Local ballet teacher Kelli Roberts wants to bring something new to her hometown.
It's been a goal of hers for years, in fact.
Having been a dancer for about 18 years, she appreciates the many benefits that learning ballet has to offer.
She began teaching classes more than three years ago at Parks & Rec while she was in high school so that she could pass along her love for dancing to local children.
Now she is set to graduate from the University of North Georgia this summer and is ready to make her dream of owning a local dance studio a reality.
"I have always had a goal to own my own dance studio in Dahlonega because I love the community here," Roberts said.
During the past few months she has transformed an available business suite just off the square along North Grove Street into the space that is now ready to welcome children who are interested in learning the discipline of dancing.
"Dance is not only about physical technique but also about life—what it means to have poise and grace," said Roberts. "The students value discipline and make life-long friendships."
Roberts realizes that most local students who will come to her studio haven't had experience with dance.
"That's why I want to do this here," she said.
Roberts considers dance an artistic sport because it's so physically demanding and it promotes the skill of working together as a team.
"It's therapeutic," she said. "It touches the hearts of the audience and draws them in. There is always something for everyone to relate to."
Eight-year-old Brooklyn Pulley said she likes participating in the classes because it's good exercise and teaches her to be graceful.
The Blackburn Elementary student said she began ballet at age 6 at Parks & Rec because she did gymnastics in the past and wanted to try dancing.
Ten-year-old Caroline Kimmel has done ballet for three years. She said she has always enjoyed dancing and ballet has helped her improve her skill.
She said what she likes the most is learning the different dances that Roberts choreographs to pop music songs.
Nine-year-old Blackburn student Avery Shirley is in just her first year doing ballet.
She said the hardest part is remembering the entire dance routine that lasts several minutes.
Roberts said there are many attributes that help new students succeed, such as being motivated, being ready to learn, being driven to grow as a dancer and wanting to grow with discipline.
Classes are usually held once per week, she said (although more often for more advanced classes).
The curriculum is pre-professional and also builds on itself, with classes like Intro 1, Intro 2, Technique and Intermediate, Roberts said.
The regular dance season follows the school year calendar, and Roberts said she hopes to have the first recital at The Holly Theater.
Classes begin August 9 and registration cuts off September 10 to be able to participate in the full season.
Although classes are for ages 3 to 18 now, she said people have already asked if they will eventually add adult classes, such as tap or ballroom dancing.
For more information visit the studio's website by searching for "Kelli's School of Dance and Conservatory."
