This dance company is a great service to the community, both in teaching the arts and being faithful witnesses to Christ. Their programs are not only professional, but very entertaining and Christian-oriented. They work very hard to ensure quality of everything they teach and in all of their performances. I also understand they have outreach and volunteer at various churches and nursing homes throughout the area.
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I have been a spectator at King David worship concerts for many years, and they are always excellent, a source of inspiration and joy.
This company is highly skilled, polished, and professional, and I am always happy after leaving a concert.
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I attended King David for 5 years until i left for college and can say that their ministry deeply impacted my life. It meant so much to have excellent training in such a loving, family atmosphere. I experienced a lot of abuse as a child and without this company i don't know how i would have healed or coped as a teenager. They showed me how to use dance as so much more than movement. It is a way to let go of pain and daily struggles, a way to grow closer to the Lord, a way to reach the hurting and that is something i won't ever forget. Their encouragement is one of the reasons that i am involved in student ministry today so that i can try and bless others as they have blessed my life.
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I've seen performances and heard many wonderful stories of lives that have positively changed through the outreach of King David Dance. The performances are family oriented and beautiful presentations.
One colleague of mine that worked in the same hospital shared with me her personal story of how the staff and team and their support.
There are many community outreaches but this is truly one that touches lives of all ages.
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My daughter attends King David, and I am constantly impressed with this wonderful studio! It is very hard to find a place that teaches sound technical training along with Christian values and focus as well! Madison loves her class! She is not only growing technically, but her love for dance is growing as well! I'm excited to see her continued growth here!
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Katie
I have attended several of the Worship Concert. King David Dance Company performances are outstanding. The message through dance is provocative. It encourages young people to become a part of the ministry. And certainly it encourages all to live a better life.
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King David Dance Company has been such a blessing to me! I danced with them for three years, while I was in highschool, and remain to stay in touch. The Directors and staff, as well as the other clients have meant so much to me. One instance in particular in which they went above and beyond was when my parents announced their separation and divorce. I was crushed. I went to dance that same afternoon and simply broke down in tears, heart torn. My classmates and teachers gathered round me with comfort and prayers. They played a key role in helping me overcome my personal struggles through their support and through dance. Dance has been a part of my life for almost as long as I remember and has been an outlet for me to relieve stress, express myself, and give praise to God. This company has been invaluable to me, and I still return to experience the worship concerts that are performed annually because they are so powerful.
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Dancing at King David has been such a blessing to my life. Not only have I grown as a dancer from the phenomenal dance training, but I have grown spiritually as well. I have been dancing at the studio since it opened, and I can't imagine training in dance anywhere else. Every single staff member is loving and genuinely cares about each individuals life. It is so nice to be able to dance in an environment where Christians can praise God together.
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We have extended family that have been involved with the King David Dance Company for several years. Their daugther has grown in grace and gracefulness through the program. It is refreshing to know that this dance company values biblical character qualities as well as professionalism; they invest in the people they teach.
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My daughter has danced at KDCC for 6 years. Barb and Sal are amazing people of Christ. They implement the values of the Bible in every class and pray with the children. The children that dance there not only learn technical dancing but it nourishes their Christian Spirit. I love what my daughter has taken away each time she leaves the facility not only dance wise but spiritually.
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My daughter, Alex, has been developing her dance skills under the tutelage of Sal and Barbara Messina for eight years at the King David Dance Company. I have been absolutely delighted with the technical proficiency of the instructors and the emphasis on development of the whole person (body, soul and spirit). I would most assuredly recommend the King David Dance Company to anyone requiring excellence as a way of life!
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Great group of teachers wth servants hearts.Professional in all aspects of dance and music training. Owners and leadership are dedicated to the childrens dance training while building character through Bible time and pray. The kids know they are loved in this setting
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For the second year King David Dance Company has been a fantastic part of our daughter Jordyn's life.
She is 6 years old and participates in the wednesday after school beginning dance class with Ms. Barbara.
Not only is she learning dance skills, but she receives positive instruction in a very biblically based environment.
She is learning discipline in dance, but it is reinforced with love.
Her self confidence has greatly improved as well as her dance abilities.
I would recommend this organization and the wonderful people that work there to anyone and everyone.
They are a wonderful group of very loving individuals who not only share their talents but their love of Christ through their interaction with others.
