Blog by Design
Step in the dance world at DbD with stories from our team, our dancers, and our families…
10 Years Strong: DbD Studios Celebrates a Decade and Our 10 year Dancers Take Center Stage!
This year marks a momentous occasion for DbD Studios – 10 incredible seasons of nurturing young talent and fostering a love for dance! As we celebrate this milestone, and prep for our year end Recital at the Tobin, we wanted to shine a light on a special group – our amazing 10-year dancers!
These dedicated individuals have truly grown up alongside DbD Studios, witnessing its transformation and leaving their own mark on our journey. We caught up with a few of them to hear their reflections on a decade of dance at DbD:
~Reagan Owen
My name is Reagan Owen and I have been dancing at DbD since I was 2 which was the year the studio opened. This is my tenth year and I have been doing Musical Theater for 5 years and Performance Team for 3 years. It is my favorite style of dance.
My very first class was Twos in Tutus with Ms. Carolyn and I started to love dance! Then I did my first combo class which was Ballet/Tap and I loved dance even more. From making noises with my tap shoes to doing chasses in my ballet shoes I loved it all. Now doing Musical Theatre and Performance Team - from all the kicks to turns and my friends. Dance is always so much fun!
Now I am loving dance more than ever and improving my technique a lot by being on performance team and getting my heels this year. I am trying my hardest at performing new moves as well. Going from age 2 to age 12 and still dancing.
I always look forward to recital. I’ve been performing in it every year since I started dancing. This year I will be doing Performance Team, Musical Theater, PBT, STAAR (through helping the class I assist with to a STAAR dance), Ballet and Tap. From doing all of the kick lines to turns and leaps. I always enjoy doing recital with all of my friends, performing for others and getting on the stage with all the bright lights and the loud music. I can’t wait for our 10th annual recital!!
~Reagan Mia Lyssy
I started dancing at age 5, the year Dance by Design first opened. My parents enrolled me in ballet and tap class to try a new activity. I liked dance better than soccer because I got to wear “lips” (aka lipstick). I also was always watching my cousins in Austin, who were very involved in both studio and school dance.
My first recital was very scary; luckily, I was able to watch Ms. Kayla doing the dance behind the curtain where all of us young dancers could see what we were supposed to do! Since then I have gotten more used to dancing on the big stage with all the lights and loved ones watching and cheering all of us on. It is so much fun preparing for a recital. There is still all this nervous energy, but it is super exciting knowing I know the dance and get to show everyone what I have been working on for the whole year. It gives me a great sense of accomplishment and joy.
Another fun thing to do at recitals is to help with all the little kids! They are so hilarious and energetic, it is hard to keep up. The day of a dance recital is so much fun, all the teachers are running around making sure everyone and everything is prepared to go.
All my DbD teachers have been amazing and supportive. I really believe that with their help I built the foundation to be successful in trying out and making the High School Dance Team both this year and last. Between Hip Hop, Jazz, and Ballet I have learned a lot of different styles and moves that have helped me become an overall better dancer. The staff at DbD makes dancing fun.
We are so thankful Ms. Carolyn decided to open DbD! My family and I really appreciate the effort she puts into making DbD the special place it has become. Because of her tireless efforts, I have been able to perform at the San Antonio Spurs Game, Sea World, Festival of Trees, Eden Hill, the Fourth of July Parade, and so many other dancing opportunities.
Dance has become my passion. It’s a fun way to stay active and fit and to meet new friends.
Wednesday, May 8th
Ms. Kat: My Favorite Tobin Memories
As we near our big show, I start to remember all the things I love about our recital. One of my favorite things is that we get to perform at the prestigious Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. My experiences at the Tobin Center are multifaceted, having seen it from the vantage point of both an audience member and someone involved in the backstage magic. The hushed whispers backstage crackle with nervous energy. A quick flash of glitter from a costume catches my eye. I hear the frantic rustle of tutus and see friends helping with hairpieces. Even after years of experience, the magic of this place never fades.
