Dance Ministry

Before the Lord – Dance Company


A Dance Ministry That Shares God’s Love Through Movement


Through every step, spin, and leap, our dancers express worship, joy, and the transforming love of Jesus. It’s not just about performance—it’s about using the gift of dance to glorify God and invite others into His presence. Before the Lord is a Christ-centered dance program offering ballet technique and performance classes three days a week during the school year. We worship God through movement, creativity, and excellence in the art of dance.


Class Offerings (without performance):

Ballet Technique


Performance Classes featuring a blend of styles:

Lyrical

Contemporary

Tumbling

Tap

Pointe


About the Founder

Chessie Cunningham has been dancing since the age of two. She trained locally at Experience Arts School and Dance Republic until an injury in the spring of 2015 brought her dreams of becoming a professional dancer to a halt. But God had a different plan. What started as teaching a few younger girls after school to dance for church grew into a calling and eventually became Before the Lord. Since launching the program in the fall of 2016, Chessie has been joined by a passionate team of instructors including Emma Cunningham, Amber Ranney, and Natasha Van Male.


A Creative Experience Like No Other

Each year, our students participate in two immersive performances—one in May and one in December. These shows are carefully crafted by our team, with attention to every detail—from choreography and costumes to music and a message.


Some of the favorite past shows include the following:

Tales as Old as Time (Disney)

Through the Wardrobe (Narnia)

The Nutcracker

The Jungle Book

Bethlehem

Kingdoms of Ice (Frozen)

Secrets of the Seas (Pirates of the Caribbean)


These aren’t your typical church performances—they’re beautifully choreographed dance masterpieces, complete with award-worthy costumes and stunning set designs. At the heart of it all are the tiniest dancers, giving it their all—trying their best not to wave at Mom from the stage—capturing your heart with every step. With each performance, they grow—not just in skill, but in confidence and grace. Over time, they transform into exquisite dancers, flying through the air and showcasing such beauty and passion that even the manliest of fathers can be seen discreetly wiping away a tear. It's more than just a recital; it's a glimpse into what God can do through dedication, worship, and the joy of movement. We believe that dance is a powerful way to glorify God, and we love creating spaces where students can express their worship through the gifts He’s given them.


Class Days

Classes are held on Saturdays and Monday & Wednesday evenings

The program runs two semesters per year, each concluding with a grand performance to celebrate the growth, talent, and dedication of our dancers.


Whether you're a beginner or experienced dancer, there’s a place for you to learn, grow, and shine!


For more information, fees, or to register, contact

Chessie Cunningham at beforethelord16@gmail.com

link below


"Let them praise His Name with dancing ..." Psalm 149:3

Email Chessie
SouthGate Church

Meeting at 8:30 & 10:30 a.m. on Sundays

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