Alexandria leaders honored a local dance studio and its founder over the weekend as the arts institution celebrates 50 years in business this year.
The Chris Collins Dance Studio at 5408 Eisenhower Avenue has taught thousands of kids and adults various dance genres including tap, jazz, ballet and hip-hop since its founding in 1975.
At Saturday’s City Council meeting, Vice Mayor Sarah Bagley presented Collins with a city proclamation and called him “an extraordinary teacher, mentor, entrepreneur, and community leader.” She also said Collins and his staff have “made the studio a beloved and enduring part of Alexandria’s cultural fabric.”
Collins started tap dancing at the age of five and teaching at 13, according to his website. At City Hall on Saturday, he said he was overwhelmed by the support.
“Fifty years is a long time, and we’ve come a long way,” Collins said. “I’m still at it, thanks to a fabulous staff and our family of students to be part of the city of Alexandria, and we’re going to continue into the future. Thank you so much for this.”
Image via Chris Collins Dance Studio/Facebook.