My first experience there was as a spectator. I went to see the Nutcracker performed by Ballet San Antonio. Although my seats were in the balcony I still had an amazing view of the grand stage, and could see all of the colorful costumes at once. Not a moment was missed.
My second time there was at the DBD season 7 recital in 2021. The day before the show, my youngest son, Troy, was born. I was determined to attend because 4 of my 6 children were performing and I couldn’t miss it. My husband was dancing a duet with my youngest daughter and one of my sons was making his stage debut. Those were moments I’d never be able to recreate! Thankfully we were able to be tucked away safely in a private box so that I could sit and relax while watching my kids perform on the stage below. It was perfect.
The years since then I have made my way behind the curtain to the enormous backstage area. It truly is one of my favorite places to be. There is nervousness and excitement growing every minute as last checks on costumes, staging, and props are happening. Dancers are giving friends encouraging hugs and taking pictures, anticipating their performance. Once the show begins it's a flurry of dancer’s entering and exiting, quick changes and high fives on a job well done, tears being shed as seniors dance their final dances as students. It always goes by so fast that it’s hard to slow down and enjoy each moment. My goal every year is to snap a picture with each of my classes and give each of my dancer’s one last high five before they enter the stage. I always make memories I know I’ll never forget.
Because of the choreographed chaos, the Tobin Center always manages to pull at my heartstrings. Just being there transforms me. It's a place where I witness the culmination of dedication, the joy of accomplishment, and the wistful beauty of letting go. As the curtain falls on another recital, a bittersweet feeling washes over me. But even as the final bows are taken, I already find myself looking forward to the next performance, the next memory, the next adventure this magnificent place holds.
~Ms. Kat
Wednesday, May 1st
Curtain Call for Our Seniors!
It's a bittersweet farewell this month at Dance by Design Studios as we celebrate Kenadi, Ari, Lindsay, Kat, and Sammie's graduation! These talented Senior dancers have filled our studios with passion, creativity, and countless unforgettable memories throughout the years.
We're INCREDIBLY proud of the artists they've become, and we can't wait to cheer them on in their next chapters.
But don't let the tears start flowing just yet! We caught up with a few of them to hear their thoughts on their time at the studio and what they're looking forward to next….
Lindsay
My name is Lindsay Rouse, and I am a senior at Canyon High School. I have been on the Aristocat varsity dance team there for three years, and have taken classes at Dance by Design for seven years. I will be attending Penn State University in the fall semester with a major in Criminology and a minor in Accounting. I'm grateful for all the support I have received over the years. Especially from Ms. Kat as both a dancer and a person, and for the friends like Sammie who have been there throughout the journey. Dance has brought me connections that will last a lifetime!
Kenadi
I am so excited to announce that I will be continuing my education and dance career with the Texas A&M Dance Science Program! Last Fall I auditioned and by the goodness of God I was accepted! Thank you to all of my mentors, teachers, and studio who have supported me all along the way! Gig ‘em Ags!
Ari
My name is Arianna Ortiz and I am a dancer at DBD studios ! I have been dancing at DBD for 6 years and am now a senior. I have also been on the DBD Hip Hop crew performance team for 5 years now.
I had always wanted to dance and join a studio and decided to try DBD. My first class was Hip-Hop and after the first class I fell in love with dance and Hip Hop too!
My second year I decided to enroll in Hip-Hop class again and even got invited to join Hip-Hop crew performance team! Fast-forward to my 5th year, I decided to try a new style of dance and I chose Jazz. Jazz was so new for me coming from hip hop but it was such a good challenge for me and made me an even better, stronger, and more technical dancer.
Throughout my years of dancing I have grown more confident in my dancing with the help of amazing teachers and fellow dancers! I have also always enjoyed and looked forward to the big end of year recital at the Tobin Center and dancing on that huge stage with amazing costumes.
My plans after graduation is to attend Texas Tech and major in kinesiology to become a doctor in physical therapy. Dancing will definitely always be a part of me and am so excited to perform my senior solo/last dance at the end of season recital!
