Bepi Pinner’s journey to owning Ninth Street Dance in Durham was anything but conventional. She never envisioned herself as a dance studio owner, nor did she anticipate developing a deep love for ballet. It wasn’t until the age of thirty that Bepi sought a sustainable exercise routine, aiming to set a healthy example for her young son. While running and yoga didn’t quite capture her interest, ballet emerged as the perfect practice, captivating her mind and strengthening her body.
Initially taking ballet classes at the Ballet School of Chapel Hill, Bepi soon found herself drawn to a Durham studio that warmly welcomed adult beginners. She quickly grew fond of this studio, but just a month into her classes, she learned of unforeseen circumstances. The owner, having been in a serious car accident, could no longer teach or manage the studio. At the time, Bepi was balancing childcare at home with running the after-school program at Carolina Friends School. When she discovered the dance studio was struggling to find a new owner, an idea sparked. This could be her opportunity – a chance to merge a fresh career path with her blossoming passion for ballet. She decided to purchase the studio, committing to a one-year lease. Despite her excitement, Bepi prudently maintained her position at Friends School, just in case her dance studio venture didn’t flourish. Now, twenty-five years later, Bepi remains the proud owner of Ninth Street Dance, still dedicated to her own ballet practice three times a week at the studio.
Ninth Street Dance has evolved into much more than just a ballet-focused studio. Bepi and her administrative partner, daughter-in-law Abby Williamson, take pride in offering a wide spectrum of dance styles from around the globe. Their diverse curriculum includes modern, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, belly dance, Afro-Caribbean, Bollywood, and flamenco, alongside fitness classes like Pilates and cardio funk. For those seeking a diverse and welcoming dance community in Durham, Ninth Street Dance provides a rich tapestry of movement and expression.
