Business Q&A: Miss Colleen's Elite Dancecentre

Now in its tenth year, is thriving. Located on Maple Avenue, the school proves that dancing isn’t just for kids. A variety of classes showcase almost every style imaginable. Here, owner Colleen Gunn describes the many different ways customers can bust a move in Rockville Centre.

What type of classes do you offer?

(We have) everything — ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, adult classes, baby classes, mommy and me classes, workouts, musical theater, voice lessons and acting classes.

What do you teach in the adult classes?

We just started our semester. We have a power dance class, which is kind of like a hip hop and jazz workout class. They’re getting instructional dance. From what I can see so far, everyone comes out sweaty. All the college kids that I taught when they were little are coming back and taking them. It’s a fun workout class.  

What is the most popular style of dance right now?

I think kids really love hip hop and jazz.

You offer birthday parties. What are they like?

Our birthday parties are so much fun. We gear them towards the age of the child. For example, last weekend my daughter’s friend had her birthday party here and we did a princess and pirate birthday party. I set up a separate table for the boys and we decorated it like a pirate ship. The girls each got tiaras. We did pirate and princess games. I had 20 four-year-olds rockin’!

What do you like about operating in Rockville Centre?

I grew up here. I think Rockville Centre is a great community. I love that the parents are into their children. Everyone is really nice. It’s such a community atmosphere. I think that’s my favorite part. If something happens to someone in the community, everyone comes together. There are a lot of kids here, which is great for my business.