Our Story
Southside Dance Center was established by Lori Gelezinsky in 1997 on the “Southside” of Columbus County, North Carolina. Her husband, Barry built the original one room dance floor himself and together, they launched a multi room dance center with the goal of impacting southern Columbus County and it’s surrounding communities. What started out as a dream come true for Lori has emerged over the years as a well established and reputable school of dance that has been “home” to and trained future dance teachers, studio owners, college dance team members, and countless tiny dancers who just love to perform.
In 2026, Southside Dance Center started a new journey. Jaclyn Ray, a Southside employee of 9 years and studio manager for 4, took the reins as the new owner and director of the studio! Jaclyn is determined to continue the legacy that Lori has built and keep SDC as a fun and exciting space for dancers to express themselves, challenge their abilities, and grow as both dancers and individuals focussing on teamwork and relationship building!
SDC offers classes for every student, at every level and every age. From recreational classes for those who are just starting their dance training to the experienced competitive student - our goal is to help each dancer progress and reach their individual potential. We realize that pursuing dance as a profession is not every student’s goal. The lessons Southside students learn through dance, however, are monumental - whatever they pursue in life.
“My goal for SDC is to instill in our students with passion, dedication, TEAMWORK and fun. We strongly encourage a “team” atmosphere in all our classes at Southside and we foster and promote “dance sister” friendship bonds that last a lifetime.” says director, Jaclyn Ray.
“In another 25 years, it is my hope that SOUTHSIDE DANCE CENTER will still be a place where new friendships are formed, hardships are overcome, laughter is shared, encouragement is given, and memories are made that last a lifetime.”
In 2026, Southside Dance Center started a new journey. Jaclyn Ray, a Southside employee of 9 years and studio manager for 4, took the reins as the new owner and director of the studio! Jaclyn is determined to continue the legacy that Lori has built and keep SDC as a fun and exciting space for dancers to express themselves, challenge their abilities, and grow as both dancers and individuals focussing on teamwork and relationship building!
SDC offers classes for every student, at every level and every age. From recreational classes for those who are just starting their dance training to the experienced competitive student - our goal is to help each dancer progress and reach their individual potential. We realize that pursuing dance as a profession is not every student’s goal. The lessons Southside students learn through dance, however, are monumental - whatever they pursue in life.
“My goal for SDC is to instill in our students with passion, dedication, TEAMWORK and fun. We strongly encourage a “team” atmosphere in all our classes at Southside and we foster and promote “dance sister” friendship bonds that last a lifetime.” says director, Jaclyn Ray.
“In another 25 years, it is my hope that SOUTHSIDE DANCE CENTER will still be a place where new friendships are formed, hardships are overcome, laughter is shared, encouragement is given, and memories are made that last a lifetime.”
Mission Statement
At Southside…
We aim to cultivate young dancers into well rounded individuals who reach for high achievement in all areas of life.
We strive to instill life skills such as teamwork, dependability, and dedication to go along with a diverse training in all genres of dance.
Our goal is to inspire our students to be better dancers and people - both inside and outside of the studio.
We aim to cultivate young dancers into well rounded individuals who reach for high achievement in all areas of life.
We strive to instill life skills such as teamwork, dependability, and dedication to go along with a diverse training in all genres of dance.
Our goal is to inspire our students to be better dancers and people - both inside and outside of the studio.
|
|