Where are classes held?
- Classes generally are held in the Wellspring Theater, but occasionally may be moved to Wellspring Studio 19 to accommodate Theater rentals or performances. Both facilities are located in The Epic Center building, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, downtown Kalamazoo. Wellspring Theater and our business office are located on the second floor. Wellspring Studio 19 is located on the lower level.
How do I register?
- Pre-registration is encouraged, but not required. If you do not pre-register, we simply ask that you arrive five minutes before class to complete a registration form and make payment. For more information or to pre-register, call Wellspring at 269/342-4354.
How many weeks does my class run?
- Most semesters run for 8 consecutive weeks, but sometimes vary depending upon the concert season or holiday schedule. Please call the Wellspring office for information regarding a particular semester. Generally, Fall semester runs September-November, Winter semester runs January-March, Spring semester runs April-May and Summer semester runs June-July. There are no classes in August and December.
How much do classes cost?
- Wellspring offers two payment options. Students may pay per class at the drop-in rate of $5 for the 3-5 Yr. Olds classes or $9 for all other classes. Students may purchase a discount Class Card that saves $1 per class. Class Cards cost $32 per series for the 3-5 Yr. Olds classes or $64 per series for all other classes. Class Cards are non-refundable and are valid for up to six months from the date of purchase.
Are there scholarships for classes?
- Scholarships are an important part of the Wellspring studio class program. Wellspring provides full and partial (50%) scholarships to low-income, minority and at-risk students. Children and adults may apply, however, the majority of scholarships are awarded to youth. Separate applications are required for each semester. Scholarship funds are limited, so not everyone who applies will receive financial assistance and Wellspring cannot guarantee repeat scholarships. Scholarship applications may be downloaded, picked up in person at the Wellspring office or requested by calling Wellspring at 269/342-4354.
What should I wear?
- Modern dancers always dance barefoot. Beyond bare feet, just wear comfortable clothing. Most students wear sweatpants or leggings and a t-shirt or tank top. Leotards with tights are also welcome, as long as the tights are footless.
Do I have to have dance experience or be in shape to participate?
- No! In fact, Wellspring classes are a great way to get in shape. We welcome students of all levels, from beginning through advanced, and students of all body shapes, sizes and ages.
Who are the class instructors?
- All Wellspring classes are taught by professional modern dancers currently engaged in active performing or teaching careers.
Will I always have the same teacher?
- Wellspring instructors maintain active professional dance careers in addition to their teaching commitments. Wellspring supports this professional involvement and is very proud of its teachers. When it is necessary for a teacher to miss a class because of performance, rehearsal or illness, every effort is made to replace this teacher with another teacher from our staff or from our substitute roster.
Are classes ever cancelled?
- Wellspring classes are cancelled when the Kalamazoo Public Schools are cancelled due to inclement weather. If in doubt, please call the Wellspring office at 269/342-4354. Regular office hours are 9 am-5 pm, Monday-Friday.
When is the Wellspring Student Concert?
- The Wellspring Student Concert for students ages 3-13 years old is held annually in May at the close of the Spring semester.
Where should I park my car?
- There is ample 90 minute parking near the Epic Center on Kalamazoo Mall, Burdick Street, South Street and Lovell Street . There is covered parking in the Central City Parking garage behind the Epic Center, with entrances on Lovell Street and South Street.