Business Details
11 Years
experience
Inclusive Dance Training for All Ages in Goodlettsville, TN
Founded in 2015 by Artistic Director Jennifer Foster-Drake, The Dancer Project was created to redefine dance education through inclusivity, accessibility, and artistic excellence. Our mission is to provide professional, affordable dance training for youth and adults while fostering a community where all individualsregardless of age, background, or abilitycan thrive. We offer structured performance tracks for aspiring dancers and flexible drop-in classes for recreational learners, ensuring opportunities for growth at every level. Our programs emphasize technical mastery, creative expression, and community engagement through performances in underserved areas. With a focus on breaking traditional barriers in dance, we cultivate an environment where diversity is celebrated, and every student is empowered to explore their potential.Our team of experienced instructors, including Co-Director Amanda Foster-Drake, combines decades of professional expertise with a passion for nurturing talent. From early childhood classes to adult collaborations, we prioritize holistic development, blending discipline with joy. Our annual productions, including 'The Nutcracker' and contemporary works, showcase student achievements while supporting local communities. By offering scholarships and outreach initiatives, we ensure financial constraints do not limit access to the transformative power of dance. Through innovative programming and a commitment to inclusivity, The Dancer Project continues to build a vibrant, supportive dance community in Goodlettsville and beyond.
Services
Ballet Classes
Contemporary Dance
Pre-Pointe/Pointe Training
Creative Movement
Community Performances
Youth Ensemble Program
Adult Dance Classes
Scholarship Programs
Outreach Performances
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We offer inclusive dance training for ages 1 to adult, with no exclusion based on age or ability.
- Our community outreach brings live performances to underserved populations across Middle Tennessee.
- Artistic Director Jennifer Foster-Drake brings 21+ years of professional teaching and performing experience.
- Flexible programs include pre-professional tracks and drop-in classes for recreational learners.
- We prioritize affordability through scholarships and low-cost community collaborations.
What people say
Inclusive community
Supportive instructors
Life-changing experience
Accessible performances
Welcoming atmosphere
Services
Ballet Classes
Our ballet program offers structured training from early childhood through advanced levels. Students develop technical precision, musicality, and artistry through age-appropriate curricula. Classes include barre work, center combinations, and performance opportunities in annual productions.
Community Performances
We bring live dance performances to underserved communities, including assisted living facilities and youth organizations. These free shows aim to make performing arts accessible while fostering cultural engagement through classical and contemporary works.
Youth Ensemble Program
This advanced program offers mentorship, solo opportunities, and intensive rehearsal experiences. Participants receive personalized coaching and perform in multiple productions annually, preparing for professional dance careers while contributing to community outreach.
Adult Dance Classes
Designed for adult learners of all experience levels, these classes focus on technique, fitness, and creative expression. Participants can join performances like 'The Nutcracker' excerpts while building confidence in a supportive environment.
Creative Movement
Introduces ages 3-4 to dance fundamentals through imaginative play and sensory activities. Classes develop coordination, listening skills, and social interaction while preparing students for structured dance education in a joyful setting.
People
Jennifer Foster-Drake
Artistic Director
With 36 years of dance training and 21+ years of professional experience, Jennifer founded The Dancer Project to create inclusive dance opportunities. A former Cincinnati Ballet principal, she specializes in classical and contemporary instruction.
Amanda Foster-Drake
Co-Director
A former athlete turned dancer at 35, Amanda co-directs programs and teaches lower division classes. She manages stage operations and advocates for adult learners through her personal journey of late-start dance education.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We offer classes for children as young as 1 year old through adult programs, with performance opportunities for all ages.
Do you require prior dance experience?
No prior experience is needed. Our programs accommodate complete beginners through advanced dancers in a non-competitive environment.
How can adults participate?
Adults can join drop-in classes, community collaborations, or performance ensembles with options for both recreational and pre-professional development.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, we offer need-based scholarships and fundraising opportunities to ensure financial barriers don't prevent participation.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students perform in two annual productions: 'The Nutcracker' and Spring Conservatory Series, with additional community outreach performances.
How do class placements work?
Placement is determined by artistic staff based on skill level, with options for audition, trial classes, or promotion from previous levels.
Reviews (6)
Brandon Thornberry
Nov 17, 2021
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Our daughter has danced with several different ballet schools over the last 7 years, and her experience here at The Dancer Project Conservatory has been her (and our) favorite. She loves the challenge and training in the correct technique. She comes home energized because it is equal parts challenging and FUN. Ms. Drake has such a great way of engaging with the students and you can tell she cares very much for their holistic development. Would highly, highly recommend and feel lucky to have this place in our community!
Alexa Hulsey
Nov 04, 2021
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Ive been taking ballet with Jen at the Dancer Project since 2017. I was one of TDPs first adult community students, and its been a joy to participate in the growth of this very special community of artists. With Jens guidance and encouragement, Ive grown from a hesitant beginner to performing on stage en pointe. I started dance in my 40s, and TDP has given me opportunities I never dreamed I'd have. Everyone is welcomed and celebrated at TDP. I'm so grateful for this place and I cherish my time in class with Jen and my fellow dancers. The Dancer Project is joyful, inclusive, and a
Iselin Honey Bee
Oct 30, 2021
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I started taking classes at The Dancer Project in 2019. Both professional and welcoming, it is a blessing to the dance scene in Nashville. I am happy to have found classes that challenge me and offer me an opportunity to grow as an artist , that are also fun. Wether you have loved dance from an early age and want to strengthen your skills or have never danced before and want to start exploring the world of dance , this is the place !!!
Maria Rexhammar
Oct 29, 2021
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My daughter has been dancing ballet with the Dancer Project for over 3 years now. My daughter has developed a deep love for dance since she started. Ms Jen is a great teacher and she is incredibly inclusive and supportive. It's been a pleasure watching my daughter and her fellow dancers develop throughout the years, and to be part of the Dancer Project community.
Jessica Kurtzman
Oct 27, 2021
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My daughter has danced at a few different places in a couple of cities and hands-down, TDPC has been the best by a mile. Jen has built a studio which meshes a warm, nurturing environment with the highest quality of instruction. Every dancer is respected, included and cared about. Everyone has the opportunity, through hard work and dedication, to move up and to learn throughout the year. Jen individualizes lessons when necessary and is so giving with her time and talents, not to mention there are laughs frequently in the dance studio. And if you are reading this review, and have experienced dancing
Ruby Love Hannah
Oct 20, 2021
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Mrs Jen is amazing! I have been dancing there for 4 years now and never looked back. This is where I have taken little milestones such as wearing my first tutu to big milestones such as my first time en pointe! Everyone truly is a family here and no matter your strengths or weaknesses you are loved. Despite all the fun we have it is also a very professional dance environment all the way from the classes to the costumes. Everyone has bad days and that doesnt exclude anyone here. But the best part is no matter the struggle we dance and love each other through it.
