May 20, 2022

An established dance studio will be growing in size this summer, and it’s looking to be a big change for both students and instructors.

BritZa Performing Arts Studio, which has been operating in Sioux Falls for 36 years, had a groundbreaking for its new studio May 18.

The new space at 1500 E. 77th St. will have the capacity to hold both a retail shop for students to purchase items and four studios to teach not just dance but other forms of performance art as well. The plan is to open for classes early next year.

“This building will allow our dance course offerings and performance opportunities to expand,” said Amanda Hahn, owner and lead instructor. “We will focus on techniques and the creative process, allowing the students to be creative artists.”

BritZa will now offer classes in dancing, acting and singing. Hahn said she wanted to ensure that all forms of art are recognized in the studio.

“I’ve noticed there is such a focus on being the performer that the other trades get lost,” Hahn said. “We want to create a space for the development of the script writer, the costume designer, the set designer, the choreographer, the lighting designer, the director, the actor, the singer and the dancer.”

The retail space will serve as a centralized location for BritZa students to buy items to be prepared for class.

“We plan to have everything students will need for class all in one place, including dance shoes, attire and accessories. There will also be snacks and drinks available for families coming straight from school or other activities. And, of course, we’ll have a variety of BritZa-branded items,” Hahn said.

The groundbreaking Wednesday was busy, Hahn said, with students and supporters attending the event to celebrate the new space.

“Moving dirt finally puts the project in motion. The event was so well attended that it overwhelmed the parking lot of our neighboring business,” Hahn said. “Each (speaker) spoke of how the performing arts play such an important role in developing poise, character and confidence of everyone involved.”

To start off the new classes, BritZa will be bringing on additional staff members who are trained in vocal and acting performance.

“Our first staffing addition is Janette Obermueller, who joined our team as the director of theater. She began professionally in the arts at the age of 13 and is one of the most talented and versatile actresses I’ve ever met,” Hahn said. “She has been cast as a Disney princess, a vocalist for Walt Disney Entertainment and in various TV shows and national commercials as a SAG and Equity actress.”  

Hahn said she sees the new BritZa space as a place for students to feel supported and to foster their creative talents.

“It will also be a place for students of all ages to come and create,” Hahn said. “I’m excited to see what the students create in this space and to see collaborations come together.”