor Dance Center.
Current events: We want you and your dancer to stay informed so that you may both have an awesome experience. Expect periodic newsletters to be emailed to you at the address listed on your registration form.
Observation windows: We are happy for you to watch as your dancer becomes the best that they can be. Please be aware that if you watch your dancer every class you may not notice their improvement as well as if you visit periodically.
Siblings: We understand the need to bring younger siblings to the studio, please supervise them so that classes are not interrupted and property is not damaged. We also would like to keep a pleasant lobby atmosphere. Children who are disruptive or destructive will be asked to sit quietly, or may be asked to leave.
Private Lessons: Private lessons should be scheduled through the studio office. The rate is $50.00/hour. They may be scheduled in ½ hour or full hour increments.
Communication: Please feel free to bring any questions, concerns, compliments or ideas to our attention as soon as they arise. We want this to be an outstanding experience for our students and their parents.
Thank you for choosing Taylor Dance Center!
Rules and regulations.pdf
The dancers were able to take nine classes from esteemed choreographers and instructors like Cris Judd (Janet Jackson), Tyce Diorio (SYTYCD), Brooke Lipton (Glee) and LaurieAnn Gibson (Lady Gaga)...
READ MORE...
Our Latest News...
Feel The Pulse
TDC Impresses at Celebrity
Taylor Dance Center Student Awarded Place at Booker T. Washington High School
Taylor Dance Center Students Win Scholarships at Jump!
Showstopping Good Times
Archive
Taylor Dance Center of McKinney had a very successful finish at Celebrity Dance Competition in Kennedale, TX, January 29-30 bringing home several top awards and numerous specialty awards.
Students dances into Booker T. Washington
14 year-old McKinney freshman, Lauren Gifford, was recently accepted into the dance program at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, one of the schools four featured areas of study.
A Beginner Guide to Dance
Have you always dreamed of your little girl dancing on stage in a beautiful pink tutu? Does your little one love dancing to music? Are you interested in starting your child in dance and just don't know where to start? Here are some of our answers to some common questions...
Q - When should my child start dance?
A - Our dance classes start at age 2. How early you should start all depends on your child. Your child should be able to pay attention and be OK with being away from their parents for at least 45 minute periods. Our 2 year old classes
are very basic and fun, As your child gets older, the classes get more complex. Our pre-school program is led by Ms. Dee - who is an expert at working with the tiniest dancers and making class fun! The youngest classes are always showstoppers at the recitals!
Q - What do I need to start dance classes?
A - Each class has a specific type of dancewear and shoes that is required. Detailed information is outlined within our policies. For our 2 year olds, Intro I & II classes, girls will wear a solid color leotard, pink ballet tights and ballet shoes and simply change into tap shoes during class. As they enter kindergarten, they will start to wear black leotards. We request that kids not wear dance skirts or tutus during our classes (they are very distracting to little ones).
Q - My child is shy, can she still dance?
A - Many professional performers are very shy in real life, but the stage gives them a chance to shine. We believe in a loving, safe environment for our dancers - one that encourages kids to have the confidence to perform successfully on stage. We expect our new dancers to be a little shy when they first start and our teachers are experts at bringing out the best in our kids.
Q - My son is interested in dance - Are there boys at the studio?
A - We love our boy performers! Some of the world's best dancers have been men (what would the dance world be like without Fred Astaire, Gregory Hines, or Baryshnikov?). We make sure our male performers are given gender appropriate instruction and choreography (and costumes!)
Q - My child is nervous - is that normal?
A - Absolutely! Everyone gets nervous when they try something new!
Q - Where can I get dance shoes?
A - There are several dance stores in the area that specialize in dancewear. In McKinney, try Upstage Dance in McKinney Square. In Plano, try Sandy's Dancewear. Stop by the front desk and we can give you additional options.
Q - How much will it cost?
A - The costs depend on how many classes you are enrolled in. For our youngest dancers, classes start at $45. In addition to tuition, there is a $25 registration fee and a recital fee. Costumes range from $45-65. For additional information on fees, please click here.
