DanceFX Incorporated

Although non-profit organization DanceFX Incorporated has expanded to multiple different locations across the Southern United States, the beloved dance studio has held onto its roots in Athens, where it has created a safe space for young dancers.

Established in 2000 at 396 Foundry St., the dance studio quickly became a popular spot for local dancers. From the organization’s countless youth and adult classes to their rigorous FX 1, 2 and 3 programs, the company provides multiple performing outlets for artists to express themselves through movement.

For DanceFX Executive Director Allison Smith, providing a positive outlet and safe space for developing teenagers makes the job all the more enjoyable.

“I hope (they) think of it as a safe space. There gets to be some weirdness when kids transition from being carefree kids into being teens, and it's really cool to be on (that) side of it and get to be that person that they can talk to when they're trying to close off a little bit from their parents,” Smith said. “Being able to witness that part of their life with them is really cool, but also (having) a place where they can mess up and try new things and go crazy a little bit is really fun for us and hopefully helpful to them.”

For four-year dancer and Clarke Central High School freshman Kate Ness, the feeling of community at DanceFX almost resembles that of a family.

“I think it's (definitely) my favorite place. It's a safe place for me and I know (it is for) a lot of my friends, too,” Ness said. “I (also) love the staff. I feel like if I ever need to talk to them, I could. They're really nice and they push you to be the best dancer you can be.”