Tradition. Precision. Grace.
About Laura's Studio of Performing Arts
Our Philosophy
Laura's Studio of Performing Arts originated in July of 1990. Since then over 6000 students have played a part in the success of the studio. We have moved from a basement to an extra large state of the art facility. The studio prides itself on the quality of teaching, and the close relationships between the teachers and the students provide a positive influence for the kids. Each year, the studio also brings in professionals from around the country to teach the latest dance steps and techniques.
As a performing arts school we feel that the studio offers a well rounded dance education, offering beginner to advanced levels in ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, lyrical, hip hop, acrobatics, and breaking. We also offer many specialty classes, such as strength and flex, leaps and turns, and dance technique. Laura's Studio can be rewarding for the kids; it builds self esteem, character, and is also fun and entertaining. Modern dance routines can even be used for outside activity.
Founder & Director
Laura Hawie Foster
Mrs. Laura has been in the performing arts since the age of five, and has various dance, television, acting, and modeling awards to her credit. Her dance training began by studying ballet, tap and jazz at several local studios in Huntsville, Alabama. She was a member of the Ann Brown Senior Dance Company. Her gymnastics study began with the Huntsville Gymnastics Association and led to the JV team at Huntsville High. At an early age, she became interested in drama and acting. She studied with Helen Heriott, Ron Harris, and Fantasy Playhouse. She appeared in several plays and movies such as "Space Camp" and "Test of Faith."
She studied modeling at Brenda Martin's Tiffany's Academy and participated in many fashion shows and TV commercials such as: TJ Maxx and Channel 48. She won the Best Commercial award at the National Modeling Association's National Modeling Convention. She was a member of the Caster Knott Teen Board for 2 years.
She graduated with honors from the University of North Alabama.
Since she began teaching in 1987, she has coached many students who have gone on to win local, regional, and national competitions. Her students have won scholarships to the Joffrey Ballet, Steps in Hollywood, The Edge, the Millenium in Los Angeles, and National Dance Convention Scholarships as well as being selected to perform in the opening number of the several national competitions as a member of their elite dance teams. Others have performed in music videos, at theme parks, on cruise ship, and even on "So You Think You Can Dance!" Still, others have decided to pass on their love of dance by opening their own studios.
In the past, members of her dance company have won over four thousand Platinum and High Gold 1st Place Awards, as well as Shining Star and Top Overall Soloist, Duet/Trio, group, entertainment, choreography, technique, and best showmanship awards. Laura's Studio has been voted "Best Dance Studio in the Shoals," and has been awarded as one of the Top 50 Dance Schools in the South Central Region by the Federation of Dance Competitions. Over the years, the dance company has performed at Disney World's Magic Kingdom and has won many national dance titles.
She has a rare gift of understanding youngsters and inspiring them to make the performing arts an educational part of their lives.