Q - I have additional questions...
A - If you have additional questions or are ready to register for class, please call 469-742-0383, and we would be glad to assist you!
Taylor Dance Center Competitive Company
For dancers who are looking for additional education and performance opportunities, we offer the opportunity to become part of our Competitive Company. Our team members have won numerous regional and national awards and scholarships. For information about our Company, check out the stories or see Ms. Suzan.
TDC Team Website (password protected site for team members only)
TEAM MEMBERS - The password has changed - please read the latest team e-mail for the password. If you need assistance, please e-mail company_taylordancecenter.com
Suzan Taylor
Owner & Artistic Director
Suzan has been a student of dance for over 30 years, specializing in ballet. After graduating from Texas A&M and working in the 9-5 world, she changed directions and took the leap to follow her heart and true passion - dance. She started teaching at local dance studios and in 2001 opened Taylor Dance Center in McKinney.
To stay current on the latest styles and techniques, she continues her dance education with summer intensive programs, master classes and conventions. She has studied with former American Ballet Theater principal Robert Underwood, Ms. Victoria Vittum, Director of the Houston Repertoire Ballet Company, Broadway Dancer Joe Istre, founding member of The Edge in Los Angeles Rhonda Miller and renowned tap teacher Buster Cooper among others.
Suzans former students have gone onto dance programs at the Texas Ballet Theatre School, UCLA, Southern Methodist University and Loyola Marymount University. Her competitive dance routines have garnered numerous awards at the local and national levels, and her students have been awarded scholarships to prestigious dance programs with the New York City Dance Alliance Summer Intensive and The Edge in Los Angeles.
Destine' Grobe (Miss Dee)
Preschool Programs
We are very excited to welcome Ms. Dee to the Taylor Dance Family! She will be rolling out a new and innovative Preschool Program!
Ms. Dee started her dance career at the age of 3 in East Texas. She has won several prestigious awards including being named All-American Cheerleader and All-Star Dancer numerous times. Later she was invited to join the staff of the Universal Dance Association and the National Cheerleader Association and went on to cheer and dance at the college and professional level. Ms. Dee has also had the honor of performing on the televised Miss Texas USA Pageant and on CMT's Making the Team.
Tap, Jazz, & Ballet
Recently moving back to McKinney from Los Angeles, Katie literally grew up dancing at Taylor Dance Center where she was part of the competitive team, and the principal dancer in Snow White and Alice in Wonderland. She also spent 6 years studying at Margo Marshall/Gilbert Rome's Studio of Dance Intensive, attended the Slide Tap Intensive in NYC, and spent 2 summers at Ballet Workshop New England.
After graduating from McKinney High School, Katie moved to LA to continue her dance education where she took classes at the famed Edge Performing Arts Center from choreographers such as Sonya Tayeh and Mandy Moore. She has won numerous awards as both a dancer and a choreographer.
Jazz
Amber has been a choreographer, instructor, and dancer for over 20 years. She has studied and performed with Delia Stewart Jazz Dance Company, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Company, Clear Lake Metropolitan Ballet (now Bay Area Houston Ballet & Theatre) and Euroasia Ballet. She has also studied with Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Houston Ballet Academy, Lou Conte of Hubbard Street, Broadway Dance Center and Steps in NYC.
Amber performed in the 1988 Sammy Awards with Jaime Rogers and Ben Vereen and has appeared as a guest artist for various companies including Dance Explosion, in Vail, Colorado. Amber was the 1998 recipient of the Monticello Scholarship for her choreographed work, Unzipped Entropy, at the Regional Dance America Festival, where her works have been performed many times. Her choreographed work, Portraying Picasso, was selected for the National Choreographic Plan, which is supported by the National Endowment of the Arts, at RDA/SW Gala, 2002.
