Creating a Family at Ohana: A Dance Studio for All Ages and Abilities
Chicopee, Mass. - Developing a dance studio that feels like a family was a priority for Ashley Kohl when she started Ohana School of Performing Arts in Chicopee. It’s one reason that she chose the name Ohana, which means family, to represent what her studio means.
“To have a dance studio that really celebrates everyone for who they are and gives everyone a chance to dance is really what I want to do,” she said. “There’s a place for everyone.”
While many studios focus on competition, Ohana Studio prioritizes recreational dance for all ages and abilities. It stems from Kohl’s own experience auditioning as a professional dancer, when she realized she was much happier bringing the joy of dance to others.
“I just want to celebrate dance and have fun,” she said.
Ohana’s philosophy also comes from the other family behind Kohl. Her mother was a ballerina and dance instructor for decades, so Kohl inherited the family business making it a positive place for people to connect.
Fundamentals of Ohana
Although she grew up in her mother’s dance studio, Kohl never envisioned following that same path. Instead, she pursued professional dance and then a television news career. Through the TV program Kohl interviewed members of a dance studio for all abilities, inspiring her to pursue a dream of creating a place for everyone to experience the joy of dance.
She opened Ohana School of Performing Arts in 2016 knowing more about dance than being an entrepreneur. Kohl was able to rely on Stand Out Truck® owner and Marketing and Cupcakes™ thought leader Mychal Connolly for advice. He taught her basics of business years before he turned that advice into his own enterprise.
“He’s always been a cheerleader for others who want to be an entrepreneur,” she said.
Several years later when Connolly founded StandOut Truck®, Kohl was excited to be among the early users and thrilled to see her studio name on the truck.
“It’s such a brilliant concept,” she said. “I loved seeing the logo on there. I love that I can pick the communities where it can be seen.”
Adults perform at a Thunderbirds game
She’s focused on creating a place for people to experience dance, regardless of age or ability. While there are other dance studios that Kohl says do great work in the competitive space, Kohl has created a low-pressure, recreational environment.
Kohl partners with other programs in the community to celebrate dance beyond youth. Sunshine Village, Holyoke Transitions and the South Hadley Council on Aging bring dance and exercise to adults of different ages.
“I really want to be a place for people to come without the pressure of competition,” she said.
Celebrating All Ages and Abilities
The building has three separate dance studios and is ADA compliant, which she notes is important to ensure everyone feels welcome. She incorporated a teen lounge for students to build relationships together. With a focus on mental health in young adults, Kohl feels the need to have a positive space for kids to connect.
“It’s so much more than dance,” Kohl said. She wants her studio to be a community -focused environment, linking people from all backgrounds and abilities.
The teen space at Ohana
“I feel very proud and passionate about providing a space for people to be together, doing something really positive that’s good for your body and good for your soul,” Kohl said. “I just want more people to find that place for themselves that celebrates them and brings people together for positive change.”
Beyond year-round classes for youth, she established a dance program for adults, which provides a supportive environment and a way to make friends and connect outside of their children’s dance classes.
“It’s a message that you’re never too old to dance,” she said.
Join the Ohana Dance Family
Are you interested in experiencing the joy of dance in a non-competitive, recreational environment? Do you want to be a part of a community that celebrates inclusivity and promotes positive change? If so, don't hesitate to reach out to Ohana School of Performing Arts! Fill out their contact form today and they’ll help you find your place in their dance family.
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