Nurturing Artistic Growth and Community Impact
Our History
Divine Dance Institute (DDI) is the culmination of years of hard work and a firm belief that artistic expression as a positive force titillates the senses, and touches the heart.
Founded in 2002 by Amanda F. Standard, Artistic /Executive Director, Divine Dance Institute’s goal has been to provide a broad spectrum of arts education, preparing servants for the continually evolving technical arenas in the performing arts, all within a nurturing and professional environment. Seamlessly integrating mission-minded, message-driven movements with technical development, the school continually develops new programming while maintaining its original premise of integrity and quality without compromising spiritual and physical standards.
The Founder
“…to move rhythmically to music using patterns of steps and gestures.”
A graduate of LaGuardia High School of the Arts (C/O ’88) and Howard University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology (C/O ’95), Amanda Standard serves as Founder, Executive/Artistic Director for both Divine Dance Institute, Inc. (DDI) and SoundXpressed Dance Company (Washington, DC). Through each entity, Amanda provides novice, pre-professional, and professional dancers the opportunity to study and perform all over the D.C. Metropolitan area, nationally, and abroad.
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After 20 years of serving the community through DDI, the Maryland Dance Education Association presented Amanda with the “Dance Educator of the Year for Private Studios” award in 2018 and FAME’s “Educator of the Year” award in 2019. Throughout her professional education tenure, Amanda has educated the full grade level spectrum (K-12) while tackling multiple subjects at various levels. She currently serves at Benjamin D. Foulois Creative and Performing Arts Academy, a K-8 specialized program. Through DDI, she has launched a myriad of programs such as Emerging Artists Showcase, The Pneuma Dance Project Summer Intensive, Seedz Summer Dance Lab, PG Powerdanz Project, Divine DESIGN Summer Enrichment Programs, and much more…!
Our Core Values
Creative | Divine | Educate | Empower | Excellence | Model | Professional
Our core values encourage understanding of faith, self-value, and inherent abilities and using knowledge and skills gained to explore new possibilities and ways to positively bring about change.
Why Choose Us?
DDI provides an environment conducive to arts education and academic enrichment, preparing people for the continually evolving international arts arena. The school at DDI offers an open community-wide dance and drama program, an after-school enrichment program, and a full-day summer S.T.E.A.M. enrichment program. It is also the home of pre-professional contemporary outreach dance ensembles (Breezes, Pneuma, Wind, Whirlwind & PG Powerdanz Project).
We develop dynamic instruments to play a positive role in making harmonious music in the hearts of all who encounter their expressions through movement and dramatic presentation. It is the fulfillment of DDI’s vision to be a source of impartation and inspiration for those who want to make an impact in the community through the performing arts.
Our Alumni
Celebrating Our Alumni’s Artistic Achievements and Community Impact
Our alumni are a testament to Divine Dance Institute’s excellence. They have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the arts, embodying the skills, discipline, and passion cultivated at DDI. From professional dance companies to community arts leaders, our graduates continue to make a significant impact, demonstrating the lasting value of a DDI education.
Board of Directors and Staff
Meet the Dedicated Team Guiding Divine Dance Institute’s Vision
The Board of Directors and staff at Divine Dance Institute are dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and community engagement. Comprised of experienced professionals in the arts and education, they provide strategic direction and support to ensure the institute’s mission is fulfilled. Their commitment to integrity and quality underpins every aspect of DDI’s programs and initiatives.
Meet Your Dance Instructors
Our Amazing Artisans of Motion
All Forms
Ballet, Modern, Jazz, African
Ballet, Modern, Tap, Jazz
Ballet, Modern, Tap, Hip-Hop
ACRO-DANCE, Tap, Ballet, Jazz
Ballet, Modern, Jazz
Professional Classes
Ballet, Modern, Jazz
Master Ballet Instructor
Ballet, Tap, Jazz
Ballet, Modern, Jazz
Ballet, Modern, Jazz
Ballet, Modern
Ballet, Modern, Jazz, African & TAP
Theater Practitioner
Da’Jon A. Porter
Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Theater
Ballet, Modern, Jazz
Ballet, Tap, Acro
Andrea Smith
Ballet, Jazz & African, Acro
Ballet, Modern, Jazz, African
Jazz, African
Master Jazz / African Instructor
Jump In
The life of any company or organization is based on the people who work for and the people who support it. Your partnership is essential to the scope of how DDI continues to complete the vision. So, jump in.
Classes
…your next level is now
From the Marley to the screen, DDI offers training that is built for the novice to the advanced—bringing them into an environment that is fun, safe, and empowering!
Events
…what’s next for DDI?
From early registration perks to the next great art experience—DDI wants you to stay connected with us and participate by attending the next event!
Partners
..we’re stronger WITH you!
Support for the arts is critical! Its highly effective nature communicates across all social, economic, and political barriers—bringing walls down and connecting hearts!