Season 23 will forever be embedded in our mind, body & soul. As we embarked upon a new season of dance with all of its uncertainties, challenges, temperature checks, hand sanitizer, social distancing, no hugs, & masks, we knew the road ahead was most definitely a bumpy ride with many detours forever showing up in our lane. I’m incredibly humbled to say that we embraced each turn and surrendered to all that was before us. I’m incredibly thankful that each and every parent “trusted” us with their most precious cargo. Knowing that our students were comfortable and excited to be dropped off weekly at DanceWorks Studios made my heart beat daily with joy. So many new families chose to join us this season and honestly I tear up thinking of the trust and confidence that you had in us. Dropping off and picking up your children in a parking lot never seeing our faces and only hearing my voice with instruction daily created such a sense of community, trust and commitment.
Please, know that this year provided growth for each and every student in maturity, self-discipline, organizational skills, following directions, respecting each other’s space, mask rules, and much more. It was truly remarkable to witness from my 3-year-olds all the way up to my 18-year-olds — I could go on forever and ever. My students are truly the BEST of Essex County and in the state on New Jersey. Nothing, and I mean nothing, will stop us from doing what we love! My passion for teaching children the art of dance education is too great of a discipline to not continue and explore. Movement is one of the greatest gifts to mental and physical health. It is my personal commitment, passion and determination to keep ALL children feeling safe, challenged, loved, nurtured and accepted for who they are in an atmosphere where one can constantly move their body and use dance as a tool to create, embody and heal from the inside out.
DanceWorks will forever be the place where every child is encouraged to dance “to get the funk out“ literally, creatively and physically. My heart is full of gratitude that each and every person joining us today chose DanceWorks Studios in a time when our entire world was forever pivoting. I’m so thrilled that today WE join together to celebrate the gift and art of DANCE as one family in our community, supporting and loving these beautifully gifted and talented children. May we forever hold the many accomplishments and successes our students shared with us this season close to us. Just “showing up“ was enough, but honestly get ready, because what you are about to experience is everything and more. To my students, you inspire me daily and make my heart happy. Thank you for choosing DanceWorks Studios as your second home. Enjoy your magnificent children as they take the stage & DANCE.
With all of my love and gratitude,
XOXO
-Kathy