Denise Daly-Dwyer

I attribute my success to a combination of dedication, resilience, and a lifelong passion for dance. I began my journey as a child, training under Broadway choreographers and directors, which instilled in me a strong foundation and love for the art. After a 28-year break due to an injury and raising my family, I returned to the dance world in 2021, opening my own dance studio alongside my son and 4 daughters. Despite the challenges of reentering the industry, I have worked diligently to build a studio that has earned recognition and multiple awards within the dance community. One of my proudest professional achievements is creating a non-toxic, supportive environment for children to explore and develop their love of dance. I believe fostering a positive community is just as important as technical skill. I emphasize consistent training, participating in auditions, and taking classes at various levels to refine skills and gain exposure. To young dancers, I offer this advice: focus on preparation, practice resilience, and embrace every opportunity to learn. The discipline and perseverance required in dance mirror those needed in life—whether in auditions, interviews, or personal challenges—and cultivating these qualities will serve you well on and off the stage.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is simple—but it’s guided every step of my journey: lead with your heart. I was also taught to go on every audition, because even when you don’t book the job, it’s free practice, growth, and confidence you carry into the next opportunity. And finally, a lesson that took time to truly embrace: you will not be liked by everyone—and that’s okay. When you stay true to who you are and your purpose, other people’s opinions don’t get to define your path. Authenticity, consistency, and heart will always matter more. ✨

To young women entering the dance industry, I would encourage you to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. Attend as many classes as you can, at every level, to build your skills and broaden your experience—each training session contributes to your growth and helps establish your reputation in the industry.

I also recommend approaching auditions and competitions not just as tests, but as valuable learning experiences that provide exposure and help refine your craft. Always put your best foot forward, stay inspired, and remain committed to your goals. With dedication, persistence, and a willingness to continually learn, your dreams in dance are within reach.

One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating a culture that often prioritizes competition results and awards over true, foundational technique and long-term dancer development. It can be tempting to chase trophies—but that isn’t where real artistry or longevity comes from. At the same time, that challenge is also our greatest opportunity. By staying committed to proper technique, intentional training, and dancer well-being, my studio proves that excellence doesn’t require being the biggest—it requires being authentic. Our “little” studio consistently holds its own against much larger studios because we focus on quality over hype, growth over shortcuts, and building dancers who are strong, confident, and prepared for the future. That’s what truly sets us apart. 💛✨

Passion, family, and inspiration guide everything I do. Dance has been my lifelong love, and my greatest motivation comes from my five children and my husband of 26 years, whose support fuels my career and dreams. Opening my dance studio allows me to share my love of dance while inspiring my children and others to grow, create, and pursue their passions.