We promise
To create the most inclusive space that we can. Every community is made richer by the multiplicity of backgrounds and experiences and ADC celebrates the innumerable identities that make our community unique within in this shared art form. Racism, homophobia, transphobia, sexism, ableism, body shaming and any other discrimination will not be tolerated at ADC. If you have experienced any discrimination, please report via our contact form.
To use language and terminology that is affirming and inclusive of all identities. For example, some aerial dance terms were historically named after individuals or gendered characters. ADC uses terms that accurately describe movements and that are not gendered. Teachers and students will be addressed with the pronouns they have specified.
To increase physical access as much as we can. ADC recognizes that dance and aerial dance are often ableist fields. ADC strives to make physical accommodations with creativity and open mindedness, whether in classes or performance venues, in order to make our work more accessible. ADC’s approach emphasizes and enables personal ownership of one’s physical experience by offering and helping people to find movements that work for their own bodies.
To offer learning experiences that fit multiple learning paces and styles. Each person’s path to success takes a different route with unique hills and valleys. We honor everyone’s unique path to learning by providing a mix of group and individualized corrections. Options will be provided to help guide each individual in their journey. It is important to note that failure is an inevitable part of learning aerial dance. This challenging art form takes patience, persistence and repeated practice. Even when, and often especially when there is no outward sign of success, learning is taking place. Aerial dance teaches many important life lessons, regardless of where students are along their journey.
To acknowledge religious and cultural holidays. If students miss a scheduled class to observe a religious or cultural holiday, the class may be made up for free in our open studio.
To make aerial accessible to all ages. We believe that aerial dance is truly for everyone. We have class offerings for ages 6 and up, with no maximum age limit. For individuals that prefer to move at a slower pace, ADC will offer Gentle Aerial classes, where there is interest. Please contact us to express interest.
To share aerial dance with people of all economic backgrounds. Aerial dance is an expensive endeavor and we acknowledge that systems in our country work to prevent some people from transcending challenging financial realities into which they were born. We strive to make aerial dance financially accessible to those who are in lower earning brackets. If you or someone you know fall into low income earning, join our Reduced Tuition Programs that provide high quality instruction at a 50% reduced tuition cost.
To greet you with a smile. ADC is a small school of individuals unified by the art of aerial dance. This makes us all part of a shared community. You can expect to be treated as a valued member of the community whether in classes or at events.
To make space and time to listen. As we are operating within the limits of a small non-profit arts organization, some changes may take time or multiple steps to implement. While we cannot promise that we will always be able to meet everyone’s unique needs, we do commit to listening, approaching obstacles with optimism in our ability to find a solution, and making space for open and honest communication with you. If there is something that we can do to make you feel more seen and valued at ADC, please fill out this contact form.
Our promises to our community are ever-evolving as we continue to learn and develop new relationships. We are excited to grow with you.