Today we’d like to introduce you to Wendy Thacker.
Hi Wendy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2016, we enrolled our daughter Ruby in a dance class when she turned three. She completed the year and seemed to enjoy the experience. However, the gym hosting her class eventually closed. As a busy family, I was hesitant to travel to a nearby city to continue her classes, especially since she was very young and we were uncertain if she would pursue dance long-term. I reached out to her instructor to see if she might be interested in hosting occasional classes in a smaller space. While she was willing to teach, she mentioned that she was already working full-time and lived approximately 30 minutes away.
This ultimately led to the founding of Chapel Hill Dance Academy. Since 2017, we have leased multiple spaces around Chapel Hill, and for a time, some jokingly referred to us as the “best-kept secret.” It was amusing to many that numerous young girls in tutus would frequently visit the local bank in the evenings.
In January 2024, we were fortunate to open our own storefront location. Our studio has grown considerably, and we now serve over 100 registered recital students. We began with just one dance teacher and choreographer; today, we have expanded our staff to seven teachers and a dedicated studio manager, enabling us to offer a diverse range of classes. Our programs include drop-in classes, recital preparation, birthday parties, a church youth group, and more. A prominent feature of our studio is a 25-foot-long wall mural above the full-length mirrors, displaying the phrase, “Let us praise HIS name with dancing” (Psalm 149:3). This message reflects the core mission and community spirit of our studio.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
This has been a challenging journey. We have leased four different locations in Chapel Hill. As our dancers matured, our equipment needs grew, requiring us to ensure our barres, mirrors, and mats were all compact and easily stored each night to accommodate the next day’s activities. Over the past nine years, excluding summers and holidays, we have offered classes three to five nights a week. Although it has been a lengthy process, it has also been highly rewarding.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am particularly proud of my staff—they are full of joy, love children, and have a passion for dance and love Jesus. Our studio stands out by fostering an environment where every dancer feels loved, known, and heard. Our mission extends beyond teaching dance; we aim to provide a program that reflects the love of the arts, encourages creativity, and builds confidence.
How do you define success?
Success for our studio means creating a welcoming place where dancers feel confident, supported, and excited to learn. It’s not only about strong technique, but also about helping kids grow in kindness, discipline, and joy. When families feel connected, teachers feel valued, and our studio remains healthy and sustainable—allowing us to continue growing by adding new classes and genres—we know we’re truly successful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chapelhilldance.com
- Instagram: chapelhilldanceacademy
- Facebook: chdanceacademy
