By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The city of Helena has added a new dance and twirl academy and under the direction of studio owner Cassi Thedford, they are ready to serve those interested in learning about dance and everything that comes with it.

Thedford has been dancing since she was 7 years old and after that time she always knew she wanted to open a studio one day.

What’s interesting about Premier Dance and Twirl Academy is that one of Thedford’s former instructors, Melissa Rigdon, formerly owned the studio where Premier Dance is today and Thedford was able to purchase the space to make way for her own studio.

“I purchased the studio from my instructor when I was little and she was in this building probably six years, and then I taught for her for two years and then bought the studio this year,” said Thedford.

The previous studio was named Tap, Toe & Twirl dance studio and since Thedford and her staff took over, they have done some remodeling and renovations to further enhance Premier Dance and Twirl Academy.

Now Thedford and the rest of her staff are focused on providing the best dance instruction for those ages 2 through 19.

Premier Dance offers a Mommy and Me class for those ages 2-3 years old in addition to ballet and tap, pointe, clogging, baton, jazz and tap, hip hop, contemporary as well as private lessons available.

In addition to Thedford, the Premier Dance staff includes Amanda Kuntz, head of ballet program, Kayla McGough, head of hip hop department, Morgan Bullard, head of clogging department and younger ballet, and Amy Fisher, studio secretary and receptionist.

Thedford’s background also includes being a member of the majorette line at both Pelham High School and Troy University in addition to her many years of experience in dance.

Thedford is happy that she had the opportunity to open the studio in Helena and wants to continue to grow her studio.

“I just love Helena and I like how it’s a small town and I’ve had a lot of community support as well starting my business,” said Thedford.

Premier Dance and Twirl Academy is located at 101 Village Place in Helena.

For more information on Helena Premier Dance and Twirl Academy including classes and a schedule visit Premierdanceandtwirl.com or call 621-2170.