National Museum of Dance, Saratoga Springs, NY

New York is one of the top places to visit for Broadway shows and talent. A little known place unless one is interested in dance is located out of New York City. The National Museum of Dance in Saratoga Springs, New York is a place for the artist to learn about dance and take instruction. The mission of the museum is to cultivate, promote and develop its members and the community to appreciate what dance has to offer. They do this through exhibits, instruction, and collections of dance art. There are records, articles, and much more of historical significance.

Regular museum hours are Fridays through Sundays 10am to 4pm, and Tuesday through Sunday 10am to 4:30pm depending on the time of year. During May the museum is open longer. The office is typically open Tuesday through Saturday 9am to 5pm for any questions or inquiries. Admission into the museum is $6.50 for adults, $5 for students and seniors, and $3 for children 3 to 12. Children under 3 are free. Memberships are also available for anyone wishing to join the museum.

Current exhibits include the "On Broadway'' display. This section of the museum has highlights of Broadway from street signs, doorways to clubs, and it depicts the evolution of dance on the stage. The exhibit starts with Ziegfeld in the 1900's to the present day. It is also about the era of the Jukebox Musical. Sardis Restaurant is replicated, as are caricatures of some of the more famous Broadway directors, producers, and stars.

The Hall of Fame is the next section on display. It is all about famous dancers, dance pioneers even. George Balanchine, Anna Sokolow, Charles Weidman, Paul Taylor, and Hanya Holm are just some of the dancers depicted in photos and information. The hall of fame actually offers 36 members who are honored on the walls.

The Children's Gallery called "Choreo-Motion'' is a place for children to look at their dreams of becoming a dancer. Children and adults both enjoy this section of the museum. It is possible to dance with the hip-hop, ballet, and other modern dancers who are depicted here with the interactive displays. Children can even dress up in the costumes provided to feel like dancers.

"Art in the Foyer'' is a grand gallery of artists. Each year this area is changed to exhibit different artists regarding dance. In 2009 they offered NYC photographer Paul Kolnik's work. "Kenn Duncan Red Shoes'' is another example of the exhibits the museum offers. Kenn Duncan lived from 1928 to 1986. He was born in New Jersey and became a roller skating champion. Eventually he abandoned skating for ballet. He was a portrait and fashion photographer as well. The last exhibit is "Mark Morris Dance Group.'' This exhibit explored the dance group with photos, videos, props, and posters. The Museum of Dance also has a dance school. They take on students in each semester, but choose from the best, offering lessons to a select few in the hopes they will eventually return with their images on the walls.