‘The Passion for Teaching Dance Always Wins’

No matter what, Gayle Micca's love of dance sustains her. She shares what gives her the most pride, as the owner of Valley Ballet in Canton.

Business Name: Valley Ballet

Contact Info: 860-693-6042; valleyballet@juno.com

Business Owner: Gayle Micca

Website: www.valleyballet.org

Address: 140 Albany Turnpike, Canton

How did you come up with the name?

The studio is located in the 'valley' and offers dance training in all styles, with ballet as a foundation.

The original studio was at 51 Bridge St., Collinsville.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?

After a wonderful 25 years in Collinsville, it was time to move to a larger studio and to expand our dance classes to include fitness classes as well.

Briefly, what business are you in?

Dance and Fitness

What's the most difficult moment or challenge you've faced as a business owner?

Going from being a sole proprietor to sharing studio space, then back to being sole proprietor.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?

Money would be the only issue. For 35 years, my income has been up and down, down, down.

At times I have questioned my decision, but the passion for teaching dance always wins.

What's been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?

My proudest moments are when students go on to be dance professionals or be dance majors in college. The letters I receive from former students thanking me for the positive influence I have had on their lives.

What's the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?

New ways of marketing our performances as art — an evening at the ballet. Thank you, Candace Freedenberg.

How do you deal with difficult customers?

Thoughtfully and honestly after a deep cleansing breath.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?

We open the studio to sponsor charitable events, specifically zumbathons for breast cancer, pulmonary hypertension, colon cancer and more. We are active in the Canton Chamber of Commerce and have performed at Sam Collins Day, Christmas in Collinsville and at the Canton schools.

This article is part of Patch's series highlighting local businesses in our community. Learn more about the series, and if you're a small business owner, fill out the form to be included, by checking out this link.