First Pics: Baum’s Dancewear is officially open in former St. Jude’s Shop

It’s been a pretty quick turn around for the former St. Jude’s Shop at 1805 E. Passyunk Ave. Or should we say pirouette?

Baum’s Dancewear, a storied dance and theatrical (and Mummer) supply company dating back to 1887, is officially open at the former religious shop next to Stogie Joe’s. We first told you about a dance-inspired business coming to the space in July and, after a complete renovation, it’s now a reality.  While it doesn’t have the dance studio element, Baum’s has created something extra special to make you feel like a true superstar.

Katie Horton, the store manager at the new Baum’s, told us that the new space is much larger than their previous one in Center City. “We finally have the space to carry things people are looking for,” Horton said. Not only does it give them the extra room to stock more popular styles of leotards, tights and other apparel, Baum’s has added two new dressing rooms and even a large shoe area that’s draped in theatrical red velvet curtains and couches.

Well, it’s actually more of a shoe stage. Complete with double-mounted bar, large mirror and a hardwood stage, you’ll get the true feeling of whether the shoe fits while envisioning yourself as a professional dancer on the big stage overlooking E. Passyunk Ave. Horton is excited about the new shoe space and noted they’re “one of the biggest things we sell.”

Horton said that they’re in a bit of a soft opening at the moment, so expect an official grand opening sometime in the near future. Hours are currently from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, Monday through Friday. The store closes at 5 p.m. on Saturday and isn’t open on Sunday.

You can also keep up with Baum’s on Facebook.