About Richmond Dance Collective

Honoring a Legacy. Beginning a New Chapter.

For thirteen years, Arabesque Etc. Dance has been so much more than a dance studio. It has been a place where lifelong friendships were formed, confidence was built, traditions were celebrated, and generations of dancers discovered their love of dance.

As we became aware that Martina was ready to take a step back, we knew our community was facing the loss of something truly special.

Like so many families, we couldn't imagine Richmond without a dance studio that had meant so much to so many.

So, with equal parts excitement, humility, and more than a little nervousness, we decided to begin a new chapter.

Welcome to Richmond Dance Collective.

Before we tell our story, we first want to recognize someone who made all of this possible. A Heartfelt Thank You to Martina Price

Thank you, Martina Price.

For years, Martina poured her heart into Arabesque Etc Dance., creating a studio that became a second home for hundreds of dancers and families. Her passion, creativity, patience, and dedication built traditions that have become cherished memories for so many in our community.

When we first began discussing the possibility of continuing dance in Richmond, Martina welcomed us with kindness, encouragement, and incredible generosity. She has shared not only her knowledge and experience, but also her unwavering support as we've learned what it takes to own and operate a dance studio.

We are deeply grateful for the trust she has placed in us, and we are honored to continue building upon the foundation she created.

Why We Said Yes

We're Amanda and Erin—two dance moms who never expected to become dance studio owners.

Amanda's daughter, Ava, will be entering her freshman year at Mount Mansfield Union High School and has been dancing at AED since she was just 2½ years old.

Erin's daughters, Annie (entering 8th grade) and Addie (entering 6th grade) have also called AED home since their Tiny Tots days.

Like many families, dance has become part of our lives. We've spent countless afternoons at the studio, weekends at rehearsals, and hours behind the scenes running the back of the house operations for the Nutcracker and Spring Shows.

When we learned the studio was approaching a closing chapter, we simply weren't ready to see our daughters—or our community—lose a place that had given so much to so many families.

We'll be the first to admit that neither of us is a professional dancer—and that's okay.

What we do bring is the perspective of long-time dance parents and years of experience watching our daughters grow through this studio. We understand what makes a dance studio feel like a second home, what families value, and what it takes to create a positive experience for every dancer.

Outside the studio, we've each built careers centered around leadership, business, problem-solving, and serving others. Together, we bring a blend of entrepreneurial experience, organizational skills, and a genuine passion for our community.

Most importantly, we recognize that exceptional dance education begins with exceptional instructors. That's why we're incredibly grateful for our talented teaching staff and their willingness to continue this journey with us. Their knowledge, creativity, and dedication are the heart of our dance program.

With their expertise, Martina's continued guidance, and the support of our amazing dance families, we felt confident taking a leap of faith to help continue something so meaningful to our community.

Honoring the Traditions

One of the things we admire most about Arabesque Etc. Dance is the incredible traditions that have been built over the years.

Many dancers spend years working toward special Nutcracker roles as they grow through the program, and those milestones become treasured goals and unforgettable memories.

While Richmond Dance Collective marks the beginning of a new chapter, we are equally committed to honoring many of the traditions that have meant so much to generations of dancers and families.

Our hope is that today's Tiny Tots will one day look forward to those same magical moments years from now.

It Takes a Village

This transition simply would not have been possible without an incredible community standing behind us.

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing returning teachers:

Allee • Anna • Cait • Kate • Rose

Your belief in our vision, your willingness to continue with us, and your dedication to your students means more than we can express.

We're also thrilled to welcome several new instructors to the Richmond Dance Collective family. We can't wait to introduce them to you soon!

We would also like to thank the many parents who have already stepped forward to volunteer their time, talents, and encouragement. From helping behind the scenes to offering advice and support, you've reminded us what an amazing community we're fortunate to be part of.

Martina Isn't Going Too Far!

Thankfully, Martina isn't saying goodbye just yet.

We're incredibly grateful that Martina will continue to be part of the Richmond Dance Collective family this season, serving as both an advisor and one of our Advanced Ballet instructors. Her continued guidance, passion, and expertise will not only support us as new studio owners, but will also inspire and challenge our older dancers each week.

Even more exciting, Martina will serve as our Creative Director for both the Nutcracker and our Spring Show!

Her creativity has helped make these performances so memorable over the years, and we're honored to continue working alongside her as we bring this season's productions to life.

Looking Ahead

As we begin our inaugural season, we know there will be plenty to learn along the way.

We're committed to creating a studio that honors the incredible legacy we've inherited while continuing to grow and evolve for future generations of dancers.

Thank you for your support, your encouragement, and your patience as we continue refining our website, learning the many behind-the-scenes aspects of studio ownership, and preparing for an exciting first season.

We truly couldn't do this without you.

We hope you're just as excited as we are to begin this next chapter together.

With gratitude,

Amanda MacDonnell & Erin Farr