50th Anniversary: Melba's School of Dancing & Gymnastics
Messages from Friends, Students & Former Students
I grew up with four brothers and no sisters. I was the quarterback of Sharyland Rattler football team. Fresh out of high school, I drove a delivery semi-truck all over the southern half of the US. When my dad found out I worked at a dance studio teaching gymnastics to little girls, he did not know what to think of me.
Well, there is not a day goes by I don't thank GOD for guiding me into Melba's life. The first time I interviewed with Melba, it was "LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT." I asked my dad, "Dad what job can you go to when your boss and the women that work there are beautiful, classy, smart, fit, and did I say beautiful?"
I am truly blessed to have had Melba as an employer and a mentor. As a result of Melba trusting and supporting me during my employment with her, I met my true love, Cheryl, had two wonderful children, and progressed through our beloved gymnastics industry by establishing Capital Gymnastics (capgym.com) in the North Austin area.
Thank you, Melba.
Jimbo Jarrett
(Student 1976-1980)
Taking my first dance class in 1982, I never would have imagined I would be where I am today: a professional dancer. Melba’s School of Dance has been a huge part of my life. It has really been the foundation of my success.
Traveling to different parts of the world to teach others what I have learned, I notice that many schools don’t instill the proper dance etiquette and don’t push for the students to learn all forms of dance. That's one thing Melba did, and for that I am grateful.
I have been dancing in TV, films, musicals and tours now for 12 years, and to this day I feel like I’m one step ahead of the majority of the working dancers here in L.A., and that's because I’m able to do anything that is thrown at me.
At Melba’s, I learned about responsibility and the importance of work ethics. I was given the opportunity to teach young kids for four years while at Melba’s, and now I’m traveling, working in conventions, and taking part in master workshops. Thank you, Melba, for that learning experience!!!
What did I look forward to every year I was there? Recital time!!!! Watching those gymnasts tumble across the floor in amazement, thinking to myself, "I should have stayed in gymnastics, too." Also, during the later part of my high school years I remember going to New York in the summertime and experiencing different classes, meeting different people and watching Broadway shows. I was one lucky girl!!!!!!!
Thank you, Melba!!!!!
Liz Ramos - www.lizramos.com
My relationship with Melba’s School of Dance started in 1973 when I was seven years old. I remember arguing with my mom about wearing leotards and dance tights in such hot humid weather. Of course, Mom won out most of the time. Three years later my sister Tami began her dance classes when she was three years old. Tami did not take to her classes right away so, as the older sister, I tried to encourage her to participate by dancing right next to her.
Shortly after that, Melba asked me to stay involved with Tami’s class and others as part of her Dance Assistant Program or Apprentice Program. During August, while other kids were excited for school to start, I was excited about receiving my letter from Melba’s telling the Dance Assistants when to report to the studio for a meeting. We would gather in the upstairs waiting room and find out which teachers we would be working with that year.
Throughout the years, I had the most honorable pleasure of dancing and working alongside Miss Kathleen and Miss Lynn and of course Miss Melba. I loved my own dance classes but I really loved my assisting classes. I learned so much from those women; student relationships, parent relationships, running a class, putting together a show, putting together a program. Another big thrill at the studio was being accepted into the Senior Company Performing Group. Wow, what a great talent of dancers it always drew. We had to be able to do it all and we did under the direction of Miss Rosie, Miss Lynn and Miss Melba. I really loved the extra things we got to do like the February Show, dance conventions and other social engagements we were enlisted to perform at.
When it was time to attend college, I had decided to stay at the studio and attend UT Pan American. I took on a teacher role and started working for Melba’s retail and dance full-time (around my school schedule). Working in the store and the office was another incredible education. Now I got to see how the whole business ran at the reins of Melba. What a powerhouse she was. She would move merchandise fixtures in the store, order dance wear, go to the office and write her Tap Column and then throw on her tap shoes and say, "Come on, Lisa. Time for class." I was amazed how she did it all so well without skipping a beat.
At the end of my freshman year at UTPA, I received a phone call from Melba. She told me of a friend of hers named Neil Hess that headed the dance program at West Texas State A&M University in Canyon, Texas. She told me he needed some girls to perform in his summer musical “Texas” in the Palo Duro Canyon. She said I needed to call him and find out the details but that she had already promised that I would help him out. Within 24 hours, my life had changed and I was heading to the Top of Texas to dance and attend college.
In college, I danced all the time. Mr. Hess would compliment me by saying, “Melba sure knows what she is doing down there in McAllen,” because I could dance everything: ballet, jazz, modern, tap, musical theatre. While dancing with Mr. Hess for the next three years, he promoted me to Dance Captain of his outdoor musical as well as assistant teacher and rehearsal assistant to the dance department. It was all because of Melba that I was even there and then what I had learned with Melba that helped me succeed.
When I graduated college with my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, I headed right back to McAllen to work alongside Melba. She made me learn everything about the business: registrations, billing, retail, costumes, music and the list goes on. We attended workshops, conventions, and traveled to New York to study as well. She knew everyone. It was amazing. After I had worked at Melba’s for about three years, I attended my college roommate's wedding in California. At her wedding, I met my future husband. I came back to Melba’s and finished out the year. I went to her home one evening and told her I was moving to Portland, Oregon and would be getting married. She had immediate concern just like a mom and then sadness and then support.
