Adult Dance Classes
ADULT DANCE CLASSES
Fall 2025 Class Schedule
September 9 - October 21, 2025 (No class on October 14)
Adult Tap Class
Tiptoe back into tap dance with a fun adult class designed to help movers brush up on basic tap steps, rhythms and short combinations. Tap shoes or hard sole shoes are recommended. Classes will be held on Tuesdays from 10-11:00am in the Watkins Studio Theater. The fee is $100 for a 6 week session or $20 drop in.
The Grove
The Grove at GPAC is a unique outdoor venue where we will entertain and educate in a comfortable, beautiful, inviting and accessible space. Under a canopy of trees, our guests will experience the power of the arts to connect and inspire.
The Grove will attract new audiences for both GPAC and its local arts partners - strengthening the arts and cultural landscape while enhancing quality of life.
THE GROVE
Kids under 8 are FREE!
presented by
Upcoming Events
What is The Grove?
photo: Justin Fox Burks
The Grove is designed to be an outdoor reflection of GPAC’s indoor space, aiming at the same level of experience, quality, diversity of talent and educational experiences, presented in a lush, shady setting called the TruGreen lawn. There is a covered 40’ by 60’ stage that features a giant 18’ by 31.2’ extremely high- definition video screen. The screen is mounted on a trolley, allowing for it to be moved upstage and “become” the performance or downstage to assist or enhance a performance. All types of performances are possible —theater, dance, orchestras and every genre of music— and there will be both ticketed and non-ticketed events. There is a paved entrance plaza, called the First Horizon Foundation Plaza, to welcome guests, featuring a large covered bar, seating areas, performance areas for small combos, the Donor Wall, art areas and more. There is also parking and electricity for four food trucks and a VIP area.
Quite significantly, The Grove’s technology allows for GPAC to simulcast performances or rehearsals taking place indoors on the Main Stage onto the giant screen. It is this capability that puts GPAC in the ranks of the most innovative performing arts centers in the nation, as it is currently one of only three centers employing this technology. The other centers are the New World Center in Miami and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
The Grove’s park-like setting can accommodate approximately 900 guests at a wide variety of events, some specifically for families and some intended more for grownups, attracting folks seeking a more casual atmosphere in which to enjoy the arts. In this way, The Grove will serve GPAC’s needs as well as those of its primary arts users by attracting new audiences and providing an exciting alternative performance space.
WHERE CAN I PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE GROVE?
Our tickets can only be purchased online via gpacweb.com or by calling the GPAC box office Monday-Friday 10am-5pm, leave a message and your call will be returned. The box office number is 901-751-7500. The Grove box office will be open at the time of a performance in The Grove. You can reach the box office at 901-751-7500. Leave a message and your call will be returned.
GPAC is located at 1801 Exeter Road, Germantown, TN 38138.
Note: Choice CRM is the only authorized ticketing company for The Grove. When you buy tickets online, you will be directed to https://gpac-internet.choicecrm.net/. Tickets purchased from an unauthorized agent in the secondary market (Craigslist, Ebay, Scalpers, Stub Hub, or other resale websites) may be counterfeit or invalid. GPAC is not required to honor any tickets purchased through unauthorized parties.
These items and activities are prohibited in the grove:
Large Umbrellas
Grills
Drones
Laser Pointers
Illegal Drugs or Paraphernalia
Fireworks or Pyrotechnics
Musical Instruments
Card Tables
Solicitation of Any Kind
Smoking
Vaping
Glass
Pets
Firearms
Weapons
Professional Recording Devices
Thrown Objectsㅤ
Skateboards
*All coolers, bags, and purses are subject to search.
FAQ
When do Grove events begin?
Visit www.gpacweb.com to learn when the event will start and when we will open the doors.
I need special seating and access—how do I make these arrangements?
Wheelchair accessible seating available. For any special seating arrangements (accessible seating, aisle transfer seats, etc.) please call the Box Office at (901) 751-7500.
Parking for patrons with a valid handicap license plate or other authorized identification is available. The Grove facilities are wheelchair-accessible.
What about food in The Grove?
The Grove allows food trucks and food carts into the venue. Patrons are welcome to bring picnics to some events and sometimes outside food and beverage are restricted. If coolers and picnics are not allowed, this information will be noted on the event page when you buy a ticket. Before you pack your picnic please review our prohibited items.
