The all-new, $7.8 million Dance Center at Interlochen Center for the Arts is now open.
 
The new facility combines Interlochen’s existing Hildegarde Lewis Dance Building with a 16,280 square-foot addition overlooking Green Lake.

“Our expanded Dance Center’s state-of-the-art studios and stunning views will inspire generations of dancers,” said Trey Devey, President of Interlochen Center for the Arts. “The new facility will strengthen Interlochen’s position as a destination for young dancers around the world.”
 
The Dance Center’s three new studios are outfitted with sprung-wood floors, Marley flooring, air conditioning, professional lighting grids, state-of-the-art sound systems, and large-screen televisions for virtual guest artists. The three upper-level studios boast 16-foot ceiling heights, while the lower-level studio is 11 feet tall. Eight-foot windows encircle each studio, offering views of Green Lake.
 
The glass studio walls enable invited visitors to watch rehearsals without disrupting classes. Guests can see into all four studios from the building’s main lobby.
 
Construction began on the Dance Center in August 2019. With the new addition complete, the project now moves into its second phase: a renovation of the Hildegarde Lewis Dance Building, which was constructed in 1950. The renovation will bring new windows and air-conditioning to the main studio as well as new first-floor restrooms. The lower level will be transformed into offices, faculty locker rooms, a sewing and costume area, and student dressing room, as well as a convertible space that can be used as a junior studio during Camp and a student fitness and training room during the Academy year. A new elevator will make the complex fully ADA compliant. The fully renovated Dance Center will be ready for use this summer in time for the 94th season of Interlochen Arts Camp.