I moved to Portland and had no trouble finding a dance teaching job. Since Melba made us learn it all and do it all that’s what made me marketable. I taught Ballroom Dance at one school, developed a Preschool Dance Program at another, organized recitals and shows at others and then started working on my own creation: my own dance school. My sister Tami had recently moved to Portland and we were dancing together again. We started developing the concept of our own school. We walked down memory lane quite a few times remembering our days at Melba’s while we ironed out our own goals for the school.
A few years ago, I opened up my own dance studio named Yellow Rose Dance. At my dance school, students do not get to choose between ballet, jazz, modern, lyrical, hip hop, tap, musical theatre or ballroom. They have to do it all. I have also included acting and singing since most of my students want to head to Broadway someday. I have a Dance Assistant Program/Apprentice Program that allows young teenage students to be teaching assistants. I travel to conventions, workshops and have taken a yearly trip to New York to study along with my Teacher Assistant. I have a Junior and Senior Ensemble Performing Group that models that of Junior and Senior Company. I keep track of every student and hand out awards at dress rehearsal just like we did at Melba’s. I have even started my own winter program: Nutcracker on Tap.
To this day, I have not stopped talking about my days in Texas with Melba because I live it every day. When a parent or a student asks why I have tape on the floor of the studio I tell them about Melba’s and our color system. When a student wonders why they have to call me Miss Lisa I tell them about Melba’s. When a student asks why we learn all styles I tell them about my dance training at Melba’s. When students wonder why we curtsey at the end of class I tell them about Melba’s. It is because of my relationship with Melba’s that started so long ago that I am where I am today. I have dance students in college now and I hope I have influenced them the way Melba influenced me. I am truly honored to be remembered as one of Melba’s Girls.
I love you, Melba. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Happy 50 years!!
Lisa Hinojosa Kromminga
(Student 1973 - 1991)
I began dancing at Melba's when I was four years old. I was severely pigeon-toed and could not walk or run more than a couple of steps before I would trip and fall. When my mother voiced her frustration with the lack of initiative on the part of the orthopedic specialist, she took the advice of a leg and foot layman -- Dale at Puryear's Shoes (a staple in downtown McAllen) -- who suggested that she enroll me in dance to work on my coordination and "turn-out." What began as a therapeutic experiment turned into a life-long love and career.
When I was eleven, I was promoted to junior tap. This was a very big deal for a couple of reasons. The first was that the class was taught by Melba herself, and the second was the class was on Wednesday nights in direct competition with youth group at church. After many discussions, my parents decided to let me take the class.
At the end of every class, Melba would gather us around and talk to us. It was usually some nugget of advice or wisdom about being young ladies. The talks ranged from morals to manners. As my mother sat outside of class waiting on me to finish, she listened and decided that church was not the only place her daughter needed to learn morals and values of life.
I never quite understood why the studio was called Melba's and
why she was the boss until I got older. I guess in my mind she was
just the tap teacher. Miss Rosie, Miss Lyn, Machi, Miss Triana, Miss
Linda, Miss Carmella, and others were the dance teachers while Jimbo, Phillip, Aaron, and later David and Jamie ran the gym. At 14, I was asked to be an assistant teacher, and that's when I began to
understand what Melba's was and exactly who the boss was and why. A major part of the success and longevity of Melba's School of Dance is the teaching staff – all of whom have been taught by Melba. Melba has thus taught every child that has waltzed through the doors. She developed the curriculum for the school, and she taught it to her teachers – most of whom grew up in the school and began assistant teaching as I did.
I was extremely fortunate though; not only did I get to learn to teach, I worked in the office and had opportunity to see how a business was run and how decisions were made right in front of me. There were times when I didn't understand many of them, but I look back now in hindsight with 20 years of teaching and business experience and marvel at her foresight.
When I left Melba's in the summer of 1993 to perform in the musical "Texas," I think Melba had the foresight to see that I would not return that fall. I stayed in Canyon and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance. After graduation, I returned to Melba's for two years to teach the company classes and then set out for New York. Because of my complete education from Melba's – dance and business – survival in New York was relatively easy. I was a quick commodity in corporate America because of my savvy, and I was able to teach dance because of my background. Even in my pursuit of a performance career I was able to audition for diverse shows because of how well-rounded my dance education was. I performed in everything from tap shows to Russian folk dance theatre.
My husband and I left New York shortly after 9/11. The entertainment business suffered a heavy blow after the attack, and we decided that we wanted to raise a family back in Texas. We ended up in Waco so that Seth could attend Baylor Law School. My plan was to be a stay-at-home mom and perhaps find a small studio to teach a couple of classes; however, Melba's reputation preceded me. The second week I was there, I attended a dance recital to see what the town had to offer. Joy Burkhart had been a long-time acquaintance of Melba's through the Texas Association of Teachers of Dance (TATD). I had introduced myself and told Joy that I was a former student and teacher of Melba's, and before I could finish the sentence she offered me a job. I will be starting my sixth year at Joy's School of Dance this fall.
Because of that timely meeting with Joy, my career took a very unlikely turn. I was asked to join the faculty as Lecturer in Dance in the Department of Theatre Arts at Baylor University. I teach dance and choreograph the musicals for the department. I have also been able to receive a Masters of Fine Arts in Directing since joining the faculty, which has sent me back to New York to direct Off-Broadway. My time at Melba's has enabled me to receive two degrees, return to New York as a director, put my husband through law school, and raise my family, all while doing what I love. I am very fortunate and appreciative that I have such a luxury.
