The Studios
The Northampton Dance Studios were founded by Elizabeth Evans in 1955 in Hampton, Virginia. A second location was opened in 1975 in the heart of Newport News near Christopher Newport University. The studios are directed by Mrs. Evans and her daughter, Debbi Davidson. In 2002 the Hampton location was closed due to new ownership of the shopping center and all classes were moved to the Newport News location. A year-round curriculum is offered for students of all ages and ability levels, beginning through advanced professional. Taught by qualified instructors in their respective fields, classes are personally supervised by the studio directors. who are teachers too.
Because of Mrs. Evans' background, dedication and professional approach to teaching, the school continues to be a tremendous asset to the community and beyond. Under her guidance and direction, students have achieved successful careers in the fields of entertainment and show business performing in major stage shows and some of the largest theaters in the world.
Three Radio City Rockettes trained under Mrs. Evans and joined the famous line upon graduation from high school: Lynda Farmer Hickman, Shelley Speas Green and daughter, Debbi - co-incidentally, all graduates of Hampton High School. Another Hampton High graduate and student of Mrs. Evans, Susan Thompson Hyska performed all over the world before returning to the Peninsula to raise her family. The opportunities for dancers are endless .... our students have gone on to perform with ballet and modern dance companies, university dance companies & college dance teams and choreographed for college dance and singing groups. Another former student who was inspired to reach for her dreams recently graduated with honors from Duke Ellington and is attending the Ailey School in NYC. Other dancers from the studio have performed at theme parks, Busch Gardens and Universal Studios / Disney World...... and with the First Ladies of Football, the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders. Many of our students are working in related fields. Some perform in local theater near and far and others are continuing their studies for recreational purposes or professional gain in major cities around the world. Many of the baton students have been featured twirlers at over 20 universities and colleges throughout the country. Students have gone on to teach their own students while others have opened their own studios over the years. Many contribute to their communities by providing choreography for local churches and other events.
Whether just starting out (we start at age 3), training for a professional career, dancing for enjoyment or fitness benefits, we have a class for you or your child!
- Student performances held anually.
- Sprung hardwood floors in all studio rooms.
- Private lessons available by appointment.
TDT, Inc. formed 1973
The studios are home to the Tidewater Dance Theater, Inc. a non-profit organization established in 1973 providing dance creation, education, and performance experience to local dancers. Many original works have been presented ranging from large theatrical works to smaller more intimate creations as well as a number of performance projects in collaboration with other artists and organizations.
Community
The studios participate in many local community events. Students have performed for a variety of charity events, school functions, corporate events, parades and more.
- Virginia Air and Space Museum - "Living History Through the Ages"
- Educational Foundations Program
- American Association of University Women
- Peninsula Community Theater Gala Opening - Hilton Village
- Trinity Lutheran School - "A Night in Paris"
- Special Olympics, Norfolk
- Langley Field Speedway
- Festival of Folklife - Newport News Bicentennial
- Week of the Young Child
- "Think Globally, Act Locally", Tsunami Relief Benefit Show
We hope you will find our studios meet and surpass your needs as the best place for you and your child to become involved in the performing arts.
Please note: We register by appointment unless you are a current or former student.
Please call for an appointment or for more information. Contact Information
