We had a great time planning our annual studio business issue. We started by checking in with longtime directors about decisions they’ve made over the years. How did they get started and what would they reconsider if they were to do it again? We found there are as many great answers as there are dedicated people who pour their hearts and sweat into this business. Check out “Special Section: Your Studio Space” for advice on hot topics such as negotiating your lease, finding the right location and just how much you can expect to spend on equipment.
On the cover, former San Diego Charger Girl Nicole Lucia is making her dream come true for her studio, Danceology, with a polished contemporary space and features you might expect to find in a health club more than in a suburban dance studio—while also keeping classes affordable so that all who want to learn, can. Read her story.
While our Special Section gives scenarios for a starter studio, those with high-end aspirations will be interested in what Glorya Kaufman has been up to at the University of Southern California. Two years ago, we reported on the exciting new college dance program directed by Jodie Gates. This month the Kaufman School unveils the ultimate dream dance facility. Joseph Carman gives us a preview.
Even if you don’t run a dance studio business, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this issue—from tips on teaching partnering skills to the best exercises for building upper-body strength. And writer Kat Richter will tug at your heartstrings with her piece about Ballet X’s outreach program in Philadelphia, “The Moving Life of Ben Franklin.”
Join us in person to continue the conversation. The Dance Teacher Summit is where the pages of this magazine come to life. This year, we’re bicoastal, with events in New York City (July 29–31) and Long Beach, CA (Aug 5–7). See you there!
Photo by Matthew Murphy; cover image by Joe Toreno
