1. What is the philosophy and mission of the studio?
As children learn the art of dance, they must be immersed in an encouraging environment that teaches self-discipline, respect for others, and most importantly self-respect.
Metropolitan Fine Arts Center promotes the highest quality of fine arts instruction in a loving, caring, and joyous artistic environment. Our fine arts faculty, all masters of their fields, strive to encourage each student to reach their maximum potential in the arts. As a student grows and becomes increasingly proficient in their study, their self-assurance and confidence will soar! Dance bestows the three components of any well-rounded fitness program: stretch, resistance training and aerobics. It also combines utilization of the body, mind and, most importantly, the spirit. Metropolitan Fine Arts Center is dedicated to providing high quality learning and performance opportunities in an exciting and encouraging artistic environment.
2. What are the qualifications of the teachers?
All of the instructors at Metropolitan Fine Arts Center are professional teachers. Each of them uses personal styles and techniques to teach their art form. Many of our instructors have performed with major companies such as American Ballet Theater, Tap Dogs, Walt Disney World, San Francisco Ballet, and Dance Theater of Harlem. You can be assured that our faculty will bring you and your child into the world of the arts in the utmost professional manner.
3. Can I get immediate assistance and customer service?
Metropolitan Fine Arts Center has an on-duty receptionist available for you during all class times so that you may ask vital questions without interrupting the teacher in class. We have a full time accounts manager handling finances and two-part time studio managers to answer any other questions you may have.
4. What is the average class size?
MFAC limits their class size to 15 students per class. In our youngest classes, we strive to have at least one assistant teacher in each class. As we approach the production at the end of the year, students will learn to dance in larger and smaller groups for performance purposes.
5. What are the details of the end of the year performance?
Each year, MFAC produces a professional quality musical and dance production starring…..YOU! Instead of coordination a dance recital, MFAC uses the talent of all our fine arts students to produce a fully staged production. In addition to the opportunity to perform in a high quality production, our students learn about theater design and production as we approach the performance. Students learn how to choose appropriate costuming, apply stage make-up, and much more.
6. What performance opportunities are available?
Throughout the year, MFAC gives their students the opportunity to perform in various showcases and performance by audition and with their classes. The Center’s school year begins with the opening of Fairfax County Schools in September, and ends in June with an annual, fully staged Spring Production incorporating all of our fine arts students. More advanced students will learn the essentials of production, as they become involved with the design and production fields of theater and other performing arts. Non-competitive performance is a vital aspect to fulfilling the learning experience of a performing art student. All of our students will have the opportunity to perform in various holiday performances throughout the year, typically at nursing homes, hospitals, and charity events, in addition to our Spring Production.
7. What type of facilities are you located in?
MFAC is located in two state of the art facilities in a safe locations. Our dance floors were uniquely engineered to create a “sprung” affect to limit the amount of injuries by serious dancers. Combined between both locations, we have six large dance floors, 5 music rooms, a fully stocked costume and set workshop and a multi-purpose art room.
8. Does the studio participate in competitions?
MFAC does not have a show team or participate in conventional competitions. Our more advanced students have an opportunity to attend workshops and accredited summer programs that give them a wonderful opportunity to experience the “real” world of dance.
9. What other fees are required throughout the year?
Our fees are clearly stated in our tuition and fees schedule at the beginning of the school year. The three most common fees are tuition, a recital fee, and costume fees. Students may be asked to pay a nominal fee if he or she participates in additional performances throughout the year. There may also be a material fee for art classes.
10. Can I become a well-rounded artist and performer?
Of course! MFAC offers a wide array of dance, theater, music and art for our well-rounded students. Many of our students are accepted and participate in internationally renowned dance and theater programs including the Rock School, Alvin Ailey, American Academy of Ballet, Universal Ballet, Broadway Dance Center Programs, Kennedy Center performances, among many others.
