Contemporary Dance & Fitness Studio
Home of Teen Jazz
Lorraine Neal and Allison Mann.
Photo by Peter Forbes
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Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio was founded in 1973 by Lorraine Neal. Classes where held next door to the Barre Opera House, above what was then Lash Furniture. Performances were held at nearby high schools. Several years later, Lorraine began teaching in various churches in Montpelier and, in 1980, CD&FS moved to our present location at 18 Langdon Street. Starting in 1982, performances were held at the newly refurbished Barre Opera House.
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Lorraine's commitment to establishing a culture of professionalism and caring has developed a community of dancing and teaching that nourishes students of all ages and levels, and plays a vital role in central Vermont. From one teacher and a handful of classes, the studio now holds over 50 class each week taught by over a dozen teachers and serves several hundred students.
In 2010, Lorraine chose Allison Mann to take over as Director of CD&FS, and Allison has continued to develop the studio's offerings. We strive to know each of our students, and we work to develop and maintain a community of support and caring, while cultivating a love of dance and a respect for the rigors and discipline required for those advancing in levels.
The Fall of 2022 saw several changes on the horizon. The historic home of the studio - 18 Langdon Street - was for sale with an unknown future. Allison Mann decided to step back from the Directorship to focus more on her classes and personal artistic endeavors. At the same time, Lorraine felt it was time for her to move on. Isadora Snapp, current Teen Jazz Co-Director, became the new Owner/Director of Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio.
The studio's longevity is a testament to the integrity and love of dancing that is nourished within its wall, and to the excellence in teaching. Over half of the current faculty grew up dancing at CD&FS and are alumni of the studio's Teen Jazz performance group.
In 2010, Lorraine chose Allison Mann to take over as Director of CD&FS, and Allison has continued to develop the studio's offerings. We strive to know each of our students, and we work to develop and maintain a community of support and caring, while cultivating a love of dance and a respect for the rigors and discipline required for those advancing in levels.
The Fall of 2022 saw several changes on the horizon. The historic home of the studio - 18 Langdon Street - was for sale with an unknown future. Allison Mann decided to step back from the Directorship to focus more on her classes and personal artistic endeavors. At the same time, Lorraine felt it was time for her to move on. Isadora Snapp, current Teen Jazz Co-Director, became the new Owner/Director of Contemporary Dance and Fitness Studio.
The studio's longevity is a testament to the integrity and love of dancing that is nourished within its wall, and to the excellence in teaching. Over half of the current faculty grew up dancing at CD&FS and are alumni of the studio's Teen Jazz performance group.
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The Company
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In 1983 Lorraine established a special class for teenage dancers. The purpose of the class was to provide promising and talented young dancers with an opportunity to work toward their full potential. Challenging choreography and the opportunity to perform throughout the school year enables the teens to strengthen their technique and polish their performing and theatrical skills.
Since 1983, the program has developed and expanded. Teen Jazz Dancers have performed for numerous schools and organizations throughout the state. Dancers are selected by an audition process held in September. The Company numbers have ranged from 8 - 18 dancers. They work throughout the year to prefect their pieces and go on Tour in the Spring. The choreography for the company is created by the Teen Jazz Directors, members of the CD&FS faculty, and guest choreographers. Repertory consists of a wide variety of dance styles including Classical Jazz, Hip Hop, Modern, Lyrical, and Ballet. Teen Jazz performances are designed to introduce audience members of all ages to dance and hopefully inspire them to dance themselves. Lorraine Neale stood as director of Teen Jazz from it's inception in 1983 - 2010. Hanna Satterlee followed from September 2010- May 2013 and then Amia Cervantes from September 2013- January 2020. Current co-directors are Rose Leach and Isadora Snapp. Of note - all directors have been former Teen Jazz Company members. |
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