By Lisa McPeek

When Teresa Crye opened what was then the Dublin Dance Centre in 1984, she based her school’s curriculum on teaching dance in a non-competitive environment (an approach she learned from her dance mentor, Barbara Garret).

Now, 25 years later, Crye’s philosophy has become a prominent and popular school of dance in the community. Now called Dublin Dance Centre & Gymnastics, the school has approximately 1,000 current students, provides 1,700 hours of instruction per week and offers classes to students older than 2½ years.

“There’s something for all ages and all experience levels,” says Marketing Outreach Director Nicole Flesch, who adds the ballet, modern dance, tap and placement gymnastic programs continue to grow.

From day one DDC&G has been a family affair. Crye opened the studio with financial backing from her husband, and three of her sisters and her daughter have worked there. Two are still employees, and Crye counts her family’s support as one of the center’s biggest strengths.

“That kind of backing is invaluable. They propel you when you’re down and are very committed to our success,” she says.

In the 25 years since DDC&G’s opening, Crye has built relationships with her students that span several generations. Students she once taught ballet to in the mid-1980s, for example, now bring their children in for dance lessons.

Although Crye attributes 25 years of success to many factors, a standout is her genuine love for teaching. She gushes about her students and the programs, and says the secret to DDC&G’s longevity is the people who surround her, including her many devoted instructors.

Running a small business is not for the faint of heart, Crye says, but when she witnesses her students overcoming challenges, the ups and downs are worth it.

“I have a very gratifying job. A lot of our success is due to persistence,” she says. “People aren’t stupid and they aren’t fooled. We either have to be authentic or they’re out of here.”

In addition to running a busy business, Crye and company also give back to the Dublin community. Through the Miracle Dancer program, the center raises money for various charities. It also runs an ongoing after-school program at the South Side Settlement House, which provides free dance instruction to school-age children in an inner city environment.

A quarter century in business is no small achievement, and Crye plans to celebrate all year. The center is having a cookout in September and an alumni dance event, and will add performances to its regular show schedule.

As the business continues to evolve in the next 25 years, Crye says she would someday like to pass it on to someone who is as inspired and willing to work as she is.

“Each year, all we’re trying to do is benefit our students more and more,” she says. “I hope we will continue to push ourselves. We have a huge commitment to move forward.”

For more information, visit www.dublindance.com.

Lisa McPeek is a contributing writer for Dublin Life.