Dancing with DBD and being on the Hip-Hop crew performance team has grew me into the dancer I am today and has given me so many opportunities such as dancing at a hockey game, competing in a competition, dancing on a cruise ship , performing at a spurs basketball game, performing at Tobin Center and many other amazing performances!
Here's to Lindsay, Kenadi, Ari, Sammie, and Kat! Last time, best time! 🎉
Wednesday, April 24th
Team DbD: Audition Tips & Tricks
SHINE BRIGHT!
Dance by Design Studios' performance team auditions are just around the corner, and we know how those butterflies can take flight. But fear not, dancers! Here's your ultimate guide to acing those auditions and landing a spot on your desired team(s)!
First Impressions Matter:
The moment you step through the door, your audition begins! Here's how to make a strong entrance:
Dress the Part: Show the judges you're serious. Wear clean, comfortable dance attire that reflects our DbD style (check the website for guidelines/inspo).
Confidence is Key: Stand tall, keep your chin up, and avoid looking down at the floor. Project a positive, "I can do this!" attitude.
Smile! Even if nerves are running high, a genuine smile is contagious and showcases your passion. :)
Rock the Audition:
Once the music starts, it's time to shine!
Keep Dancing: No matter what! Even if you make a mistake, recover quickly and keep performing with energy.
Show Your Skills: Execute the choreography cleanly and precisely. Let your technical skills and stage presence take center stage.
Don't Be Afraid to Ask: If you're unsure about anything before or during the audition, politely ask the instructors for clarification.
These tips, plus the most important one – HAVE FUN! – will equip you to shine at our Performance Team Auditions. We can't wait to see you there! ✨
Haven’t registered yet? No problem! There’s still time to join us on 4/27 for ages 4-Adult. Sign Up Here: https://www.dancebydesignstudios.com/designed-to-dance-company
~Team DbD
Wednesday, April 17th
Charlcy N.: A Dance Mom’s Journey: From Studio to Stage, and Beyond
Being a dance mom to my daughter, Graceyn, and my son, Harrison, my role extends far beyond the typical "soccer mom" stereotype. I am a dance mom, my kids' biggest cheerleader, a shoulder to lean on, and on top of it all, I am even a 1st Grade Teacher and a Travel Agent by trade. Through my experience with travel and dance, I've come to appreciate the beauty of travel for dancers of all ages.
At Dance by Design Studios, the dancer's journey begins long before the first step is taken on stage. As a performance team mom, my days are filled with costume fittings, rehearsal schedules, and endless encouragement. I've witnessed firsthand the dedication and passion that Graceyn, Harrison and their fellow dancers pour into their craft. From perfecting every pirouette and "break the stick" hip hop move to mastering complex choreography, their commitment is inspiring.
But it's not just about the hours spent in the studio. Travel plays a significant role in enriching their dance experience. As a travel agent, there are lots of opportunities that Dance by Design Studios provides for our dancers beyond the familiar confines of our hometown. Whether it's dabbling in competitions or attending workshops with renowned choreographers, each journey opens new doors of opportunity!
Traveling with dancers is a unique adventure. From packing the perfect bun pins to ensuring we have enough safety pins for last-minute costume fixes, there's never a dull moment. But amidst the chaos, there's a sense of camaraderie that binds us together. We become a family, supporting each other through every high kick and jazz hand.
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a performance team mom and travel agent is seeing the world through the eyes of our young dancers. For many of them, these trips are their first taste of independence and exploration. They soak in new cultures, try exotic foods, and make friends from across the globe. These experiences not only shape them as dancers but also as individuals with a broader perspective on the world.
As we travel from city to city, from competition, to cruise ship and all they way over to Dolly Wood, I'm reminded of the universal language of dance. It knows no borders, no boundaries. It transcends language and cultural barriers, uniting us in a shared passion. Whether we're performing on a stage in our hometown or in a bustling city thousands of miles away, the joy of dance connects us all.
