Down syndrome class continues to grow at Twirl dance studio

NEWTOWN » Twirl, a dance studio located at 3544 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, has ongoing dance classes for students with Down syndrome. Two weekly classes are offered specifically for these dancers.

Owner Sam Sinns, a former Disney dancer, got the idea for a dance class for Down syndrome students a month before Twirl opened in September 2016. A mother called the studio to inquire about classes for her daughter. She explained that her daughter loved to dance, but she had Down syndrome and was having a hard time finding a place where she fit in. This mother wanted a place where her daughter could actually learn choreography, as opposed to a creative movement class, which is common for special needs dance classes. “When I heard this mother’s story, I was like, ‘Let’s go for it,’” said Sinns. “Let’s make this happen!”

The Down syndrome dance program at Twirl has grown significantly since its first class in September of 2016. Last season began with only with four students and this season opened with a total of 18. Demand prompted the opening of a second class this year for younger students.

Sinns, who teaches the older Down syndrome students, hired Samantha Ambrico, a dance instructor with a heart for students with disabilities, to teach the class for younger students. Ambrico recently obtained a dance degree from Eastern University and has overcome her own obstacles in learning to dance. She is legally blind and required special assistance in her dance classes.

“When I met her, I knew she was the perfect choice to teach these students,” said Sinns. “She has such a great story. Samantha is someone that the students and their families could relate to and admire. She’s an overcomer.”

Sinns structures the Down syndrome classes like any other dance class. There is a warmup, followed by teaching new dance skills, and ends with a dance combination.

“The class is legit,” said Sinns. “I don’t baby these students. We have a lot of fun, but I also challenge them. I’m constantly amazed at what they are able to accomplish.”

For information about Twirl and the dance classes offered at the studio, visit www.twirlperformingarts.com