Every time I talk about Melba in the course of a conversation with new friends, my husband politely reminds me to explain who she is. I suppose I assume that everyone knows who Melba is and what "Melba" means. I usually say that she is my dance teacher, but the truth is, she is so much more. Melba is a dancer, teacher, business mogul and icon. She is a writer, historian and entrepreneur. She distributes wisdom like a grandmother, but a relationship with her entails the love, nurturing, and conflict that only happens between mothers and daughters. She is a mentor, advisor and true friend. Those are all things she is, but there are no words that summarize how I feel about Melba. Our relationship has had 30 years' worth of
memories and lessons learned. I respect Melba, and I know she respects me. Deeper still, I love Melba and know that is returned to me as well.
Meredith Sutton
Melba's was the first school to offer gymnastics to the Rio Grande Valley. Philip coached gymnastics at Melba's for 10 years. Texas gymnastics was growing by leaps and bounds when Philip opened Palm Valley gymnastics in Harlingen (1986). Mary Alice along with Philip's three sisters (Jeanne Salter, Martha Disque, Mayme Bauer), also all previous students of Melba's, added dance to the program, changing the name to Palm Valley Gymnastics and Dance. The two arts truly complement each other.
We followed and taught the same program Melba's School offered. It's what we knew and gained through the years. It is what has made our program successful as well. In our over 20 years of business now, Palm Valley has become for many of our students what Melba's is to us. Many of our graduates come back to visit and remember us as their "second home." Which is what all of us considered Melba's. How rewarding it is to us when our students use their love of dance and gymnastics in their own adult lives now. To us it feels as though the lessons that were taught to us inside the walls of Melba's still linger through our hearts and into our students.
Melba's School has touched our lives in so many ways and it is through her legacy that we are able to follow and do the same. How fortunate we all were to have Melba's bless our lives in such a way that we all feel that our love of dance and gymnastics flows through our veins.
Melba's credits go on and on. She has never stopped contributing to
the dance industry, and she is an inspiration to so many. Hats off to
Melba on an amazing 50 years!
Mary Alice (Keller) Oxford (Student 1969-1987)
Philip Oxford (Student 1976-1986)
Owners/Directors of Palm Valley Gymnastics and Dance in Harlingen
I met Melba in the 1980s through my tap dancing friend Debbie Dee. I was trying to contact Honi Coles. Our dancers wanted to honor him with an Oklahoma City University Living Treasure Award and to bring him to our campus so he could see that tap was alive and well in Oklahoma City. They wanted to meet him and tell him “face to face” that his work was very much known and respected at our Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Arts Management. They had voted him this tribute, but I didn’t know how to contact him. Debbie told me that Melba Huber could help me. Melba did, and has been helping me bring respect to tap and tap dancers ever since.
In fact Melba is ready to generously contribute information or savvy advice to anyone else who has the good fortune to know her, and need her. Knowing Melba ranks as one of the gems of my soul. I value the people I know more than the things I have. I am happy to have had Melba as a friend and guide. She is one of the great people who have added to the richness and joy of my life. I’m grateful to have experienced the pleasure of her company. She is interesting because she is so interested.
Melba is forever young because of her INTEREST IN LIFE. And she has so many friends, and so many things to do, because SHE IS SO INTERESTING. She is interesting because she is so energetic about continuing to expand her knowledge and experience. And she is so respected and loved because of her generosity and concern for others. This concern pulls good people to her like a magnet and makes her a vortex for communication and understanding. I call her the “Neosporin” of the dance world. She heals misunderstandings and shines light on great things done by wonderful artists who might otherwise have been ignored.
The people who know her are a part of the give-and-take of meaningful experiences. Meaningful experiences are the real treasures of living. Life’s best rewards come from the thrill of knowing fine people, sharing fun times, reminiscing about treasured memories and working with others on dreams for the future. If you want to live a rewarding life, get to know Melba Huber.
Melba, congratulations on sharing the love and the knowledge for 50 years. Wow! We are all 50 years lucky.
Your fan,
Jo Rowan
I grew very tall very fast during my elementary years, and I was self-conscious about it. Ballet helped me tremendously. Miss Melba told me, "You are not going to look any shorter if you slouch. You are only going to look like you are tall with bad posture."
I also remember her etiquette lessons: "A real lady never chews gum." and "After you have attended an event where you are shaking a lot of hands, the first thing you should do when you get home is wash your hands."
I looked forward to and loved the classes and of course especially the recitals. I was so excited because in 6th grade I got to take Jazz class and in the recital we had these really cool yellow tunics w/ black mesh tights and danced to "Jeremiah was a Bullfrog."
I continued to dance and sing with a scholarship in Opera Theater in college, and after college was asked to choreograph for and dance with church groups in Oklahoma, Louisiana and Texas. What a joy it was last year to watch my own daughter in her first Melba's recital!
We love you, Miss Melba!
Sheri White-Matz (student 1970-1981)
I have great posture and very developed legs thanks to Melba's ballet, tap, jazz and gymnastics classes.
Chiqui Trevino
I became a competitive gymnast (first Title 9 women) at South West Texas State. I have been teaching aerobics, school, etc. ever since and always incorporated dance. The last three years, I finally started tapping! I absolutely love it and will keep it up. I learned so much about discipline and work ethic from Melba and am forever grateful. It is so funny that I want to show her even now..."look what I can do"! Ha! She truly produced girls who went on to become business women and leaders in the community.
