Davis Center About Us

Philosophy & Mission

Since 1969, the Davis Center has provided dance instructions and related arts education to Washington metropolitan area
residents of all ages and varied backgrounds. Using dance and music as tools, the Davis Center aims to instill in its students
an enduring appreciation for the arts while at the same time helping them to develop perseverance, self-confidence, respect
for others and the ability to work as a team. Through a process that requires consistent attendance, proper dance attire, and
a firm commitment to learning, students are taught to dance and perform. While the ability to perform dance is an immediate
outcome of our training, a strong work ethic, poise, determination and creative vision that our students develop ultimately
equips them for success in any endeavor.

Curriculum

The Davis Center offers instruction in a variety of dance forms, including ballet, pointe, modern, tap, jazz, hip hop,
belly dance, gymnastics/Capeoira and African. Individual instruction in piano is also offered. Another integral
part of the Davis Center experience is etiquette training. A Full range of etiquette skills is taught both through
periodic sessions offered in conjunction with dance classes and through special events (i.e. holiday celebrations
and field trips) which present excellent opportunities to practice etiquette.

the Davis Center's students are trained in the Cecchetti Method of Ballet. Well known and highly regarded among
dance professionals, the Cecchetti Method is based on the teaching of the great 19th century Italian ballet master,
Enrico Cecchetti. The method emphasizes development of technique through proper use of the body based on each
individual's anatomical structure and requires an understanding of theory and French terminology. Students are tested
by National examiners from the Cecchetti Council of America (CCA) and advance to successive levels of ballet training
upon passing the various exams. The Davis Center's ballet and ballet readiness classes are organized by age and experience