best dance programs in Matthews, NC

Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.

The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups. November's gallery display will feature the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. This is a great opportunity for art lovers to come and explore the work of these talented students. The McDowell Arts Center offers an array of experiences for parents and children alike. From paid programming and meetings to gallery displays, the Center is a great place to explore and appreciate the arts. November's gallery show will showcase the work of Cynthia Howard's adult artist students. The display is sure to be a treat for art enthusiasts and a learning experience for all. The McDowell Arts Center is a great resource for parents and children alike. This November, visitors will have the opportunity to check out Cynthia Howard's adult artist students' work in the gallery. The Center is currently open for paid programming and some meeting groups, providing further opportunities for art appreciation. This is a great chance to explore the artistic talent of the local community.

The Brace Family YMCA was founded with the goal of strengthening communities and bringing families together. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a shining example of this mission in action, offering assistance to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA living out these values. The Harris YMCA is helping to make a lasting impact in our community by providing resources to Latino immigrant families. By connecting them with the support they need to adjust to their new home, the YMCA is helping to create a safe and welcoming environment for these families. The Brace Family YMCA is proud to have a branch that is living out our mission of bringing families together and strengthening our community. At the Brace Family YMCA, we are passionate about making a difference in the lives of families across the country. The Harris YMCA in Charlotte is a testament to this commitment, providing resources and support to Latino immigrant families as they settle into their new home. We are proud to see our YMCA bringing families together and strengthening our community in this meaningful way.

At Visions Dance Academy, we strive to create a fun and encouraging environment for dancers of all ages and abilities to explore their art. Our team of professional instructors are dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential, both on and off the stage. We are committed to helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in dance and in life.

Danielle Terrell, a passionate and talented dancer and native Charlottean, has been dancing for over 29 years. She has competed in national dance competitions, and has danced professionally for the WNBA Charlotte Sting and the UNC-Chapel Hill Dance Team. Ms. Danielle is the owner of the Zeal For Life Dance Company (ZFLDC), which is devoted to bringing the joy of dance to young people. She has been the head coach of the Charlotte 49ers Gold Dusters Dance Team for over 11 years. Danielle's immense love and knowledge for dance is the driving force behind the ZFLDC. She and her staff are committed to creating an environment where all students can gain confidence and self-worth through the beautiful art form of dance.

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts began in 1995 with a mission to bring quality theatre to the Matthews area. The original Board of Directors, made up of parents, theatre professionals and educators, was determined to create a space where young performers could shine. The first production, Alice in Wonderland, was a huge success. With over 100 children auditioning and 50 cast members, it was clear that the local community wanted to be involved in the performing arts. Since then, the Playhouse has experienced tremendous growth. Today, the Playhouse offers a full season of plays and classes year round, with a total attendance of over 20,000 during the 2018-2019 season. Over 1,000 campers participated in 45 different summer camps, and our classes served over 250 young people. Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts is proud to have fulfilled its mission to bring quality theatre to the Matthews area.

Charlotte Dance Alliance is the culmination of over 32 years of dance tradition and strong family values. Fancy Feet Dance Studio, under the direction of Ms. Paula Mann, has been serving the Matthews and surrounding Charlotte areas, and with the alliance of talented instructors, fantastic families, and years of dance education, Charlotte Dance Alliance was created. This cutting edge studio offers a wide range of classes, from Mommy and Me starting at 18 months, to Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Pointe, Floor gymnastics/Acro, Leadership Skills, Improv, competitive teams, and more. There is something for everyone, from beginner to the most advanced adult.

Our instructors are dedicated to creating an encouraging and supportive atmosphere for all levels of dancers. We guide our students to reach their highest potential and explore their creativity. We believe that everyone has the potential to be an artist and Steps N Motion's mission is to help unlock that potential. Our classes are designed to inspire and educate our students in a safe and positive learning environment.

At Anyone Can Dance, we believe that all children should have the opportunity to experience quality dance classes. We offer classes for children ages two through twelve, and we specialize in ballet and tap. We strive to make our classes fun and creative, while also teaching the importance of self-confidence and self-love. Our program serves the youth and families in the Watauga County community, and we couldn't be more proud! At Anyone Can Dance, we strive to make our classes accessible to all children, regardless of financial ability. Our classes for ages two through twelve teach both ballet and tap techniques in a fun and safe environment. We believe that our classes should instill a sense of pride in our students, while also teaching the values of self-confidence and self-love. We are proud to offer quality dance classes to the youth and families of the Watauga County community!

At Charlotte Allstar Gymnastics & Cheerleading, our mission to provide a safe and positive environment for families has been our priority for the last 32 years. We strive to offer the best in gymnastics, cheerleading, and class instruction with state-of-the-art equipment and spacious floor space, all while keeping our athletes comfortable with air-conditioning. As a leader in the Southeast, we are proud to serve the Matthews and Charlotte community. Our coaches work hard to make sure everyone feels at home, and that all participants are able to reach their full potential. Our 32-year history of providing the best gymnastics and cheerleading instruction in the Southeast has made us one of the most prestigious gyms in the area. With our commitment to safety and family-friendly environment, we strive to ensure that every athlete we serve has the best possible experience.