They are truly a blessing and an inspiration.
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I am very thankful for this ministry and the many lives it has touched. They have the most amazing hearts I have ever known and am so blessed to be able to know and watch the performances that minister to so many.
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I have been involved with King David since I was 12 years old. I met the owners Sal and Barb at the dance studio I was attending at the time. I have always loved to dance. After meeting with them I knew that King David is where I needed to be. This dance company allowed me to do what I love while combining it with my love for the Lord. In addition to dance I learned so much more like drama, sign language, and how to be a better Christian. To this day I still see the results of my time spent at King David. I'm 22 years old now and a first year teacher working with children with Autism. At times when I am at my ropes end I still hear the words of Mr. Sal “I know it hurts but keep pushing.” At the time he said it he was referring to me stretching in a middle split as he pulled on my arms to give me that “extra stretch.” Now in life when I feel I can’t accomplish a task and I’ve stretched myself to the limit I know I can push that little bit farther and still survive even when it gets painful. I will always hear Mrs. Barbara’s voice in my head when a co-worker or student pushes my buttons and I would love to say exactly what is on my mind! “I only want to hear what is for the building up and edification of others.” She always had a knack for wording everything in a positive way that would build all of us up instead of tear us down. All in all, King David didn’t just teach me how to tap and leap and turn. King David taught me how to live successfully by teaching me principles that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I can’t think of any greater reward than that.
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My daughter has enjoyed her participation with this organization since she was 4 years old. I have seen her grow in her dance technique as well as her self-confidence and spiritual maturity. I can highly recommend King David Dance Company to others.
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Just wanted to state that every time I have seen a presentation by King David Dance Company, it has been one of excellence and variety. They have performances 2-3 times a year, and I have seen a number of them over the past few years. They must be good teachers, because the students are energetic and full of energy as they perform, and that has to be taught.
I would recommend this group if you are looking for a dance company that puts a great deal of energy and time into each student. They get results out of all their dancers, and the dancers sure look like they are having fun doing it.
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I enjoy the performances of the KDDC. It is tasteful and gives people of all ages a way to express themselves through the arts. Watching some of the older people dance encourages me to exercise by just moving. I may not dance as well as some of the performers, but it makes me feel better both inside and out. Thanks so much for reminding me to dance as if no one is watching.
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I took both ballet and jazz dancing classes at the King David Dance Company and absolutely loved them. The classes were a great size to allow for personal attention from the instructors, and the environment was both challenging and supportive for an adult beginner like I was. I would recommend the Company to people of any age interested in taking dance classes, either to develop professionally, or for their own personal enjoyment.
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I have been fortunate to work in several capacities with the King David Dance Company. I am a board member, a dancer in the company, a student of ballet, tap, and jazz at the King David Christian Conservatory. I have volunteered several hours to the ministry and have seen first hand the hard work and most of all the integrity in which the artistic directors conduct the ministry.
I have heard countless testimonials of how the ministry has blessed and helped those who have participated. I personally have grown in character because of the guidance and direction I have received from the staff members and leaders. I have been taught dance technique, vocal training, and drama and have been given the opportunity to give back to the community through my talents.
One of the most humbling and rewarding times in when a team from the KDDC went to the urban community of Philadelphia , PA and brought the arts to the children of that community. Many of them had never seen performing arts in person and maybe a seed was planted to give them hope for their futures. We shared the love of God with them and had the privilege to bring smiles to their faces.
I intend to work with this ministry as long as God will allow me to.
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King David Dance Company has been a blessing to me and my family. It is not just an ordinary performing arts school. It is a ministry. The students are taught to worship God through the arts and are encouraged to express their faith through fellowship, devotions and prayer. The staff is MAGNIFICENT! With true professionalism and sincerity, the teachers exemplify the poise, modesty and discipline that is taught to the students.
This is my child's 5th year dancing, and her 2nd year at King David Dance Company. We've FINALLY found the right place, and we have every intention on staying here. At King David Dance Company, our family is home!
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I have attended several presentations by the King David Dance Company. I have also had them come to perform for a large group of special needs adults which I am involved with. Their performances are top notch!!! Their choreography is so creative and their costumes are well done. Above all, their Gospel message and love of the Lord shines through! They were a blessing to all!
