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The Martinique School of Dance was originally founded in 1943 by
Mrs. Aline Martin, who was also responsible years later for the establishment of The Richmond Ballet. Her strong desire to
provide an enjoyable yet enriching dancing experience in the local community established a tradition that was carried on by
her daughter Mrs. Shannon Martin Howell.
The School was extremely proud of it's long record of excellence
in developing the total dancer through discipline, encouragement in scholastic achievement and instilling in each student
an appreciation of dance and a sense of pride in accomplishment.
Martinique offered Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Modern
and Hip Hop classes year round for ages three through adult. Periodic demonstrations throughout the year of the students progress
culminated each spring in a formal dance recital expertly produced and directed by the Martinique staff. Professional
costumes, music and scenery set the stage for an experience which will be remembered and appreciated for years to come by
student and viewer alike. Graduating students were given solo performances and many have gone on to pursue careers with major
dance companies, modeling agencies and even appearing in Broadway and other national regional theatrical productions.
The
broad range of activities offered at Martinique truly provided something for everyone, whether they intended to pursue a dance
career or just wanted to enjoy personal expression through dance. The closing of the Martinique School of Dance takes
with it a 67 year tradition of dance excellence in the Richmond community which will never be replicated.
Martinique has taken a new direction! Since Shannon Howell closed the doors in Richmond, she discovered
that her passion was in teaching students and not running a business. She is now currently offering an Enrichment Program
through the West Point Elementary School and is very excited about this new avenue in teaching and sharing what she loves
so much with the students.
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