Business Q&A: Judy A. Hermans School of Dance

Name of Business:

Address: 1000 Boston Tpke.

Owner: Judy (Hermans) Tenore

Years in business: Tenore opened this dance studio at another location on Route 9 in Shrewsbury with her mother, Beverly Hermans, in 1984. The studio was moved to its current location six years ago. Her mother retired in June.

Business Mentor: Tenore said she used to go to dance conventions when she was younger and learned from many teachers through classes and workshops over the years, including Gus Giordano, Art Stone, and Frank Hatchett.

Business Motto: "To have a fun, safe and positive learning environment for dancers of all ages and levels."

Reside: Tenore grew up in Shrewsbury, attending Shrewsbury public schools, and moved to Auburn 19 years ago.

Family: She is married and has a 19-year-old daughter, Marissa, who is one of the dance teachers at the studio, and a 16-year-old son, Andrew.

Like best about owning/running this business: "Seeing the joy and excitement in the faces of the dancers, young and old," Tenore said, adding that she also enjoys seeing the faces of parents as they watch their children as well as having former students come back to the studio, even if it's just for a visit. Having owned the business for so long, Tenore said she has seen more than one generation of families come in for lessons. "It's a great feeling knowing that you're giving back."

Like least: Some students will come to the studio two to three times per week since age 2, Tenore said, and it can be difficult when, at age 18, they go off to college. While she is excited for their future, Tenore said she can also get attached to her students. "A lot of them do end up coming back, to visit or take classes," she said.

Where you see yourself five years from now: "Still offering dance at Judy A. Hermans School of Dance at this location."

Facebook/Twitter: You can visit this business on Facebook by clicking here. The studio also has a website.

Favorite book/movie/song: Tenore said she enjoys reading James Patterson's books. Some of her favorite movies include The Sound of Music, Dirty Dancing, Grease, and The Wizard of Oz. She said she likes all types of music.

Advice for someone new to the business: Tenore suggests being true to yourself, being fair, and being respectful of other dance studio owners.

About this column: Meet the Owner is a business feature highlighting local business owners.