Forest City's Hidden Gems: Contemporary Dance Training Centers You Should Know
Beyond the flashy studios and commercial dance chains, Forest City harbors extraordinary spaces where contemporary dance thrives in its purest form. These are the studios where technique meets artistry, where floors bear the marks of countless improvisations, and where the next generation of dance innovators train.
The Underground Collective
Tucked between auto shops and artist lofts, this converted warehouse offers the city's most rigorous release technique training. Founder Alicia Vero (former company member with Nederlands Dans Theater) has created a space where dancers explore weight, suspension, and the physics of movement.
What makes it special: The monthly "Falling Sessions"—3-hour workshops dedicated entirely to floor work and safe falling techniques.
This zen-inspired studio blends contemporary dance with somatic practices like Feldenkrais and Alexander Technique. Morning classes begin with tea ceremonies, and the sprung floors are made from sustainable bamboo.
What makes it special: Their "Silent Dance Labs" where students choreograph using only vibration and tactile feedback—no verbal instruction.
The Experimental Edge
Where contemporary dance meets digital art and projection mapping. This avant-garde space offers residencies for dancers to collaborate with VR artists and AI programmers, creating hybrid performances.
What makes it special: The "Motion Capture Mondays" where dancers can experiment with real-time CGI integration.
A soundproofed black box studio specializing in site-responsive and immersive performances. The irregularly shaped space challenges dancers to adapt their movement to unconventional architecture.
What makes it special: Monthly "Architecture Jams" where dancers create with local sculptors and installation artists.
For the Next Generation
Forest City's only contemporary dance program specifically designed for teens, combining technical training with mentorship from working choreographers. The curriculum includes dance filmmaking and arts administration basics.
What makes it special: Their "Company Shadow" program places students alongside professional dancers during creation processes.
While big-name studios dominate social media algorithms, these hidden gems are where Forest City's contemporary dance scene truly pulses with innovation. Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking new challenges or a curious beginner ready to explore, these spaces offer something profoundly different—authentic movement experiences that stay with you long after you leave the studio.
