Local Dance Studio Goes Above & Beyond to Help Those With Special Needs

CLARION, Pa. – Dancer’s Studio Performing Arts Center announced plans to expand their program for people with special needs and individual learning differences.

“There’s a lack of opportunity for this community to experience the benefits of dance. We set out to learn as much as we could so we could offer purposeful dance classes that would benefit the students far outside the studio,” said studio owner, AJo Gallagher.

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography.

In October, AJo and her business manager Kelly, became certified instructors through Rhythm Works Integrative Dance. Rhythm Works Integrative Dance is a clinically based hip hop dance program that utilizes sensory processing, kinesiology, and behavioral analysis as a foundation to build customizable classes for the students.

“The purpose of such a comprehensive program is to provide our certified teachers with the tools and education necessary to effectively make a difference in their student’s lives,” said Tricia Gomez, Global Director of Rhythm Works Integrative Dance.

“Emerging research is showing that movement, music, and rhythm, when combined, light up the brain in ways that create new neuropathways. Dance is a powerful modality that offers an opportunity to build social, emotional, cognitive, and motor skills. Plus it’s tons of fun!

“We’re excited about the opportunities this program will offer our community and this is a vision I have had for a long time said AJo. These classes are available for the community. The students will participate in Dancer’s Studio performances to raise awareness of the importance of dance for everyone.”

About Dancer’s Studio Performing Arts Center

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography.

Dancer’s Studio has been under the direction of A-Jo Gallagher for 10 years!

Our Mission: to guide, educate, and inspire all students who enter our doors in the highest standards of dance and music education. Our goal is to train not only the brilliant artist but also to encourage Leadership, Respect, Loyalty, Tolerance and Humanity.

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography.

Dancer’s Studio can be contacted via email info@dancers-studio-stars.com

About Rhythm Works Integrative Dance

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography

Photo by Dave Cyphert of ProPoint Media Photography.

Global Director Tricia Gomez is the creator of Rhythm Works Integrative Dance, Hip Hop In a Box, and the Hip Hop Made Easy programs offered in over 2100 studios and schools worldwide. Gomez is considered a pioneer in the youth hip hop dance field. Her unique hip hop teaching methods have landed her on the “Dr. Phil Show,” and as the head judge of the TV show “Dance Revolution.” Tricia is now a consultant for the Disney Performing Arts Program where she has the honor of working with dancers from around the world. Previously, Gomez has worked in the studio setting as a teacher and studio owner for over 20 years.

http://www.rhythmworksid.com
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Email: info@dancers-studio-stars.com

Melinda writes about her and her daughter Megan’s experience in this class.

Megan

Megan has always told me since she could walk that she wanted to be a ballerina. Megan was born with a number of special needs, one of which is muscular dystrophy. I had tried to find something that would suit Megan, however, most dance classes are just not something that she could physically do. We heard about AJo and the ‘Shining Stars’ Program. I met with Kelly and AJo to discuss Megan and the class. When I told Megan I found a dance class for her, she was so excited – happy tears rolled down her face and she said ‘my dreams are coming true’. AJo is 100% focused on Megan and adjusting the dance to Megan’s abilities. The dance has been so beneficial to both Megan’s physical activity, and her confidence. The smile on Megan’s face when she is dancing is absolutely priceless! We look forward to dance every week!

Lisa writes about her and her daughters experience in this class.

Our family has been so blessed by the Shining Stars dance program at Dancer’s Studio. Our daughter with down syndrome has been sitting on the sidelines watching her brother and sister take part in basketball, soccer and other programs. She finally has something active to do that is geared towards her special needs. It is wonderful to see her face light up as we enter the doors of the studio. Miss AJo, Miss Kelly and the entire staff have been wonderful to work with. I recommend this program to all families with children who have special needs.

Anyone interested in enrolling in the Shining Stars program please reach out via email info@dancers-studio-stars.com.


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