I loved my time at Melba's as a student and a teacher. Thank you Melba for having such a great school.
Candace Davis McCoy (student 1967-1970; teacher 1978-1983)
Melba's Dance had a great impact on my life. It gave me tools for life that I wouldn't have had otherwise. My girls have both been dancing now almost all of their lives, and I am so glad that we have been able to keep them involved. Congrats on 50 wonderful years.
With much love and respect,
Gay Showers Hargis (student 1968-1978)
Dear Melba, Happy 50th (Anniversary), we send CONGRATULATIONS & BEST WISHES for your Special (Anniversary)! You are such a great inspiration to so many people. Deborah Mitchell and I (Germaine Goodson) are sincerely grateful for all you have done for us, The Rhythm Queens.
Your thoughtfulness, kindness, dedication and support have touched our hearts and we will never forget your taking the time to recognize our talents by researching our history. We love and respect all that you do. You are a blessing and it is always a pleasure to see you, and now we all salute and let you know how much we love and adore you. All the best to you today, tomorrow, forever.
Love,
Germaine Goodson & Deborah Mitchell (THE RHYTHM QUEENS)
Congratulations on 50 years, and still going strong. Keep it up.
Danny Daniels
Congratulations on your fine work! It is just amazing. It was a pleasure reconnecting with you last spring. Hope you are well and thriving! Warmest regards,
Susan Goldbetter
Ms. Huber, congratulations on your 50th year in business from Tappers With Attitude, (Silver Spring, Maryland). You are a lovely, gracious lady and a good friend to tap dancers, which I really admire. Wishing you 50 more...
Victoria Moss (Artistic Director)
Yvonne Edwards (Assistant Director)
Lisa Swenton-Eppard (Associate Director)
Melba has been my friend since I first met her in junior high school in Beaumont, Texas when she opened her home to classmates, who listened to Glenn Miller and other old-time greats while Melba showed us dance steps. She has always been the same sweet green-eyed girl mentioned in our high school graduation annual. We have kept in touch over the past 63 years. I have watched her success, her devotion to her mother and daughter and sons. I am richer for having known her. She is an exciting breath of fresh air in my otherwise dull world.
Congratulations, Melba, on your 50 years in McAllen! Thank you for being my friend.
Love,
Betty Lou
I had only met Melba for a brief period in New York City during a presentation to the Silver Belles. I was so impressed with her friendliness, enthusiasm and commitment to tap dancing. Melba is truly a class act! Congratulations.
Henry Chu
It has been my privilege to count Melba as a dear friend for over a decade now. She is a true lover of tap and jazz and a dedicated historian. She is devoted to getting the word out about the importance of this magnificent American art form (tap) and has certainly made an impact on its history by making sure that the great masters and their stories are not forgotten. Dearest Melba, we are all grateful to you and wish you many more years of health and success.
Ardie Bryant
Melba Huber, Advocate for Tap Dance: Priceless!!
Deborah Mitchell, New Jersey Tap Ensemble and The Rhythm Queens
What a fabulous run you've had, and I wish you many more years to come, Melba! It is a privilege and a joy to share a love of tap and its heritage with you. You are beloved by all the dancers who treasure you. I join all those who've had the great good fortune of your friendship, generosity, pluck and passion in saying, "Congratulations and thank you!"
Sali Ann Kriegsman
Thank you, Melba, for nurturing the love of dancing, for keeping the passion for dance alive, and for keeping me out of trouble! Thank you, Ms. Stewart, for your love of making costumes. As I type, I have sequins stuck to my toes and strings of thread all over my clothes. Yes, my daughter does dance.
My favorite memory now is of Melba and my Dad exchanging tap steps. I, of course, was hiding out in the car, totally embarrassed. I remember leaning out of the Hotel Galvez window spray-painting our floor show ballet shoes black. I remember the fun we had at TATD on the River Walk in San Antonio. I remember skipping ballet class at convention with Rosie & Linda. I remember parts of SOULFUL STRUT, a jazz dance taught by Ron Daniels. I remember when the first box of red leotards arrived at the store. I don't remember who bought them, but there were three size small.
I remember ballroom classes at convention wearing gloves! I remember when we went up the stairs the first time and saw the blue carpet on the walls. I remember jumping on the new upstairs floor and feeling the soft bounce. I remember that one spot in the floor, that if you jumped just right, it would skip the record player. I remember record players! I remember thinking that every time we went out 'partying' on Friday night, Melba found out. We would have either a jumps class or a turns class the following morning during Saturday jazz class. This was at the Sycamore studio.
I remember helping to paint the backdrops for the recitals. I remember Jim's voice from the sound booth telling us to smile more. I remember Mr. Viscount teaching us ballet choreography for Les Sylphide, Swan Lake and Giselle. I remember him saying, 'Susan, you must invite your feet to 5th position.' 'No fish hooks in arabesque; we are dancers, not fishermen.' I remember my years at Melba's with fondness and happiness.
Susie Clifford Rich
(student/student teacher 1960-1973; teacher 1976-1979-ish)
I have fond memories of ballroom dancing at Melba's. I believe that I began lessons in 1961, 46 years ago. I must admit that I have always had a crush on Melba. I quickly found out that all the greatest young ladies took dancing lessons, too. My first girlfriends were my dancing partners.
