Eight years ago, Melinda Jurasek’s daughter attended Illusion Dance Studio at 11 Division Road in Great Falls. When the owners decided to relocate, Melinda purchased the studio and turned it into a competition studio. Her daughter Payton, now 18, assists with coaching, choreography, and the technical aspects of the business.
Melinda has always had a passion for coaching and dance. “I coached cheerleading, and I coached a dance team right after I graduated from high school,” explained Melinda, “I’ve always loved the art of dance and the storytelling behind it.”
Illusion Dance Company currently has 16 members ranging from ages 4 through 18. Once the students reach 18 years of age, they no longer compete but they do sometimes coach. “It’s harder to get boys interested in dance,” explained Melinda. “So it’s really fun that we have four now and hoping to get more.”
The company participates in three to four competitions each season from March through May, traveling as far as Seaside, Oregon. They also engage with the community, performing in events like the 4th of July parade and Voyagers games.
Illusion Dance Company teaches all styles of dance including ballet, hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, and light acro-style dance which combines acrobatics with dance. “We are a very tight-knit dance company,” explained Melinda. “They’re like my own children. The parents are amazing. We’re like a little family, which I love.”
At this time competition teams practice on Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 5 pm to 8 pm. When the competition season kicks off, they will be in the studio more often. Families are invited to join in or observe for one or two practices to see if they are interested in joining. Then if they want to join, they fill out the form and are part of the team.
“I have great dancers and parents,” explained Melinda. “They make it all worth it to me to have this studio and be affordable for them. I pride myself on trying to keep it as affordable as possible for my families. Some things I can’t control like the costumes and the competition fees, but I try to keep my tuition as affordable as possible. They can also take private lessons.”
If you would like more information on becoming part of the Illusion Dance Company Team, visit them at 11 Division Rd. #7, call (406) 590-7620 and let them know you found them in The Great Falls Gazette.
Author: Karen Anderson
Karen is the Editor-in-Chief overseeing all news operations at Foxys Publishing Co. She also loves photography and spending time with her dogs.
