Dance Movies to Curl Up to this Holiday Season
During the holiday season, Movie Nights are a staple. With colder temperatures and limited daylight, they are a way to keep your feet tapping while exposing your family to different genres of dance and music. At Nan’s School of Dance in Raleigh, we can’t help but twirl, jump and cheer for the following dance movies!
Leap!
Set in the late 1800s in France, this animated film follows a young orphan girl who discovers a passion for ballet. Taking a chance to audition for the world-renowned school of the Paris Opera Ballet, the main character (Felicie) embraces the idea that with hard work, practice and determination, you can do anything!
Singin’ in the Rain
A throwback, for sure, this musical masterpiece takes place in 1920s Hollywood. With some of the most iconic dance scenes in the film industry, the romantic musical comedy choreographed by Gene Kelly and Stanley Donen is something the whole family can enjoy. After watching this gem, we challenge you not to dance in the rain the next time a storm comes through the Raleigh area.
West Side Story (1961) Remake (2021)
Based on the complex relationship between two rival New York gangs in the mid-1950s, this movie’s plot becomes hugely complicated when two opposing members fall in love. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, “West Side Story” is a romantic drama with a legendary musical score and street battle turned dance-off. Interested in an even more modern twist? Take a look at the 2021 remake of the film starring Ansel Elgort and Rachel Zegler. While great movies, know that both are best suited for children 12+.
Happy Feet 1 (and 2)
Everybody needs a “heart song,” and Mumble (an emperor penguin) is no different. While the rest of his colony of penguins relies on their unique voices, Mumble expresses himself through tap dancing. With musical renditions from artists like Prince and Stevie Wonder, this eco-friendly cartoon film will have you and your family dancing around the living room. If you enjoy Happy Feet, make sure to watch Happy Feet Two — you won’t be disappointed!
An American Girl: Isabelle Dances Into the Spotlight
The eighth film in the American Girls series, this movie revolves around Isabelle Palmer, an aspiring dancer and fashion designer. Living in the shadow of her “perfect” older sister, Isabelle can’t help but feel out of place at her prestigious performing arts school. However, with the help of a famous ballerina, Isabelle finds her own way to shine.
Other Honorable Mentions
There are many other notable dance movies out there, but we wanted to create a list that was 100% family-friendly no matter the age. However, if you are looking for something to watch with your older dancers, consider these honorable mentions:
- Footloose
- Another Cinderella Story
- Fame
- Breakin 2: Electric Boogaloo
- Beat Street
Interested in Dance Classes?
At Nan’s School of Dance, we aim to provide top-quality instruction at a competitive price. We encourage our students to reach technical proficiency in their favorite dance form and build self-discipline, poise, and self-esteem. We offer instruction in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Acro, and Pre-Dance, at all levels.
We love having new members in our dance classes and will help get your child acclimated to our dance school to make them feel right at home. When your child attends Nan’s School of Dance, they will become a part of our dance family and share in our love for dance!
Don’t forget to register!
From ballet to Hip Hop, we offer dance classes for ALL ages and skill levels in a variety of styles. We place students in classes that will challenge them while providing a fun atmosphere for learning and growth. We also offer Mommy & Me classes (18 months – 2.5 years). Register online or give us a call at 919-803-6044 to hold your spot!