Name: Danielle Zink

Number of Years at PSOD: 11 years

Plans for Next Year: University of Minnesota medical program at Normandale

What inspires you?
The girls that I assist are the ones that inspire me the are in awe of everything, it reminds me that is doesn’t matter how well I did something…just that I love doing it.

What is your most memorable dance moment?

I don’t believe that I have one specific most memorable moment, but my favorite moments are probably the silly moments and jokes that happen randomly at dance. Whether these moment are in class or in the car ride coming home from recital, they are my favorite! :]

What is your favorite style of dance? Why?
My favorite style of dance is jazz! I have always found it easier and fun because it was easy to express myself. Don’t get me wrong, I love ballet, but jazz has always clicked easier for me and I have had more laughs with my friends in it.

What are your other passions that you have been able to pursue while having a quality dance education?

Outside of dance I have been able to pursue my passion for broadcast journalism through our school news team! I have been an active part of it for the past 3 years. I have also been busy with church, school, friends, family, and spending time with my dog Bert!

If you could give any advice to a young dancer, what would you tell them?
Dance is your pulse, your heartbeat, your breathing. It’s the rhythm of you life. It is the expression in time and moment, in happiness, joy sadness, and envy. Dance will always be there.

At PSOD, you’re honored with a senior solo at the Spring Recital. What are you most looking forward to?
One thing that most people know about me is that I absolutely adore glitter and sparkles. I am really excited for my solo because it means I can have as much sparkle and glitter as I want. I am also looking forward for that moment that all eyes will be on me and I can just live in the moment and be myself on the stage.

My mother lived and raised us by these words and this bible verse inspired all her actions.  Her name was Carolyn Eriksen Linner, and she died in March of 2009.  But her presence and my memories are still very much alive.

My earliest memories of my mother are traveling to preschool, but first we all needed to stop and look at the lilies of the valley and then smell their fragrance…she always reminded us to appreciate the beauty and simplicity around us.

We would arrive home from school and then she would pile us in the car for a quick trip to the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the Swedish Institute  before coming home to start dinner and homework.  She loved using her local surroundings to show us the world and educate us on life and culture.  I remember having a dinner where we all put on berets and she made a French menu and we all had to learn something about France.
She was the first true experiential learner and teacher.

My mother always did everything that was child friendly … quick, short and fun.  For example, if we had to do the dreaded shopping trip she would make sure we had 10 minutes to play . (Like at the original Daytons downtown Minneapolis on  the 5th floor with the famous elephant slide and fun large play animals.)

Our life was not without jobs and chores, and I learned many of my best skills to run a dance school from my mother.  She  was the earliest Team Lead that ever was!  We would not watch and wait while she prepared dinner, we participated.  “Pick out  the vegetable, scrub the potatoes, set the table,” she would say.  Then after dinner my mother had all 5 of us kids figure out how to share the job of doing dishes together. I’m not sure that was all that fun but I did learn from an early age that when you work together it is more fun and you definitely feel like a team.  It also made doing my homework seem easy because it was all my own and I could sit down without anyone telling me what to do.

As mothers day approaches, I miss her so much. 

I miss being in her presence most.  I don’t think there is anyone that could listen quite as completely as she;  listening with both her heart and her ears – as I I know that only mothers can do.  When I sat in her presence and she gave me her whole attention I felt loved, important and beautiful.  I also know that I was the most important person in her life.

And yet when she was with my sister and brothers,  they felt the very same.

I believe no one listens and loves quite like a mother.  I wish more of us were able to listen and to help give others a sense of belonging and self worth.   May we all be mothers for each other.  May we all put the other person first and tell them them ARE beautiful and smart and their life matters.

My mother was a gift from God, and she continues to be an example to me as I raise my own children and influence young women at the dance school.  When I teach, when I lead a high school bible study, when I cook for my children, her love is right before me.  She was great at many things, but her greatest asset was her ability to Love.

I love you dear Mom.  Thank you for inspiring me to teach, lead and be the best mother I can!!!

1 Corinthians 13 …. “There are three things that abide ….. faith , hope and love …. but the greatest of these is love.”

Written by,

Sarah Linner Quie,

Director/Owner Prairie School of Dance

1.      What is the Performing Arts program?
Our Performing Arts classes are designed for the more serious student looking for a higher level of commitment to their growth as a dancer.  It is an opportunity for our dancers to participate in a more disciplined, yet encouraging program.  It is comparable to competition teams offered at other dance schools. We offer Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, and Sacred Dance.  We also have dance companies available exclusively for Performing Arts Students.

