Dancer’s Image opened in the fall of 1986, where Beth Lacienski-Drugan was a student at the time. She continued training and teaching at D.I., and then went on to teach locally at 5 other studios. Over the course of seven seasons, she also worked as a performer, supervisor, dance captain, and professional choreographer at Riverside (the former Six Flags NE). In the summer of 2001, she took over ownership at Dancer's Image when the owner retired. Beth is certified to teach by test through Dance Masters of America. She is also an Acrobatic Arts certified adjudicator, and has judged dance competitions for over 15 years for numerous national organizations.
What type of classes do you offer?
We offer a wide variety of classes for ages two-adult. We have combination classes, tot classes, musical theatre, Irish step, Adult classes, as well as the more mainstream class offerings in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Acro, Contemporary and modern. We are always changing up our class offerings to suit the needs of our students.
What does DI do for the community ?
D.I. dancers are very involved in community life. We have raised money for various local charities over the years including donations made to the Kiwanis auction, and the local soup kitchen. We encourage our dancers to be involved in their schools and community.
What makes D.I. stand apart from other dance studios in the area?
Dancer’s Image has been a second home for me for over 30 years. My goal is to continue to train high quality dancers in a professional yet comfortable space. I want my students and their families to feel as though they are in a place they can grow into their own best version of themselves. Everyone that comes into the studio is treated like family. It has been a saying for a long time “Once a D.I. always a D.I.” which is so true. I am fortunate now to be teaching the children of some of my former students. This is the type of family friendly atmosphere we strive to create. Westfield and the surrounding communities has some outstanding dance studios. I am lucky to be able to call most of the owners my friends. All of the studios offer something a little different in teaching and atmosphere. The beautiful thing about this is that there is a right place for everyone. I always encourage people to find the right fit for YOUR family. Walk into the space, meet the staff, take a class. Getting a feel for a studio first hand is the only way to really know if you are in the right place for you.
Tell us about your competition team?
The Competition team is an amazing group of young dancers age 5-19. We have such an incredible bond that is based on teamwork. We work very hard to ensure all of our dancers and parents see the value in team over individual accolades, and the dancers are incredibly supportive of one another. Our team dancers do not live their lives in the studio. Team dancers are not required to take all styles to be considered for a team. This allows dancers to customize their own training as they see fit with the advise of the teaching staff. This system also allows for our dancers to be involved in outside activities such as sports. We also have an elite track in our competitive program that is a little more time. The elite dancers are those that do wish to spend more time in the studio. There is not one particular award or accolade that I would say I am most proud of. I am incredibly proud of my dancers as a whole. We have done very well over the years. We have won nationals in both 2018 and 2019. We were awarded Top Studio, Top Choreography numerous times. We have been awarded Most Entertaining, as well inducted into ADCC Studio of Excellence by two different competitions.
" We have been open under the new guidance and protocols since June 8th. Our new session system allows for dancers to join at anytime, with no long term commitments. They can change classes for the different sessions or stay in the one they are in. They can take a break at busy times of the year. It is a completely customizable experience. I am always available by email or my personal cell phone to any parent at any time. I am happy to help you find the right fit for your dancer. " - Beth