Liminal Dance Labs is Lamorinda’s newest dance studio, offering the chance for dancers to train for and participate in dance competitions. But perhaps what makes Liminal even more unique is its approach: blending high-level technical training with somatic awareness and creative exploration.
    Founded by Artistic Director Bela Watson, Executive Director Laura Fegraus, and Managing Director Tenaya Garrett, Liminal offers dance classes across all major styles for dancers of all ages (from parent and me, to seniors).

    Liminal Dance Labs emerged during a natural turning point in Watson’s career. After 30 years of teaching – from early childhood through seniors, including seven years in local studios, Saint Mary’s College, and senior centers – she had become a trusted presence in Lamorinda’s dance community.
    As she stepped back to focus on long-planned creative work, completing her second book and launching a podcast featuring dance professionals across the field, Watson expected to spend the year working quietly behind the scenes. “I wanted young dancers to understand just how expansive a life in dance can be – far beyond the narrow paths we’re often shown in traditional dance schools,” Watson explains.

    During that time, a group of local families reached out to share how meaningful her teaching had been and to ask whether she might consider creating a new kind of training space – one that would allow dancers to compete in a safe, authentic, and body-positive environment. 

    “Families wondered if there could be a place where my somatic-centered approach could continue – a studio that blended disciplined training, creativity, and deep personal development while supporting frequent participation in a variety of competitions, showcases, and community performances. Their belief in that vision is what made Liminal possible.”

    With community support and a clear artistic direction, Liminal Dance Labs opened its doors this past fall.

    Liminal offers comprehensive training across all major styles, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, jazz funk, acrodance, and dance-sport. 

    In addition to traditional dance classes, Liminal offers its signature Dance Labs, longer integrative sessions that include somatic principles, musicality, alignment, and creative problem-solving. The Labs are designed to give dancers a holistic foundation for long-term growth. 

    And finally, dancers seeking deeper commitment and more expansive performance opportunities may audition for Liminal’s Competitive Ensembles, offered in three pathways: Ensemble A — Performing Arts, designed for competitive performance readiness; Ensemble B — Industrial Arts, designed for an industry edge in commercial dance; and Ensemble C — Athletic Arts, which offers technical training in jazz fusion as preparation for middle or high school drill teams. 

    Beginning in January, Liminal plans to launch various adult dance classes and college preparation mentorship programs for students that are planning to continue dancing at the collegiate level. 

    While Liminal continues its search for a permanent home locally, classes and labs are currently offered at two locations in Lafayette through partnerships with community studios and local businesses like Lamorinda Music.

    “Our multi-location model has allowed us to begin serving dancers immediately while we search for our forever home,” said Executive Director Laura Fegraus. “The community support we’ve received with our unique, innovative approach has been extraordinary. We are excited to continue to expand our offerings and reach more dancers as we continue the search for our permanent home.”

    Liminal Dance Labs is currently enrolling dancers ages 3 through 17 for labs, classes, and ensembles (upon audition/evaluation). Liminal’s Winter/Spring 2026 season began on Jan. 12. Adult programming will offer a more flexible enrollment with class card packages and drop-in options. A New Family Launch Promotion offers free registration and a free class trial during January.

    For more information, visit liminaldancelabs.org.