Are children allowed in The Grove?
Of course! Families are always welcome. All we ask is that you supervise your children so that everyone can enjoy the performances. As a courtesy to others, if your child becomes fussy, we ask that you be prepared to remove them from the concert area. An adult must accompany all children under the age of 18. Every concert patron requires a ticket.
*Please be mindful of social distancing guidelines for the entire family and help keep your kids six feet from other patrons.
Does my 9-month old need a ticket in The Grove?
Due to fire codes, everyone, including children of all ages, needs a ticket — NO EXCEPTIONS!
Are pets allowed in The Grove?
Pets are not permitted in The Grove. If you have a service animal please let the box office know upon arrival.
Can I bring chairs to The Grove?
Yes!
What if for some reason I cannot use all my tickets for a certain show?
Tickets are non-refundable. However, if you will not be using your tickets and would like to put them to an even better use, please inform us! We will donate unused or returned tickets to our charitable partners, the Ronald McDonald House and the Stax Music Academy.
Can you smoke/vape in The Grove?
The Grove is a no-smoking and no-vaping venue.
Where are The Grove restrooms located?
Restrooms are located in the southeast corner of the venue near The Grove box office.
What happens if it rains?
photo: Justin Fox Burks
The evenings’ events are subject to weather and availability. We’ll communicate changes via the event page on our website and social media. If the show is postponed due to inclement weather, your ticket will automatically be transferred to the rescheduled date. If you are unable to attend on the new date, your refund amount can be applied, minus the handling fee, to upcoming shows at GPAC or The Grove. You can reach the box office at 901-751-7500. Leave a message and your call will be returned.
Table Policy
Tables within reason are allowed. Tables may not be larger than 3′ wide x 3′ tall. Toppers for coolers or wagons will be allowed if under 3′ wide x 3′ tall. No card tables will be allowed.
UMBRELLA Policy
Due to safety and security issues, it is our standard policy to allow only small, hand-held umbrellas into The Grove.
PARKING INFORMATION
Word Travels Annual Sidewalk Poetry Contest - Supported by the Mitch Major Memorial Fund
About the project
In collaboration with the Germantown Community Library, and Germantown Parks & Recreation, the Germantown Public Art Commission announces Word Travels, an annual sidewalk poetry contest. New, aspiring, or professional writers of any age, living or working in Germantown, can submit a poem or song lyric of up to 150 words. Poems should be unique and must not use copyrighted materials. The inaugural contest theme is Nature.
A selection committee made up of literary professionals, library staff, and community representatives will select five finalists and three semifinalists. Winners will receive a $250 award and their poems will be installed on sidewalks in city parks and along trail systems starting in the summer of 2021.
This project creates a unique opportunity for citizens of Germantown to participate in the city’s new public art program through a project that celebrates public spaces and the literary arts.
Should you have questions please contact Cat Peña, the Public Art Manager for the City of Germantown at: cpena@germantown-tn.gov
This project is a collaboration:
About the Mitch Major Memorial Fund
The Word Travels - Mitch Major Memorial Fund was established in 2021 in memory of highly esteemed GPAC board member and City of Germantown resident Mitch Major, whose fondness for literature shaped his entire life.
The Mitch Major Memorial Fund will be dedicated to sustaining Word Travels - an annual sidewalk poetry contest inspired by Mitch’s love for the literary arts, his passion for lifelong learning, and the joy he took sharing his discoveries in the world of the written word.
Poetry submissions will be judged each year, and selected works will be etched or stamped on city trails and park sidewalks, creating a wonderful chance for folks to serendipitously come across a piece of writing that might give them pause to think, imagine, laugh, or simply feel. With the opportunity for community-wide participation, including school-age children, the selected poems will eventually become a treasure trove of Germantown expression about all manner of things—including love, loss, friendship, nature, culture, and history.
To Donate:
Or mail your donation to:
Upcoming Contest:
Poetry Resources:
The Germantown Community Library https://www.germantown-tn.gov/services/library The circulating collection at the Germantown Community Library has a large selection of poetry books for all ages.
