More Than Just Dance: Meet Marianne Hakanson of M.A. Dance Project
When searching for the perfect activity for your child, it’s easy to get caught up in flashy studios and competition-focused programs. But sometimes, the most transformative experiences happen in places that prioritize something deeper – like M.A. Dance Project in Cedar Park, where founder Marianne Hakanson has been “cultivating art” for over two decades.
We sat down with Marianne to learn about her unique approach to dance education, what sets M.A. Dance Project apart, and why her studio has become a true “third place” for young dancers in the Austin area.
What inspired you to start M.A. Dance Project 22 years ago, and how has your vision evolved from those early days at The Railyard to where you are today?
As a young child, I have always had a passion for the art of dance. Growing up in a studio and beginning to teach in my early teens really inspired me to share my craft with other dancers and students. My vision has always been the same – promote a positive and creative outlet for dancers and teach proper dance technique in an inclusive space.
You describe M.A. Dance Project as “not your average dance studio” and emphasize being “intentional” about your community. What does this mean in practice, and what sets your approach apart from other dance studios in the Austin and Cedar Park area?
Not average – we do not focus primarily on dance competition. We focus on teaching dance education, performing for our community, building relationships with our families, offering a pre-professional dance company, and offering day dance for our homeschooled students. Most studios primarily focus on competition in our area. We were one of the first studios to offer contemporary dance classes back in the day, and we stick to our roots. Our faculty are amazing and nurturing!
We cannot be successful without the support of our families. However, our studio and company uses “the director’s route” to make studio and company decisions. We have found that this approach not only encourages independent dancers; it nurtures more quality and healthier relationships with dancers and families.
Our intentional way of teaching is so profound. We offer a caring approach when teaching, do “check-ins” with our students before almost every class, and are very mindful of young dancers and their gentle hearts. We are very intentional with everything we do in our space.
M.A. Dance Project is home to both IMPACT Dance Company and Artists Ensemble Company. Can you walk us through how these programs work together, and what opportunities they provide for dancers at different levels? How do families know which path might be right for their child?
IMPACT Dance Company is a fertile ground for creating, inspiring, and exploring the art of contemporary dance. Our dance company focuses on training, performing, and building a repertoire of distinctive, purposeful work and a source of inspiration for our dancers and community. IMPACT Dance Company is for any dancer who would like a little more opportunity to dive into their art form.
Artists Ensemble is devoted to the dancers seeking dance education within a professional dance training atmosphere and for dancers who possess a genuine respect and passion for the art form and are extremely dedicated—for that dancer who would like to pursue dance after high school.
But both IDC and AE work together also. They are “sisters.” 🙂
We love that you mention focusing on “cultivating art” and growing dancers “beyond the studio.” For parents who might be new to dance or considering it for their child, what would you want them to know about the benefits and what to expect when their child joins M.A. Dance Project?
I would like to share this from one of our alumni:
“I started dancing at 3. My parents always tell the story about how my toes turned purple because all I wanted to do was move. This remained consistent throughout my childhood. We moved to Cedar Park, Texas when I was 9 years old. I’ll never forget the day I walked into M.A. Dance Project’s lobby for the first time. I was showered with warmth. At the time, I didn’t know it, but the most important lessons of my life would be taught within those four walls.
M.A. quickly became my mentor, my guide, and my largest inspiration. She taught me about music, she encouraged me to step out of my awkward shell, and she created a space that was beyond safe to express myself freely. I vividly remember hearing Bob Marley for the first time per M.A.’s request—it was an altering experience. My musical taste, the way I approach life, and the type of life I lead is largely due to the influence of M.A. Hakanson and M.A. Dance Project.
When I first made the IMPACT team, I knew I’d spend the rest of my adolescence under M.A.’s wing. She continued to support me personally and artistically. At 17, my life took a hard turn. I was lost and heartbroken. True to her word, M.A. never let me down. The studio wrapped me in love, and because of the outpouring of support, I stayed on my feet. Without the guidance and endless grace I received, I’m not sure where I’d be today.
The experiences at M.A. Dance Project are teachings and memories that will live in your heart forever. M.A. builds strong dancers, but what’s more; she molds strong women. As a 26-year-old, the influence of my time on IMPACT and dancing at M.A. Dance Project still largely affects who I am today. I am beyond grateful for the years of my life spent within those four walls. I’d do it all over again in a heartbeat if I could.”
— Catherine T., Alumni
After more than two decades of working with young dancers in Austin, what advice would you give to parents about supporting their child’s dance journey, whether they’re just starting out or have been dancing for years?
Having my own dancer in my studio – who is now 16 – let them explore. Let them fail. Let them be themselves in the art of dance. Chat with them about their goals and what dance means to them. Choose your journey with a thoughtful heart. Young dancers need guidance, proper dance education, and a place to call their “third place.”
Ready to Discover M.A. Dance Project?
For over 20 years, Marianne has been creating a space where young dancers don’t just learn technique; they discover who they are, build confidence, and form lasting bonds with mentors and peers who truly care about their growth.
If you’re looking for more than just another dance studio – if you want a place where your child can explore their artistry in a nurturing, intentional environment – M.A. Dance Project might be exactly what you’ve been searching for.
Ready to see the magic in person? IMPACT Dance Company is performing at Lakeline Park on Thursday, October 16 at 7 PM at the Grand Pavilion. It’s the perfect opportunity to witness the artistry and community spirit that makes this studio special.
Getting Started:
- Location: 601 East Whitestone Blvd #428, Cedar Park, Texas (at The Railyard!)
- Ages: 2+ years
- First class is always free
- Learn more: www.madanceproject.com
Find M.A. Dance Project and hundreds of other amazing Austin-area activities on Recess—where discovering the perfect fit for your child is just a few clicks away.