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I remember the King David Dance Company when they began as a small ministry in NYC. I was also involved intimately with the group in North Carolina when they began their journey into a non-profit organization/studio. KDDC provides a unique artistic experience for all individuals involved in their performances. Their ministry allows students to grow spiritually, emotionally, artistically and physically.
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King David has been around long enough to impact many of the children of friends of mine in a significant and positive way. This ministry makes a significant difference in the lives of those involved and in the lives of those for whom they perform. It is such a great thing that there are healthy creative outlets for young folks in dance like this ministry.
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To whom it may concern:
I am a minister at a United Methodist Church in Mineral Springs, North Carolina. On several occasions, we have had the King David Dance Company share programs with us for our Family Ministry events. These are intergenerational events, involving the entire church family. Response to the programs has been overwhelming. Not only are they very professionally done, they are extremely meaningful and moving. I am so glad to have been able to offer our church this kind of family worship experience.
Rev. Marilyn Wooten
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We have been a part of this amazing ministry for over 10 years. My thirteen year old daughter began dancing with them when she was three, and we feel like they are part of our family. Sal and Barb and the entire staff are godly people who have committed their lives to pour Jesus and themselves into their students. In addition, with their training and experience, they impart a level of excellence to these students that is unparalleled. We love King David!
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I have attended public performances of both the owners and their students numerous times over the years, and I have seen the skills progression of many of the students from presentatin to presentation. The honing of talent is readily apparent, as are the obvious personal development and the values of the students. This school is designed to produce great dancers and great young people, and it's welcoming atmosphere is sets the tone for these successes.
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My daughter has danced at the studio for over 10 years and I danced for 2. This is a safe place for all to enjoy the arts in the Lord. With piano, voice and dance, all participants can use their gifts to the glory of God. I look forward to every season, seeing new people expressing themselves...IT IS GREAT!
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King David Dance company is truly a blessing from God. This ministry brings encouragement to so many people. Personally it has spoken to my heart and the people in this company are like family to me.
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This studio has the most wonderful atmosphere! I came as a new student and was instantly accepted by both the teachers and the students.
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King David Dance Company is the solution for parents seeking a way to have their children participate in the performing arts (dance, music etc.) in an environment that is inclusive, joyful, rigorous, and safe.
Though grounded in excellent formal technique, the studio chooses not to drive students into annual competitions, where the pressure to out-do peers leads many to place the burden of ever more risque routines on the backs of children (ie, the 5 year olds who became an internet sensation gyrating in skimpy costumes to Beyonce's What a Girl Wants.) At King David, though contemporary and stylish, there is nothing about the musical choices or costumes that would make a parent blush.
Competitive pressure also pushes many studios to "performance perfection" - the scenario in which only the most talented and best-looking children shine. At King David, every child is part of the group, and as a result, onstage one will see children of every size, shape, and ability level, all given the opportunity to be their own best. The daily devotionals, which are part of every class, help children support one another, and to respect the challenges that make each child's path unique.
In an era when relations among groups in America is strained at best, another positive of King David is genuine and natural inclusiveness. The churches in Charlotte, NC, where the studio is located, are often called the most segregated locations in the city. Not so at King David. Here, black and white, young and old, male and female, prosperous and struggling - all interact on a foundation of shared faith. Even the musical choices for the annual concert reflect a broad range of ethnic influences.
King David models the highest possible standards. Parents are treated with professionalism. Studios and facilities are spacious and spotless. The annual concert is a large production, yet managed to the last detail to respect parents' time, needs, and budget.
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I've never had the opportunity to dance at "King David's Dance Company" because I've been too busy running my own dance studio. However, I know several girls who have danced with Sal and Barb. I've only heard excellent things and have wanted to participate in their ministry. Sal has been very gracious to help me over the past several years with my own dance studio. He did some music recording for me for my recital's and rented out his very own marley dance floor when I was in a pinch. He is excellent at cutting music and he is a very gracious man. I've only meet Barb outside the front door of their home but she has always been very kind. Both Barb and Sal are great godly people. I'm glad I've had the opportunity to meet them both.
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Value is a word I would use to describe Sal and Barbara Messina. With them, you absolutely get the best. They came into our lives as dance instructors to our daughter, Jennifer, when she was in elementary school. They helped develop her as a dancer, a performer, and more importantly, as a young christian woman. In their classroom, Jennifer was not only taught the basics of dance, she was taught to use those creative steps to love and worship the Lord. Jennifer performed with the King David Dance Company all through her high school years. There are not enough words to tell you what a difference this ministry and dance company made in her life. Again, I would just have to use the word value. With the King David Dance Company, you get God's best.
