New Dance Studio this fall

WORTHINGTON -- After 18 years of teaching, Robyn Murphy is returning to her hometown to open the Shining Fame Performance Dance Studio.

Murphy started dancing at the age of 6. After graduating from Worthington High School, Murphy moved to Sioux Falls, S.D., where she taught both studio and competitive dance and coached high school dance teams. She then moved to Platte, S.D., where she owned a dance studio for two years.

"I've always kind of wanted to come back," Murphy said. "This is where I grew up, and I just wanted to take all of the stuff I'd acquired and learned and bring it back."

The Shining Fame Performance Dance Studio teaches ages pre-kindergarten through high school at two levels and offers a variety of dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop.

"I'm also offering specialty classes," Murphy said. "There's contemporary/lyrical, which is more of a free dance experience. It's more emotional, more artistic, and available for anyone ages 9 and up."

The technique class, also for ages 9 and up, looks at the technique aspects of dance for someone really serious about their skills, Murphy said.

"Technique is generally the hardest part of dance," she said.

This year will only include one performance, a spring recital, but Murphy hopes to expand in the coming years.

"We're just going to have a spring recital this first year while we get on our feet," Murphy said. "Next year we want to have a winter recital in January, too, and we're also planning on adding competitive teams that will travel around the region."

The studio is currently located in the Northland Mall due to space and ease of renovation, according to Murphy. However, the location may not be permanent.

"The mall is a great space with a lot of extra room for parents and small children, but I do hope to grow and find a bigger place," Murphy said.

As for now, Murphy is the only teacher in the studio.

"In time I'll probably hire highschoolers, but before I know anyone for sure I'm not going to hire anyone," Murphy said. "Once the classes get bigger, I'll probably start hiring."

Regular classes begin on Sept. 4 for students who are registered and have their tuition paid. However, Murphy is offering a free dance week from Aug. 28 through Sept. 1.

"Anyone who doesn't know if they want to register can come for free just to test it out for a week to see if they like it," Murphy said.

Participants can try out as many classes as they'd like within their age group. A signed waiver is required for participation. Kids who are already registered are also welcome to come.

"Several kids are already registered, but there is still room in every class," Murphy said.

The studio will be having an open house from 2-5 p.m. Wednesday where people can stop in, look around, learn about classes, and sign up.

"There will also be private registration, and we'll give away some free months of tuition and free dance shoes and dance clothes," Murphy said.

"I'm just hoping to share my experience and knowledge with the people in town, and to give the kids a good dance experience."

Daily Globe Reporter Brianna

Darling may be reached at

376-7321.