But perhaps the greatest beauty of travel for dancers lies in the memories we create along the way. From the late-night pizza parties in hotel rooms , or never ending ice cream cones on the cruise ship, to the adrenaline rush of stepping onto a stage, these moments become etched in our hearts forever. They are the stories we'll recount for years to come, the bonds that will last a lifetime.
So to all the dance moms out there, juggling schedules and sequins with grace and determination, remember this: our role extends far beyond the studio walls. We are the architects of dreams, the champions of passion, and the guardians of memories. And through it all, we have the privilege of witnessing our children spread their wings and soar, both on stage and in the world beyond!
~Charlcy
Wednesday, April 10th
Ellis & Mabbitt siblings: Why we love dancing together!
As we celebrate National Sibling Day, we at DbD Studios are beyond excited to shine a spotlight on something truly special: the incredible bond shared by dancing siblings in our Studio.
To mark this occasion, we've reached out to some of our dancing siblings to share their thoughts and experiences on what it's like to share the DbD dance floor with a brother or sister. Their words not only reflect their passion for dance but also the unique connection they share as siblings. Check it out!
Chloe E.
“I love dancing with Ryder because he always finds a new dance move to start practicing. He found his love when he joined the studio where we used to dance and he decided to do hip hop. It looked fun, so I decided to do hip hop as well. He eventually started dancing at DBD for an all-boys class. After he started dancing at DBD I fell in love with the DBD family. I got invited to Hip Hop Crew and he was on Hip Hop Crew Jr. We did our first performance together and decided that I wanted to dance with him as much as possible to create that unbreakable bond siblings have. Having a duet with him meant that we would have to work harder with each other to have the same energy level. He is so energetic when he dances, I can’t keep up with him. Even though we have our differences, he is my little brother and I love him. “
Ryder E.
“A big reason I started dancing was because of Chloe. I always had fun watching her. Now we have fun together and I really like interacting with my sister when we perform. Being on the Hip Hop Crew together makes us both better dancers and we have learned so much from each other.”
Reagan M.
“I like dancing with Morgan because it is fun when we are both on stage. When we practice I always look at her because she knows all the dance moves, even mine, and will help me if I need it. I like having my sister with me because we always have fun and laugh together. My favorite memory is when we danced on a cruise ship.”
Morgan M
“I like dancing with Reagan because it lets us spend more time together. I was 6 and she was 2 when we joined the studio and we have been dancing together ever since. This year we are both in Hip Hop Crew and we have a duet which gives us more opportunities to dance together. I like that I can help her when she needs it and that we always have fun together.
Happy National Sibling Day from all of us at DbD Studios! Keep shining, keep dancing, and keep inspiring us with your remarkable talent and unwavering bond!
Wednesday, April 3rd
Ms. Bailee: Why performance teams?
My DbD journey has been the most magical and heartwarming adventure I have ever been on.
I joined the studio when I was a freshman in high school and that was the second year the studio was open. Ms.Carolyn and the other staff believed in me as a dancer even when I did not believe in myself and that was so important for me as a growing high school girl. For someone to encourage me and bring joy in my life changed my perspective on my future.
Since I graduated high school in 2020 I did not have the typical college experience and I started college online so I could work at the studio and it was the best decision I have ever made. DBD and Mrs.Carolyn have helped me grow into the young woman I am today. I have learned so many valuable lessons and I keep continuing to grow.
When I was a student Ms.Carolyn started the first D2D Performance Team and Hip-Hop Crew. I had the privilege of being one of the very first members on these teams. Some of my most fond memories as a student are the opportunities and times I had with my friends. I won’t ever forget the first time I performed at the Spurs Game and my family came to watch me.
Now, as the D2D Hip-Hop Crew Director my goal is to build confident dancers and make memories that last a lifetime.This year for crews is going to be the best one yet as we expand the three different styles and give our dancers more opportunities to serve our community. Performing at Christmas Festival and being the closing act for all our recital shows are just some of the highlights dancers will experience this year. You won’t regret trying out for our teams this year! See you April 27th!
