Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Premier Destination for Dance Education in Garden City South
Established in 1980 by director/owner Cathy Fonte, Garden City Dance Studio has become a cornerstone of dance education in Garden City South, NY. Our 8,000-square-foot facility features six professional sprung dance floors designed to enhance student comfort and safety. We offer comprehensive programs in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, hip-hop, acrobatics, and musical theater, alongside voice and acting classes. Our dedicated homework room supports students' academic needs while fostering a balanced approach to education. The Dance Boutique provides convenient access to essential dancewear, including Leotards, Tights, Shoes, and PLUM brand products. With classes continuing through June 6, 2026, and a recital scheduled for May 31, 2026, we maintain a structured yet flexible schedule to accommodate diverse student needs.Our experienced instructors combine technical expertise with creative expression to nurture both artistic growth and personal development. The studio's commitment to quality extends to private studio rentals and audition preparation services. Through competitive teams and performance opportunities, we cultivate a supportive community that values both individual progress and collective achievement. Our long-standing reputation reflects decades of dedication to dance excellence and student-centered instruction.
Services
Ballet
Pointe
Tap
Jazz
Contemporary
Lyrical
Hip-Hop
Acrobatics
Musical Theater
Voice Classes
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Established in 1980 with proven expertise in dance education
- 8,000 sq ft facility with six professional sprung dance floors
- 15+ dance styles taught by experienced, qualified instructors
- Comprehensive programs from beginner to competitive levels
- Convenient on-site dance boutique with essential performance gear
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression through structured training. Students learn proper body alignment, classical terminology, and performance techniques. Classes emphasize grace, discipline, and musicality while preparing dancers for advanced pointe work and professional opportunities.
Acrobatics
Acrobatic instruction focuses on safe progression of flexibility, strength, and aerial skills. Certified instructors guide students through cartwheels, handsprings, and advanced tumbling passes. Classes integrate dance elements to maintain artistic continuity with performance-ready choreography.
Musical Theater
This program combines dance, acting, and vocal training for stage production readiness. Students develop character interpretation, ensemble coordination, and performance stamina through Broadway-style choreography and scene work.
Competition Team
Audition-based teams receive elite training in choreography, technique, and stage presence. Competitive routines span multiple genres while emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and artistic excellence in regional and national competitions.
Private Studio Rentals
Professional-grade studios available for individual practice, small group rehearsals, or special events. Reservations include access to sprung floors, sound systems, and mirrors to support focused training and creative development.
People
Cathy Fonte
Director/Owner
Founder Cathy Fonte has directed Garden City Dance Studio since its 1980 establishment. With decades of experience in dance education, she oversees curriculum development and maintains the studio's commitment to technical excellence and student growth.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach 15+ styles including ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, hip-hop, acrobatics, musical theater, and Zumba, plus voice and acting classes.
Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Our annual recital runs through June 6, with additional opportunities in competition teams, audition prep, and special events throughout the year.
Do you sell dance supplies?
The on-site Dance Boutique carries Leotards, Tights, Shoes, dance bags, PLUM leotards, and all necessary performance accessories for our students.
What age groups do you teach?
We offer classes for children starting at age 3 through adult programs, with progressive levels accommodating all skill ranges from beginner to professional training.
Can I rent studio space?
Private studio rentals are available for individual practice, group rehearsals, or special events with access to our professional-grade facilities and equipment.
Reviews (7)
Amy Oliver
Dec 02, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Garden City Dance Studio is amazing! The staff is all super friendly and welcoming. There are many beautiful rooms with plenty of space. They take your temperature as you walk in, have you sanitize your hands, wear masks, and I felt very safe and comfortable with all the precautions they were taking. Absolutely love coming here!!!
Garden City Dance Studio is amazing! The staff is all super friendly and welcoming. There are many beautiful rooms with plenty of space. They take your temperature as you walk in, have you sanitize your hands, wear masks, and I felt very safe and comfortable with all the precautions they were taking. Absolutely love coming here!!!
Gigi
Nov 22, 2020
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Positive:Quality
Great, friendly studio! Nice big space and very welcoming towards new people! Thankful they allow me to use their space!
Great, friendly studio! Nice big space and very welcoming towards new people! Thankful they allow me to use their space!
Gabriella Marinelli
Sep 29, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
This studio has a beautiful and clean space! They take great precautions such as taking temperatures and sanitizing. I would definitely recommend this studio.
This studio has a beautiful and clean space! They take great precautions such as taking temperatures and sanitizing. I would definitely recommend this studio.
Allie Pereira
Aug 20, 2020
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So awesome! The staff is super friendly and I absolutely love the space! Would definitely recommend coming here!
Josie Gatto
Jul 09, 2020
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Great space! The rooms are clean and very nice! They take your temperature when you walk in and make sure you sanitize your hands. Would definitely recommend!
Marina LoRe
May 26, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
I absolutely love Garden City Dance Studio the space is gorgeous and so clean. The staff is very friendly and willing to help accommodate large groups/teams if interested in renting space. Very professional atmosphere and super accessible!
I absolutely love Garden City Dance Studio the space is gorgeous and so clean. The staff is very friendly and willing to help accommodate large groups/teams if interested in renting space. Very professional atmosphere and super accessible!
Magical Moments By Melissa
May 07, 2020
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6 Years and a pandemic later- I am still so impressed with Cathy, the staff, and all of the instructors at GCDS. They have a beautiful facility, and have gone above and beyond making it a safe environment for our children during these crazy times! The teachers are all amazing, I'm impressed with the technique my daughter has developed learning from the instructors there. My daughter continues to grow, and GCDS has become her second home and second family! She always leaves with a smile on her face, I couldn't be happier with our overall experience here. Cathy & her staff are truly amazing! I
