K&M Studio’s Spotlight

Local businesses around Norwood have been able to make a name for themselves, and K&M Dance Studio is one of them. They are starting their 23rd season after founders Kelli Daley and Melissa Flaherty continued sharing their love for dance with younger generations. 

Owners Daley and Flaherty have been dancing together for decades, since growing up at the same studio. Since starting their own business, they have been able to bring in known dancers from the industry to teach their elite teams and other helpful lessons to constantly keep building their dream environment. 

Throughout the week, the faculty provides classes to kids starting at age 2 and continuing until age 18. Children can choose from Ballet, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Acro, and Musical Theater.  The studio focuses on two main groups of dancers, their troupe program, and the intensive group. 

“No matter which path you choose, we are committed to creating a fun and safe atmosphere with quality dance training!” said instructor Erin Caster. 

The troupe program is a recreational-based schedule where kids who are also interested in other activities can spend an hour or two. These classes have lower commitment levels and the ability to customize what kids might want to do. 

The Intensive category contains invitational competitive teams that have had many successes over the past years. This program is created for kids who see a future in dance and prioritize their time in the studio. 

The girls on these teams fully embody the slogan “Dedication, Desire, Dance” due to the challenging but rewarding schedule and their constant passion for dance being shared in this space. 

One highlighted moment from their past year was the update to their space. Last August, the local studio went through some interior changes, which modernized the space and gave students a new, improved feel when walking back through the doors. Along with this renovation, the season ended with a huge third overall placement for the top two teams. This followed multiple technical recognitions and many more awards.

Intensive A member, Elle Jonic, said, “ I am proudest of our performance at nationals this summer… we were able to come in third place against bigger studios with different varieties of dance training.”

Girls from this group are still remembering the moments from July and looking forward to working with the same ethic to come home with similar accomplishments this year. 

“Although we are beyond proud of the numerous accolades we have received on both the regional and national level over the years, what brings us the most pride is seeing how successful each of our alumni is in their endeavors,” said Flaherty. 

They have seen previous dancers become doctors, business owners, and more. They have become aware of the value that is found in lessons other than awards. They have shown how they have created a space to teach kids more than just dance moves, but “life skills that will follow them well beyond the classroom,” said Caster.  

Daley and Flaherty reflected their progress and shared, “Growing up, we were so lucky to have dance to build our confidence, be our safe space, and release our emotions in a safe and positive way.  We believed that all kids deserved a space where this was possible… a place to leave your outside stress and anxiety at the door, and have a sanctuary that made you feel safe and secure.  Creating K&M Studio became that reality, and we have upheld that for over 23 years.”