The anticipated reopening of Jackson’s Metrocenter Mall had sparked considerable excitement, especially after the announcement in January by Emily Seiferth-Sanders about the availability of 130 retail spaces. This revival promised to inject new life into the area and offered a fresh start for businesses and the community alike. Among those eagerly awaiting this opportunity was Dianna Williams, the celebrated coach and founder of the renowned Dancing Dolls dance team from the hit show “Bring It!”. Williams, envisioning a vibrant space for her dance academy, had signed a lease in February, brimming with enthusiasm to expand her “Dancing Dolls Factory” of talent in a new, larger venue.
In February, Dianna Williams enthusiastically shared her vision on social media, highlighting the extensive 8000 square feet space at Metrocenter. Her plans included a wide array of programs – after-school classes, free dance sessions, competitive team opportunities, and enhanced dance education. This move was poised to realize her original vision for DH Jackson, expanding her “dancing dolls factory” and providing more opportunities for aspiring dancers in the community. The signed lease and secured space were milestones that fueled her anticipation for the grand reopening.
However, despite the initial optimism and signed agreements, communication from Metrocenter Mall’s management, specifically Emily Seifert-Sanders, seems to have stalled. Dianna Williams voiced her growing concerns publicly in late September via a comment on the Metrocenter Mall’s Facebook page. Expressing frustration and financial strain, Williams revealed she had closed her previous studio on June 30th, anticipating the April 1st mall opening date initially projected by Sanders. As September drew to a close with no communication or progress, her students were left without a dance space, and her “dancing dolls factory” initiative faced significant setbacks and financial losses.
The Metrocenter Mall’s Facebook page had previously cited the coronavirus pandemic as the reason for pushing back the reopening from the initial April 1st date. Later updates presented an ambitious vision for the mall’s future, showcasing attractions like a Ferris wheel, carousel, go-kart park, drive-in theater, and luxury apartments. While these plans painted an exciting picture for the mall’s transformation, they offered no concrete timeline for the reopening or reassurance for tenants like Dianna Williams who were depending on timely progress to operate their businesses, including her envisioned “dancing dolls factory”. As it stands, the reopening date remains uncertain, leaving Dianna Williams and her Dancing Dolls, along with the community, in a state of anxious anticipation.