After several years, Melba approached me to become her first adagio dancer. I was more than a bit apprehensive, but when Melba told me that over 25 girls wanted to try out to be my adagio partner, my apprehensions quickly subsided. I was fortunate that June Johnson, the valley's prima ballerina, was trying out as well. She was the clear-cut choice, and she always made me look good. What I lacked in dancing ability, I made up for in enthusiasm.
I got a lot of heat from my fellow athletes who ragged me unmercifully, until I challenged them to join me one morning. I told them that if they could complete the warm-up I would pay them $5.00 each. A fullback and a tailback took up the challenge and joined me one Saturday morning at the studio. They both crashed before the end of the warm-up, and I was ten dollars richer.
They observed that there were a bunch of lovely young ladies that danced, and they both asked if they could join the class. A huge class followed with football and basketball players, and they danced in the recitals. They presented Melba with season football tickets and roses.
Congratulations, and thanks for all the wonderful memories.
Spirit engaged,
Kirk Clark
Melba is probably the person who has most influenced my life. I grew up dancing from the time I was really young. I went to Texas Christian University where I danced in the ballet department. I continued to dance in a company after college with Margot Dean Concerto Ballet in Fort Worth, Texas.
I had a baby girl and I took her to her first dance class at "Bruce Lea Dance Factory" in Fort Worth. The first day I took her I noticed they had an adult class going on in the other room. Carlyle is now 11 and we have both been dancing at Bruce Lea for eight years.
I chose Bruce Lea because I remember we went to a dance convention with Melba when I was about 13 years old. We flew to the DFW area and attended the convention in Arlington, Texas. I remember a man named "Bruce Lea" (not the karate kid) was one of the convention teachers. He taught us a dance to "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy." We also competed at this convention and won first place with our cowgirl dance. I remember Mary Alice Keller and I had to do aerials in white boots...we were scared to death but we did it!
I was a cheerleader at TCU. I will say cheerleading has also been a huge part of my life. When I graduated from college I decided I wanted to open a cheerleading gym. The first person I thought of to help me in my endeaver was Melba. She had been a successful business woman for so many years. I called her and she was so excited to help me get started. She worked with me for several months before my grand opening. She is the person to whom I owe all my success.
I opened my gym and it took off like wildfire. My gym got so big, so fast, it was hard to do it all by myself, so I sold it and decided to work for the girl who bought it. She had an excellent business mind and wanted only to do the business end of it, while I wanted to do the the teaching end of it. Our business is thriving. We have eight competitive all-star teams and we have won so many national championships it is hard to count them all!
Again, it all began with Melba. I can't leave out Miss Kathleen and Miss Rosie - their expert teaching ability gave me the love and the passion to teach. We had a great group that danced with Ms. Melba growing up. Carmella, Treanna, Mury, Annete, Martha, Tina, and Mary Alice. There were many more.
My favorite ballet was when we did Swan Lake. We were the four little swans: Holly, Mary Alice, Carmella, and Annete. We had so much fun working with Miss Rosie. So many memories!
I can't forget Lauren. She was the "big girl." I wanted to be just like her. She was the best dancer and the fastest tumbler I had ever seen. She was my idol! She inspired me to try out for cheerleader. She even came to my house to work with me, and I made it!! Now look: I've made a career out of cheerleading!
We had amazing gymnastic coaches at Melba's: "Jimbo" and "Phillip." They even had us running sprints at the McAllen High School track in the summer. We loved it!
Thank you to all my teachers and coaches at Melba's School of Dance including Ms. Stewart, who worked so hard on our costumes and especially you, Melba. You made me who I am today.
Happy 50th anniversary.
Cheers,
Holly Neuhaus Rascoe
www.tcccheer.com
P.S. - I can't forget our guest teacher Mr. Viscount telling our dance company, "Ladies, stick those hamburgers in." Sweet memories!!
I cannot even begin to tell you the life lessons I learned while being a dance student at Melba's. I learned that you have to work hard to earn a spot in the front and that sometimes seniority should go first. I learned to feel confident about who I was even though Bill Martin-Viscount did his best to shoot that down when he came to work with us on the ballet production-haha!
I had great teachers like Suzie Clifford, Rosemary, Kathleen and of course Melba to strengthen that self-confidence. I remember bringing my lunch to recital rehearsals when I was younger and thinking how much fun that was.
I remember showering backstage after recital two years in a row to go across the Civic Center to the Prom which was being held the same night. I had wonderful dates those two years who patiently watched the recital and waited for me to get dressed for the prom!
I made some great friends through the years at Melba's and I made friends with people I would have never been firends with at school if I hadn't danced with them. I learned to accept others for the unique individuals they are. I learned to be creative and express myself.
I loved tapping in the bottom studio, and I loved dancing to see who would get voted the best and get a Coke at the end of class. I made friends with people whose paths I have crossed several years later because of dance. I went to college and majored in dance and business (the business part at Melba's suggestion, because I thought I wanted to own my own studio).
I still carry a sheet of paper in my billfold that Melba gave me, titled, "Being a talented dancer DOES NOT make you a talented teacher." Everything on it is SO true!
After I graduated from college, I taught at a dance studio and then became a dance team director for the local high school (22 years), started a dance program and created the dance curriculum at the high school where I taught (as well as three other high schools), was a member of the State Board of Education panel that created the Texas ExCET exam for teachers who want to become certified to teach dance in Texas Public Schools, have been an active member in the Texas Dance Educator's Association for 30 years (past President, was chosen Director of the Year for the State of Texas, Nominated for Lifetime Achievement Award, (am currently in charge of scholarships).
