Facility and History

“Mr. Dave” Evasew began coaching with the Upper Merion Park & Recreation (“UMPR”) gymnastics program in the summer of 1991.  In Fall 1993, he was promoted to the director of the program which consisted of a staff of 6 and 43 enrolled students.  Gymnastics increased in size each year, ultimately becoming the department's second largest program with over 275 registrants per session and many more on the waitlists.  Similarly, "Ms. Michelle" Elbin became director of the UMPR dance program in the Winter of 2001.  Starting with only 25 students, Michelle nurtured the program to over 144 students.  As the dance and gymnastics programs continued to grow and the talent level of the students increased, Michelle and Dave began planning a private dance and gymnastics center in King of Prussia.  With the assistance of numerous staff and parents from the UMPR gymnastics program, UMDGC opened on June 14, 2004, with 7,500 sq ft of gym space and 1 studio.  In January of 2007, UMDGC expanded to it’s current size of 15,000 sq ft, with 2 studios and 10,000 sq ft of gymnastics space, in order to better accommodate the needs of our participants. 

Today, UMDGC serves over 1,000 participants per week, offering unique programs 51-weeks per year.  Both the dance and gymnastics program provide numerous unique experiences. The dance program has performed at a Sixers game and numerous local events including community fairs, festivals, and charity events such as Dancers for Dimes and the Upper Merion Police Association Fundraiser.  The gymnastics program provides instruction to several community groups and local schools, and its athletes have won distinction at sectional, state, regional, and national competitions.  As UMDGC continues to expand, the staff hopes to continue spreading the love of motion, personal growth, and respect for the family that has set it apart from other dance and gymnastics centers.