Different from our Recreational Classes, Performing Arts students perform at least four times annually in our Christmas Show in December, Performing Arts Showcase in February, Summit Place Assisted Living Complex in March, and the Spring Dance Recital in June. Performing Arts students are required to take a minimum of 2 classes per week.  Students may participate in this program by audition only.

2.     Is there an age requirement?

Age 8 and older.

3.     How do I know if my dancer is ready or eligible for Performing Arts?

If your dancer is age 8 or older and is looking for more dance in her life, wants greater challenge, and wants to commit to a minimum of 2 classes a week! Performing Arts students are held accountable to make up all absences and practice outside the classroom.  This program is for a student that wants to commit more time and energy to their love of dance.

4.     What is the level of commitment for Performing Arts?

The level of commitment increases as dancers move up in the levels of the program.  Students in the Performing Arts program are required to take a minimum of 2 classes a week in level 1&2, and 3 classes a week in levels 3 and up.  Students are also required to attend all scheduled performances.  Most performing arts students perform at least 4 times in the year.

5.     Do they compete?

No, Prairie School of Dance students do not attend dance competitions.

Our students have many other performing opportunities in the community that have included the Governor’s Mansion in St.Paul, National Tap Dance Day at the Mall of America, Gala/fundraising events for non-profit organizations, various churches throughout Minnesota, Assisted Living Complexes & the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC.

6.     Are there auditions?

Yes, there are auditions every year in August during our Performing Arts Assessment Intensive.  Dancers are then placed in the appropriate class level for the dance year. This year the Intensive will take place Aug.13-17.  Please see summer schedule for details.

7.     How much does it cost?

1. The full dance year costs:

Annual Registration fee $40

+ Quarterly Tuition based off class time (x 4 quarters)

+ Costume Fee $88 (x classes)

We do offer special packaging for our Performing Arts program.  Please call 952-829-9436 for details.

1.      What is the Recreational Program?

Our Recreational Classes are designed for the student looking for a fun and welcoming environment to learn the foundations of dance by a professional staff. Students may take 1 or more classes a week in a variety of styles including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Musical Theater, Sacred Dance and Creative Movement. All classes will culminate with a performance in costume at our Spring Dance Recital in June.  Recreational Classes are offered for ages 3 thru adult.

2.     What is required of my dancer?

Your dancer is expected to attend class once a week on time and in the specified dress code for their class.  Most importantly, your dancer is required to have fun!

 3.     Is there a recital?

Yes – each class learns one recital dance each year & wears one costume in our Spring Dance Recitals.  Our specialty classes including sacred, musical theater and Dads & Daughters classes perform in our annual Christmas Show in December in addition to the Spring Recital.

4.     What makes PSOD recitals family-friendly?

Dancers ages 3-6 sit in the audience with their families during the show.  Recreational Recitals are less than 75 minutes every year so all family members can enjoy.

 5.     What does my dancer do backstage at recital?

Dancers in 6-8year old and older classes sit backstage at the recital and watch the show displayed on a large screen.  They are encouraged to bring books, blankets, healthy/clean snacks, and other activities to stay occupied when they are not dancing.  Our professional staff keeps great care of them backstage.

6.     When does registration begin and end?

Registration begins as early as April for the dance year that begins in September. Registration officially closes in January.  For the best dance experience, we encourage students to register by the first week of classes in September.  The 2012-2013 Dance Year begins on September 10, 2012.

7.     What is Pre-Performing Arts class?

Pre-Performing Arts Classes are Ballet/Jazz/Tap combo classes for students that may be interested in the Performing Arts Program.  They learn 2 short recital dances in 2 different dance styles for the Spring Recital.  Their costume is a 2-in-1 so you do not have to purchase 2 costumes.  They also perform 1 of their dances at the Performing Arts Showcase in February/March in addition to the Spring Dance Recital. It is the transitional class from Recreational to Performing Arts.

 8.     How much does it cost?

We take our 9 month dance year and divide it into 4 quarterly billing periods.  Each period covers 8 weeks of dance lessons.  We bill via email in August, October, January & March.

