“Webster’s dictionary defines initiativeas the readiness to embark on bold newventures. Since the doors opened in 2001, the Debbie Allen Dance Academy has taken the initiative to create new ways for young people to communicate through the language of the classroom, stage, arts, film, and professional dance field.”
At only three and half years old, The Debbie Allen Dance Academy (DADA), enrolled close to 400 children ages 4-18, granting many full and partial scholarships. Students excelled in classes: Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, African, and Flamenco, with special workshops in acting and voice.
The 2003-2004 season was full of wonderful programs and achievements, notably special workshops taught by the San Francisco Ballet and Dance Theatre of Harlem.
Through each of these activities, we persevered to achieve our mission, which is to make dance a meaningful experience to all individuals
For the 2004-2005 season, we aim to maintain our enrollment at a high capacity by offering enriching classes and experiences that will challenge our young dancers to stretch to the next level. At DADA, we remain committed to excellence.
“Pepito's Story”, Wadsworth Theatre - (November 2003) Debbie Allen and Arturo Sandoval's adapted dance musical was performed for enthusiastic audiences. As always, this special performance offered DADA students an opportunity to perform outside of the studio, and for many it was their first experience in a professional theater.
Winter Recital (January 2004) - Faculty and Students made great achievements in this culminating presentation. One of the many highlights was that Advanced Academy students performed Madame Adrienne Dellas' “Monument”, an original Ballet. The presentation was truly awesome, inspiring Debbie Allen to invite Madame Dellas to create “DADA On Point"
Middle East Exchange - (Spring 2004) Debbie Allen was invited to choreograph a new production of 'Romeo and Juliet”, set in Beirut. Joining her was a DADA faculty member and student. This was a wonderful experience of cultural exchange that demonstrated the universal language of dance and DADA's role in narrowing the gap between the distinctly different cultures of the East and West.
'Pepito's Story', The Kennedy Center - (April 2004) Over 300 children auditioned in Washington, DC for Pepito's Story. 55 of Washington's best and brightest were selected for this once-in-a-lifetime experience of performing under the direction of Ms. Allen. The production received critical acclaim in The Washington Post.
DADA On Pointe (April 2004) - Choreographed and directed by Academy Director Madame Adrienne Dellas, this production marked DADA's fifth and most successful Millennium Choreographer's Series. The presentation was a recreation of Peter and the Wolf, and “Monument,” an original ballet. DADA On Pointe included 60 of our Academy students.
Spring Recital (June 2004) -This culminating presentation demonstrated that DADA is expanding in the areas of dance offerings and that all of our faculty and students are meeting the challenge. One of the many highlights was Terry Beeman's “Silk,” a presentation of aerial choreography from the Cirque du Soleil.
LA Hip Hop Dance Intensive (June 2004) - Over 100 hip-hoppers joined Debbie Allen and Choreographer Dave Scott (You Got Served), along with several of the top hip-hop choreographers for popular musical talents such as Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, Michael Jackson, and Justin Timberlake. Hip-hoppers participated in full-day master classes and “battle sessions” and competed for DADA scholarships and cash prizes.
Summer Intensive Recital (July 2004) - Guest choreographers/instructors Desmond Richardson, formerly with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, and presently, founder and artistic director of Complexions Dance Company, Denise Wall-Womble, and “Fosse” Master Jane Lanier joined Debbie Allen's esteemed faculty in training over 200 children from Los Angeles, other cities such as Washington, DC, and nations around the world, including Brazil and China.Summer Intensive Recital (July 2004) - Guest choreographers/instructors Desmond Richardson, formerly with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, and presently, founder and artistic director of Complexions Dance Company, Denise Wall-Womble, and “Fosse” Master Jane Lanier joined Debbie Allen's esteemed faculty in training over 200 children from Los Angeles, other cities such as Washington, DC, and nations around the world, including Brazil and China
The Early Bird Summer Camp (August 2004) - 50 children ages 4-7, enrolled in this exciting dance adventure. Early Birds spent the whole day at DADA, Monday through Friday, learning the full DADA curriculum of dance techniques and participating in fun activities such as arts and crafts and creative play.
LA Tap Fest (August 2004) - Over 200 tappers, young and old, signed up for this intense week filled with master classes and special appearances by tap dance legends such as Dr. Fayard Nicholas and Dianne Walker. The festival culminated in a rousing, standing room only performance at Hamilton High School for the Performing Arts.
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