-Ms. Bailee
Wednesday, March 27th
Sam T.: My Story of Hip Hop Crew Member
My name is Sam Telfer and I am a dancer at Dance by Design Studios! I have been dancing since I was 8 years old and I have been doing Hip Hop ever since I joined Dance by Design 4 years ago. It is definitely one of my favorite styles of dance.
My first class, Boyz Hip Hop, introduced me to dance. I had no clue what I was getting into but when I finished my first class,I fell in love with dance. Moving into leveled classes after that challenged me to become a better and stronger dancer.My first time performing on the Tobin stage was scary but so much fun. I enjoyed being on the big stage!
Going into my second year at Dance by Design I was invited to join the Hip Hop Crew Performance Team. This same year we did our first Fly Dance Competition and placed 1st in our category. I eventually joined more classes after that and they all were such different experiences but they pushed me to have better technique.
In 2023, I auditioned for Christmas Traditions where I got the lead role of Joseph. "Mary and Joseph" was a Waltz duet that I performed with Kenadi. It challenged me and I made many fun memories. As part of the Hip Hop Crew, I was able to perform as a Toy Soldier. That was also a very fun dance to learn and the whole thing was such a great experience.
I am also a part of the STAAR program at DbD, where l am an assistant-helping both the dancers and the teachers during classes and events. I have learned how to become a better leader from this experience.
Overall, my favorite thing about Dance by Design is the Family Environment!
~Sam T.
Wednesday, March 20th
Sara M.: My Story of Being a BACKSTAGE MOM
Being a mom during spring ballet time is so much fun. This is my second year taking part in the Spring Ballet as a mom. My daughter almost didn’t audition this year, and while we would have still done the team performance I have to say I was going to be a little sad. We attended the makeup auditions and she literally asked me everyday if I knew what role she was getting. I had to tell her several times they would send it out when the decision had been made. Watching her face when I showed her what role she had been given was priceless. She had idolized the role the year before, so as a mom I was so excited for her.
I was nervous (don’t ever tell her that) because her role involved a dance with very precise ballet moves. Every Saturday after rehearsal I would ask her how it went and of course just got “fine”. Rehearsals, by the way, were great because they were a quick 30 minutes and we were on with our day.
I have started to get better at doing makeup and buns over my years at DbD, but my let’s just say they aren’t my specialty. I fretted over the bun because it had to be a high bun. It’s so great as well to have support from fellow dance moms and the teachers to know you’ve got this (and to help with mascara when your daughter is tired of you before the second show).
I had the opportunity to work backstage for the dress rehearsals and one of the shows. I love seeing all the excitement and just how smoothly the shows run. When I say well put together, I mean it. I even got to watch my daughter dance from the wings which was so very special. Watching all the dancers in between numbers and how pumped they are before and after their dances is also something wonderful. They are all encouraging each other and helping each other with costume changes and as a mom it just makes you proud even if it’s not your kiddo.
While the day is a very long day and I’m basically a true couch potato the next day, I’m so thankful my daughter decided to participate in this year’s Spring Ballet because I truly love watching all the magic happen over the very few weeks from auditions to the performance.
~Sara
Wednesday, March 13th
Ms. Quinn: My Story of the Spring Ballet
At Dance by Design Studios, Ms. Carolyn instills in us the importance of dreaming big, guiding us to translate those dreams into achievable goals with timelines and actionable steps. Inspired by my love for live music and storytelling in ballet, my journey as Ballet Director at DbD began with a vision.
Collaborating with Ms. Kat, we shared our passion for classical ballets by infusing technique classes with short stories, applying ballet movements to iconic characters such as princesses, fairies, dolls, and swans. The culmination of our efforts came to life in the Spring of 2021 with 'Aurora Ballerina,' a production that intertwined these characters through a captivating storyline.
Expressing gratitude for the chance to create reimagined choreography, I revisited the roles that left an indelible mark on my early dance journey. From my first taste of grace as an Angel in 'The Nutcracker' to the challenge and growth experienced as Flower in the same ballet, and the endurance and stability honed through Lilac Fairy's variation from 'Sleeping Beauty,' each role has played a pivotal role in my artistic development.
