If you’re wondering what to expect during the first week of dance classes, whether you’re a brand-new JLDC family or a returning student, we’ve put together a guide to help you feel ready, comfortable, and excited for what’s ahead.
The start of a new dance season is always one of our favorite times of the year. There’s a buzz in the air as dancers slip into their ballet shoes, jazz sneakers, or tap shoes for the first time in months, ready to leap back into the studio. Parents gather in the lobby, students hug friends they haven’t seen all summer, and teachers prepare lessons that balance structure, artistry, and fun.
But this year, the excitement runs even deeper. As JLDC enters its milestone 50th season, we’re not only celebrating decades of dance and community, we’re also opening the doors of our brand-new building, JLDC on Washington. This state-of-the-art facility has been thoughtfully designed to give our students the best possible environment to learn, grow, and shine.
A Warm Welcome to our 50th Season!
The first week of classes is all about transitions. For younger dancers, this might mean saying goodbye to caregivers at the studio door and bravely stepping into class with their teacher and new friends. For older students, it’s about shaking off the summer, re-establishing technique, and settling into new routines.
At JLDC, we understand that the first week can bring both excitement and nerves. That’s why our faculty and staff are prepared to offer extra guidance, patience, and encouragement. You’ll see friendly faces at the front desk and in the lobby, ready to answer questions and help new families find their way.
Our goal? To make sure every dancer whether age 2 or 18 feels like JLDC is their second home from the very first day.
Exploring our new JLDC on Washington Street Location
This year marks a truly historic moment: the opening of JLDC’s new Washington Street location. After years of dreaming, planning, and building, we are thrilled to unveil this stunning new space that reflects both JLDC’s legacy and its future.
So, what can families expect when they walk through the doors?
- Spacious, Light-Filled Studios: High ceilings, professional-grade sprung marley flooring, and wall-to-wall mirrors create the perfect environment for dancers to move freely and safely.
- Welcoming Common Areas: We know how important community is at JLDC. That’s why we’ve designed spaces where parents can gather, siblings can wait comfortably, and dancers can connect between classes.
- Thoughtful Design Details: From a mini Dancers’ Boutique, to easy drop-off and pick-up access, every element of the building has been designed with families in mind.
The Washington Street studios don’t just provide more space, they represent an investment in JLDC’s mission: to nurture creativity, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love of dance.
Welcoming New Faculty and Staff
With a new season comes fresh energy, and we are thrilled to welcome an incredible roster of new faculty and staff to the JLDC family. Each brings a unique background, expertise, and passion that will enrich our community and inspire our students.
- Sandi Duncan – A veteran educator with decades of experience, Sandi brings a wealth of knowledge and an inspiring approach to teaching. Her presence is a gift to our students.
- Peter Sabasino – A longtime JLDC guest and Un.Convention favorite, Peter now joins us full-time in tap and hip hop. Our students are beyond excited to learn from him on a regular basis.
- Flora Dickens – After dazzling us at Un.Convention, Flora is joining JLDC as a regular faculty member this season. She will be training and choreographing for our advanced contemporary dancers.
- Eliza Schack – A recent Point Park graduate, Eliza spent the summer under Miss Lisa’s mentorship in the Early Childhood Division. She also brought her strong technical training to the DanceLab with our advanced students.
- Brittany McNally – An experienced teacher, Brittany now serves as full-time faculty across nearly every age and style. In addition to her teaching, she is a key administrator supporting all things performance.
- Katey O’Connell – A recent Elon graduate, Katey joins both the ballet and hip hop divisions this season. In addition to her teaching, she will also be a welcoming presence at the front desk, bringing strong training, fresh perspective, and a warm connection for our students and families alike.
- Summer Thorpe – Summer first joined JLDC when she stepped in during a maternity leave and quickly made a lasting impression. We are delighted to welcome her back to the tap division this season.
