Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Premier Dance Classes for All Ages in Tonawanda, NY
Lorraine Goddard Dance Studio has been a cornerstone of dance education in Tonawanda, NY for over 60 years. Founded in 1964, this family-owned studio spans three generations of expertise, offering comprehensive training in jazz, ballet, hip hop, tap, acro, and more. Our mission is to create positive, formative dance experiences for students of all ages and skill levels, from toddlers in Mommy & Me classes to advanced competitors. With a faculty of highly qualified instructors, we emphasize technical excellence while fostering grace, poise, and self-discipline. Many of our alumni have pursued professional dance careers, but all students benefit from the lifelong skills developed in our supportive environment.We maintain strict dress codes and performance standards while ensuring classes remain fun and engaging. Our annual recital at Artpark provides students with a professional stage experience, complemented by a structured schedule that accommodates preschoolers through teens. With 1.5-hour combo classes for older students and specialized training tracks, we provide a well-rounded dance education that builds foundational skills for future success.
Services
Jazz Classes
Ballet Instruction
Hip Hop Dance
Tap Dance
Acro-Gymnastics
Details
- Year established: 1964
Highlights and features
- Three generations of dance expertise since 1964
- Structured curriculum for ages 18 months through teens
- Highly qualified faculty with professional dance experience
- Age-specific classes from beginner to competitive levels
- Annual professional recital at Artpark theater
Services
Ballet Instruction
Our ballet program develops technical precision and artistic expression. Students learn proper alignment, barre work, and center combinations. Classes emphasize classical technique while building strength and flexibility. All students must take ballet to participate in lyrical or contemporary programs.
Hip Hop Dance
Energetic hip hop classes teach current street dance styles. Students learn freestyle movement and choreography to age-appropriate music. Classes focus on rhythm, musicality, and self-expression while maintaining technical fundamentals.
Tap Dance
Tap classes develop rhythmic precision and musicality. Students learn to create percussive sounds through specialized footwear. Curriculum progresses from basic steps to complex combinations, emphasizing clear tone production and syncopation.
Acro-Gymnastics
Acro combines dance and gymnastics fundamentals. Students develop flexibility, strength, and tumbling skills. Classes focus on safe progressions from basic rolls to advanced aerials, integrating dance elements throughout.
Lyrical/Contemporary
Lyrical/contemporary classes blend ballet and jazz techniques. Students learn expressive movement interpretation of music. Enrollment requires concurrent ballet and jazz training with prior dance experience.
Questions
When does dance class registration begin?
Registration opens July 1st annually through our Parent Portal. New students should create an account to register for classes.
What are the dance attire requirements?
Girls wear leotards and tights; boys wear t-shirts and jazz pants. Specific shoes are required for each dance style. All students must be properly attired by October 1st.
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, lyrical/contemporary, and acro-gymnastics. Class levels range from toddler programs to advanced competitive teams.
When is the annual dance recital?
Our recital typically occurs the first weekend in June at Artpark. Dress rehearsals are held the preceding week with specific times communicated closer to the date.
Do you offer preschool dance classes?
Yes! We offer 'Dance With Me' for 18-month-olds through 3-year-olds and Preschool classes for 3-4-year-olds with parent participation in early sessions.
Are there performance opportunities?
All students participate in our annual recital. Competitive teams have additional performance opportunities. Regular studio classes perform recital dances during the event.
Reviews (4)
Jessica Rodriguez
Jun 01, 2019
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My daughter Isabela rodriguez danced with David de Marie from age 2 to 10 then they closed the buffalo location and stopped dancing. This past year at 13 her friend Jeanna was dancing and she was curious. With… no hesitation they let her come to a class. Ever since that day she has been dancing at this studio. They welcomed her with open arms. Even though bela did jazz from 2 to 10 she joined hip hop this year with not too much experience. Everyone was so nice and accepted her. She loves it there and even know she not the best she tries really hard and really came out of her shell this year
Scott Simmen
Jan 05, 2018
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My daughter changed studios 4 or 5 months ago to seek her passion of dance, I am so amazed at how much her form has gotten better, the choregraphy is amazing and more challenging . I am amazed how loving and caring the studio is to my daughter. The teachers and ownership made it like a family to my daughter, at the same time making the dancers the best they can be. I am so happy we changed studios and are now part of the Lorraine Goddard dance studio family.
Sarah Williams
Sep 13, 2017
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This was our 3yr old daughters first class and she didn't do so good. She screamed the whole time but her teacher held her and danced with her the whole time. They are amazing.
Kelly Reimann
Jun 13, 2017
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Very family oriented, the owners and teachers care about each student. My daughter learned how to follow directions in her year in mommy and me! Would recommend to anyone looking for a great studio! Very talented students!
