My daughter took ballet & tap dance lessons when she was a toddler up until 1st grade. The classes gave her confidence to be on stage in front of people. Plus she had a great time making new friends in the class & following the teacher’s instructions. Two moms, Jennifer Thompson-Bosco & Sylvia Kelman started their own dance studio in Burbank back in 2005. When I heard their story, I thought it would be amazing to share.
Please meet the latest Real Moms of the SFV, Jennifer Thompson-Bosco & Sylvia Kelman!
(Image source: RC Dance Center)
How/why did you begin your business?
Jennifer & Sylvia: RC Dance Center was established in 2005 by Jennifer Thompson-Bosco, Sylvia Kelman, Anna Smith and Gabrielle Edinburgh-Wald. We were not happy with the quality of options for performing arts in our area at the time and decided to create our own just as moms. We created a dance show on our own and produced Cinderella with 100 local area children. The show wound up being very successful and parents encouraged us and asked when we would open our own studio.
Together they created The Red Chair School of Performing Arts and the non-profit production organization The Red Chair Children’s Production Company. As mothers, artists and business woman they were dedicated to creating a place where children could receive quality technical training in a safe and family friendly environment. In 2013, The Red Chair School became RC Dance Center. Jennifer and Sylvia carry on the dream in the new 3,000 SF state of the art facility. Investing in program development, teacher education, students and community programs they have worked with over 1,000 students and continue to pass along the life-long gift of performing arts.
As a working mother, what is one tip or piece of advice that you would give to other female entrepreneurs?
Jennifer & Sylvia: Focus on your goals and the passion that started your journey, when times get hard remember your passion and you will feel rewarded.
What do you like best about having a business in the San Fernando Valley?
Jennifer & Sylvia: We live and work in a very family oriented community and we also enjoy the support we get from our fellow local small business owners.
If there was one thing you wish you knew before you began your business, what would that be?
Jennifer & Sylvia: You are not just investing in the student and teaching them a new skill you are investing in a family and teaching the student life lessons. Once we figured that simple equation out it has been so much easier to understand and appreciate our customers.
I love Jennifer & Sylvia’s tip about remaining focused on your goals & passion when times get hard in building your business. It’s so true that sometimes when you are working on your 100 item “to do” list, that you miss the forest for the trees. When things get hard, take time to step back & remember why you got into the business in the first place.
I am glad to hear their enthusiasm for living & working in Burbank, which is part of the San Fernando Valley. Burbank does such a good job of supporting their local small biz owners.
Want to learn more about RC Dance Center? Check out their website & don’t forget to follow them on Twitter for the latest updates!
Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The image shown in this post is used with permission. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.
These ladies and neighbors are amazing and have each been raising 3 lovely children each!
Not only have Jennifer & Sylvia impacted their children’s lives, but countless others through their work at RC Dance School of Burbank! Thanks for checking out my blog Patricia!