ABOUT US

The Harris/Mintz School of Dance Arts, previously known as St. James Modern Dance Ensemble, was organized in February, 1977 under the leadership of Miss LaVerne Harris and Miss Carolyn Mintz. Prior to starting the dance Ensemble , Miss Harris and Miss Mintz had made personal appearances on a number of dance programs throughout the city. Inspired by these two young ladies, younger girls in the church body expressed an interest in the art of modern dance. Recognizing this interest Miss Harris and Miss Mintz decided to accept the challenge of organizing a modern dance group which would operate under the auspices of St. James Baptist Church.

In August of 1977, the group presented the first recital, with sixteen young ladies.

In 1982, the ensemble became an independent non profit school of dance with membership open to any male or female ages 3 to adult.