TAP SHOES and ballet flats were in regular rotation for Danelle Afflerbaugh throughout her childhood, as dance has always been her passion. The California native performed and coached dance and cheerleading on the West Coast, and her daughter also dances. When her mom and step-dad decided to move to Manchester, the Afflerbaughs looked into moving there, too.
The only issue: there was no dance studio in town. Afflerbaugh decided to take a chance, move to the small town, and open a studio to see if it would be successful. Within six months, it was apparent that there was a huge need for dance classes because they filled up so fast. Afflerbaugh moved to a bigger studio to accommodate, which was a fantastic location in the square, across from the Manchester Arts Center (MAC).
Afflerbaugh’s mom sews most of the costumes, including beautiful details like feathers or sequins. Her step-dad helps with renovations in the studio. Her daughter teaches dance classes, and her dad built many elaborate sets for the MAC, including a giant lazy Susan on stage to spin the actors, and a set that allowed for actual water to fall for “Singing in the Rain.” Everyone called him “Pops,” and he was a beloved fixture at the MAC.
Afflerbaugh’s dream of owning her own dance studio was not only a reality, but a smashing success. Working together with her family was and still is a wonderful, bonding experience.
Duck River Dance offers a wide selection of dance classes: ballet, tap, jazz, musical, theater, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, modern, pom, and praise and worship.
“We have 37 classes on the schedule,” Afflerbaugh said. “Our youngest are 3, and our oldest are in their 60s. Our adult programs are some of our most popular.”
The classes have the opportunity to perform in recitals at the end of the semester. Afflerbaugh says dance is an art that is meant to be seen, and getting the chance to be on stage is a valuable experience. The first dance recital might be intimidating, but Afflerbaugh says after that first one, they are hooked. It’s exciting to be under the lights in costumes and see the audience, and she has the joy of watching each student grow in confidence through the years.
“Dance teaches so much more than just dance skills. It’s about character, poise, and working with a group, and being respectful with other people and instructors,” Afflerbaugh said. She has over 200 students across the dance genres.
Afflerbaugh helps the Millennium Repertory Company by doing choreography for lots of their shows at the MAC. It helps her as well because many of the actors and actresses come to her studio to take classes to learn the choreography. Duck River Dance does its annual Christmas show as a fundraiser for the MAC, rotating annually between the Nutcracker or a Variety Show. Afflerbaugh currently sits on the board as vice chair at the MAC as well. Her classes and volunteer work benefit so many children in Manchester. GN