I took my test to become a member of TATD-Texas Association Teachers of Dance, Inc. in 1986 and have been active in that organization. I am currently Treasurer and hope to become the next President after convention this summer. I have continued to teach dance in private studios for the past 24 years, and I am currently a high school assistant principal in addition to being a dance teacher.
So, I would say dance is a HUGE part of my life and I would say the training I received at Melba's helped prepare me for my future in dance. I have a true passion for dance and I am forever grateful to Melba for all she did to instill that passion!
Ronnye Williams Patterson (student 1966-1978)
I first became acquainted with Melba Huber when I was recovering from breast cancer. I had had a vision in the hospital of Honi Coles and decided with my dear friend Whitney that we would take tap lessons in the style of the Masters after my hospital stay.
With the help of Sam Katz, ITA rep, we headed to Universal Dance Designs in Los Angeles. To our delight, we met tap legend, dancer, choreographer and tap teacher extraordinaire Arlene Kennedy who is now our friend and long-time teacher. Ms. Kennedy directed me to articles by Melba to immerse myself in the art form. Soon, I was scouring the Research library at UCLA and enjoying every written word and photo in Melba's columns. I was truly being educated!
Soon thereafter, Melba thought an article about my use and love of tap in helping my cancer recovery would be of interest to others. We "met" on the telephone and an article was born, published in Dancer magazine. Our friendship has continued to grow as we met in person at the St. Louis Tap Festival and in New York City celebrating Dr. Jeni LeGon!
I was also in attendance as Melba's guest as she was honored by Savion Glover at his Tap Dance Day Gala at NJPAC! We share a love of the art form of Tap and the art form of Jazz! I consider Melba a true friend to Tap, but most especially a true and dear friend to me!
Heartfelt Happy 50th, Melba!
Love,
Zelde
Los Angeles, CA
I have to say longevity certainly has its place. The entire tap community owes you a solemn thank you not just for your gifting to your students but for your ability to put pen to paper, never allowing the world to forget tap dance is an art form to be recognized and never forgotten.
To celebrate your 50 years of teaching -- that's a long time! I say of your character: the people in life who say they cannot make it, don't; those who say they cannot see their way through, remain blind; those who say they won't, never do; but those who can, TEACH!
The family of Universal Dance Designs, the Kennedy Tap Company, along with my mother Mildred Bradic Kennedy, my late brother Paul Kennedy, and I wish you well, and more than that we wish for you what we wish for ourselves.
Arlene Kennedy
Los Angeles, CA
There is no short paragraph to concisely capture the influence, events and memories that I have as a student of Melba's Dance Studio, and Melba as my teacher and mentor. I think it would be easier to ask if there was anything outside of Melba's that I remember. That would be a shorter concise paragraph.
My experience at Melba's and with Melba shaped my body while it shaped my character and soul. I found a freedom, a passion and a life through my dance. It happened because of a woman's intensity for her passion. It was contagious. Melba made me feel what I learned much later to be known as "dance as if no one is watching". I recognized my joy could be shared with others with their feet and bodies and those who "were watching".
To this day, Melba is still a guiding light and a soft hand that rests on my shoulder. She continues to inspire me with her strength, grace and love. I share my passion for dance and movement by continuing to teach movement through dance and fitness.
I received a BFA in Dance in 1979 and have been an AMERICAN COUNCIL EXERCISE GOLD certified fitness instructor since 1985. My dance and fitness experience and education have allowed me choreography opportunities, writing for journals, work on videos, pioneering low impact aerobics in 1985, and training others while continuing to share dance and develop my own personal style.
I share my love for tap with my consumer friendly dance workout program, "FitTAP" piloted in southern California in honor of Melba and her joy for tap! Thanks, Melba. The only way I can truly thank you is to continue to dance and share my love for dance with others as you did with me, though no one can ever fill your DANCE shoes!
Much love and gratitude!
Sylvania Reyna (formerly Bunny Morales!)
(student 1960-1975, returning thereafter periodically
to take class and stay in touch with Melba)
Melba has always been such an inspiration in courage and optimism. Through the years, facing the most difficult life circumstances, she has never lost sight of her life's ambition. She has a successful school with innumerable students. She has encouraged kids, no matter their circumstances, to pursue dance. She never made anyone feel less important, from the front row dancers to the back row dancers. This does so much for a child's self-confidence. I thank you Melba for touching my life and the lives of my children. I can't think of anyone, outside of my familiy, who has been so instrumental in all our lives.
Linda Kay Moncada (Schultz)
(student 1967-1987)
Our mother enrolled five of her children into different dancing classes. We were nine in our family. Melba was like a second parent to us; she took us all under her wing. We, especially our mom, did most of the janitorial work to help pay for our dancing lessons. We four sisters and one brother took lessons for a few years. All lessons then were from Melba only. She kept a busy schedule. Through Melba we also gained confidence that there were no barriers in life. That helped us all no matter who we were. The best was knowing that whether we were poor or rich, we were always equal in her eyes and in her life.
Sincerely,
Diana Balli, Dora Balli, Sylvia Balli, Yolanda Balli and Nick (Rudy) Balli
(students 1958 - ??)