April is National Poetry Month (https://poets.org/national-poetry-month/) This site includes virtual tips for librarians and educators
The Poetry Learning Lab from the Poetry Foundation - The learning lab is a great source of knowledge, including a glossary of poetry terms, links to public domain poems, and inspiring essays on poetry from writers and educators. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/learn
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Executive Director
Parke Kennedy
Officers
Carlton Anderson, President
Ann Parker, Vice President
Trey Watkins, Treasurer
Claire Revels Shapiro, Secretary
Carol Ross-Spang, Assistant Secretary
Patrick O’Connor, Immediate Past President
Board of Directors
Susan Arney
Pam Arrindell
Josh Baker
Joey Beckford
Rebecca Cullison
Dr. Brooke Dishmon
September Gingras
Lee Grinspan
Jennifer Hughes
Jason Huisman, City Administrator
Mark Jenkins
Patrick Lawton
Dr. Frank Ognibene
Kathy Simonetti
Bill Watkins
Steve Wishnia
Roberta Hefley Guild President
The Honorable Mike Pallazolo Germantown Mayor
Dance Classes
DANCE CLASSES
Fall 2025 Class Schedule
Registration starts July 14, 2025
Tuesday
10:00-11:00am - Adult Tap (60min) - $100 for 6 week session/$20 drop in
4:00-4:30 - Creative Ballet Ages 3-6 (30min) $235
4:45-5:30 - Ballet 1 Ages 6-8 (45min) $285
5:30-6:30 - Ballet 2 Ages 8-11 (60min) $335
Wednesday
4:00-4:30 - Creative Ballet Ages 3-6 (30min) $235
4:45-5:30 - Ballet 1 Ages 6-8 (45min) $285
5:30-6:30 - Jazz Ages 7-11 (60min) $335
Creative Ballet students will learn basic ballet steps while also learning how to point feet, stretch legs, hold arm placement and remember movement phrases. Students will work on building strength, flexibility, musicality, and self awareness while still enjoying games, dance stories, and creative play.
Ballet 1 & 2 bridge the gap between pre-ballet and more serious ballet studies. Students are introduced to more formal training through ballet barre exercises, center work, traveling steps, and choreography. Students focus on correct posture, alignment, and feet and arm placement in order to develop a strong foundation for more advanced classical ballet training.
Jazz Dance combines techniques of ballet and modern dance with current forms of popular dance. This class will include stretching, isolations, traveling steps, turns as well fun choreography to pop and broadway tunes.
Important Dates
August 12-13: Classes Begin
October 14-15: No classes, Fall Break
Dec 7: Dress Rehearsal 2:30-4:30pm
Dec 8: Recital at 5:30pm
Light Seekers
Light Seekers
Title: Light Seekers (2020)
Artist: Melissa Bridgman
Medium: Concrete Stamp
Produced by the Germantown Public Art Commission
Artist’s Statement
GPAC 2020
When approached with designing a motif for the walkway at GPAC’s new outdoor space, I immediately began doodling in my sketchbook with a focus on the native plants, animals, and insects of the Wolf River floodplain. Highlighting the quiet beauty and ecological importance of native species has been an underlying current of my work in ceramics and in my family’s life.
Because I have been a beekeeper off an on for about ten years, I was drawn to interconnecting hexagons as a background grid for my design. It was a fairly simple way to lay out a pattern, and it provided a built-in framework for the concrete specialists who would be completing the design. After playing with and rejecting multiple leaf and avian images because of their complexity, I considered the space, its use, and the wildlife that would be attracted to the space while in use. As they often do, my thoughts turned to moths.
Moths are quietly beautiful. Unlike the more popular butterflies, they aren’t as flamboyantly colored or universally beloved. Instead, moths blend in with their surroundings until a discerning eye seeks them out. Their subtle exterior wings give way to astounding geometry and color once their inner wings open. Moths are primarily creatures of darkness. They are unnoticed during the day but are irresistibly drawn to the light, whether that light be white flowers in a garden or the streetlights on a dark night. I refer to them in my work as “light seekers”, always there, always looking. It is a reminder for me to look for the good during troubled times. As the grove is an outdoor performance space, lighting warm nights with vibrant performances, moths will literally be drawn to to the lights of the stage as the artists draw people to view their performances.
The two moths in this pattern are based on TN natives. The Virgin Tiger Moth (grammia virgo), a species which can be found everywhere from my front porch in midtown Memphis to the evening lights of shops in Germantown. The smaller moth, the Grape Leaf-folder (desmia funeralis) is a small but strikingly graphic insect that is also native to our area but is less common. It was my hope to create a subtle but graphic design that will lead patrons into the performance space, blending the seam between indoors and out, and to spread the message of light seekers into the world.
