It happens almost every day at Abby Bella Dance Studio; a woman walks into the studio and shyly asks about the classes offered at the studio. They may have heard about the studio from a friend, driven by, heard the music coming from the open door or simply found us online, and they are curious if they might fit in at the studio. Often, with a dreamy look in their eyes, they begin to reminisce about dance classes they took as a child or teenager, and wonder if they will still be able to dance. We tell them about the classes and assure them that they will fit in to our adult drop in classes. We have technique classes in ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, African and tap dance. Then they ask in a whisper "How about Cardio Striptease or Burlesque?"

Women come to the studio at various times in their lives. Many come after a life change such as a divorce, loss of a loved one or children leaving home. I have had women tear up when they tell me that sometimes the only thing that gets them out of bed in the morning or keeps them going through the day is coming to a dance class at Abby Bella. I have been touched by so many stories, women who feel lost and/or sad and need something to make them feel better about themselves. They are able to connect with other women who come together in community to dance, laugh, talk, share ideas and hope.

What started as an idea to give women a place to dance has become so much more. Women from all walks of life, all ages, sizes and abilities come to dance and forget the stresses of the day. Whether they come to work out in a Zumba or Bella Barre class or they come to learn to dance in a technique class, they all leave the dance studio smiling, walking just a little bit taller and feeling just a little better about themselves.