Essence Studios

"Bravo Essence Studios! You've managed to produce show-stopping performances that are truly nothing shy of spectacular!! This 40-year veteran of TV production has been lucky enough to see hundreds of performances at every major theatre company around the DMV and NYC! And I'm still at a loss for putting into words the absolutely incredible quality that has become the hallmark of Claire Jones at Essence Studios and the Hope Garden Children's Ballet Theatre Company! It's no wonder Claire learned to dance in this very company previously owned by the incomparable Fran Ichijo. I had the fortune of watching Claire not only learn to dance, but become a teacher when she taught my 4-year-old daughter all those years ago. And now that Claire owns this company, I take pride in just purchasing a ticket to witness the creative energy and production genius she clearly takes from concept to stage! Let me put it this way, if I could wave a wand, there'd be a weekday matinee of every show just so every student could take a field trip to be in the audience! I'd line up buses from every senior living facility so they could relish in the joy of the children's love of dance & performance, & possibly relive memories of their own! I'd encourage every Poolesville resident to purchase a ticket & witness first-hand the beauty that is alive & well in the "arts" here in the Ag Reserve! Talk about aptly named.... the "essence" of this company's success is because at its core, Claire tells a story with no words through an art form that is so poetic in its movement that it will transport you to another world, teach & touch your heart and much like music is a universal language; dance done right uses music as its welcome mat to the soul! Claire's production of "A Winter's Eve" included all of those elements plus messaging in scenery & lighting that was as iconic to the spirit of the holiday's giving season as any message I've ever witnessed on a stage. I was moved to tears, clapping along and on my feet at the finale! While wars rage on in our world, our hearts can enjoy the respite true art gives us! This show... this company... this artistic creator capitalizes on the best of our future by bringing dancers from age 4 and up on stage to share the message that we are all in this life together. Together is how we can all overcome whatever awaits us. Together is how we come to understand and respect each other! Is there a better life lesson at this kind of price? No, simply no there is nothing better! BRAVISIMO and Mazel Tov! May "A Winter's Eve" become an annual staple for us all! May you continue to bring your gifts to the stage & open your heart to the children of your company & give them the greatest seat in the house while doing it!! I can't wait to buy a ticket to the next show!"

"Essence Studios is exceptional in both quality of instruction and supportive environment. My daughter has thrived there, and it shows through her dancing. The studio produces excellent shows and includes ballet, as well as other disciplines such as contemporary and tap."

"Exceptional, experienced staff! Pre-professional and recreational instruction available in a welcoming warm environment."

"Essence Studios is a very special place. I've watched my child grow in stature, poise, grace, technique, confidence, friendships, and so much more. My dancer spends A LOT of time here and it's super important to me that she is in a good environment. The support and encouragement she receives from Ms. Claire and the entire staff is wonderful. She enjoys training and dancing so very much here. She feels at home here. She's also able to participate in AMAZING productions that WOW. Seriously, they are NOT recitals where people are talking or standing up in your way. These are professional style productions that have taught my dancer how to behave backstage, the timing of getting ready, and how to shine under the lights and applause. All of this has built confidence and skill as she learns from incredible teachers. She's able to take multiple styles of dance and is exposed to new styles and has learned to adapt to different guest teachers as well. I'm so very grateful to have this special studio and I hope you find it as wonderful as I do. Even if you have to drive a distance to get there...You will not regret it."

"This is a studio with high quality classical ballet instruction but also many other forms of dance. The environment is very positive and supportive, and accepting of all people. They do wonderful performances as well."