I feel very blessed to have been at Melba's for so many years. As a student, I remember loving my teachers (Kathleen, Lynn & Melba). As a teacher, I will always remember and love my students. Melba taught me about responsibility, shared with me her love of dance, and instilled in me the importance of a work ethic.
My sister (Miss Lisa) and I continued to teach dance together in Portland, Oregon. Two years ago, we opened up our own dancing school named Yellow Rose Dance. Currently, I live in Virginia with my two boys (Lane and West) and my husband (J.J.).
Dance will always be in my heart and soul. Thank you, Melba.
Tami Hinojosa-Stanfill
(student 1976-1991; teacher 1993-1998)
I have had a fabulous 50+ year career as a professional dancer: nine Las Vegas Hotels, the most famous nightclubs in the world including the Copacabana in New York City, the Moulin Rouge in Hollywood, the Latin Quarter in Tokyo, and I've danced in countless movies and TV shows, all because Melba gave me a scholarship when my mother fell on hard times when I was 14, in the 1940's. And now the Las Vegas Review Journal pays me to write about those wonderful years. I owe it all to you, Melba. Thank you forever.
Love,
Betty Bunch
Congratulations on 50 Years! You have been such an important part of my life and have contributed so much to my career and have always been so supportive.
How I wish I could relive those dance sessions in Dallas where I really began my teaching career and made so many friends in the TATD Association.
May you continue bringing us all the dance history and news that keep us all in touch with the dance world.
God bless you. I send my love,
Bob Audy
I fell in love with dance at Melba's. From the moment I walked through the door I wanted to be a "dancer when I grew up." At the time I did not realize how much work that goal would take, but with hard work and a solid technical foundation, I was able to reach my goal. I have a BFA in dance from Sam Houston State University.
I spent the summer after graduation studying in NYC (where I ran into many former Melba's classmates), performed at the Jazz Dance World Congress, and was a company member for Chrysalis Modern Dance Company in Houston. In 2003 I was named one of Houston's top choreographers. I was able to do all of this because my time at Melba's taught me to to respect and love dance.
As far as friends, my oldest and closest friend, Gabi (Thorburn) Davis and I began dancing at Melba's when we were 3. In 1998 I was a bridesmaid in her wedding, in 2001 she was my maid of honor, and in 2003 she was with me for the birth of my first child.
Thank you Melba,
Shara Armstrong-Phillips
(student 1980-1992)
Melba has been more than a dance instructor to me. She has been a very good friend. My seven years of dance lessons were memorable. I used those skills to teach dance at a camp one summer during my college days and as a talent in a contest. Thank you, Melba.
Love,
Jan Scurlock
I remember Melba's being a place of discipline and grace. There was no playing around in dance class, but it was still fun. The teachers were always very professional and they themselves were great dancers who wanted to pass down their joy of dance.
The gym was a little different. The coaches always made us laugh, but at the same time, we were learning. I always looked forward to going to gym because I knew I was going to leave there a better tumbler. David Friedlein was definitely my favorite coach. He was always jumping around, doing crazy flips in the air. He was like our own clown, but he was also a great teacher. Now our daughters are playmates and I'm excited that he is coaching at Melba's again because my daughters will have the opportunity to learn from him!
I have two daughters and they both dance at Melba's and I have even gotten back into it by taking the adult dance classes. I didn't realize how much I missed it! We are having so much fun spending almost every weeknight at Melba's. Everyone is so friendly, it's like a second home!
Congratulations, Melba! You have done such a wonderful service to our community with your dance studio! We love you!
Kristy (King) Curl
I want to say thank you to Melba and her staff for all of the wonderful memories and outstanding dance training they have given me and my family. I loved every minute of my 16 years with Melba's. Thank you for introducing me to the classics and allowing me to enjoy learning. When I look back to the great friends I made in classes and all of the long hours of rehearsals, it all just make me smile.
Melba's recitals were the best and most entertaining of all of the schools in town. It says a lot when each and every year so many friends and family returned to watch in February and May.
I have so many great memories that it's hard to put them all on paper. Dancing played such a huge role in my life that it was hard to completely stop once I started college. I continued taking whatever dance classes I could get into at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, and also at other local studios throughout college.
I graduated, got married, and went on to dance professionally with the NBA for one year while living in Detroit. I also taught ballet for one year in Michigan before returning to Texas to get my pharmacy degree. It's amazing to me how much influence dance can have on a person's life.
Thank you to Melba's for teaching me about how to work hard, listen well, take criticism, and how to be graceful, poised, and confident. No one can take those gifts and values away from me. I'm sorry I won't be able to be there for the 50-year celebration, but please know I'm there in spirit with everyone.
Love,
Natalie Klinck Haggerty
(Student 1980-1996)
I will never forget Miss Suzie, Miss Rosie, Miss Kathleen, and MOST importantly Miss Melba who taught me the joy of dance! My 12 year old daughter is still impressed with my tap skills. :)
Miss Melba's influence and encourgement has stayed with me throughout my life! It has inspired me to encourage my daughter to dance, and DANCE she does!! I only wish she could experience dance at Melba's...Dallas is just too far away.
Here's to Miss Melba... 50 wonderful years!!! Congratulations and much love!
Brenda Showers Buell
(Student 1968-1981)
To my dear friend, Melba: Congratulations on your 50th year! You have provided a wonderful dance education for so many young dancers, many of whom have gone on to success in the entertainment field! I am so proud of all your achievements & awards.