Now, with 'Aurora Ballerina,' the Designed to Dance Company has the opportunity to embrace and share these roles with our community. It's a celebration of classical ballet, a testament to perseverance, and a journey that transcends the stage, leaving a lasting impact on our dancers and audience alike.
~Ms. Quinn
Wednesday, March 6th
Sydney L.: Why I need to see you in the theater seats!
My name is Sydney Leonard and I am a dancer at Dance by Design Studios. I have been dancing since I was 2 years old, which happened to be the year Dance by Design opened. I have been doing ballet all 10 years. It is definitely my favorite style of dance.
My first class, Twos in Tutus, introduced me to my love of ballet. That year I was featured with my friend, Sage, in the newspaper as we chassed across the floor. The following year I got to dance with my dad on stage for Dance 101. We still talk about how much fun we had. Once I moved into combo classes, I always wanted to make sure I had at least one ballet class. These classes strengthened my love of ballet. Moving into Level classes challenged me to become a better and stronger dancer. We started barre work in those classes, which was harder than what I had done before. Last year I began to take Progressing Ballet Technique. PBT has helped improve my technique and strengthened my body to help me with ballet. I’m looking forward to beginning pre-pointe next year and to eventually go en pointe.
I look forward to Spring Ballet every year. I have been in it every year. I loved every dance I’ve performed in Spring Ballet but I’m really looking forward to my dances this year. I will be performing in the Garland Waltz, Flowers, and as the Princess of the Lake. I really enjoy Spring Ballet because it gives me another opportunity to perform a ballet on stage. I also have a lot of fun getting to do the show with my friends. I am always sad when we’re finally done but excited for the next year. This year I will be performing my first solo as the Princess of the Lake. I auditioned in the fall along with seven other girls for six solo spots. I was excited to try out and even more excited when I was chosen for my part. There are parts of the dance, like some of the jumps and turns, that are challenging but I have really liked getting to learn new things. I have really liked performing for others at the studio and can’wait to perform at the Jackson Auditorium. I hope everyone really enjoys the Fourth Annual Spring Ballet!
~Syd
Wednesday, February 28th
Ms. Carolyn: Why Performance Teams?
Seeing the world, performing on a stage that only a few feet have been on, making memories that last a lifetime, and experiencing something that less than .5% of this world gets to enjoy.
Some of my favorite memories are dancing on a moving cruise ship (and seeing so much of the world from Alaska to Antarctica) and yes…I “danced” some of my shows just standing in place because the waves were so big. Dancing on every Fox Theater stage around the country and seeing the autographs of legends backstage…priceless. And having that special moment of looking out at the audience and the bright lights and hearing the claps and cheers…the one thing that doesn’t change from venue to stage to ship.
I love offering our dancers the opportunity to challenge themselves in multiple dance techniques while learning different dances to perform around the community and country (this year we’re heading to Dollywood!). I could go on and on about the science and research about how this is so good for your brain and your body BUT I love that it’s FUN! Plus you get the bonus of creating those team bonds and friendships that last a lifetime. I still talk with my friends from my high school dance days and performance days!
And dance families get the special bonus of watching their child, mom, dad, brother, or sister dancing on stages in new places that open the door for new experiences. Our performance teams have danced at Universal in Orlando, Sea World in San Antonio, at the Spurs game, on a cruise ship in the middle of the Gulf, and so much more. Our dancers and their families have created memories and bonds that nothing can touch.
We want this opportunity to be open to ALL of our dancers. We’re so excited to be adding NEW performance teams this year, for ages 5-adult in multiple styles including musical theater, ballet, and hip hop.
Does your dancer want to dance even more…perform even more…create those amazing friendships and memories? Are YOU ready for that?
Check out our new Performance Team info for our Hip Hop Crews, Ballet Corps, and Musical Theater Ensembles on our website. And join us in person or on Zoom for our informational meeting on SATURDAY!
~Ms. Carolyn