How DSOD came to be...
My late husband, Ron Henderson, and I had a vision of providing an educational dance environment where children could learn and express themselves. In 1974, we opened the doors to Diane's School of Dance and for 31 years, I taught every single class. Today, Diane's School of Dance is still going strong with nearly 1000 students, making us one of the most successful schools in the country. And there’s a reason for that! We make each child feel included and important, and as a result, DSOD has become an icon of the Northland and a leader of dance education in Kansas City. I now assume more of a director’s role, and with the help of 20 faculty members and over 70 dance assistants, we offer tap, classical ballet, jazz, acrobatics, hip hop, pointe, lyrical and contemporary. At DSOD, we believe dance training should also include life training that promotes poise, self-confidence and discipline. With that philosophy in mind, we provide a positive and inclusive environment where students are personally known and loved by their teachers and are able to learn elements of dance while also focusing on having fun!
However, while I've always emphasized and concentrated on the pure enjoyment of dancing, DSOD has also produced some serious alumni over the many decades, including professional cheerleaders in the NFL, NBA and MLS; Walt Disney World dancers; cruise ship entertainers; Broadway performers and Radio City Rockettes.
We keep up to date in our instructional curriculum by attending dance conventions and conferences. We also present annual Christmas programs and dance recitals where EVERYONE gets a chance to perform on the front row. Our priority at DSOD is to make sure all our students know they're important members of our dance family by providing a learning environment where every personality can shine. Thank you for being part of DSOD.
"I don't expect you to be the best. I don't expect you not to be the best. I just expect you to do your best." ~Diane Henderson