Under Sal & Barbara's christian guidance, Jennifer developed her own self-confidence. Their relationship has always been based on honesty, trust, love and a sincere desire to use the talents the Lord has given them. Jennifer is now a young married woman and lives in Los Angeles, California. They continue their mentoring relationship through e-mails, phone calls, and home visits. It is hard to believe that they have been in our lives for almost twenty-five years. Wow!
Thank you, Lord, for Sal and Barbara Messina and King David Dance Company. Thank you for always sending us your best.
Judy Plummer
Charlotte, North Carolina
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I've have known the founders and instructors (Barb and Sal) of King David Dance Company for nearly 15 yrs. As a dancer and entrepreneur in a similar field and as a client served (my daughter took classes for 5 years), I can say, hands down, this is a top-notch organization. In addition to promoting the uncompromised Gospel of Christ, they are among the highest skilled dance professionals in the Charlotte region. They offer quality training and instruction in an amazing state-of- the art studio/facility and their passion, their integrity as well as their love for their students far exceed anything I've ever experienced. I am so blessed to know Barb and Sal and to have been a part of KDCC.
Review from Guidestar
King David Dance Company has been part of our family for 4 years and has been just the kind of dance company I want for my teen-daughters. Everything about this studio has not only been handled professionally, but with integrity and grace. The instructors give their best to our kids - in a Christian environment that doesn't compromise values or standards. The annual recitals are first rate and always sends chills down my spine that we are actually a part of this organization and that my kids are a 'part of the show'. It is an honor to share this review with GuideStar - King David Dance Company is the best!
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This is a solid christian based dance and music school near Crown Point. Morganne started at age 2 1/2yo and I never questioned the leadership,style of dance or choice of costume. Daily devotions and prayer are part of every lesson.
The economy has caused them to pray more and tighten their belts while praising GOD and giving quality education to children,girl or boy.
The above is part of my review can you help? http://www2.guidestar.org/
Mia Guinther
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The King David Dance Company far exceeded our expectations for our daughter's dance training in ballet and pointe. They are skilled, professional, caring and godly people ~ a first rate organization.
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I participated with KDDC during the 2009-2010 season and it was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my adult life where dance in concerned. I hadn't danced in a structured environment for over 8 years but both Barb and Sal were so patient with me in finding the right fit in regards to what I wanted to work on. This organization is truly a God sent in the fact they do what they do all for the Glory of God and are not ashamed to show that in every facet of their organization from the time you walk in the door. I have learned so much from them both and pray God continues to bless this ministry in ALL there future endeavors.
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KDCC dance company helped me to give of my time to God. These two people (Sal and Barb) are soooo dedicated to helping our youth to grow and in the things of God through the Performing Arts. They have shown young people how to worship God in the Dance, the Song, the Sign Language, and the Acting; because of this many, many lives have been changed. My life certainly has. If you have a child who has any one of these gifts please give them the opportunity to experience a class at KDCC. They will never be the same again.
Review from Guidestar
The King David Dance Company pursues excellence in Christian ministry through the performing arts. I can personally attest to the dedication of Barbara, Sal, and their support staff. The ministry has always been aimed at bringing people to Christ via the arts, and they do a phenomenal job. The ministry also extends beyond the arts, as the organization strives to simply serve people, in many different capacities. Helping the King David Dance Company with performances was an honor.
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King David is so much more than the average studio. I grew up there and now that I have gone off to school I realize what a huge impact it had in my life. Not only do I feel physically well trained but also well equipped in so many other areas. The skills I have taken away from there have aided me in such a variety of ways. I feel able and confident as a student in my dance classes at school. The leaders have poured into my life in a way I cannot even tell and it is because they were so invested and dedicated to me not just as a student but as a person they loved. This studio is such a special place to me because I was able to grow a gift or talent I have but it is also the place where I discovered my passion. I could not recommend it more.
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My daughter just started with King David Dance company in the dance/tap division. My daughter is 4 years old and this is her first formal activity. I think it been very positive for her confidence and looking forward to getting better every week at dance. The class is well managed with the different drills which are fun for the girls. I do recommend this dance company to any parents who has children that might be interested in the arts.
