Founded in 2024 by twelve years old Leta Rundell, member of Chloe Arnold's International Youth Tap Company, SoleTalk, as a safe space for autistic dancers like her, Autistic Wings Dance Company. AWDC innovative approach to teaching dance includes small class sizes and a dance studio version of an Independent Education Plan.
Our studio is at the forefront of change, combining the best therapeutic practices with the best educational practices with longstanding traditions in the dance studio world. Our classes never have more that four (4) dancers per class, following the best therapeutic practices. We have everything from fun Combo Classes to traditional disciplined dance classes. Each class is tailored to the dancers in the class.
For more information, visit our website, https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org
Autistic Wings Dance Company is a safe space for dancers on the Spectrum where autistic dancers can learn dance, movement, social skills, and prepare for a career in the entertainment industry or wherever their paths might take them.
At Autistic Wings Dance Company, we believe that the joy and artistry of dance belong to everyone, especially those who may have been told they don't fit in. Our mission is to provide an authentic, empowering space where autistic dancers can thrive, led by a team that understands their unique needs firsthand. Founded by then-12-year-old autistic tap dancer Leta Rundell and run by autistic CEO Amanda Trisdale, our organization is built on the belief that the activity should be adapted to the dancer, not the other way around.
For many of our students, traditional dance classes are not an option. Traditional teachers often misinterpret natural autistic traits—like stimming, not looking people in the eyes, or having a higher-pitched "baby" voice—as disrespectful instead of recognizing them as part of the dancer's autism. We bridge this gap by offering highly specialized private classes with a one-on-two ratio of one dancer to two dedicated teachers. This tailored approach allows our dancers to learn and express themselves in an environment where they feel safe to be their authentic selves, quirks and all. We see the pure excitement when a student shows off a new skill and witness the incredible pride of parents who see their child do something they never thought possible.
While each life-changing class costs us $1,256 to provide, we keep our hourly rate at just $55 to ensure our programs are accessible to the families who need them most. Your donation directly helps us cover this financial gap, guaranteeing that every dancer who walks through our doors can experience the magic of movement and the gift of belonging.
Organization name
Autistic Wings Dance Company
2024
Tax id (EIN)
99-1811640
Category
Youth Development, Arts, Culture & Humanities
Organization Size
Small Organization
Address
6414 N Academy BlvdColorado Springs, CO, US