About the Director

Here's how it all started...When I was nine years old, I saw a flyer for the Bill Riley Talent Search hanging in the local pharmacy window. They needed local talent to perform. And even though I had never taken a music or dance lesson before, I knew they were looking for me. It should be noted that this was the era of Flashdance, side ponies, and neon! I choreographed my own dance routine to the song, "Holding Out For A Hero," coached my brother when to stop the music for the perfect ending pose, and costumed myself with my big sister's silver leggings, oversized striped top, and a wide belt. The talent show was part of the entertainment for the Adams County Fair. The stage was made of two flatbed trailers parked side-by-side on the racetrack of the Adams County Speedway behind a chain link fence. Judges selected three winners, with first place advancing to the Iowa State Fair. After all the participants performed, we were invited back to line up on the stage. The emcee announced the third place winner, and my heart started racing. He didn't say my name, and I thought to myself, "Oh wow, the judges must have thought I was really good!" The emcee announced second place. My knees trembled with excitement. Again, it wasn't me. And that's when I knew it. I knew that I won first place. I was going to perform at the Iowa State Fair. I stood tall with pride! I remember looking at my mom just sure of what the emcee was about to say. And then he said it: "The first place winner is... (insert the dance teacher's daughter's name here)." The next morning, I begged Mom and Dad for dance lessons. As a child, I performed every summer in local talent shows. A few times I did advance to perform on the Riley Stage at the Iowa State Fair, but I never won big prizes. I just loved dancing! So here I am, sharing my love of dance with the next generation. To The Spotlight alumni, current students, and loyal fans: THANK YOU! Thank you for being a part of a little girl's dream!