In 2000, Debbie Allen transformed a renovated Marie Callender’s restaurant into the Debbie Allen Dance Academy, a unique refuge for underprivileged Black and Latino communities in Culver City.
At the academy, aspiring dancers from various backgrounds found a home while learning from Allen, who garnered fame with her role as Lydia Grant in the 1980 musical “Fame.”
Beyond her illustrious acting career, Allen has become a notable director and producer behind popular series like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” and “A Different World.”
Fast forward to today, and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy has flourished into a spacious 25,000-square-foot arts center at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center, named in honor of Shonda Rhimes, a long-time friend of Allen.
The academy now boasts an array of programs, including an accredited middle school, a summer intensive, a tap festival, and the annual “Hot Chocolate Nutcracker” holiday show.
In June, Allen will host multiple events aimed at fostering community engagement, such as a free block party on June 8 featuring dance classes with notable choreographers and a breakdancing competition.
Additionally, she is set to lead a bimonthly event, “Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts,” which provides free dance lessons to those affected by recent wildfires.
As Allen reflects on her experiences, she emphasizes the joy brought by these community connections, sharing her commitment to healing through the arts.
Recently, Allen shared her vision of a blissful Sunday in Los Angeles, a day dedicated to family, particularly her four grandchildren who brighten her weekends.
Her ideal Sunday kicks off at 7 a.m. with the joyful chaos of waking up her grandkids, who spend the night at her home.
With grandchildren aged 6, 4, and two 6-month-olds, Allen’s bedroom has essentially turned into a nursery.
The day begins with a family routine that includes her beloved black German shepherd, CoCo, who eagerly awaits to play and be fed.
By 9 a.m., it’s time for breakfast.
The family has a beloved tradition of dining out, often opting for popular spots like Marmalade in Santa Monica, known for its fresh pastries and hearty dishes.
“They have very fresh croissants, little biscuits with currants, and good omelets, along with turkey bacon,” Allen shared, highlighting the neighborhood familiarity that comes with their visits.
At 11 a.m., Allen often finds herself in a dance class, either heading to the “Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts” event she conducts or the California Science Center with her grandchildren when not hosting classes.
The thriving California Science Center captures the interest and excitement of her little ones, offering a fun alternative filled with educational adventure.
By 2:30 p.m., attention turns to tennis.
Allen enjoys watching her grandchildren, who are just starting their tennis lessons, engaging in what she describes as an adorable spectacle of youthful energy.
Respecting family meal times, around 5 p.m., the family either prepares dinner together or opts for dining out.
She mentions family-friendly restaurants like the Ivy at the Shore, which offers a delightful menu, and Chinois, a renowned Wolfgang Puck establishment.
Dinner is often accompanied by trips to the movies; Allen and her family revel in catching the latest films at nearby AMC Santa Monica or Westfield Century City, making memories over shared meals and popcorn.
After an enjoyable day, around 7:30 p.m., the focus shifts back home to spend quality time with her mother, affectionately known as MaTurk, who is 101 years old.
In a touching family tradition, Allen and her grandchildren often gather to play music that MaTurk holds dear, nurturing the generational bonds that define their family.
The heartfelt atmosphere deepens with her granddaughters pretending to care for MaTurk, brushing her hair, and giving her leg massages, showcasing the simple joys of family life.
As the day winds down around 8:30 p.m., Allen and her family indulge in catching up on favorite TV shows, rounding out a fulfilling Sunday filled with love, laughter, and thriving creative pursuits.
Through her dedication to both her family and community, Debbie Allen exemplifies the spirit of connectivity and healing through engagement in the arts.
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/travel/story/2025-06-06/sunday-funday-debbie-allen-things-to-do-los-angeles
