Dance Discovery Studios is launching a new contemporary dance program for experienced dancers wanting to learn new skills and improve their technique. ACU student Amanda Sampson teaches the program.

The dance studio, located at South 2nd and Willis Street, has been offering a wide variety of dancing classes to the Abilene community for 25 years. Classes range from hip-hop to ballet to tap-dancing.

The studio, owned by dance instructor Teri Wilkerson, is the home of the Abilene Ruff Riders dance team, the Lady Ruff Riders. Dance Discovery has also organized numerous dancing performances in downtown Abilene. Wilkerson, also a theatre professor at ACU, is the choreographer for Freshman Follies, Sing Song and the Homecoming Musical.

“My mission is to teach dance correctly, to spread the blessing of movement, to have students have a stronger appreciation for their own talents and the possibilities they can use them for,” Wilkerson said.

Amanda Sampson, senior English major from Austin, has been dancing and teaching classes at Dance Discovery since her freshman year in college. She will be directing the new program geared toward dancers with contemporary dance experience. Classes are scheduled to begin after auditions this month.

“It’s going to be very high-level choreography,” said Sampson. “The class is open to anybody who does contemporary dance. They don’t have to be part of the studio already; they are welcome to just come and try it out.”

Sampson said those who audition should be prepared to showcase their technique and pick up on choreography quickly. She said dancers interested in participating will have to be able to adapt to the dance style and show a good understanding of music and how contemporary dance uses music to convey meaning.

Contemporary dance is an emerging field that has become increasingly popular within the last few years, Sampson said. The style combines ballet technique with modern dance and expresses feelings in choreographed movements.

“It’s definitely very emotional,” said Sampson. “That’s my favorite aspect of contemporary dance. To really dance successfully, you have to put more than technique into routine; it has to come from deep place in your heart.”

Wilkerson said Sampson’s passion for dance is contagious, and she is highly qualified to instruct the new contemporary dance class. In fact, Wilkerson organized the new company specifically for Sampson because of her experience in the field, as well as her involvement and success in the studio.

“It was my desire for her to start this company,” Wilkerson said. “She’s one of the best dancers and contemporary teachers I’ve ever had.”

Auditions for the class will take place Sept. 20 at 5 p.m. The class welcomes students of any age, but is directed in particular at those with contemporary dance experience.