About DIP

Our Business Philosophy
D.I.P is a limited liability company that provides quality and affordable dance instruction and education to students ages three to adult in Philadelphia and its surrounding area. We seek to service the community through offering performance opportunities to students of diverse ethnic and economic status. Our program is designed to build self-esteem, provide positive role models, promote aesthetic and body awareness, encourage an appreciation of the performance arts, and teach various genres of dance that are influenced by different cultures. D.I.P students seek to inspire, uplift and teach others through creative movement and selfless dance expression.

• To cultivate and encourage an awareness of various dance styles and cultures through a variety of instructional and performance opportunities.
• To promote a positive self image and build self-esteem in every learner under our care.
• To be cost effective in delivering dance instruction and accumulated costs related to the annual student recital.
• To develop the natural talents of student learners of dance and provide enrichment opportunities that will influence their development in future career endeavors.
• To expand our current repertoire of dance offerings to include Line Dancing, Pilates, Nutrition, and Dance technique, in meeting the needs of growing consumer demands.

Our History

Dance Institute of Philadelphia evolved from a stellar dance program offered through Canaan Baptist Church (IOTA) of Germantown. In January 2008, DIP established its unique identity and launched the program under the leadership of its directors Carli Farris, Shante Forrest, and Tia Jordan at Hope Charter School and Morton Homes Community Center. In a joint effort 10 dedicated and professional instructors and office clerks, as well as 85 students followed in its footsteps. Today, we have expanded our program and opened the doors of our new home at 5900 Greene St. in Germantown on October 16, 2008. With over 100 students, DIP is entering a new era of dance education, where both the serious and fun loving student of dance will encounter a well rounded dance education in a family friendly atmosphere.