Tia Russell Dance Studio

"I started at TRDS in 2013 after years of trying out extra activities that I couldn’t seem to stick with. When I started dancing and met Ms. Tia, Mr. James, and their smaller staff at the time I instantly knew dance was something I wanted to do. Although it was hard in the beginning, their investment in us growing as dancers and their reassurance kept me going. I was taking every class you could think of and had the opportunity to be one of the few students who started taking pointe with Ms. Tia. Dance became my outlet to express how I felt physically instead of verbally. After losing my mom in 2016, the first place I went to was the dance studio. Being surrounded by staff and friends who were loving and sincere brought me comfort, they had become my family. I’ve met so many friends that have grown to be my sisters and the relationships I’ve built with my teachers have helped me whenever I needed extra guidance. Being apart of TRDS is truly a blessing."

"I have learned so much and am honored to have danced at Tia Russell Dance Studio. It has become a second home to me, allowing me to express myself, meet new people, and receive many great opportunities. Although I have been dancing since I was three years old, I could never recognize my true talent until I went there at the age of eleven. It has been a great experience to work with teachers who don't care if you've danced before but about your passion for dance and willingness to accept a challenge. Throughout my time at this dance school, I developed a bond with my teachers and staff members, who were always there for me, even if it wasn't related to dancing. Through their advice, I have learned both how to better myself as a person and how to better myself as a dancer. My appreciation extends to two individuals who have consistently recognized my potential as greatness and have shown me what is possible. Mrs. Tia and Mr. James have always noticed that I can be successful and have always encouraged me to figure out how to use my talent effectively throughout my life without doubting my ability. In particular, Mrs. Tia, the one who taught me how to come out of my shell. Dancing at the Tia Russell Dance Studio was the best decision to strengthen my talent. I was able to better myself and keep myself out of trouble. I also got the chance to form bonds with other dancers who've grown to be my sisters. As I continue through life, I will never forget what all the teachers at the Tia Russell Dance Studio have taught me."

"The Tia Russell Dance Studio is easily one of the best things that has ever happened to me! I often remind Tia and James what a blessing they were and continue to be in my life. What my mom and I initially appreciated about the studio was its affordability, coupled with the standard of excellence they’ve always strived to operate under. That hasn’t changed. They also cultivate an environment where you are both nurtured and disciplined. They expect your personal best, in exchange for much more that I can even put in words. Each and every class challenged me, allowing me to establish versatility in my craft. As they fed my love for dance, it quickly became my second home. Not only is there a sense of home in that space but in the hearts of the people I grew to love and call my dance family. Today I am pursuing dance professionally, with a focus in concert modern dance. This studio is a beautiful and pinnacle part of my journey."

"I am an educator with 18 years of experience K-12.  My first impressions of the Tia Russell Dance Studio were formed when my students proudly showcased their talents during school performances. They took great pride in the skills they acquired from Tia’s, which extended beyond the field of dance into leadership and self-love.  My own daughters have attended TRDS for 7 years. My niece and granddaughter could not wait until they were old enough to join the TRDS Family! I love that the young people in my life can belong to a community of artists who are taught their worth, and given a platform to shine bright!"