Joy of Motion Dance Center

A non-profit charitable organization founded in 1976, Joy of Motion Dance Center has since developed into the “the area’s most comprehensive dance institution” (Washington Post), engaging 70+ faculty members and teaching artists, providing more than 300 weekly classes, and drawing nearly 9,000 unique students and artists annually to three studio locations (in two Wards of DC and in Bethesda, MD). With more than 40 years of history in the District, Joy of Motion has become the hub of a vast artistic community, committed to excellence both in high-level training and community-based arts experiences.

Our Mission: Joy of Motion cultivates a diverse community of dance students, educators, artists, and audiences in the DC metropolitan area by providing exceptional dance education and performances that open doors for learners of all ages and abilities.

Our Vision: Dance is a celebrated component of lifelong learning, well-being, and a thriving society.

Our Founding Principle: Dance is for Everyone

Our Core Values: Excellence | Personal Growth | Community | Inclusion

Our Program Areas:

• Community Dance School: Drop-in and series classes in a multitude of dance styles for students of all ages and stages of development.
• Motion Exchange: Partnerships with schools and community organizations that broaden access to dance and facilitate youth development through the performing arts.
• Dance Institute: Rigorous conservatory-style training programs and master classes for youth and adult students.
• Center Stage: Concerts and programs that build appreciation for dance and provide opportunities for students of all ages to grow through live performance.

Explore our most recent annual report (2017-18) right here.

Awards & Acknowledgements

• Mayor’s Arts Award for Outstanding Contribution to Arts Education (2009)
• Mayor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Service to the Arts (2002)
• Top 3 – “Best Dance Companies” – Washington City Paper’s Best of DC Edition (2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019)
• “One of the Best” Nonprofits – Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington (2009, 2013 2017)
• Bethesda Magazine Readers’ Pick, A Top Vote Getter, Best Kids Dance Studio (2018, 2019)
• DC Dance Award for Outstanding Youth Performance (2006, 2010, 2013)