Total Eclipse Dance Studio

Total Eclipse Dance Studio is a dance studio in Needham, MA, dedicated to nurturing dancers of all ages through high-caliber instruction in styles including acro, pom, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and hip-hop. The studio serves students from ages 5 through adulthood, offering structured classes, seasonal programs, and open sessions designed to welcome both new and experienced dancers. Founded by Alicia Santamaria and her daughter Gemma Joyce, both students of the late Paulette Harwood, a respected Radio City Music Hall dancer and studio owner, the studio carries forward a legacy of artistry, discipline, and community. With a 5.00 rating and consistent praise from families, Total Eclipse Dance Studio is known for fostering confidence, creativity, and joy in a supportive, family-like environment. Classes are held at the studio’s location on Highland Avenue and are available to both current and non-enrolled students.

The studio’s approach emphasizes not only technical excellence but also emotional growth and self-expression. Its faculty includes industry professionals like Ricky Cushing, a multi-genre dancer and choreographer with experience in television and music videos, and Frankie Manzon, who has taught at the studio since 2019 and brings a deep passion for movement and strength. The studio’s programming reflects this blend of professional training and inclusive warmth, with sessions tailored for different age groups and skill levels. Special events, such as summer programs, dance portraits, and celebrations for graduating seniors, reinforce the studio’s commitment to community and personal milestones.

Located on Highland Avenue in Needham, the studio sits just a short walk from the Needham Free Public Library, the Thomas McGuiness Memorial, the Needham 9/11 Tree of Life, the Needham World War I Memorial, and Needham Pediatrics. These landmarks mark a neighborhood rich in civic pride and community life.

Total Eclipse Dance Studio stands out for its well-documented presence online, with a clean, accessible website that clearly communicates its mission, team, and offerings. Its strong digital footprint reflects a business deeply rooted in its local community and committed to transparency and accessibility. The studio’s consistent reputation for excellence and inclusivity has solidified its standing as one of the most trusted dance programs in Needham.

In a town where community and tradition are valued, Total Eclipse Dance Studio continues to be a place where young dancers grow not just in skill, but in spirit.