Tap
Chelsea found her passion for dance in high school when she began taking classes at Taylor Dance Center. After graduating from McKinney High School, she continued her dance education, eventually returning to TDC as a teacher in 2006. Chelsea holds a teaching certification through Dance Educators of America from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Chelsea's extensive training includes ballet, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical and tap. She began choreographing for McKinney Northstars Dance/Drill Team and has gone on to win numerous awards at national dance competitions like NYCDA, LADF, and Showstopper.
Ballet
Emilie Rupp Began her classical ballet training at age 6 with Gilbert Rome and Victoria Vittum in Houston TX. She performed with their company, Houston Repertoire Ballet, for seven years. She had been cast in various roles in the Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Pas de Trois and several other ballets. Growing up she studied at summer intensive workshops including the Joffrey Ballet, Austin Ballet and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet. While the primary focus of her training was in classical ballet, she also has experience in modern, jazz, and contemporary dance.
In 2007, Emilie attained her BA in French from the University of North Texas, while remaining highly active with the local dance community. She began teaching ballet in early 2006 and has since then stives to make teaching a prominent focus in her life.
Emilie is a founding member of Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet Company.
Jazz/Ballet Preschool
Susan began her dance training at age 4 in Ballet, Tap and Jazz. As a preteen she realized dance was her passion during a summer Ballet intensive and hasnt stopped dancing since.
She added Modern to her training in high school where she attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. She also studied with such nationally known instructors as Joe Tremaine, Doug Caldwell, David Kirby, Buster Cooper, Gus Giordano, Rhonda Miller, Liz Imperio and many others.
She attended Oklahoma City University as a dance major studying under Director Jo Rowan. Shortly thereafter she toured France and Monico dancing in tradeshows and industrials.
Since then she has worked locally as a highly sought after dance instructor teaching Ballet, Tap and Jazz to students of all ages. She thoroughly enjoys her work as a fulfilling and enriching experience and seeks to share her high level of expertise and passion for dance.
Stephanie started dancing at the age of four at Bender Performing Arts, formerly known as Betty Johnson's School of Dance in Phoeniz, AZ. She was a member of world renowned Dance Motion Performing Company for 11 years dancing with Lauren Gottlieb of SYTYCD. She trained in Jazz, Lyrical, Ballet, and Tap. Stephanie attended dance classes at the University of Arizona through four years of college, while obtaining a degree in Marketing. She has been featured in dance instructional videos, and was a part of a Tucson Dance Company's pre-professional dance team performing for charity benefits.
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Taylor Dance Center Company Member Receives Pulse Scholarship
TDC dancers were able to take nine classes from esteemed choreographers and instructors like Cris Judd (Janet Jackson), Tyce Diorio (SYTYCD), Brooke Lipton (Glee) and LaurieAnn Gibson (Lady Gaga) among others. Members of the Elite Team at TDC were also able to perform 2 routines during the Pulse Showcase on Saturday night.
"This was the first time our studio has attended Pulse. It was fast-paced and the choreographers were unbelievable. I am very proud how hard our dancers worked this weekend," said Suzan Taylor, owner/director at Taylor Dance Center.
Pulse awards over $30,000 worth of scholarships during its conventions. TDC Company Member Casey Lamont was awarded a Pulse Convention Scholarship.
To be awarded a scholarship at Pulse, a dancer has to be noticed in classes or during a performance by one of the choreographers/instructors. "Earning a scholarship at Pulse isn't easy - you have to stand out in a room of 400-500 other terrific dancers. We are very proud of Casey being recognized by Pulse," said Taylor.
The PULSE On Tour ® is managed by Broadway Dance Center, the largest and most prestigious dance studio in America. Founded in 1984, Broadway Dance Center has become a global icon for excellence in dance education. Their world-class studios, located in the heart of the theater district in New York City, provide over 40 classes daily in all styles for professionals to beginners.