- Michael Dascomb – Michael, a member of Fourth Dimension Tap Company, is joining JLDC’s tap division this year. He brings strong technique and a passion for the art form that will inspire our dancers.
- Ripley Dresser – Ripley is currently studying at the Boston Conservatory and will be teaching hip hop at JLDC this season. She is excited to share her knowledge and passion with our competitive teams.
In celebration of our 50th year, we are thrilled to welcome an outstanding roster of guest faculty alongside our exceptional full-time teachers: Teddy Forance of CLI Conservatory; Billy Griffin, Broadway and film choreographer based in NYC; Julia Dickey, NYC-based professional dancer and graduate of Pace University with a degree in commercial dance; and Jeff Lapes, acclaimed hip-hop artist. This incredible group ensures that dancers of all ages will benefit from diverse perspectives, strong mentorship, and inspiring training.
Exciting New Classes
In addition to welcoming new teachers, JLDC is also expanding programming this season with two exciting new class offerings:
Boys Move & Groove
Led by Peter Sabasino, Boys Move & Groove is designed to give boys a supportive space to explore dance through hip hop, breaking, and freestyle. This class is about more than just movement—it’s about building rhythm, confidence, and individuality. For boys who are new to dance, it’s a fun and energetic entry point. For those with experience, it’s a chance to refine skills and find their unique style.
Musical Theater
Broadway comes to JLDC with the introduction of Musical Theater. This high-energy, storytelling-based class allows dancers to bring characters to life through movement, acting, and performance. Students will explore musicality, stage presence, and choreography inspired by Broadway classics and contemporary hits. It’s the perfect choice for dancers who love to perform—or for anyone looking to broaden their training.
These new offerings reflect JLDC’s commitment to staying current, creative, and inclusive. Every dancer deserves the opportunity to explore, and we’re proud to offer pathways that meet a wide variety of interests and goals.
Building Routines and Easing Into the Season
The first week of classes isn’t about perfection, it’s about starting strong. Here’s what dancers and families can expect:
- For Young Dancers: Teachers will introduce classroom routines through games, exercises, and playful activities. The goal is to build comfort and spark joy. Don’t worry if there are a few tears, our staff is experienced in helping little ones adjust.
- For Older Dancers: The first week often focuses on reviewing technique, stretching, and gradually building strength back after the summer. Teachers will also set expectations for the season, from classroom etiquette to rehearsal commitments.
- For Parents: Expect a bit of extra traffic and energy in the lobbies! The first week is busy but exciting. Staff will be available to guide you through the new Washington Street space and answer questions.
Tip: Encourage your dancer to bring a water bottle, proper dress code, and a positive attitude. The first week sets the tone for the entire season.
A Community Celebration
One of the things that makes JLDC so special is its sense of community. The first week of classes is as much about connection as it is about dancing. We encourage families to celebrate this moment:
- Snap a “first day of dance” photo in our new space.
- Share your excitement on social media and tag @Jldancecenter on Instagram. We love seeing your dancers shine!
- Take time to connect with other parents, especially if you’re new. Many lifelong JLDC friendships start in the lobby.
Looking Back, Moving Forward: JLDC at 50
As we open the doors of Washington Street and welcome new faculty, new classes, and new families, we’re reminded of just how far JLDC has come. What began as a dream to bring quality dance education to West Newton has grown into a community that spans generations. Alumni return to watch their children dance, lifelong friendships continue to thrive, and thousands of young dancers have found not only technique but also confidence, creativity, and joy here.
The first week of classes isn’t just a logistical milestone, it’s the symbolic start of another chapter in the JLDC story. We are so proud of our history and even more excited for the future.
We are thrilled to begin JLDC’s 50th season with you. Thank you for being part of our family whether you’re stepping into the studio for the first time or the fifteenth, you are an essential part of what makes JLDC so special.
Here’s to a season of dance, community, and celebration. Welcome back, dancers, let’s make this our best year ever!
