Feature Photo by Tricia Pompilio Photography.

The Philadelphia Dance Academy (PDA) celebrates 20 years of exceptional dance education, establishing itself as a premier institution for dance training. Founder Lori Lahnemann shares, “I wanted to create the school in which my younger self would have thrived.” PDA’s mission is to deliver top-notch dance instruction in a professional and positive atmosphere, recognizing each student’s individuality and ensuring personalized attention for maximum potential.

“From my experience as a young dancer, I knew there was a need for what we have created at PDA, I just had no idea how many people would believe in too.” 

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“The directors and the entire staff create an supportive environment that allows their dancers to push themselves and not be afraid to work to their greatest potential. My daughter’s skills and self-confidence have bloomed since beginning her training at PDA, two years ago. We are thrilled to have our child as a student at The Philadelphia Dance Academy.”

 – Amy K.

Photo by Victoria Bastian Photography.

A Community Built on Passion: PDA’s Journey from 35 to 700 Students

PDA began as a single room at 4th and Locust with about 35 students. “I was the teacher, office manager, marketing team, and cleaning staff,” Lahnemann reminisces. “Everything grew organically and not always on the timeline I expected.” She recalls opening the current Old City location the week after her honeymoon and the Ardmore location just a few months before the COVID shutdown. 

“The dedication of our incredible community of teachers, dancers, and families is responsible for the growth and success of the past 20 years,” she reflects. “We always toss around the cliché ‘teamwork makes the dream work,’ but it really is the truth at PDA.” Now, classes run simultaneously in six beautiful studios, serving 700 aspiring dancers across two locations.

Diverse Curriculum: Nurturing Dancers at Every Stage

As PDA marks its 20th anniversary, it reflects on a legacy of shaping countless dancers’ lives. The academy’s success is a testament to the dedication and expertise of its professional faculty. “There is no community like the community here at PDA. I have never felt so loved and supported…not only through dance but as a person,” says Maya Kowal, a student of 16 years. 

PDA offers a diverse curriculum for dancers of all ages and interests. From the Early Childhood Dance program to the Primary and Pre-Professional Ballet Programs, PDA covers every stage of a dancer’s journey.  PDA also offers Theater Dance, Contemporary, and Adult/Teen Recreational Classes. 

Beyond Technique: PDA’s Holistic Approach to Dance Education

Pilates is integrated into the curriculum, promoting dancer wellness and enhancing physical conditioning. This holistic approach fosters both technical ability and the well-being of its students. A Boys Scholarship Program encourages boys to dance.

“Learning contemporary and theater pieces has been some of the most fun and provided the opportunity to explore my artistry in different ways. In today’s world, you can’t just know one (style),” says alumna and Columbia Repertory Ballet dancer Anna Patchefsky.

The Philadelphia Youth Ballet: Cultivating Pre-Professional Talent

A standout feature of PDA is its performance company, The Philadelphia Youth Ballet (PYB). PYB offers pre-professional dancers invaluable performance opportunities and exposure to a diverse repertoire, helping them hone their artistry and build confidence. This experience complements the rigorous technical training they receive in their regular classes.

Photo by Tricia Pompilio Photography.

Two Decades of Impact: Shaping the Future of Dance in Philadelphia

As PDA marks its 20th anniversary, it reflects on a legacy of shaping countless dancers’ lives. The academy’s success is a testament to the dedication and expertise of its professional faculty.

The Philadelphia Dance Academy’s 20-year journey is a celebration of dedication, artistry, and community. With a steadfast commitment to its mission, PDA looks forward to continuing to inspire and nurture the next generation of dancers for many years to come.

Photo by Victoria Bastian Photography.
By Sarah Bond in collaboration with Lori Lahnemann.