MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – In honor of Women’s History Month, WZMQ 19 is highlighting female-owned businesses in the Upper Peninsula.
Northern Sky Dance and Fitness has been open since 2023. With owner Skylar Taavola at the helm, her years of dancing and instruction have panned out to create a strong name in the Marquette dance scene.
Northern Sky reaches across all levels of learning in the area, with classes and rehearsals held week-round, from ballet to acro classes, as well as an adaptive dance program for individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities.
“We have classes for ages 15 months all the way up through adults, and we teach about 30 classes a week,” she explained.
Taavola says this keeps her plenty busy.
“It’s all me for the 30 classes,” she laughed. “Plus, for the rehearsals on the weekends, we have help from choreographers in the community.”
While running a small business with a heavy schedule, Taavola says being able to follow her passions to do so within such a supportive community helps piece it all together.
“I always think back to growing up and having strong women as great mentors that I looked up to. Having their support around me has gotten me to where I am,” she said. “If you’re doing great things and you’re passionate for what you do, people will notice, and things will grow into greater things if you’re putting your heart and soul into it.”
Weekend classes are currently practicing for its Peter Pan Adventures in Neverland ballet happening May 2 at Kaufman Auditorium.
More information can be found on northernskydance.com.
