Learn more about the “co-op” by reviewing some of our frequently asked questions and answers! We are happy to answer all questions by phone, email, or drop in.
Click here to contact the Dance Cooperative.
Can I register my child at any point in the year?
What should my child wear to class?
What is your school philosophy?
Are your classes only for girls and women?
Aren’t dance classes expensive?
Do you offer scholarships or work study opportunities?
Do you have a recital at the end of the year? Do I have to pay for it?
I have a busy schedule. Do I have to register for classes?
Do the adult classes have a dress code?
Do you offer performance opportunities for teens and adults?
How can I perform with The Dance Cooperative and its choreographers?
Q. Can I register my child at any point in the year?
A. Yes. You can register your child in dance classes until March. However, since classes build and progress over the year, we suggest you register your child as early as possible. New and returning students can register at the studio between 4pm and 7pm weekdays. To arrange to register at another time, please call 910-763-4995.
Q. What should my child wear?
A. We have no formal, set dress code but do have some suggestions for your child’s comfort.
Creative Movement: something easy to move in; anything goes from sweats to a costume. Bare feet, socks, or ballet slippers.
Children and teens: wear something flexible and comfortable. Proper dance
attire is best for instructional purposes.
Footwear: ballet slippers for ballet, bare feet for modern, and jazz shoes/dance sneakers for jazz and hip hop.
Q. What is your school philosophy?
A. We are somewhat different from the current trend in dance studios in how we approach dance. We strive to build well-rounded artists without fostering competition among dancers in our classrooms. Our goal is to expose the dancers to several styles and techniques and train them to find their strengths and individuality. Although we are predominately a modern dance studio, we focus on the whole dancer.
Q. What is “modern” dance?
A. Good question! Modern dance is an ever-evolving art form, whose definition is elusive. With its beginning in the early 1900’s, modern dance pioneers embraced their individuality and the idea of creativity and artistic freedom. Even today modern dance cannot be defined by a specific technique as dancers and choreographers are constantly searching to move, feel and express their own individuality through dance. Defining modern dance is like defining modern art or music…it is elusive exciting, and undefinable. Come take a class and see for yourself.
Q. Are your classes only for girls and women?
A. No; the Co-op also welcomes boys and men to our classes and performance opportunities.
Q. Aren’t dance classes expensive?
A. We offer a high quality dance experience that is very affordable. In some cases, we are able to offer scholarships and work study opportunities (see last question).
Q. Do you offer scholarship or work study opportunities?
A. Yes. Our scholarships and work study awards are need and merit based, respectively. We encourage any interested student, who may qualify, to apply. You may request a scholarship application at our office in the studio or by contacting scholarships@thedancecooperative.org
Q. Do you have a recital at the end of the year? Do I have to pay for it?
A. We celebrate the end of the year with a free student showcase so you can see your dancer perform. There are no recital fees or costume fees.
Q. I’m an adult who used to dance but I have been out of it for awhile. Will I be out of place in your classes?
A. We welcome all levels of adult dancers. Check our schedule for which level you think is right for you. We take dance seriously—but not ourselves! So, we encourage you to come, have fun, and progress at your own pace.
Q. I have a busy schedule, do I have to register for classes?
A. No. Adults can pay by the class ($12/class for YMCA members, $15/class for non-members) or you can buy a class card for $108 (10 classes) for YMCA members, $135 (10 classes) for non-members.
Q. Do the adult classes have a dress code?
A. No, but we suggest comfortable clothes suitable for movement. We also encourage appropriate footwear: ballet slippers for ballet, bare feet for modern, and jazz shoes/dance sneakers for jazz and hip hop, etc.
Q. Do you have performance opportunities for teens and adults?
A. Absolutely! We produce several performances each year including Dance-a-lorus, Wilmington Dance Festival, and others. For a detailed description of these events, auditions, and showings, click here!
Q. How can I perform with The Dance Cooperative and its resident and guest choreographers?
A. We encourage you to come to class and let us get to know you! Regular attendance in class will prepare you for upcoming auditions and rehearsal schedules. Many of our dancers, teachers, and choreographers learn of new opportunities just by networking in class. For more information on auditions, click here.
Q. Can I rent your studio space?
A. At the moment, we do not have studio rental options. We hope to be able to offer this service again soon.