Teresa opened Dublin Dance Centre in 1984 inspired by local dancer and teacher Barbara Garrett. Teresa’s daughter and younger sisters had taken class from Barbara for years. When Barbara decided to retire, Teresa questioned where in Columbus Ohio might the girls dance? Many other studio’s had been tried, but no one approached the art form as Barbara Garrett did.
With her family’s support, Teresa decided to open Dublin Dance Centre. Her vision, teaching philosophy, and love for dance, would set her apart from all other studios at the time. Barbara mentored Teresa in the first few years; she taught her how to hire quality instructors and together they developed DDC’s curriculum. Teresa stood strong in her mission and Dublin Dance Centre grew!
Originally, Dublin Dance Center started with two studios in one half of the 3-buliding complex and 3 teachers. Teresa was the marketer, receptionist, and accountant, and Mike (Teresa’s husband) built the floating floors, dressing rooms and helped in the day to day activities. Soon, DDC expanded to 10 studios (one gym) in 3 buildings!
As Teresa’s sisters grew and returned home from college, they became an important part of the business both in and out of the classroom. Christina and Angela remain integral parts of DDC serving as Education and Artistic Directors. Mike continues to assist in daily operations along with Teresa’s daughter Kate. After 26 years, Teresa still remains true to her original mission!
