Business Details
29 Years
experience
Faith-Centered Dance Education for All Ages in Detroit
Higher Praise Dance Academy has been dedicated to spiritual enrichment through dance since 1997. Our mission focuses on providing faith-centered dance education for youth and adults, fostering personal growth, community service, and spiritual development. We operate as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, offering diverse dance styles within a welcoming environment that embraces individuals of all backgrounds. Our experienced instructors bring decades of expertise in praise dance, ballet, and modern techniques, ensuring personalized attention and professional training. Since hosting our first recital in 1998, we have cultivated a community where dancers develop technical skills while deepening their spiritual connection. Located in Ferndale, Michigan, our academy partners with First United Methodist Church to provide accessible dance education rooted in Christian values.We emphasize inclusivity, offering classes for ages 4 to adults, including specialized programs like Dance Ministry School and summer camps. Our instructors have received recognition such as the Spirit of Detroit Award and have trained students who now lead dance ministries across metro Detroit. Through outreach initiatives and affordable pricing, we strive to make dance education accessible while maintaining high artistic standards. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in student testimonials highlighting transformative experiences and confidence-building through faith-integrated instruction.
Services
Praise Dance Classes
Ballet Instruction
Dance Ministry School
Summer Dance Camp
Ballroom Dance Lessons
Christian Charm Class
Youth Dance Workshops
Traveling Dance Ministry Team
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We integrate Christian faith into every dance class and workshop
- Our instructors have over 20 years of ministry and dance experience
- We offer specialized Dance Ministry School with certification programs
- Community service hours and outreach opportunities are built into our curriculum
- Affordable pricing includes annual recitals and performance opportunities
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
What people say
Amazing instructors
Wonderful dance experience
Confidence increased
Faith reflected in teaching
Transformational journey
Services
Praise Dance Classes
Our praise dance classes combine technical dance skills with spiritual expression. Students learn to worship through movement using gospel music and liturgical choreography. Classes are available for ages 4 to adults with both beginner and advanced options.
Dance Ministry School
This 9-month program trains dance leaders in ministry techniques. Curriculum includes lecture, movement instruction, and pageantry methods. Graduates receive a certificate and training manual. Classes meet Saturdays from 9:00-11:00am March-December.
Summer Dance Camp
Five-week summer program for ages 4-16. Daily sessions include technique training, creative movement, and performance preparation. Camp runs Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 2:30-5:30pm with recital opportunities at summer's end.
Ballet Instruction
Ballet classes for children and adults focus on foundational techniques. Youth classes teach basic steps through creative movement while adult classes emphasize proper form and worship expression. Classes available weekly with registration options.
Christian Charm Class
Five-week summer program for ages 10-15. Combines dance instruction with Christian etiquette training. Sessions include posture development, worship movement, and character-building activities. Meets Fridays 2:30-4:30pm during summer months.
People
Susan Alexander
Executive & Artistic Director
Susan holds a Business Administration degree from Davenport University with dance training from Marygrove College. She has 21 years of ministry experience and authored two books on dance ministry. Recipient of Spirit of Detroit Award and Christian Arts Award.
Sandria Rush
Co-Director
Sandria has a degree in Accounting with Dance minor from Bowling Green State University. She has choreographed since age 10 and leads dance ministries at Redeem Church of God. Specializes in youth instruction and workshop development.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We offer praise dance, ballet, ballroom, liturgical dance, and summer camp programs for ages 4 to adults.
Do you require registration fees?
Yes, there is a $15 annual registration fee for all student enrollments.
Are your instructors qualified?
Our directors have over 40 combined years of dance ministry experience with formal education and community awards.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, card, CashApp, and Zelle payments for classes and store purchases.
Where are your facilities located?
Our dance academy operates inside First United Methodist Church in Ferndale, Michigan.
