“We aim to create an environment of inclusivity and competency in children, youth, adults with varying disabilities, special needs and backgrounds through the artistic expression of dance and movement.”
Founded in 2016 by Nicole Warren and a group of colleagues and artists, Chance 2 Dance aims to raise awareness about special needs in the community. The organization collaborates with individuals and organizations seeking an authentic dance experience. In 2018, Warren achieved the remarkable feat of designing and constructing Florida’s only sensory-friendly dance studio, which has since expanded to include a black box theater as well.
“We want the world to see how strong, beautiful and competent the special needs community is! They challenge us, inspire us, and motivate us to be better than we were the day before.”
Dancers work with a team of instructors, typically including one lead instructor with one or two assistant instructors per class. At Chance 2 Dance everyone deserves a chance! Working alongside certified special needs instructors, dancers are able to train their skills in a variety of styles and techniques, ranging from ballet to musical theatre and yoga.
“Our core technique is always to account for the individual dancer, noticing their potential and accommodating our classes according to their strengths and weaknesses.”
Chance 2 Dance was created because of how few opportunities were available for those with disabilities to receive a quality and competent dance experience. Seeking opportunities organically through connections within the community and intentionally through research and networking, they have three sensory friendly spaces that are inclusive and accommodative for individuals with specials needs, being a haven for the dancers, their families, and staff to continue to grow together through the performing arts.
Chance 2 Dance receives its inspiration from the stories of their very own dancers, helping them to navigate the world of art by creating an atmosphere of harmony and inclusivity. Crediting these two individuals as their biggest Influences in the dance world, Miss Kennedy Garcia, a competitive dancer with down syndrome, who serves as a constant pillar of opportunity to the special needs community, as well as Misty Copeland, an individual who stands for diversity inclusiveness. They represent a constant reminder to their dancers that they can achieve all they set their minds to!
When dancers are not performing, they are hard at work in the studio with their performance team, which usually consists of 11 dancers. They train weekly to prepare for upcoming competitions and performances. This past January, Chance 2 Dance had the exciting opportunity to perform at the Orlando Magic halftime show, featuring over 30 dancers from their studio! Currently, they are preparing for competition season as well as their annual showcase at the Orlando Repertory Theatre.
“Dance is the hidden language of the soul”
If you would like to support their mission of providing children, youth, and adults with varying backgrounds and abilities the opportunity to participate in a quality, purposeful, and intentional dance program with professional dance instructors; please visit their website at www.chance2dancefl.org.