by Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Ruta Drulia
Dance Studio Owner, Mother of Five and Community Enthusiast Shares on Her Passion for 3rd Street Dance Studio
ST. CHARLES–Growing up in St. Charles, Alice fell in love with dance. Rather than just simply teaching dance steps; her teacher demonstrated passion and infused the joy of dancing in each of her students. Alice in turn, grew to love performing and enjoyed seeing the audience's smiles at the end of each show.
Those exhilarating moments influenced her own journey to becoming a dance teacher, prompting the opening of 3rd Street Dance & Theatre Academy, whose mission is to inspire students to believe in themselves, spread joy, and build lifelong friendships. We teach them to become great dancers and amazing kids, without relying on winning trophies.
Her first performance company was started in 1996 with the intention of giving back to the community. The dancers perform at local festivals, nursing homes, and other community events. The tweens and teens have been asked to perform in the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival for the last ten years; it's been an incredible opportunity for them to dance in a nationally televised production.
Loyal, patient, and dedicated, Alice continues to spend quality time with her five children, ensuring to keep family as the utmost priority in her daily schedule. Additionally, she is committed to the community, in the past assuming roles such as chairing the Delnor Ball and Emerald Evening at St. Patrick's Catholic School and volunteering at the Kane County State's Attorney's Office on the Deferred Prosecution Program Panel from 2001 through 2023 when it was discontinued. Feeling very fortunate to be close to Chicago, she loves supporting the local arts by attending shows at the Paramount Theater in Aurora and Broadway shows in Chicago.
How have your life experiences influenced your artistic style?
Growing up in a large family, I learned from my parents that nothing is more important than family. My studio has a poster on the wall highlighting our core values, with "FAMILY FIRST" at the very top. Dance teaches us so much, and we foster a strong sense of teamwork in our classes, but family always comes first. For example, when a student's grandparents come to town, we understand and fully support them taking time off to be with their loved ones. At 3rd Street Dance we believe kids should be kids as long as possible.
What dance style do you personally love the most and why?
Ballet, Modern, and Musical Theater dance are my favorite styles of dance. Ballet dancers are so elegant, strong, and fun to watch. Modern dance is so different from ballet but equally as fun to watch and perform. I grew up doing musical theater and love seeing the sheer joy on the performer's faces when they are on stage. That feeling of joy is what made me want to be a professional dancer.
Which famous dancer, living or deceased, do you wish would visit 3rd Street Dance Studio and what inspires you about this dancer?
I would love to meet Martha Graham and have her talk to the students at 3rd Street Dance. She was a trailblazer who created her own dance technique, which is still studied today. I would also love to meet Gene Kelly. I have always loved watching the movies he starred in. The sheer joy in his movements inspires me every time I watch him dance.
What is your personal favorite class or performance by 3rd Street Dance Studio?
I love watching our recital at the end of the year because all of the dancers shine so brightly on stage. It's amazing to see their growth from the first day of class to our spring recital. It's fun to watch them backstage as they watch the other dancers onstage and have fun with their friends in class. As they grow, they probably won't remember the steps they learned but I absolutely want them to remember how dance made them feel. I hope some of the lessons we have taught them will help them as they grow into whatever their dreams have imagined.
What are your personal business goals for the next 5 years?
Over the next five years, I would like to grow my business by providing more young children and teens with opportunities to learn dance, make new friends, and spread joy throughout the community.
What are the top five things on your bucket list still?
I would love to travel more and go on an Alaskan Cruise and a European River Cruise.
What is your personal favorite television show, book, or movie about dance?
I really love Hallmark movies because everyone is happy, and they never end badly. Oddly enough, I also love TV shows about crime, including Law & Order, SVU, NCIS, and Criminal Minds.
What words of encouragement can you share to inspire other women who are considering opening a business?
Absolutely, go for it. I love the studio business that I have created. I love helping and having an impact on the dancers who walk through our doors. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Search out an organization that you can learn from, find a mentor, and constantly learn. Every day is another chance to learn something new to better yourself and your business. Remember to take time for your family and for yourself.
