Daily Inspiration: Meet Marilyn Chappell

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marilyn Chappell.

Hi Marilyn, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
HSSOD began in 1998 as a way to bring dance to our community in a noncompetitive environment. Marilyn Chappell, a former WCPSS Dance Specialist, was committed to offering a new way of growing a talented group of dancers through support, love, and encouragement.

What started as a one-room studio has grown into an entire building with 6 studios in 2018 that serve hundreds of children (and adults!) in meaningful ways. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing to share our love of dance through treasured traditions and new opportunities.

We are so grateful for the outstanding support from our dance family!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think the biggest obstacle in the early years, was trusting my vision. I was passionate about creating a non-competitive environment where children felt safe, seen, and celebrated. I wanted dancers to be committed to community service by sharing their gifts. When you are creating a studio that has a unique perspective, you really have to believe in your message and stand by it.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
HSSOD offers a unique learning environment where we focus on the whole child. We offer a rigorous schedule of classes for kids who want to pursue dance as a profession. Additionally, we have great opportunities in place for kids who are more recreational in nature. We offer a non-profit dance company through Springs Dance Company, as well as Springs Ballet Company, and Springs Tap Ensemble.

All of these are audition-based programs for advanced students. We also offer HSD4ME, which is a company that is open to any student in our program who wants to improve their performance skills.

We also provide dance enrichment programs such as our dance camp established in Costa Rica, performances in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, performances at Pearl Harbor in Hawaii, and an opportunity to dance at Disney World every other summer. We are proud to offer wonderful opportunities for dancers at all levels of training.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I have an incredible team that works with me to make so many opportunities happen for our dance family. Our teachers and staff feel more like family. Many have been with us since the beginning which provides a climate of support and understanding of what HSSOD means.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.hollyspringsdance.com
• Instagram: @marlynchappellhssod
• Facebook: Holly Springs School Of Dance

Image Credits
Nieto Photography and Skylar C Photography