Dancers rejoice, because there’s a new studio in town — and it may be just right for you.
Vanessa Lyn is the owner of Newmarket’s Studio XIV, a brand-new dance studio that aims to provide adults with the same diverse classes widely available to younger dancers. Unlike most dance studios in the area, Studio XIV exclusively caters to those 18 and over — a demographic, Lyn knows, that’s often overlooked in the dance community.
“As an adult, there’s some unwritten rule that when you turn 18, you cut out extracurriculars. If you want exercise, then you have to join a gym,” said Lyn. “But it doesn’t have to be that way. At Studio XIV, you can still do exactly what you loved as a kid.”
Like many adults, Lyn knows the disappointment and frustration that can come with aging out of mainstream programs and classes. A serious dancer since the age of three, she was shocked to discover the lack of dance opportunities offered to adults when returning to the pastime following a three-year school hiatus.
“I grew up dancing, I loved every style — ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary — the whole shebang,” said Lyn. “I didn’t feel like myself, not being able to dance. But I couldn’t find anything for me.”
Stumbling across Army of Sass Newmarket’s Instagram account changed everything for Lyn. The 18+ dance program’s high heels-based routines and inclusivity to all ages, genders, and sizes was something she had never seen before.
Lyn took her first class with Army of Sass Newmarket in 2017, and a year later had progressed to teaching the program herself. With Studio XIV, she’s proudly come full circle as Army of Sass’s newest licensee.
“Since I was a child, I’ve always said that I wanted to have a dance studio someday,” said Lyn. “It’s been something I’ve been dreaming about since before I can remember. It’s amazing that it’s finally happened.”
In addition to providing a new home for Army of Sass Newmarket, Studio XIV will be offering contemporary, hip hop, ballet, and jazz classes, as well as a general dance fitness class. Specialty workshops featuring jazz funk, Broadway, musical theatre, and more will also be available.
To celebrate Studio XIV’s grand opening, Lyn will be hosting a two-day celebratory event throughout the Sept. 19 to 20 weekend. Those interested in joining Studio XIV are encouraged to try out its $10 dance workshops and half-price mini classes, which will feature all forms of dance that the studio offers. Blowout giveaways and confidence-boosting boudoir photoshoots will also be held.
With Studio XIV’s opening on the horizon, Lyn has taken steps to ensure the safety of her clients and staff. She’s invested in extra mirrors to increase floor space, and hopes to renovate the vacant upper floor into second studio. To promote social distancing, she’ll also be capping class sizes and implementing a six-foot square distance between dancers.
To help offset the costs of the renovations and to help Studio XIV get on its feet, Lyn has started a GoFundMe campaign.
Though there’s rarely been a more difficult time to open a small business, Lyn says she has big hopes for the future.
“My goal for Studio XIV is that no matter what time of day it is, you can walk inside and feel like you’re home. It’s not just a place to work out. It’s a place for adults to let loose, catch up with each other, find a friend, and find a community.”