30 minute classes are charged at   $90.00 per billing quarter
45 minute classes are charged at $130.00 per billing quarter
60 minute classes are charged at $144.00 per billing quarter
75 minute classes are charged at $148.00 per billing quarter
90 minute classes are charged at $148.00 per billing quarter
Adult classes are charged at $100.00 per billing quarter

The full dance year costs:

Annual Registration fee $40

+ Quarterly Tuition based off class time (x 4 quarters)

+ Costume Fee $68 -78 (x class)

9.     How can I pay my bills?

• Auto – Pay – contact us to have your bill automatically withdrawn each quarter
• Pay-Pal via www.prairieschoolofdance.com
• Check in the mail: 11000 Blossom Rd. Eden Prairie, MN 55347
• Drop off payment in the tuition box at the Prairie Lutheran Church location
• Contact us for a monthly payment plan

Jenna Ely.

Degree:  Double major in Dance and Journalism, Minor in Communications

Teaching Experience: 3rd year at Prairie School of Dance, 4 years teaching dance

Teaches at PSOD: jazz, tap, musical theatre, ballet, hip hop, creative movement, Dads and Daughters

What is your favorite style of dance?

My favorite style of dance is lyrical.  I love the way you get to express the music through your movement.  It could be joy, heartache, confusion, and I love it all!

Where is the coolest place you have ever performed?

Last summer I was in a flash mob for a corporate event.  The company was having a party at a downtown Minneapolis hotel and about 14 of us dancers dressed up and pretended to be servers.  Then during the middle of the party, music started playing and we all started dancing in the middle of the crowd.  It was really fun, especially as a lot of people brought out their cameras to tape us, and couldn’t stop laughing at how surprised they were!

What is one thing you were taught and will always remember?

Stay positive.  There will be times when you think you’re not good enough or not strong enough, or just not enough of something.  Don’t let that get to you.  Don’t focus on the negative, focus on the positive in any situation and stay true to who you are.

What inspires you?

People; people inspire me.  I talk to my mom who made it through breast cancer and how she’s now doing all the things she was once afraid of doing, and I get inspired.  I talk to my 5 year old student who wants to dance 300 hours a week because she loves it so much, and I get inspired.  I talk to my friend who is juggling a full time nursing job, full time graduate school, a relationship and finding a little time out for friends, and I get inspired.  Every person that has such passion in their lives, whether a job, relationship, or twirling and leaping in the air, inspires me.

Have you had a struggle in your dance journey and how did you overcome it?

I came out of college not thinking that I would dance at all.  I got an 8-5 desk job because I did not see dance as a future career or something that I needed in my life…oh how wrong I was!  I hated my job and truly missed dance and the joy it brought me.   I realized that I could not let go of dance and that somehow, I needed to find a way to keep it in my life.  And here I am!  Full-time dance instructor and loving life.  I’ve got Prairie to thank for that!

What do you believe is the most important way your faith is present in your career?

 I love the positivity that this dance school is based upon.  Everyone is beautiful and everyone has something to be thankful for.  I really believe that by saying our prayer at the end of every dance class (Thank you God for dancing, thank you for my friends and family, thank you for my teachers, and thank you for beautiful me) that it makes the girls feel beautiful.  They feel good about themselves and they feel like what they just did in class was very important.  That lets me know that dance is inspiring these girls, and I’m helping to do that.  I’m helping them know that they are beautiful, and that they have so much to be thankful for.

What brings you joy when you’re not at Prairie School of Dance?

Food!  Oh, and my wonderful friends and boyfriend who support me so much with dance, even though I have opposite schedules of most all of them, which really hinders our social times.  I love my family and hanging out on holidays with them is probably what I look forward to most during the year.  I also LIVE for the sunshine and spending time outside!

How do you handle pre-performance nerves?

I stretch a lot before performances.  It gives my body and mind something else to focus on, besides getting nervous for the performance.  I also try and do everything I can to warm up my body:  jumping jacks, trying to touch the ceiling, running in place, etc.

Have you created a pre-performance regiment/routine or a tip you’d like to share?

Well Prairie is pretty good at this, but bring layers!  Wearing just a costume gets cold so layers over the costume until right before you go on helps stay warm, and helps make you feel more comfortable backstage as well.  Just don’t forget that you have them on…that has almost happened to me…and has happened to some other unfortunate performers!

Name: Rachel Doyle

Number of Years at PSOD: 12 years

Plans for Next Year: Bethel University

What inspires you?
To me, it is inspiring to see people working hard to achieve their goals. I am very self-motivated, and other people’s dedication inspires me even more to keep a positive attitude in everything I do and work hard to get even just a little bit better. Also, I think it is awesome when people go out of their way to help someone, even if sometimes they receive no recognition. I think selflessness is such an admirable quality; friends and teachers that are selfless inspire me to be selfless as well.

