Cherry Creek North is known for its vibrant blend of established and emerging businesses, all dedicated to enriching the lives of its community members. Among these, Cherry Creek Dance stands out as a long-standing institution, fostering a love for movement and dance in individuals of all ages for nearly three decades. In an interesting intersection of local businesses, Isabelle, the daughter of the owners of Sweet Izzy, a delightful new dairy-free ice cream shop in the neighborhood, is a former dancer at Cherry Creek Dance, showcasing the studio’s deep community roots.
Stephanie Prosenjak, owner of Cherry Creek Dance, stands in her studio, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere and professional dance environment that has nurtured dancers in Cherry Creek North for nearly 30 years.
Stephanie Prosenjak: The Heartbeat of Cherry Creek Dance
Stephanie Prosenjak, the owner of Cherry Creek Dance, is more than just a studio owner; she is an integral part of Denver’s artistic landscape. Her passion and dedication have shaped countless young lives, and her creative vision is frequently showcased at local festivals, sporting events, and numerous captivating performances. Since 1993, parents seeking enriching activities for their children have turned to Cherry Creek Dance, recognizing it as a unique space where young girls and boys can build self-confidence and express themselves through the art of dance.
A Denver Dance Journey: From Local Roots to Renowned Studio
Stephanie’s deep connection to Denver began in her childhood, fueled by an unwavering passion for dance. Whether captivating audiences on stage or inspiring students in the studio, dance has always been at the core of her life. Denver locals might recognize her from her dynamic performances as a Denver Nuggets Dancer and a Denver Broncos Cheerleader. Beyond performing, Stephanie dedicated herself to training and choreographing for competitive teams and high school dance programs, honing her expertise. Despite her immense talent opening doors to opportunities across the globe, Stephanie chose to remain in Denver, driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young dancers within her community.
Starting with a modest one-room studio at 3rd and St. Paul, Stephanie’s commitment and the studio’s growing reputation led to consistent expansion. Soon, Cherry Creek Dance blossomed into a six-studio facility, welcoming a ballet instructor and broadening its class offerings. It became the premier dance destination in Cherry Creek, ultimately finding its current home at 3rd and Clayton. This expansive 11,000 sq. ft. space now boasts nine state-of-the-art dance studios and a retail section for dance apparel, reflecting the studio’s growth and commitment to providing a comprehensive dance education. Cherry Creek Dance boasts a team of exceptionally talented instructors proficient in a diverse range of dance styles, including classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, modern, tap, and Irish Step Dance, ensuring a rich and varied dance experience for all students.
Dance for Every Age and Interest at Cherry Creek Dance
While managing her thriving dance studio, Stephanie actively participates in numerous dance-related events, maintaining her connection with Kroenke Sports and the Denver Nuggets dancers. The studio’s instructors, all top-tier professionals, attract a wide spectrum of students with varied dance interests. “We initially saw a surge in younger girls eager to learn jazz and hip hop. Now, we’re experiencing a significant increase in adult students joining our classes,” Stephanie notes. “Adults appreciate learning dance in a supportive environment with their peers. It’s non-competitive, enjoyable, and offers a fantastic alternative to traditional workouts or gyms. We are delighted to see women in their sixties taking ballet and tap classes, some returning to dance after years, and others beginning their dance journey for the first time.”
Stephanie emphasizes the universal appeal of dance, citing numerous benefits. “Dance is excellent exercise, it evokes cherished childhood memories, it’s social, and it’s a wonderful alternative to the gym or other conventional fitness routines,” she explains. The location of Cherry Creek Dance in the heart of Cherry Creek North is ideal for Stephanie. “I love being here because of the neighborhood’s diverse offerings, from restaurants to boutiques. The art galleries particularly resonate with me, creating a beautiful synergy between visual and performing arts. Cherry Creek North offers a welcoming neighborhood atmosphere and is a truly special place to be,” she states.
The Enduring Legacy of Dance
Stephanie’s long and impactful career as a dance educator and performer shows no signs of slowing down. She enthusiastically prepares for her extensive summer camp programs, featuring 45 different camps, and remains deeply involved in all facets of the studio. Her roles encompass artistic director, staff management, teaching seven days a week, choreography, costume design, and contributing to special events like Denver Fashion Week and performances with the Colorado Philharmonic. “Dancing is my passion and my life’s purpose. It’s about inspiring individuals – children and adults alike – and leading by example through hard work and genuine love for what you do. This is my lasting contribution, and I envision Cherry Creek Dance continuing to thrive long into the future. For now, I plan to remain at the helm forever!”
Mike Doucette, owner of Sweet Izzy, is pictured serving ice cream to a young Cherry Creek Dance student, highlighting the connection between local Cherry Creek North businesses and the community they serve.
While Cherry Creek Dance focuses on movement and artistic expression, nearby Sweet Izzy offers a different kind of treat, but shares the same commitment to community. Sweet Izzy, Denver’s only plant-based ice cream shop, provides a delightful and inclusive option for those seeking dairy-free frozen desserts in Cherry Creek North, further enhancing the neighborhood’s diverse offerings.
Mentioned in this Post
Cherry Creek Dance
2625 East 3rd Avenue
Sweet Izzy
3003 East 3rd Avenue