Taylor Dance Center has been serving the McKinney area for over 10 years and offers classes for ages 2 years to adult in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical and Hip-Hop. For more information about Taylor Dance Center call 469-742-0383 or visit www.taylordancecenter.com
TAYLOR DANCE CENTER WINS BIG AT MAJOR DANCE EVENT
Trip to Showstopper Dance Championship was an Exciting One For McKinney Studio
McKinney, TX, February 24 Taylor Dance Center of McKinney were big winners at Showstopper Dance Competition in San Antonio, TX, February 19-21 bringing home four 1st place Overall trophies and an additional 28 top 10 finishes. Myrtle Beach-based Showstopper Dance Competition is the country's largest dance competition serving over 100,000 dancers a year with 41 regional competitions and three National finals.
Taylor Dance Center , under the direction of Suzan Taylor entered a total of 22 group routines in the Senior, Teen, Junior and Mini divisions. Rhythm of the Wardrum and Danse de Mademoiselle both earned the coveted Crystal awards Showstoppers highest adjudicated award. The remaining dances earned 7 Double Platinum awards, 4 Platinum awards, 7 Gold awards and 2 Silver awards. 12 of the studios group numbers also won Overall awards, including three 1st Place awards for Danse de Mademoiselle (choreographed by Suzan Taylor), Rhythm of the Wardrum (Choreographed by Amber Thornton & Suzan Taylor), and Night Clowns (Choreographed by Samantha Camarillo).
"We are incredibly proud of how our dancers performed this weekend. Four first place finishes is something to remember. What I am most excited about is how all of our dancers came together and really performed their best", said Studio Owner and Director Suzan Taylor.
In addition to the group pieces, Taylor Dance Center also competed 12 duos/trios and 41 solos. 11 year-old Emily Polk received the prestigious Crystal award and 3rd overall for her Spiderman solo (choreographed by Suzan Taylor). Rebekah Parker and Catherine Festas Duo Twice (Choreographed by Sam Camarillo) was awarded a Double Platinum and won 1st Overall in the Senior Division. The remaining specialty pieces did very well earning 8 Double Platinum awards, 20 Platinum awards, 22 Gold Awards and 2 Silver Awards. 21 of the studios specialty dances placed in the overalls including soloists Camden Hancock and Kelsey LeMonds earning Top 5 finishes.
All 75 of the studio dances qualified for Showstopper National Competition in Galveston, TX in July. "We are really looking forward to seeing what we can do at Nationals" said Taylor.
Members of the Taylor Dance Center Competitive Company Receive Scholarships
Nine members of the Taylor Dance Center Competitive Company were awarded scholarships from the Jump Dance Convention in Dallas on February 13. Three of the nine dancers were selected as Jump VIPs which is earned through a professional audition process and results in two scholarships.
Rebekah Parker, Lauren Gifford and Olivia Poulter all advanced through the Jump audition process and were named Jump VIPs . Only 17 of the 430 teen level dancers were given this honor. Not only did they win a scholarship to attend Jump again next year, but won $400 toward a dance intensive in New York City. The highlight of being named a Jump VIP is performing in the opening number during the second day of convention.
We are very proud of our girls for the awards they received this weekend I am proud of how well all of our dancers performed both at the competition and during classes, said Taylor Dance Center Director Suzan Taylor. This is a grueling two days, and everyone had a positive attitude and went out and performed like professionals.
Six of the Taylor Dance Center company members were awarded Class Scholarships for outstanding work done during the convention classes: Madison Lamont, Kelsey Lamonds - tap; Casey Lamont and Alexis Davidson - Jazz, Catherine Festa - Ballet and Nina Bharadwaj Hip Hop. Classes at Jump are taught by top industry professional such as Emmy-nominated choreographer Mandy Moore, and So You Think You Can Dance 1st season winner Nick Lazzarini.
Taylor Dance Center has been serving the McKinney area for 10 years and offers classes for ages 2 years to adult in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical and Hip-Hop. For more information about Taylor Dance Center call 469-742-0383 or visit www.taylordancecenter.com
Taylor Dance Center impresses at Celebrity Dance Competition
Taylor Dance Center of McKinney had a very successful finish at Celebrity Dance Competition in Kennedale, TX, January 29-30 bringing home several top awards and numerous specialty awards. Phoenix-based Celebrity Dance Competitions has 12 regional competitions and 2 National competitions each year.