What is your favorite style of dance? Why?
I connect most with lyrical styles of dance. I love adding breath to movement and feeling graceful, yet strong.

How have you been able to live out your faith at PSOD?
This year’s “Psalm 139” show was a great way for me to make my dance a form of worship. Dancing is like a prayer… Psalm 149:3 says to “Praise his name with dancing.” I am so thankful that God gave me a healthy body so that I can create art through dance.

What makes PSOD classes excellent and wholesome?
Definitely the people that make up PSOD. Some of my strongest friendships have been with girls that I see weekly at class. Also, I love how the teachers make an effort to have a personal relationship with their students and go beyond simply playing the role of the “teacher.” I know that they not only want to help me become a better dancer, but also a better person.

If you could give any advice to a young dancer, what would you tell them?
I would tell them to stick it out! When I was younger, I went through a phase where I wasn’t very interested in coming to class or even just stretching at home. But I never quit, and now I am soooo glad that I stuck with it!

At PSOD, you’re honored with a senior solo at the Spring Recital. What are you most looking forward to?
I am just excited that my final memory of my time here at Prairie School of Dance will be my senior solo. I hope that it will be a surreal experience, and I am excited to look back and remember the great time I had performing.

WATCH HERE!

1. Arrive on time to your class – all classes at PRAIRIE LUTHERAN STUDIO LOCATION THIS WEEK, April 21-27.

2. Bring the right shoes.

3. Come to class in costume with all accessories and tights.

4. Wear your desired make up for photos.

5. Wear your hair as for the recital (see your costume sheet.)

6.  Have your parents come in to pick up your recital information and dancer packet.

7. View/Order your photos online.

8. SMILE!

See you this week in the studio.

Miss Isla teaches tap at Prairie School of Dance and is leading our Tap Company in this year’s participation at the National Tap Dance Day on Sunday, May 20th at Southdale Mall in Edina, MN between 12-4 p.m.

We asked Miss Isla a few questions about her love for Tap Dancing and teaching it:

What is it that you love about Tap?

I love the rhythms that I can create with my own body.  I can’t listen to music without tapping it in my head or often with my feet! I can’t imagine my life without tapping.  Once when I was performing with 40 kids from the US on a trip to Beijing, China to perform a Christmas show.  We were visiting the Forbidden City and there was music playing and all of a sudden I realized all of us were “shuffling” our feet as we moved along because that’s what tappers do out of habit.  I realized with these people I felt “normal” – all of us in the same boat – and I will never forget it.

What do you like about teaching Tap?

I like to choreograph my own dances and see how each student puts it into their own way.  It’s nice to transfer my knowledge because I have studied with Master Tappers such as Jason Samuel Smith, Diane Walker, Sam Weber and Lane Alexander.  It’s nice to know all that I’ve learned is being passed down to future generation of students.

What should every tap dancer know?

How to count and timing!  The most important thing is to have relaxed feet.  Letting your feet be an extension of your whole leg is essential to the rhythm and controlling your speed.  You don’t DO tap, you let the rhythm move you and your body expresses that.

What is the future of tap?

It’s critical that we find a way to marry music and dance.  People need to recognize more the balance between the two and that Tap dancers are actually musicians with their feet.  If we found places for tap within music schools there would be a better chance of promoting this style of dance and continuing the long tradition of this style of dancing.

Name:  Kaara Hulstrand

Years at Prairie School of Dance: 5 years

1. What is your most memorable experience at Prairie School of Dance?
“Substitute teaching for Miss Sonia’s sacred class, Miss Jenna’s tap class, and the way the teachers support me and encourage me through my dancing.”

2. What is your favorite style of dance? Why?
“I am in love with sacred. It’s a spiritual way of worshiping God, and also increasing modern technique.”

3. What inspires you?
“My past. Death, anger, rage, envy, jealousy but also hope and wanting to be the woman God has brought me up to be.”

4. What are your other passions that you have been able to pursue while having a quality dance education?
“Another way I love to worship is to sing. I have spent the past four years singing in the worship team at my church for youth group. I also have been working on my fashion designs for the past three years, sketching out my ideas onto paper. I also dance at my school ( Main Street School of Performing Arts).  I have studied Modern, Jazz, and ballet. In the past three years I have created my own dance pieces, and performed them in various settings.”

5. If you could give any advice to a young dancer at PSOD, what would you tell them?
“Don’t worry about what you look like while you dance, just be yourself (and take Miss Mallory’s class, she’s the best!)”