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King David Dance Company literally changed my life from a young age. Their involvement in my development as a dancer inspired & crafted not just my in-studio work, but my out of studio life. Through them I became confident, adaptive, and learned how to present myself as a professional in any situation. Of course my time there was also marked not just with creative learning, but spiritual as well and I continue to invest in the faith they have instilled in me. In short, I would not be where I am today with them.
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I have attended numerous presentations by King David Dance Company. The dedication, sincerety and love for the Lord always shines. The perfomances are captivating. They always hold my attention and amaze me. What an inspiration to see our young people dancing. I believe King David Dance Company is making a positive difference in the lives of our children and the community! Sincerely, Ann Taylor/Charlotte, NC
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When I went searching for a studio to get back into dance after a 9 year break and I found KDCC and KDDC. I have been dancing with them for the past year and it has been a pleasure! The directors invest not only in your life by teaching dance technique but also invest personally. I've grown in so many ways over the last year and love being apart of the King David family!
I have two daughters who dance at King David Dance Co. What makes this dance studio unique is that they offer character trait stories and examples that teach the girls how to be honest, upright leaders in their community. In addition, they have taught my daughters to train diligently without compromise. This spills over into their schoolwork, chores and interpersonal relationships. I could not be more pleased with the program.
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I have been with King David for almost 10 years now and they have taken an organization and made it into a home. Our directors daily sow seeds of inspiration into their students and therefore we grow. They have fully committed to this Dance Company and it shows. Sal & Barbara are great leaders and examples of what we should strive to be, servants of God.
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I was new in town and had a dance background and found King David Dance Company. The owners were so willing to help and got me involved quickly. They were very personable and helpful and made me feel "at home." If it weren't for my work schedule changing, I would still be taking classes there. I miss it!! Just the other day, Barb, the owner e-mailed me to see how I was doing. I havn't taken a class in probably a year but she still took the time to say hello. I really appreciated that.
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Barbara taught my daughter's 3 year old ballet/tap class. My daughter absolutely loved Miss Barb! She was SO PATIENT with her and the entire class. They were not the best dancers due to their age, but saw lots of improvement during the class. They were so sweet praying and learning about Jesus too! Miss Barb made my daughter feel like she was a GREAT dancer with her kind compliments and sweet personality. Her love for even the smallest dancer is very evident in her daily work. We would have continued with lessons if we hadn't moved out of state. I would recommend Miss Barb to anyone.
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My first contact with King David Dance Company was attending their spring worship concert. It was unlike any dance recital I have ever seen. The choreography was phenomenal, costumes were not only modest but attractive, music selections were age appropriate and edifying and the dancers looked like they were having FUN! The dancers had a purpose to their dancing beyond entertainment. It was a wonderful experience watching so many people of different ages worshiping the Lord and enjoying dance at the same time.
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Our daughter has been a student at King David for 2 years. She has excelled under the guidance of her teachers in ballet, tap and jazz. She has learned grace and poise, as well as wonderful Biblical principles during their devotional time. I would highly recommend King David Dance company to anyone interested in quality dance education from a Christian world view.
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Our oldest granddaugter has been taking ballet and jazz since the age of six and she is now fifteen years old. We are so thankful to Sal and Barbara for the wonderful dance movements she has learned and, most of all, for the Godly influnce on her life. She loves dancing, she is graceful and a beautiful teen-ager. We love the King David Dance Company and all they have done for our granddaughter!
Betty and Joe Tucker
Review from Guidestar
My daughter has been dancing with King David for 9 years. She began dancing with them when she was 2 years old. Barb and Sal have helped her grow as a dancer and Spiritually as a Christian. Their gentle and caring instruction has caused my daughter to want to serve God through Dance. She loves to worship God with her whole being.
During every class they learn the steps, of course, but also have a time of prayer and devotion. They learn about the attributes of God and how to serve Him. They lift each other up in prayer and care for each other.
This is an incredible ministry where my daughter has learned to turn her love of dance into worship of the King of Kings.
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My 2 daughters have attended and I can assure anyone reading this review they will be pleased with the talent/experience/and Godly wisdom and direction that the owners, Barb and Sal give to this organization.
Our world would be a better place if such organizations had their leading and calling.
-dave trush-
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