MANISTIQUE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A new dance studio is open for business in Downtown Manistique.
Pink Sky Dance studio opened on South Cedar Street one month ago. It started as a dream shared by owner Amber Ackley and her late friend.
“We were going to go into business together,” Ackley said. “She passed away, so I started the journey without her. That’s where it all started—inspiration from her. She was a very kind person, and I just wanted something to carry her memory in.”
The studio offers ballet, jazz, hip hop, tumbling, and creative movement classes for kindergarten through eighth grade students. However, instructor Rachel Leckson says they learn more than just the foundations of dance.
“They build confidence and teamwork,” she said.
“To be smart, to be beautiful,” added Ackley. “To have your own, individual self-awareness.”
For years, dance students have not had a local option for lessons. Ackley hopes Pink Sky will make it easier for Schoolcraft County families to pursue dance.
“It’s a huge impact because half of our community had to travel to either Gladstone or Escanaba, Newberry,” she said. “It just brings everybody home to our community, and I think it’s really going to help.”
“We’re just really grateful,” said Leckson. “She reached out to the community, and the community answered. I think that is amazing to be part of.”
Pink Sky Dance Studio is accepting new students through the end of November, with plans to add adult classes in the near future. To learn more, visit the Pink Sky Dance Studio Facebook page or call (906) 286-2711.
