We recently had the chance to connect with Danielle Forgione and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Danielle, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
The thing that is bringing us joy lately outside of work is beach trips with friends
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
We’re Melissa & Danielle – two passionate dance moms turned studio owners – and the proud founders of Raise The Barre Studio of Dance in Bel Air, MD. We opened our doors during the challenges of Covid, when our kids had nowhere to dance, and what started as a way to keep them moving has grown into a thriving, family-centered dance community.
Now entering our 6th year, we are proud to offer something for every age and skill level in a warm, welcoming environment where dancers can grow not only in technique, but also in confidence, creativity, and friendships.
Our programs include year round classes with a recital at the end of the year, seasonal mini sessions (a fun, low-committment way for new dancers to try a class and see if it’s the right fit, and a competitive dance team for dancers who want to take their training and performance to the next level.
At Raise The Barre, our mission is simple: to inspire a love for dance in a positive, family-friendly atmosphere where every dancer feels supported and celebrated.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that really shaped how we see the world was when our family, friends and colleagues came together to help us open our dance studio during Covid. It was such and uncertain time, yet the love and support from parents, kids, and our community was overwhelming. We saw firsthand how people rally around a cause that matters – and for us, that was giving dancers a safe place to move, connect, and feel joy when so much else had been taken away. Watching the difference it made in their lives reminded us that when people come together, they can create something truly beautiful and lasting
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught us the true value of community in a way success never could. Opening a dance studio during Covid was filled with uncertainty and fear, but it showed us how powerful it is when people come together with a shared purpose. Our family, friends, and dance families stood beside us, not just as supporters but as partners in creating something meaningful. That experience taught us resilience, gratitude, and the importance of human connection – lessons no amount of smooth sailing could ever match.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Absolutely. What you see is what you get with us. Whether we’re in the studio, at a competition, or chatting with parents in the lobby, we’re the same people you’d find at home with our own families. Our passion for dance, our love for the kids and our belief in building a positive, supportive community aren’t just part of our ‘public image’ – they’re who we are at our core. We couldn’t fake it if we tried!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
We hope people say that we created more than just a dance studio – we built a home. That we welcomed every dancer like family, encouraged them to believe in themselves, and gave them a place where they felt safe, supported, and celebrated. We hope they remember that we poured our hearts into making a difference in the lives of kids and families, and that our legacy is one of love, community, and the joy of dance.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://raisethebarredanceharford.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisethebarre_studioofdance/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RTBstudioofdance
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@raisethebarre-studioofdanc4343
