Footlights Dance & Theatre

I haven’t been compelled to write a review in a long time, and this store deserves every available star.
I recently signed up for beginning ballet classes (offhand comment: is it too late to start a career as a ballerina?), and I had no idea what kind of ballet slippers to buy for my first class. The sales assistant, Milan, was incredibly helpful and really sweet. She had great suggestions while I tried on various brands and sizes. I highly recommend trying on ballet slippers in store since sizes run differently among brands. The prices were fairly decent and reasonable as well. Although I live all the way in Arlington, I will definitely make the trek here whenever I can.

Great store. Outstanding service. After 5 trips to 2 stores for a total of 8 hours of fittings for pointe shoes, Joe at Footlights got it right. My daughter has two different size feet, making the fitting process long and laborious. He was so patient and tenacious, going through what seemed to be every variation of brands and sizes, widths, shank strength – and seemed to really enjoy the challenge. He was the first to get her a shoe that the teacher did not reject. Everyone in the store was super professional, nice; everyone seemed to get all the individual attention they needed even though the store was busy. Being able to sign your name when you first come in takes the guesswork out of when you will be seen. Thanks!!! We’ll be back for sure.

Store #3 013 264 351. The store has been here for about two years and is located down the street from the in construction New Silver Spring Library. Its a cozy place with enough room to accommodate a good rush. The management and staff are welcoming and attentive. An all around good spot!

I was so glad when Footlights opened up so close to the ballet studio where my daughters were attending at the time. No more calling around trying to find things, no more going to multiple places or trying to order on line. The store has wisely used this space and filled it, very neatly and beautifully with all things dance related. I can’t think of one thing that they don’t carry. Really. This place is located on Wayne Avenue just across from the Wayne Avenue Garage, is closed on Tuesday, has a location in Frederick, MD and closes at 7pm on the weekdays.
The staff is always nice and helpful and are really great at pointe shoe fittings and will sew your elastics and ribbons on (for a fee) if you aren’t experienced at sewing or you just don’t feel like it. As you can see from the pictures I posted they have all kinds of dance shoes, clothes, accessories, etc…
If they don’t have an item available they can quickly have it sent over from their Frederick store and often run a promotion around recital/​performance season (s). My girls would spend thousands in this store if I let them (or if I had it and spoiled them rotten). They have all sizes from the littlest ones into adult sizes. It is truly a gem of the neighborhood and in a convenient location. Just park across the street and cross in the crosswalk like orderly law abiding citizens and you’ll find yourself in dance supply heaven.
I posted lots of pics so you can take a peek inside before you get there. Too bad this location wasn’t listed on Unilocal sooner because they’ve been there for about two years. My daughters went there with their class from Maryland Youth Ballet for their first pair of pointe shoes and the staff were great. They are training in D.C. now but we still head over to Footlights for all our needs.
Support this business because they deserve it and I hope your experience is as good as mine always is.
Keep Calm and Dance On.