Tapestry Dance & Balance Dance Studios Share Space, Vision for Austin's Growing Dance Scene

After eight years at their current South Austin location, Tapestry Dance Company, the world's only full-time professional tap company is moving, taking up residence adjacent to the like-minded Balance Dance Studios, known for its innovative philosophy of healthy mind, body and soul development through dance. The facility is located at 4544 S. Lamar Blvd., Bldg. 200, Austin, 78745. The move will take place on Monday, October 19th and there will be a special community-wide open house on Friday, October 30th from 5-7:00 pm.

With Austin's explosive growth and development over the last couple years in particular, rehearsal and performance space, particularly for dancers, has become scarce. Tapestry encountered a problem now plaguing many arts organizations and cultural landmarks in Austin: getting priced out of their lease. Such is the case with Austin's beloved music venue, The Hole in the Wall, and the extended battle to save the legendary Broken Spoke while the land beneath it changes hands. In Tapestry's case, the building they leased was sold to a new owner who wished to take occupancy. Tapestry immediately began to explore different opportunities to strengthen and expand their reach in Austin.

Meanwhile, nearby Balance Dance Studios made headlines this past January after opening a new, state-of-the-art black box performance space Bravo at Balance, adjacent to their already expansive studios, specifically designed for dance. The new building increased their offices, studio, and performance space to a total of over 16,000 square feet.

The move seemed a natural fit for both organizations and a 'win/win' for students, dancers and staff. Kathy Dupuy, co-founder and owner of Balance Dance Studios sees the move as an incredible opportunity. "Community is central to our mission. We're committed to bringing the Austin dance community together as a whole. Teaming up and sharing space with Tapestry, who are internationally known and respected as one of the top professional dance companies in the world is an honor for us and a huge opportunity for our students to learn and grow. We couldn't be happier."

Tapestry Dance Company founder Acia Gray and Executive Director Etta Sanders are equally thrilled by the synergy. "By sharing space with a property owner that is dedicated to dance, we have found the security that will allow us to focus on our mission as well, 'sharing the power of dance through performance and education'," says Sanders.

Both Tapestry and Balance classes will continue as scheduled. Bravo at Balance will also continue monthly showcases for students at Balance as well as other Austin area performance companies.

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