Our Story | How We Got Started

Uptown Dance Center for Performing Artists was born from a childhood dream and built through decades of teaching, learning, and community service. Our mission has always been to offer more than dance classes—we provide a loving, structured space where children grow mentally, physically, and emotionally through the art of dance.

My journey began at the age of five, studying multiple dance styles and learning the importance of discipline, culture, and care. Over the years, I trained, performed, and taught in many schools, studios, and nonprofit organizations, and on the world stage, gaining the experience that shaped my approach to dance education.

In 1985, I opened Uptown Dance Center to model the kind of studio I always envisioned—family-centered, culturally respectful, and committed to excellence. While my path has included performance, education, and leadership, my greatest passion has always been my family, my students, and serving the community through Uptown.