I'm so glad that we were able to share numerous dance events, as well as classes at dance conventions, where we met as young teachers. We always had great fun! Kudos to you, your school, and all your students!
Love,
Jackie
When I was 8 years old, my mom asked me if I would be interested in taking dance lessons, and if so, what kind. I instantly told her to enroll me in tap lessons. She spent several weeks researching a good dance school and finally decided on Melba's because that was the only dance school that said they want their students to have fun while learning to dance.
I absolutely loved my tap classes and looked forward to going to every class possible. I remember I never wanted to take off my tap shoes and when my parents forced me to, my little feet kept tapping away. My parents could only afford to put me in one class so I stuck with tap.
After a few years, I was able to join another class and instantly chose jazz, mainly because of my teacher, Miss Tami. She had been my tap teacher already for many years and I loved her teaching style. I took every workshop I could and even took dance classes in the summer. I loved dancing so much I didn't mind that I had to rush straight from school at 4:00 p.m. in Mission to make it to dance class at 4:15 p.m. in McAllen. I just changed in the car while my mom drove me.
When I was in junior high we were asked to write a paper to a business owner telling them what we liked about their business for our English class. I wrote to Melba (I guess my teacher mailed the letter) because Melba herself came to one of my classes to meet me and thank me for the letter. I felt so honored to be known by her.
I gained more confidence after that and asked Miss Tami for advice on becoming an assistant and possibly a teacher someday. Tami worked with me more and gave me pointers and a few months later I was asked to be an assistant. It felt so amazing to be only 12-13 years old and assisting in teaching dance to children.
I started by assisting in the preschool gym and tap/ballet classes (with Miss Monica, Mr. Jimmy, Miss Jessica, Miss Mari, Miss Velma, Mr. Greg, etc.). After a couple of years, I started to assist more classes and even taught a couple on my own when needed. I was even employee of the month three times in a row in 1999.
Since I was on the staff, Melba encouraged me to join ballet/pointe, which I did. I had a very difficult time in ballet and pointe since I was not as advanced as most girls my age. In fact, it took a year for me to be able to dance pointe correctly (thanks to Miss Anne's patience and guidance). I never made it to the Senior Company for ballet or pointe but I was able to dance with the Senior company in tap (which Melba taught).
I loved my years at Melba's: teaching, dancing on stage, the costumes (even having to dress up as a Foley's shopping bag for their grand opening), etc. I left Melba's my senior year of high school because I wanted to get more involved with my school, but I do think back a lot and really miss dancing. I am happy that the company is still doing so great, and it feels good to see some familiar faces still dancing their hearts out.
I want to thank my former co-workers, my former teachers (Miss Elizabeth, Miss Tami, Miss Anne, Miss Melissa, etc.), all of Melba's staff (Sylvia, Ernie, Keith, etc.) and especially Melba for all the memories and support you all gave me. I look forward to having a little girl someday in the future so she too can dance at Melba's.
Jennifer L. Choate-Moya
(Student/Staff 1990-2000)
My parents took me to ballet and tap dance at Melba's in 1985, when I was only 4 years old. I was there for 10 years. I always remember that I had to be to my class on time. I was always telling my parents to hurry up and don't be late - the same song that one of my instructors taught us as a class.
I always remember that you always had your instructors on their toes. They were the best and took pride in teaching ballet, tap and gym. I learned responsibility and good dance techniques at Melba's. Melba, I will always remember you because you were always there with us and always giving us words of encouragement. You taught me to do my best. You always said give it your 110%. You also told me to continue school and be successful, which I have been. You said never give up and be the best.
Thank you for your patience, support and encouragement. I love you and will always rememember you. I plan to see you again at your 50-year gala celebration.
Jaclyn Di Ann Guerra
(Student 1985-1995)
My sister Sandra and I had the privilege of dancing at Melba's from 1968 to 1976. That was one of my fondest memories growing up. When we were in 1st and 2nd grade, we both had the opportunity to model for Melba's store. I remember feeling so special. We enjoyed going to class every week with our dance teachers Kathleen, Susie and Rosie; they were the greatest. Melba would come into our class to give us special tap lessons and always stressed good posture. She would sit down with us and talk to us about manners and being ladies.
Sandra and I were very heartbroken that we could not continue with Melba's through our high school years, but our time and memories there will never be forgotten. For the last 12 years, I have enjoyed attending the Melba's dance recitals of my daughters, Catherine (1996-2006) and Elizabeth (1997-present). My daughters and I along with my sister Sandra share mutual fond memories and love for Melba's.
Happy 50th, Miss Melba!
Love,
Denise Peña Davis
(Student 1968-1976)
I remember being very shy when I first started to dance and perform at Melba's. As a result, at one point I refused to go to dance classes. My Mom was so upset with me that she told me she would not register me for another year of dance. I did not really believe that she would follow through with this. So, at the beginning of the next school year when I asked about my dancewear and dance classes my Mom reminded me that she was not registering me this year. I was horrified! I could not imagine a year without dance at Melba's.
It was at this point that I realized I really loved dance and that to be even just one year without it would be just awful. I begged my Mom to register me and I promised that I would never refuse to attend dance classes again. She agreed and I am glad she did. I absolutely loved dance classes at Melba's from that day forward. I took dance for 20+ years, taught dance for Melba and then assisted my sister in opening our own dance studio in Portland, Oregon following that. Melba's set the foundation for my future with dance.
Tami Denise Hinojosa-Stanfill
(Student 1976-2000)