Cathy Richard – OWNER

**Cathy Richard** is a dedicated community advocate and accomplished dance educator, bringing a wealth of experience and compassion to her work. As the founder of Granite State Dance Center, Cathy has devoted her life to nurturing the talents of young dancers while instilling values of confidence and empowerment. With a passion for dance that began at the age of two, she started teaching by the age of 14. After gaining experience in New Hampshire, she ventured to New York City and Boston, where she honed her skills as a soloist and studied under the renowned Gregory Hines.

 

Residing on her picturesque farm in Pembroke, New Hampshire, Cathy enjoys a fulfilling life surrounded by beloved animals, including goats, donkeys, chickens, and two dogs. This tranquil environment serves as a source of inspiration and reflection, allowing her to balance her professional endeavors with her passion for animal care and family.

 

Cathy is a proud wife and mother of two adult children and currently a doting grandmother of two grandsons. Family is central to her life, and she cherishes every moment spent together, creating lasting memories.

 

With a background as a former licensed veterinary technician, Cathy’s passion for helping others seamlessly transitions into her robust involvement in community service projects across New Hampshire. She works closely with local schools and is actively engaged in the NH D.E.A/EF Youth Dance Program, where she plays a critical role in introducing valuable life skills and support to children at risk. Committed to making a positive impact in her community, Cathy nurtures the next generation and fosters an environment of safety and respect.

 

Cathy Richard exemplifies the spirit of empowerment, championing the belief that every individual has their own unique talents and contributions to make. Her dedication to nurturing self-esteem and confidence in young women promises to make a profound impact in the community.

Amy Collins teaches the style of lyrical at GSDC. Amy has been dancing since she was three years old and trained at GSDC in a variety of styles for over 17 years! Amy’s goal is to provide all of her students with a positive dance environment where they are able to develop and expand their skills. Along with being a dance teacher, Amy received her degree in elementary education and special education from SNHU in 2018 and is currently an elementary school teacher. Teaching at GSDC allows her to combine her love of teaching with her passion for dance!

Danielle is the director of our GSDC Ballet Company. She specializes in ballet and pointe technique and has been part of our teaching staff for over five years. Danielle graduated from Southern New Hampshire University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2016. She combines her love of dance and degree in teaching to provide students of all ages with exceptional ballet training. In addition to ballet, Danielle has studied many genres including modern, jazz, tap, and lyrical. Danielle is excited to share her knowledge and passion of dance with her students in the upcoming year.

Sladjana Grgic

Sladjana has been dancing for 13 years! Over the years she has danced different styles such as ballet, tap, and jazz. Sladjana is the Assistant Company Director for the Granite State Dance Center Ballet Company. As a ballet company alumni Sladjana has dance in several lead roles such as Hot Chocolate, the Enchantress, and Cinderella! She is currently studying at Southern New Hampshire University for Business Administration. Sladjana is so excited to be part of the Granite State Dance Center, and continue her love for dance!

Dya is a hip-hop dancer of 16 years. She started performing on the streets of downtown Boston at just 8 years old before forming a dance crew, then a girl group and traveling the country from New York to LA polishing her skills. She found a love for theatrical dance, ensembles, and flash mobs in high school and helped choreograph and block school performances, talent shows, and showcases. Dya loves to share her passion for dance and hopes to help others find their creativity and freedom though rhythm and groove!

Sedjad Masic

Born and raised in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sedjad found love in dance throughout his early 20’s. Taught in Slovenia, he learned International and American style, specializing in over 10 ballroom dance techniques. Sedjad had great success earlier in his career with attending European competitions and securing medals with his students, occurring in Italy, Croatia and Austria. Sedjad has continued to share his passion for dance and looks forward to sharing his knowledge with you!