Explore our Arts Academy
Enroll in Fall 2026 Classes
Our Fall 2026 classes for ages 8 to 18 are open for registration and are available as in-person classes in Washington, DC. Classes meet after-school from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Innovative Hip-hop C
urriculum
Join our creative arts classes to propel your career as a DJ, fashion designer, music producer, radio broadcaster, artist, or poet.
Academy Spotlights
DJ RBI
Teaches: DJing
Ron Brown engages audiences behind the turntables as DJ RBI, a principal member of the DMV-based DJ collective, Diamond Cutterz.
Shanna
Teaches: Face & Body Art
Shanna Lim is an established body painter having done work for companies like Cirque Du Soleil and The Shakespeare Theatre.
Where we’re at ·
Explore Upcoming Events in Washington, DC
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Still Here. Still hip-hop.
Twenty-four years in, we’re still creating opportunities for young people, artists and communities — from DC classrooms to the global stage.
See what we built together in FY2025–26.
WBL MEDIA
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Catch the Latest from
The Counterbalance Blog
The Hip Hop Mindset: On Being Driven, Hungry & Committed to Purpose
Those old classic phrases like "don't stop, won't stop" or "on and on to the break of dawn" have aligned hip-hop culture with persistence and perseverance.
Obligations of Leaders | kNOw new leaders
Dr. Jason Nichols joins host Mazi Mutafa to discuss America’s leaders and their obligations to the communities they serve.
Pro-Tips with Chef Rock Harper
Chef Rock Harper, owner of DMV restaurant Queen Mother's and winner of Hell's Kitchen season 3, drops some knowledge for all aspiring culinary enthusiasts.
