DANCE

 Dancer’s Workshop - I was always jealous of those of neighbor girls who started dancing in the kitchen at Cathy Correa's home, but I take pride in being among those who started dancing with her in 1964 in that tiny little cracker box studio on Chester Ave. Cathy would have to leave the door to the bathroom open as we chaineed and leap-turned on the diagonal from one corner straight into the bathroom? Cathy would sit on her stool and beat the rhythm on that drum as we learned to "whoop-ti-doodle" across the floor. For our very first recital... I was chosen to be the "princess!" Can you imagine? What 10 year old wouldn't be excited to be a princess? I thought I was the "star" of the show… and Cathy always made me feel like I was indeed a super star. 

Cathy taught me that "Everything was beautiful at the Ballet!" Even ballet class! She had such a strikingly beautiful physique, with those gorgeous long legs! When she moved and turned (she could always out turn any of us) I marveled at the beauty of her movement and I wanted to move just like her - I wanted to be that beautiful, too.

It was awesome as a little child to look at her - somewhat intimidating - her mere presence commanded respect. But Cathy had a wonderful rapport with kids as well. She took a sincere interest in the individual child and made them feel like they could do anything, even dance! Cathy made us feel like we were talented & we learned to love to dance. It gave us confidence & I was able to eventually take that confidence into the real world with me. 

 

I always felt that Cathy took a personal interest in me, outside of dance class. When finances were tight with my mom and we were no longer able to "afford" dance lessons, Cathy worked it out so we could barter the cost of lessons by making costumes for recitals. I will be forever grateful for this kindness - dancing has made a remarkable difference in my life. I earned a dance scholarship to Brigham Young University where I continued to take dance classes and became a member of their gymnastics team.

 

Dance continued to be a big part of my life. I have taught dance, gymnastics, and cheerleading for over 30 years myself. Cathy's influence in my life allowed me to give back to others. I even had the privilege of being a member of her staff at Dancer's Workshop for a couple of years. My Carter girls danced at Dancer’s Workshop & treasure their memories of fun and friendships.

 

Like Cathy, I have enjoyed watching students learn and discover the "magic of movement" as they develop new physical skills and learn to appreciate and respect what their bodies can do. Cathy once said, "My philosophy of dance always has been and always will be that, realistically, I will not train a lot of superstar, super fantastic dancers. We're building memories. I want them to remember their dance experience in a positive manner..... I hope to add luster to their lives." I will always remember my years at Dancer’s Workshop with fondness. A little luster goes a long long way.