Grand Island Dance holds grand opening celebration

Grand Island Dispatch, August 31, 2007

Government officials helped the owners of Grand Island Dance cut the ceremonial ribbon during the studio’s recent grand opening. From left are Grand Island Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel, Debbie Kumm, Emily Bolles, Laura Bucholtz, (dance teacher) in front of her, Elaina Bolles and Rosie Boyko (students), Rachel Novelli (owner/operator), Gianna Novelli, Grand Island Town Supervisor Peter McMahon, Kathy Abbondanza (co-owner), Grand Island Councilmen Gary Roesch and Richard Crawford, and Grand Island Chamber Director Jim Sharpe.

Rachel Novelli, owner and instructor of Grand Island Dance, has announced the grand opening of the new studio, now located at 3432 Wallace Drive, Grand Island, just down the street from the Beach House restaurant.

Registrations are now being accepted for instruction in tap, ballet, pointe, jazz and hip hop from beginner to advanced levels. Special classes will be held for pre-schoolers, ages 3 to 4 ½ years old. The studio will be also starting an adult dance class.

Grand Island Dance will begin its fourth season and is an annex of the Lewiston Dance Center, located at 781 Cayuga St. in the Village of Lewiston, which is celebrating its 15-year anniversary. Novelli said she feels fortunate to bring her dance experience to the Grand Island studio and feels very welcomed by the community. Recently, GI Dance participated in the Island Happening/Kidz Biz, and students danced at the Martin’s Fantasy Island Dance Showcase, held on Memorial Day weekend.

“We try to involve the students in the community events. Every year we hold a food drive during the holidays with the proceeds going to the Neighbor’s Foundation of Grand Island,” said Novelli. “We are very proud of our dancers who are always willing to share their time and talent with others.”

The Grand Island studio dancers will next perform once again for the Niagara Falls Fireman’s Fund Telethon in December.

Grand Island Dance believes dance classes should be designed to develop grace, poise, rhythm and strength and most importantly, self-confidence. Students will learn in a relaxed environment and be encouraged to broaden their dance experiences through technique and performance.

Classes will begin the second week in September. For more information, please call Novelli at 773-1075.