DARBY’S DANCERS OVERVIEW
Darby’s Dancers is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to bringing the joy of the performing arts to as many children and adults with special needs as possible. As a member studio the organization will provide us with the resources and tools necessary to have this amazing program in which we can reach so many people in Duluth and the surrounding area. Activities can be hard to find that adapt to and include everyone and even when they are found, they can be very costly. Families/students who participate as a Darby’s dancer, do so for FREE. What this means is that Madill Performing Arts Center, through our own profits, sponsorships, and fundraisers will be able to offer these dancers the opportunity to participate in dance without financial burden.
DARBY’S DANCER SPONSORSHIP
If you think you might be interested in sponsoring our program or partially sponsoring a Darby’s Dancer for the year please reach out to the office at [email protected] to get more information.
DARBY’S DANCER APPLICATION
If you or someone you know would be interested in becoming a Darby’s Dancer please reach out to the studio by phone or email. You can access a Darby’s Dancer Application HERE!
FAQs
What is Darby’s Dancers?
Darby’s Dancers is a dance education program for all ages with special needs. Classes take place in a local dance studio where each individual is accepted into the life of the entire studio. Founded in memory of Darby Emma Jones (1999-2013) of Huntsville, Alabama, Darby’s Dancers was developed to give children with special needs the opportunity to enjoy the performing arts as Darby did in an atmosphere of community and inclusion for all.
How do you qualify to participate?
Participants must have a disability as identified in an IEP or physician diagnosis.
What is the cost?
There is no cost at all to the family of the dancer.
What will we need for class?
Comfortable attire and clean sneakers. The studio will provide tshirts/costumes for the end of year recital.
Will my child have performance opportunities?
Darby’s Dancers participate in the annual dance recital at the minimum. Some studios have other performance opportunities such as winter shows or friendly competitions.
Who will help in class?
The class will be led by a professional dance teacher and may also have a teaching assistant(s).
Do participants need previous dance experience?
No
Do you accept anyone with any disability?
All are welcome unless they are extremely medically fragile individuals or those with concerning behavioral issues.
What are the qualifications of the teachers?
Classes are taught by dance professionals who may or may not have specialized training in special education. Volunteers working with the program most likely do not have specialized training. The national organization provides annual training to all chapters and there are many opportunities for dance professionals to participate in training. It is not mandatory, however. We provide the best we can with the best of intentions regarding the participants with safety as our highest priority. Darby’s Dancers is designed to be an engaging physical and social opportunity for our students but is NOT professional therapy.