Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Redinger.
Karen, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I was born in Hollywood, Florida, where my love of dance began at the early age of four. I studied Ballet, Pointe, Tap, and Jazz with Dolores Werner in Atlanta, Georgia, where I competed in Showstoppers, Star Systems, and Dance Masters of America. I also excelled in gymnastics and received many accolades as a competitive gymnast in the Atlanta, GA region.
After graduating from high school in 1991, I moved to Florida to work for the Walt Disney Company as a seasonal employee. I was immediately hooked and this seasonal employment quickly became a 14-year career. Some of my performing credits include Magic Kingdom castle shows and parades, Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Festival of the Lion King show, and Tarzan Rocks, where I performed as an aerialist (my absolute favorite thing I did at WDW). I also sang and danced in Universal studios “Beetlejuice’s Graveyard Review,” Disney’s “Mickey’s Starland show,” danced in Universal Studio’s very first Macy’s Christmas Parade and performed for guests at Busch Gardens. I believe my love of performing has lead me to educating and instructing dance in a positive, creative, and passionate environment at Clermont Academy of Dance. In 2015 I was given the opportunity to purchase the Academy from the previous owner and have loved being the face of CAD ever since. My staff shares in my passion and mission to provide dancers of all ages an encouraging environment where they can grow and excel in their dance journey.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I don’t think I would describe the road as “smooth”! Dance instruction can be a revolving door business. Children can decide on a whim they would like to do something different or try a different sport. Going through a pandemic has also been a struggle this year, as we need kids in the building to thrive. This year has shown me how resilient children are, and how they can adapt to any challenge.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
We specialize in educating and training dancers that are “hireable” in all areas of the arts. We are known for our family atmosphere and for supporting individuals as they grow artistically and develop into well-rounded individuals.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
I believe I was in the right place and right time to take over the dance studio. I’ve danced and performed my whole life and that has shaped me into the person I am today. I believe you get out what you put into things and what you send out comes back. I try to stay humble and positive through life and that shines through my business.
Pricing:
- $60-up/month
Contact Info:
- Email: misskaren@clermontdance.com
- Website: www.clermontdance.com
- Instagram: @clermontacademyofdance_
- Facebook: facebook.com/clermontdance
Image Credits
Bob Buchanan (8 count images)
