For many years, Cara Woodward has envisioned opening a studio that focuses more on performance than the competition. In about six weeks, she will bring that type of studio to Columbia County.
Woodward, who has taught dance for eight years, will open Free Movement Dance Studio at 4536 Washington Road, Suite 4, just past the Evans Walmart. The studio will offer classes in various types of dance, including jazz, tap, ballet, and lyrical, for children ages 2 to 18.
Classes will begin on August 13, and the average class size will be 20, but the toddler classes will be smaller. On Thursday afternoons, Free Movement will offer two classes specifically for homeschool students. The studio will also offer private lessons and wedding choreography for children and adults.
“I’ve worked at various studios, and I’ve seen things I wish were different,” she said. “I wanted to start a studio where it’s not about who’s the best dancer.”
Woodward also wants her students to perform at public events, such as the Columbia County Christmas Tree Lighting and the Jack-O-Lantern Jubilee in North Augusta.
“Aside from public performances, I also want to offer workshops to let other artists share their knowledge with the kids,” she said.
Forty-five-minute classes will cost $56, and one-hour classes will cost $66. After the initial class, additional classes will cost $30 each. Some people have already paid for classes online, and Woodward is currently working on scheduling a few in-person registration dates.
She will have at least five instructors. Besides owning the studio, Woodward will also teach classes in ballet and lyrical dance.
“I’m really excited to have a place of my own and build our dance family,” she said.
For more information, including the schedule of classes, visit freemovementdance.org.