About the Artist
Melissa Bridgman: Bridgman Pottery
719 Dickinson St. Memphis TN 38107.
901 493 0901.
bridgmanpottery@gmail.com
www.bridgmanpottery.com
Education
Salem College, 1997 BA History, American Studies
University of Mississippi 1999 MA Southern Studies
Studied with ceramicist Diana Fayt, 2010, 2012, 2013
Teaching Experience
2018, 2019 Floral ceramics class at Dixon Gallery and Gardens
2017-2019 quarterly hand building ceramics classes for Me & Mrs Jones
2015-2019, 2006-2009 Memphis Brooks Museum of Art: Arts Basic Curriculum
Instructor
2001-2005 Children’s Pottery Instructor, City of Germantown TN
2001-2004 Children’s Sculpture Instructor, Memphis College of Art Community
Education Summer programs
2001-2003 Teaching Artist, Greater Memphis Arts Council Center for Arts Education
Exhibitions and Juried Events
May 2019 Eclectic Eye, Still Life (with Debi Vincent)
November 2017- Eclectic Eye, Clouds (with Martha Kelly)
2017, 2018, 2019 Memphis Maker Market (curated by Muddy’s Bake Shop)
2017, 2019, 2020 Fancy Little Flea, Germantown TN
April 2016 -Eclectic Eye, Sea and Stone paintings and ceramics Memphis TN
October 2015, May 8-10 2014 Urban Barn Market, Memphis- juried art, vintage, and antiques market
2011 St. George’s Independent School Bee Work bee-centered mishima on porcelain
Related Work
2020 public art, Onward, Choices Memphis
2019, 2020 Stamped concrete project, Light Seekers, GPAC
2018, 2019 Designed and produced custom work for Dixon Gallery and Garden
2013 Designed and produced restaurant ware for Tart, a french pâtisserie -Memphis, TN
2012-2014 founded and co-led women’s artists mentoring group in Memphis, TN
Publications ( www.bridgmanpottery.com/press/ )
September 2017, RSVP Magazine
February 2015 Memphis Magazine
January 2015 Memphis Magazine
Spring 2011 Edible Memphis
February 2011 Memphis Commercial Appeal
January 2011 Southern Living
Melissa Bridgman is an alumna of Salem College in Winston Salem, NC, where received her degree in History and American studies. During this period, she spent three semesters interning and exploring the collections of the Reynolda House Museum of Art and the Museum of Southern Decorative Arts, enriching her love of art, pattern, printmaking, fine textiles and ceramics, and the folk traditions of North Carolina. She holds a Master's in Southern Studies from the University of Mississippi, where she studied documentary fieldwork, art history, self taught and folk art. Melissa has been a teaching artist with the Memphis Brooks Museum and the Greater Memphis Arts Council. A full-time potter, she also teaches ceramics workshops for adults in Memphis. She spends her time in her garden and studio with her family in her midtown home.
Season Subscriptions
Season Subscriptions
If at anytime you need assistance or would like a personal touch - please call the box office.
If you are a valued subscriber, your seats are on hold. Please contact the box office at (901) 751-7500 to renew your subscription.
Box Office Hours: Monday - Friday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Full Season Subscription
All 13 Shows in the Highland Capital Performance Hall
Center Stage Series
Jazz Series
create your own series with a flex pass
Choose Four or More Shows and Save 20%
On Stage with Iris Collective Series
JAZZ in The Box
Get up close and personal with live jazz!
SUBSCRIBERS RECEIVE:
Advance opportunities to purchase tickets for new shows and concerts presented by GPAC before tickets are available to the general public.
Ticket Exchange Privileges: Subscribers may apply the value of exchanged tickets toward tickets to all other shows presented by GPAC.
Your subscription discount can be applied to additional ticket purchases for any of the thirteen shows in Season 31.
Handling fees for additional shows and concerts are waived for subscribers when you make a purchase in person at the box office.
HAVE QUESTIONS? CALL THE BOX OFFICE (901) 751-7500.
Seating Chart
Seating Chart
FIND THE SEATS YOU WANT.
The chart below reflects the typical seating pattern for events in the mainstage theater. Please note that the chart does not pertain to general admission or single-price events. Rental events may or may not use the standard seating configuration.
