Frequently asked questions
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What is DIW’s commitment to accessibility?
We are committed to making world-class dance training accessible to everyone. We eliminate financial and structural barriers so underserved students have the same shot at excellence that wealthier peers already enjoy.
Is DIW a non-profit organization?
Yes, The Dance Institute of Washington is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization.
What is DIW’s mission?
DIW increases the inclusive and diverse representation at every level of the professional ballet and dance industries in Washington, DC. Through that exemplary effort, DIW impacts racial and economic equity in dance nationally and globally.
What makes DIW different?
DIW’s difference is our unwavering commitment to holistic transformation and equity. Our unique model is built around three core pillars:
- Artistic Excellence: We don’t just train dancers; we cultivate leaders. Our curriculum builds deep technical skill alongside the life skills needed to succeed in any field.
- Accessible Excellence: We believe talent is universal. Our model provides world-class training regardless of ability to pay, with 80% of students receiving full or partial scholarships.
- Safety & Belonging: We provide a safe space in a nurturing facility equipped with the highest quality of resources to ensure an environment that fosters growth and advancement in dance training.
What are the DIW “Vitamins”?
The DIW “Vitamins” are our suite of holistic support programs. They nourish our students’ full potential by combining rigorous technique with life-altering support. Our model is built around four pillars, Power Hour™, FullOUT™, Energy Barre™, and Positive Pathways™,to ensure every student has the tools and resilience to thrive on and off the stage.
What does my general donation support?
Every donation, big or small, makes a direct impact on our students’ lives. Your support helps us navigate the shifting funding landscape and sustain our essential work, primarily by supporting a dancer.
What is the Fabian Barnes Giving Circle?
The Fabian Barnes Giving Circle is a group of dedicated monthly donors who commit a minimum of $1,000 per year for two years to sustain the operating costs and transformative impact of our programs. By joining, you help provide safe spaces for students and creation platforms for diverse professional artists.
How does sponsoring The Spirit of Kwanzaa help DIW?
Your sponsorship helps preserve a cultural legacy and allows it to grow. This beloved D.C. tradition, now in its 30th year, honors the legacy of founder Fabian Barnes by celebrating Black identity and excellence through dance, music, and storytelling
Why should I volunteer with DIW?
When you become part of the DIW family through volunteering, you’re not just helping others, you’re growing as a leader. Your work directly advances equity in the arts and empowers young dancers to reach their full potential. You also build community and invest in the legacy of Fabian Barnes.
What types of volunteer opportunities are available?
We have a wide range of opportunities to match your skills and passion. These include:
- Dance Instruction
- Arts Administration and Technical Production
- Mentoring, Fundraising, and Marketing & Communications
- Board Service and Consulting & Professional Services
What opportunities are there for the community to get involved with productions?
Our productions are a living demonstration of our core belief that all people should experience the transformative power of dance. We invite community members to perform in our productions, which are presented at accessible locations and prices. Our most popular is The Spirit of Kwanzaa.
What does “Community on 14th” offer artists?
Community on 14th provides essential networking and career development opportunities for D.C. talent through training classes, seminars, and workshops. Our goal is to equip artists with the knowledge, connections, and clarity needed to reach the next stepping-stone in their career.
Can I request DIW dancers to perform at my event?
Yes, we welcome performance requests. Our talented pre-professional dancers are eager to showcase their exceptional skills and artistry at your cultural festival, community function, or private gathering.
What age is best to start dance training?
Training at the Dance Institute of Washington begins in the Early Division, starting at age 3. This division has four levels: First Position I (Age 3), First Position II (Age 4), Plié I (Age 5), and Plié II (Age 6). Early Division is an intentionally creative realm that is age-appropriate. The overall objective is to engage in and enjoy dance while building a solid foundation of balletic movement. This division focuses on imaginative play, coordination, energy words, spatial awareness, directionality, balance, and motor skills.
Note: All young dancers must be potty-trained in order to participate in our Early Division.
Does my child need prior dance experience?
Not at all. The vast majority of our students begin with no previous training. Our introductory classes are specifically designed for beginners and focus on building a strong foundation of dance fundamentals from the ground up. Our instructors are experienced in working with new dancers and creating a supportive, welcoming environment for everyone.
What makes DIW different from other dance organizations?
Our difference from other dance organizations is our unwavering commitment to holistic transformation and equity. We are a mission-driven organization centered on nurturing individual growth and fostering a lifelong love for dance. We prioritize community by creating a positive, non-competitive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued. Furthermore, our expert instruction comes from highly qualified professionals and passionate educators dedicated to building confidence, creativity, and discipline in each dancer.
What should I expect from my child’s first class?
You can expect a warm and welcoming environment. Your child will be greeted by their instructor, introduced to their new classmates, and led through a fun warm-up. The class will cover some basic steps and concepts in an engaging, age-appropriate way, often incorporating music and creative games. Our primary goal for the first class is for your child to have a great time, feel comfortable, and leave with a smile, excited to come back next week.
Do you offer adult classes?
Yes, we offer a range of Adult Classes designed for every age and skill level. You can discover a mix of free and paid offerings that allow you to ignite your passion and find your community.
How do I register my young dancer?
The Fall Pre-Professional School audition period for prospective students has now ended. Learn more about our Pre-Professional School and Level Divisions.
How much does your programs cost? Do you offer financial aid?
Tuition varies by program, but scholarships are available based on need. DIW makes world-class training accessible, with 80% of our students receiving financial aid or free programming.