Above the Clouds is a non-profit program aimed at helping children and youth ages 5–17 connect to the arts “through free dance, music, and creative arts classes.”
Above the Clouds originated in the inner city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has been incorporated since 2001. Accomplished ballerina Linda Wade founded the organization after visiting with women in prison, realizing that many inmates had troubled childhoods. Wade wanted to use her love for dance to invest in children so they could safely express themselves in a more positive, faith-based way.
Above the Clouds eventually expanded into Texas, with its first class offering in 2022. Along with this expansion came Tina Washington, director of Above the Clouds Texas, whom Wade met while Washington was ministering to women in prison.
The Dallas Express spoke with Washington about the organization and its impact on the community.
Washington explained how Above the Clouds got its name by telling the story of Wade visiting a Texas prison for women, learning about their childhood trauma and circumstances. On Wade’s flight back to Milwaukee, she asked God how she could help.
God answered her prayer by leading Wade to “start a program to provide arts to the children,” Washington said. “As she was flying over the clouds, God said, ‘Name it Above the Clouds’” after Isaiah 55:9.
Money and transportation are critical hindrances for many in low-income communities. As such, Above the Clouds goes to these communities, bringing the performing arts to the children. Currently, Above the Clouds currently offers classes in three partner locations: LVTRise Community Center, William M. McDonald YMCA, and the Leadership Academy at Forest Oak Middle School in Fort Worth. Plans to expand into Dallas are forthcoming, hopefully in the Fall of 2024.
Above the Clouds offers classes in beginning and intermediate ballet, drama, hip-hop, modern dance, and theatre. Everything is covered free of charge for each student, from the courses to the ballet shoes and recital costumes.
The organization offers classes year-round, including summer camps and winter, spring, and fall semesters. The next semester begins February 5, and registration is still open. Class sizes are intentionally kept small to provide the best student experience, averaging 12-15 students per class/instructor, depending on the age group. Classes fill up quickly, with ballet usually maxing out first, followed by hip-hop and theater.
The instructors are professionally trained and are paid as contracted employees through generous supporters and grants. Additionally, the instructors are faith-led.
“The instructors are Christian,” Washington explained to The Dallas Express. “We don’t force Jesus on them, but [students] see the love of Jesus because our instructors pray before and after class with them.”
Above the Clouds is gaining attention, and its needs are plenty to continue bringing performing arts to children who would otherwise not have access to these safe avenues of expression and education.
The nonprofit has many ways to get involved, including sponsoring a child, volunteering by assisting the instructors, participating in community events, spreading the word, and more.
For more information, contact Tina Washington at [email protected] or by calling 469-967-4838.
The next Above the Clouds recital is scheduled for May 24 and is expected to bring in a standing-room-only crowd.
