{image1} Giraud Studio of the Arts is saying goodbye to Hales Corners and reopening at 2732 S. 163rd St. in New Berlin, a community which has supplied many of Giraud's talented dancers, says 24-year-old Kinsy Mitchell, a member of the family-owned business.
Kathy Giraud and her family are anxious to move into the new studio, which opens Nov. 1, but promise to carry on the traditions they've created for their customers over the past four years.
"Because we are a small business, we are very close with all our students, making it feel like a family," Mitchell says.
The new space will feature separate art, music and theatre rooms, a larger dance space, and a small dance store, says Mitchell. Theater, art and guitar lessons will also be available.
Talented dancers, from 3-years-old and up, are always welcome. "We are a performance-based studio where everyone gets to perform, not just a select few," she says.
The studio participates in events like Summerfest, Greendale Village Days, Fourth of July parades and the Zoo Spooktacular. Dancers also compete each year in Wisconsin and Illinois dance competitions.
"Our dance style is called fusion, the best combination of all dance styles with theatrics mixed in, giving it the fun pop feel that you see in today's music videos," Mitchell says. Music for routines comes from everyone from Britney Spears and Hilary Duff to Korn and Linkin Park.
"We feel there should be more to dance than just tap, jazz and ballet, and so do our dancers," she adds.
Beyond the enthusiasm for music and dancing, the family has a passion for giving its customers everything it can. "We have small classes so that our students get the attention they need to reach their goals and build their confidence and self-esteem," says Mitchell.
There will be an open house to celebrate the new studio Friday, Oct. 29 from 2 to 7 p.m. with live dance performances from 5 to 7 p.m. Regular business hours are Monday through Thursday, 5-8 p.m.
