Sherry Walsh becomes Rugcutterz Danz Artz affiliate

NEWS RELEASE

RUGCUTTERZ

************************* Rugcutterz Danz Artz Studio sets up shop in the Sault

Already firmly established as a leading provider of dance education in York Region, Rugcutterz Danz Artz is branching out to Northern Ontario with the opening of a second studio in the heart of Sault Ste. Marie.

Sherry Walsh Academy of Dance Arts will be the official affiliate partner of Rugcutterz Danz Artz in The Sault. The new Rugcutterz Danz Artz studio will build upon the solid reputation that Sherry Walsh has earned over the more than 28 years of providing the community with top-notch dance instruction.

Students can continue to expect the same level of commitment to training that has made the Sherry Walsh Academy of Dance Arts one of the premiere studios in The Sault.

What will change is the addition of exciting new recreational dance programs, an expansion of the existing facility and increased dance education opportunities.

Sherry Walsh will remain as the artistic director of Rugcutterz Danz Artz

Keeping up with the times

"The face of dance is changing. As dance continues to gain in popularity throughout North America, thanks in part to numerous dance reality shows on network television myself, along with my supportive staff, recognize that in order to remain at the forefront of dance education in Sault St. Marie and continue to provide high-level instruction we had to look at new ways to keep up with the times," said Ms. Walsh.

"It is with great pleasure that I announce that the Sherry Walsh Academy of Dance Arts has entered into an affiliate partnership agreement with Rugcutterz Danz Artz, a leading provider of dance education in Central Ontario," she added.

Becoming a Rugcutterz Danz Artz affiliate school also means students will have access to another talented team of choreographers, including Kim Barker the artistic director of the Rugcutterz Danz Artz organization.

Miss Barker has earned numerous prestigious awards, including the "Diamond Choreography Award" (ADA Nationals), Entertainment Award (awarded out of 1,700 routines at the Starpower Orlando Nationals), and she is a five-time Sr. Rhythm Cup Winner (Rhythm Dance).

Most recently she earned high praise from the cast of the popular show "So You Think You Can Dance?" which awarded her with the Choreographer's Pick award two years in a row during The Pulse workshop in New Jersey.

Qualified and caring staff

The studio's motto is "a place where dancers’ dreams become reality." And it all begins with the faculty. Rugcutterz has chosen qualified instructors that have a caring and patient approach to teaching, giving each child a chance to learn and grow in a challenging and motivational environment.

Choose from many dance programs

When Rugcutterz Danz Artz first opened its doors the goal was to bring the magic of dance to as many youngsters as possible and that’s still its goal, offering an extensive and flexible dance program to suit the interests of everyone.

There are recreational and competitive classes for children ages three and older.

Dancers can choose from a variety of dance styles, including tap, jazz, acro, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop.

There's even a 'boys' only' hip hop program.

Rugcutterz also offers a classical ballet which allows dancers to take exams.

For teens and adults Rugcutterz has hip hop and ballroom classes.

"We try to offer something for everyone. We truly want Rugcutterz to be known as the studio where anyone can come and learn how to dance, regardless of ability, age or gender," Ms. Walsh said.

Recognized by the industry

In its short history, Rugcutterz has already won the praises of those in the industry.

Brian Friedman, one of North America's leading choreographers praised Rugcutterz during a workshop the dancers attended in New Jersey.

He said a routine presented by Rugcutterz should be used as an example for all dance schools.

Rugcutterz Danz Artz was also the recipient of a "Top 50 Studios On the Move" award, presented by Macfadden Performing Arts Media, a leading U.S. publisher of dance and cheerleader magazines.

While there is a focus on strong technique, Rugcutterz Danz Artz also promotes fun, fitness, and friendships. "We want this to be a place where lasting memories are made," Ms. Walsh said.

Year-end recital

The dance season ends with all dancers being invited to participate in the annual year-end recital.

All dancers are featured in the entertaining performance, complete with special lighting and special effects.

"All kids naturally move to music when they're young. At Rugcutterz we want to give them the ability to harness that natural instinct," said Ms. Walsh.

For more information about the school or its programs, call 705.942.3415 or visit www.sherrywalsh.com or www.rugcutterz.com

*************************