Taylor Dance Center , under the direction of Suzan Taylor entered a total of 22 group routines in the Premier, Senior, Intermediate, Teen, Pre-teen, and Junior divisions. The studio brought home an impressive 9 High Gold medals and had 3 of the group pieces place in the Overalls. The remaining group pieces received 10 Gold medals and 3 Silver medals.
In addition to the group pieces, TDC also competed 12 duos/trios and 42 solos. Specialty pieces, like solos, give our dancers a chance to shine. The dancers workon these pieces outside of their regular classes, and are responsible for getting them competition ready, said Taylor. Two of the solos, Take me or Leave Me danced by Taylor Foster and choreographed by Carla Mullendore and Nights in White Satin performed by Rebekah Parker and Choreographed by Suzan Taylor were awarded Platinum medals, the highest adjudicated award given at Celebrity. Parker also placed 2nd overall in her division. The remaining specialty pieces did extremely well earning 22 High Gold medals, 21 Gold medals and 9 Silver medals.
Senior Dance Team member Catherine Festa was awarded one of the competitions highest honor - a spot as a Celebrity Crew member. Festa will be flown to AZ for a week of work and classes with the staff of Celebrity and then will serve as an assistant at their week-long Celebrity at Sea National Competition this summer. We are extremely proud of Catherine for this honor it is not only given to a great dancer, but one who shows leadership and a positive attitude both on and off stage they are looking for the type of people they want to hire, said Taylor. Additionally, Junior Team Dancers Erin Brothers and Madison Lamont won 2nd and 3rd place respectively in the Celebrity Dancedown an event that is run like a professional audition process.
The Studio Spirit award, which is given to studios who impress the judges and staff at the competition for their talent and professionalism was awarded to Taylor Dance Center on Saturday night. We are proud to have received the Studio Spirit award, we pride ourselves on preparing dancers for the real world and that means always being ready and having a great attitude even if you only have 2 numbers for a quick change.
Taylor Dance Center Student Awarded Place at Prestigious Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts
14 year-old McKinney freshman, Lauren Gifford, was recently accepted into the dance program at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts , one of the school's four featured areas of study.
This highly competitive program requires completion of an arduous audition process. This year, prospective students competed against over 250 other dancers for the coveted 44 available spots. The 4 hour audition included a solo, an improvisational piece, and several combinations that the students learned.
The 120 students in the dance program take three technique classes and five academic courses each semester. Ballet and Modern dance are the core technique classes, with additional classes offered in folk dance, jazz, ethnic styles, tap, composition, technical production, dance history and repertory.
Gifford dreams of one day belonging to a professional dance company like so many of the alumnus of the school. Graduates work in professional companies such as the American Ballet Theater, Royal Swedish Ballet , and Mark Morris Dance . Broadway productions such as Chicago and Phantom of the Opera also include alumni in their ranks.
Gifford's mother, Michelle, believes that Lauren's success in dance is due to her training at her McKinney dance studio, Taylor Dance Center (TDC). "We owe so much to Suzan Taylor for her hard work and dedication to Lauren's dance development."
In her 7th year at TDC, Lauren is currently a member of the Taylor Dance Center competitive company, and is a soloist in the studio's holiday performance of the Nutcracker . She has won multiple awards and recognitions including a Triple-Threat Scholarship to attend the world-renowned New York City Dance Alliance Summer Dance Intensive in New York City last summer.
Taylor believes that Giffords success is a testament to the focus on technique that builds well-rounded dancers. "We try to combine the natural passion of our dancers with a high-level of technical expertise."
Taylor's protégés have gone on to the UCLA Dance program, The Texas Ballet School, and SMU. "We have a lot of outstanding young talent at the studio and are hopeful that many more will follow in Giffords footsteps," said Taylor.
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