NewsForum readers first met dance studio owners Michele and Stephanie Mortimer in January 2012 when they were still in their first year of operation. As they start their fifth season, they reflect on the success Element Dance Arts (EDA) has achieved in such a short time. Like all good entrepreneurs, the Mortimers have had their hands full driving their business to become one of the region’s fastest growing and most well respected dance studios in the industry. “We have various program streams designed to provide each dancer with an experience that is catered to their dance goals,” says Michele. “Our teaching faculty are highly qualified professionals and dedicated experts in their field. We all believe in providing children with a quality, well-rounded dance education that you can’t find just anywhere.”
Since launching their business, the Mortimers have invested considerable time working within the community. Consequently, in just four short years, EDA has made a strong a name for itself in an already well-populated dance community. As a member of the Active Cambridge network, EDA plays a role in helping to educate and bring awareness to the community on the importance of physical activity. This past winter, the studio hosted its first Student Choreography Contest benefitting Kids Can Play, an organization that provides underprivileged children with financial assistance to participate in sports and arts activities. The Mortimers say they are honoured to be able to give back “to such a great community.” Throughout the year, the EDA Competitive Team performs at local venues and festivals, and the Performance Team (comprised of recreational dancers) provides entertainment to residents of local retirement homes. EDA offers classes to dancers from as young as 2 1/2 years to adult and currently serves over 350 students. The studio provides weekly classes in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, hiphop, and acrobatics. “Whether you wish to dance once a week, or have aspirations of becoming a professional dancer, we are confident that we have a class that will be perfect for you,” says Michele.
As business owners, the Mortimers take pride in everything they do. EDA is founded on the principle of providing a quality experience from the moment someone walks in the door: the friendly greeting, the clean facility, and the growth and development of dancers throughout the season. “We love our jobs and our art form, and we are so happy to be able to share our passion with so many young dancers,” says Stephanie. Visit Element Dance Arts at www.elementdancearts.com and see what the buzz is about – you, your child, or someone you know might just find a love for dance too!