I am so thankful to April Sykes for never allowing us to be a bunch of 'Dance Moms'!! Watching that show makes me realize how lucky we all are to be part of the Suncoast Academy of Dance FAMILY!!!! April taught the girls so much more than just how to dance.....she taught them about humility, sportsmanship, and so much more!! April always told them that she did not have just one 'star' but a whole galaxy of 'stars'!! Thank you, April Sykes!! (Laura G., parent of AIM member)
The new Suncoast website is AMAZING! The pictures are perfect! They truly capture why we continue with this studio ;). (Molly M., parent of AIM members)
I teach at a studio in my college town and they just completed their recital. I can't even begin to explain to you how chaotic, disorganized, and unprofessional it was. I now FULLY understand how much effort goes into putting on a show like that, and how you went above and beyond the norm. Suncoast recitals really were professional productions and you paid so much attention to little details that made all the difference. From dress rehearsals, to costume consistencies, to recital programs, to the pick up/drop off system to the venue…I could go on for days, honestly. I just wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving us such wonderful experiences with recital each year, and for continuously raising the bar. You really are exceptional. Thank you again.
former student
This is a note of appreciation, but in no way does it compare to the immense gratitude I feel toward you as my ballet teacher. I know I might not be the best, but thanks to you I have improved so much. I am so proud of myself and so grateful to you. If you ever look back and wonder if you have touched somebody’s life, please think of me.
Alice W., student
I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate every class I have taken at Suncoast Academy of Dance, and especially your classes. The techniques and placement that I have learned have made me grow in such ways, not just as a dancer but as a person. As I stand in my dance classes at college, I look around and I have truly had the best training. My professors have noticed and they have been commenting on my training. Thank you for pushing me throughout the years. It showed me if you want to achieve something, you are going to have to work hard for it and put forth the effort into being the best in what you do.
I loved everything you and the teachers at Suncoast have taught me. I am going to take those lessons with me on a very long journey.
Elizabth B., alumni
I wanted to say hello to my Suncoast family. College is wonderful and the dance program at Oklahoma City University is incredible. I am taking at least 4 hours of dance a day along with academics and boy is it tiring! But I am learning so many amazing new things. You girls all need to know that you are being exposed to so much warmth and nurturing at Suncoast and you are surrounded by some truly incredible teachers. I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all of the knowledge that I gained from Suncoast over the years, because it has prepared me to come into this place with confidence. I will tell you all, this is a hard core program, but I learned so much at Suncoast, from life lessons to how to stick a triple pirouette, that I feel totally comfortable and ready to work and learn. So basically, just remember how blessed you are to be in such a supportive, amazing environment. I haven’t forgotten!
Ali R., alumni
I wanted to take a moment and say “Thank You” for another wonderful year. Each teacher at Suncoast gives our girls so much more than dance, you teach them life lessons. I could not ask for a better program for my girls. The special bond they share with their “dance sisters” will be in their hearts for a lifetime, and it is due to your hard work and dedication. Thank you again.
Darla & Ken B., parents
Thank you so much for everything. This year has been amazing! I’ve made so many new friends and had so much fun. I feel like I’ve really grown as a dancer because of the teachers here at Suncoast. It means a lot to me when you take the time in class to show me the correct positions I should be in. I try my hardest to keep it that way but, I still need more practice. I am so grateful to have found this studio. You have really helped me understand who I am as a dancer and what I need to work on to improve. Thank you so much.
Jamie L., student
The girls have had a wonderful year at Suncoast. Each year at the recital, I think it’s an incredible event and somehow, it gets better every year! My dad, who sat thru 15 years of recitals with me, now looks forward to many more years with his grandchildren. Your guidance and inspiration is truly a gift. Thank you for a wonderful year.
Kendall & Scott K., parents
I wanted to thank you for all the time you put into making little girls become productive young women, not just my daughter but all who come in contact with you. My daughter is becoming who she is because of the love for dance that you have shown her and I see that she is returning it to her students, this is a wonderful sight for a mother’s eyes, she just loves the children and the work she does. Thank you again and I know that this recital will be better than the last.
Nancy S., parent
You have been a wonderful mentor to our girls. Besides being a terrific dance teacher, you have been a great influence on their lives. We will always be grateful to you.
Marie & John M., parents
In regards to Ballet Class Wednesday 6:00 to 7:00. Week 1. Loved the story about moods and that you can change them. Week 2. Loved the discipline of attire and conduct. I am very excited that my granddaughters are in such a dynamic Ballet program!
JoAnn S. grandmother
