About Us
Chattanooga Dance Theatre was founded by director, Christine Mashburn-Paul and the founding gifts of Carol A. Pierannunzi and the late, John D. Hutcheson. After dancing teaching and dancing professionally in her twenties, Ms. Christine (pictured below) envisioned creating a space where dancers, whether they desire to dance professionally or just for fun, could learn solid technique, develop strong work-ethics, and foster life-long friendships.
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Both a Performance Company and School, Chattanooga Dance Theatre offers the Chattanooga and Hixson communities quality dancing experiences through classes, workshops, and performances. Chattanooga Dance Theatre's space transforms into a small theater in which the company performs and can be rented out on an hourly or daily bases.
The Teachers
Well certified, trained, and experienced teachers understand how to teach in a safe, and encouraging way. All CDT teachers have had years of dance training, many have had professional careers dancing, and some have degrees in dance. All follow the CDT syllabus with training from the directors.
Children's Dance Curriculum
In the children’s dance program, we work to create well-rounded dancers with a strong base in ballet and a solid understanding of body mechanics. Dancers and movers are welcome at the studio at 2 years old in Creative Movement classes with parents. Once Pre-K aged, young dancers continue their studies with Primary Dance by themselves. At a first grade age, dancers are encouraged to take both the Ballet I class and the Modern/ Jazz I class. With a foundation in classical ballet forms a dancer is able to carry vocabulary over to many types of dance. As dancers continue with their dance education, they are encouraged to increase the number of classes taken each week.
Adult Dance Curriculum
Adult dance classes are a fun way to exercise and learn about many forms of dance. These classes are taught in a friendly, fun and laid back environment.
Performance Opportunities
Dancers in Levels I and higher are encouraged to audition for the ‘Nooga Nutcracker in September for the December performances. Dancers in levels IV and higher are encouraged to audition for the Spring Gala in January for the April performances. All students in Primary Dance, Ballet I-Advanced, Modern I-Advanced, Jazz I-Advanced, Hip-Hop, and Acro classes are invited to perform in the School Showcase in May. Beginning in February, a portion of class will be used to rehearse for this production.