About Richmond Dance Collective

A New Chapter for Dance in Richmond

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

When we learned that Martina was ready to retire, 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.

With equal parts excitement, humility, and more than a little nervousness, we decided to take a leap of faith.

Richmond Dance Collective is the result of that leap—a new studio built on a shared love of dance, a commitment to exceptional instruction, and the belief that dance has the power to bring people together and strengthen our community.

The years of dedication that Martina Price and Arabesque Etc. Dance gave to the Richmond community inspired us to create Richmond Dance Collective, and for that we will always be grateful. As we look to the future, we're excited to create new traditions, new memories, and new opportunities for generations of dancers to come.

Why We Started Richmond Dance Collective

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

Like so many families, dance has become part of our lives. We've spent countless days at the studio, weekends at rehearsals, and many hours behind the scenes helping productions come to life. Along the way, we've seen firsthand the confidence, discipline, friendships, and joy that dance brings to children of every age.

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, a deep appreciation for what makes a dance studio feel like a second home, and careers built around leadership, business, organization, and serving others.

Together, we're committed to creating an environment where dancers are challenged, encouraged, celebrated, and inspired to become the very best version of themselves—both inside and outside the studio.

Honoring the Traditions

One of the things we value most about dance is the traditions that bring generations of dancers and families together.

For many dancers, performances like the Nutcracker and Spring Show become more than just recitals—they become milestones. Students spend years working toward special roles, celebrating personal achievements, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

As Richmond Dance Collective begins a new chapter for dance in Richmond, we are committed to preserving the traditions that have meant so much to our community while creating new ones that future generations of dancers will cherish.

Our hope is that today's Tiny Tots will one day look back on their own dance journeys with pride, celebrating the friendships they've built, the milestones they've reached, and the traditions they've helped shape. We hope they'll dream big, work hard, and one day inspire the next generation of dancers to do the same.

It Takes a Village

Richmond Dance Collective is built on more than dance—it's built on community.

From the very beginning, we've been surrounded by an incredible group of teachers, families, volunteers, and friends who have believed in our vision and encouraged us every step of the way.

A heartfelt thank you to our amazing teaching staff returning to teach at RDC:

Allee • Anna • Cait • Kate • Rose

Your passion for dance, dedication to your students, and excitement for this new chapter mean more to us than words can express. Thank you for believing in Richmond Dance Collective and for helping create a place where every dancer can move, grow, and belong.

We're also thrilled to welcome several new instructors to the RDC family and can't wait to introduce them to you soon!

To the many parents and community members who have already offered their time, talents, ideas, and encouragement—thank you. Whether you've volunteered behind the scenes, shared advice, helped spread the word, or simply cheered us on, you've reminded us just how special this community truly is.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Martina Price for the years she dedicated to the Richmond dance community through Arabesque Etc. Dance. Her passion, creativity, and commitment inspired generations of dancers and families, and ultimately inspired us to take this leap of faith.

Together—with the foundation built by those who came before us and the support of the incredible community beside us—we're honored to begin this next chapter with all of you.

Looking Ahead

As we begin our inaugural season, we know this is just the beginning of Richmond Dance Collective's story.

Our commitment is simple: to provide exceptional dance education while fostering a welcoming community where every dancer can reach their full potential. As Richmond Dance Collective grows, our focus will always remain the same—our dancers, our families, and our community.

Thank you for believing in our vision and for the incredible support you've shown since Richmond Dance Collective was announced. Your encouragement has meant more to us than words can express.

We are honored to be part of this amazing community and look forward to creating new memories, celebrating new milestones, and building traditions that inspire generations of dancers to come.

With gratitude,

Amanda MacDonnell & Erin Farr