MAIN FLOOR
GPAC BOX OFFICE
Contact For details regarding specific seating options.
901-751-7500 boxoffice@GPACweb.com
Menu
MENUS
MENUES
Wine
Mark West Pinot Noir, California 11
Seaglass Pinot Grigio, California 11
Coastal Vines Chardonnay, California 11
LaMarca Prosecco, Italy 11
Gallo White Zinfandel, California 11
Canned Cocktails
Cazadores Margarita 9
High Noon Sips Pineapple 9
Deep Eddy Grapefruit Vodka + Soda 9
Spirits
Single 13
Double 17
GPAC Mule 13
Beer
Michelob Ultra 16oz 5
Crosstown Traffic IPA 12oz 5
Wiseacre Tiny Bomb 16oz 7
other
Bottled Water 4
Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite 4
Specialty Cocktails
Tangled Up In Blue 10
Cathead Honeysuckle Vodka, Orange, Lemonade, Cherry
Keep Some Steady Pimm’s Around 10
Pimm’s No.1, Lemon-Lime Soda, Orange + Cucumber
Two Mules Pull This Wagon 10
Vodka or Bourbon, Ginger Beer, Lime
Canned Cocktails
Cazadores Margarita 9
High Noon Sips Pineapple 9
Deep Eddy Grapefruit Vodka + Soda 9
Spirits
Single 13
Double 17
Wine
GPAC HOUSE RED 10
GPAC HOUSE WHITE 10
La Marca Prosecco, Italy 10
Gallo White Zin, California 10
Beer
Michelob Ultra (16oz CAN) 5
Wiseacre Tiny Bomb (16oz CAN) 8
Wiseacre Sky Dog American Lager (16 oz) 8
Creature Comforts Tropicalia IPA DRAFT (16oz) 8
Memphis Made Colonial Aggression ESB DRAFT (16oz) 8
Peroni Italian Lager DRAFT (16oz) 8
Grind City Thaddeus Amber Ale DRAFT (16oz) 8
Brad Pitts
ABOUT
Brad Pitts is an award-winning Master Mixologist in his 8th season serving as the Food and Beverage Manager at the Germantown Performing Arts Center. With over 30 years of experience in the Memphis hospitality industry, his knowledge extends beyond the back of the bar into the distributing, marketing, and branding aspects of the wine and spirits industry. During his career, Brad has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation and crafted cocktails for some of Memphis’s finest dining establishments and numerous private and charity events. The beverage program at GPAC focuses on service excellence and a superior patron experience for all events, whether inside the Highland Capital Performance Hall or outside in The Grove.
Attending
Attending
PARKING
Free parking is offered for all shows and events held at GPAC. Reserved parking spaces are available for patrons with disabilities. A detailed parking map is at the bottom of this page.
ACCESSIBILITY
GPAC is dedicated to hospitality and we take care that our events, services, and facilities are accessible to all guests.
GPAC is wheelchair accessible from the main entrance. Ramps and an elevator make all lobby levels of the facility accessible.
Accessible seating is available. Please contact the Box Office at (901) 751-7500 or boxoffice@GPACweb.com in advance to make arrangements.
Large print programs are available with advance notice. Please contact the Box Office at (901) 751-7500 or boxoffice@GPACweb.com two weeks prior to the event to request this service.
REFRESHMENTS
Refreshments are available prior to the performance and during intermission for your convenience. At most performances, refreshments may be taken into the seating area. Concession stands are located on the first floor, and, for some events, the balcony lobbies.
We hope to see you at one of GPAC's incredible VIP cocktail parties, gala live auction winner experiences, or a pre/post-show sorieé. We use and recommend these preferred caterers:
Corrine's Very Special Catering
PARKING Map
NEARBY DINING
GPAC invites you to enjoy a selection of nearby restaurants that support GPAC.
Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill
Germantown Commissary
Southern Social
Huey’s
Chick-fil-A
Jim's Place Grille
Corky's
Memphis Pizza Café
Swanky's Taco Shop
Garibaldi's
Moondance Grill
NEARBY HOTELS
Hampton Inn & Suites Germantown - Ask about the GPAC discount! Subject to availability.
TownePlace Suites Memphis Germantown - Ask about the GPAC discount! Subject to availability.