The People
I (Isabella) began Studio Laugh, Love, Leap almost 15 years ago in 2011, as a senior in high school. It has been a true labor of love that has grown with me over time. In the beginning, I offered 2 classes for students 4-7 and 8-12 years old, and I was quickly asked to teach a Teen class as well. Over the years we have continued to grow. Starting with 3 classes and 30 students, we’ve grown to 13 classes and 100+ students each semester, including a thriving Young Men’s Program, Adult Program, and Studio Company. We now put on 3 amazing stage performances per year!
We have a wonderful Studio Manager and Studio Administrator, and our Teaching Team now includes fantastic alumni, a wonderful breadth of experience, and four fantastic Teacher Assistants; it just keeps growing!
The Places
We began at the First United Church, a wonderful home for us for six years. In 2018, we made the move to The Village Chapel in Hillsboro Village. The Village Chapel graciously hosted not only our weekly classes but also our first seven Spring Showcases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we functioned completely online from Isabella’s parents’ bonus room (thanks, mom and dad!) and celebrated our full return to the studio in 2022. The next phase of our journey has led us to the Global Education Center Studios, where we’ll continue to grow!
The Plans
We‘re always growing, and that’s because of our fantastic students and families! Others join the Studio Laugh, Love, Leap Family when students reach out to their communities. I’m looking forward to many more years teaching and exploring with you all!
Studio Laugh, Love, Leap was created for girls and boys who simply love to dance. My 25+ years of dance training have led me to realize that everyone, no matter their age, gender, or previous experience, can dance. At Studio Laugh, Love, Leap, you are learning to dance for life. Students come to the studio ready to have a blast dancing, without feeling the pressure to be perfect. Instead, the teaching style enables them to rise higher than they could imagine. Dance is an outlet for them to exercise, gaining strength, flexibility, and friendships along the way. Developing creative expression and discipline are important tools for everyone. My classes bring me the most joy when my students are smiling and laughing. Studio Laugh, Love, Leap’s style is a mixture of classical ballet, contemporary ballet, modern, jazz, and musical theater, with a high emphasis on diversity in both music and movement.