Business Details
30 Years
experience
Seattle Dance Classes & Professional Company | DASSdance
Founded in 1996 by Artistic Director Daniel Wilkins, DASSdance is a Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to exploring the human condition through innovative dance theater. Our mission prioritizes professional-level training for underserved communities while producing inclusive programming that showcases diverse artistic voices. With a focus on contemporary dance styles and a commitment to compensating professional dancers, we bridge cultural gaps through collaborations with visual artists, sound designers, and lighting experts.Our bi-coastal roots and decade-long Seattle presence have established us as a leader in community-driven dance education and performance. We partner with local nonprofits to amplify dance's role in social change, offering year-round opportunities from toddler classes to professional company engagements.
Services
Ballet
Contemporary
Hip Hop
Acro
Tap
Creative Dance
Jazz
Summer Intensives
Performance Company
Adult Classes
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer professional-level training developed by experienced instructors since 1996
- Our All-Terrain contemporary style blends multiple dance disciplines
- We provide performance opportunities for all skill levels through annual productions
- We maintain partnerships with local arts organizations and nonprofits
- Our curriculum builds technical skill while fostering creative self-expression
Services
Ballet
Our ballet program develops architectural foundation and technical precision through classical training. Students improve muscle control, musicality, and body awareness while building skills applicable to all dance forms. Classes emphasize grace, discipline, and proper alignment for dancers aged 5+.
Contemporary
This expressive style combines balletic lines with modern release techniques and acrobatic elements. Dancers explore fluid movement patterns and storytelling through dynamic choreography. Classes focus on spinal articulation, floor work, and creative expression for students aged 7+.
Hip Hop
Our hip hop classes teach breaking, locking, popping, and freestyle techniques rooted in urban culture. Students develop rhythm, coordination, and personal style while learning foundational moves and improvisation skills. Classes cater to ages 5+ with progressive skill development.
Acro
This program builds acrobatic skills including cartwheels, handstands, and aerials with emphasis on safe technique. Students progress from basic rolls to advanced tricks while developing strength, flexibility, and confidence in a supportive environment for ages 5+.
Creative Dance
Designed for young children, these classes introduce dance fundamentals through play and musical exploration. Creative 1 involves parent participation for ages 1.5-3, while Creative 2 focuses on basic movement concepts and social interaction for ages 3-4.
People
Daniel Wilkins
Artistic Director/Choreographer
Founder of DASSdance with over 25 years of experience creating contemporary dance works. Former performer in original Mini-Nutcracker productions, now specializing in All-Terrain dance style that combines multiple disciplines.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz, tap, acro, and creative dance classes for students aged 1.5+.
Do you have performance opportunities?
Yes! Our annual Seattle City Nutcracker, All-4-1 Dancepalooza, and spring shows provide performance experience for all skill levels.
What is All-Terrain dance style?
Our signature style combines balletic precision with modern release techniques, jazz vocabulary, and athletic acrobatics in a contemporary framework.
Are adult classes available?
Yes, we offer classes for adult students at all experience levels in multiple dance styles.
Where are your studios located?
Our main studios are at MLK FAME Center, 3201 E Republican St, Seattle, WA 98112.
How do I register for classes?
Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open through our website with flexible class options available.
Videos
Reviews (4)
Helen Wilkins
Nov 14, 2020
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Great ! Dance through the Pandemic with a careful school --- updated regulations always. Work and Fun!
Hugo Torres
Aug 03, 2020
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My daughter has been attending contemporary dance class for over a year and she loves it. The teacher, Mr. Daniel, is fantastic - very funny and encouraging and talented. It's not competitive or critical and the kids have lots of fun during class, rehearsals, and performances!
Synda Lambert
Jun 18, 2020
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Love DASSdance! My daughter has been dancing with Daniel for 4 years. We followed him from Whidbey Island. AMAZING teachers and productions. It's worth the trip for us.
Amanda Hosch
Dec 10, 2017
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Great ballet studio that teaches dance with a blend of drama, athleticism, and fun, located in Madison Valley.
