BUSINESS PROFILE: Desert Sun Performing Arts

Desert Sun Performing Arts
Owner/Artistic Director Ceylan Gentilella

When did your business open? 2006

Why did you start your business? I have had the great fortune of knowing what career path I wanted to have from the age of 5. After my very first dance class, I looked at my mother and told her I was going to be a dancer when I grew up. I was also fortunate enough that she supported my love of dance through the years and always encouraged me to follow my dreams.

Why Maricopa? At the time we opened our school, Maricopa seemed like it offered the perfect balance of a great place to raise a family and an entrepreneurial opportunity with its growing population.

How is your business doing? Opening our school shortly prior to the recession coupled with “rookie” mistakes made for challenging beginnings. Through tireless work and complete dedication to the success of our students and our business, we have managed to consistently increase the quality of our service, adhered to our mission, and continue to grow in a positive direction.

What are three misconceptions people often have about your business? Dance is “only” for girls. This is not the case. Historically, there are countless powerful men who have influenced the dance community and culture. We have three terrific male teachers at our school and have taught scores of male students past and present. We even have a wonderful tradition of dancing dads at our spring dance recital, which is a crowd favorite.

Another misconception is dance is a sport. Dance is an art, not a sport. While dance does require a tremendous amount of athleticism to be great and successful, only an artist can capture the true essence of choreography and the message to be conveyed. A choreographer not only creates a dance, but selects costumes, music, lighting, props and scenery. All these elements put together create an amazing performing art.

Lastly, the most widespread misconception is dance is just a physical activity, where in reality, our students’ dance education encompasses so much more. A student’s dance experience includes goal setting, discipline, developing self-confidence, positive relationships, role modeling and mentoring.

What makes your business stand out from the competition? Our teachers are excellent professional educators in addition to being great dancers. This highlights our commitment to quality education. With a focus on professional-quality productions, community service and a family atmosphere we have positioned ourselves as the frontrunners for dance education in the community.

What are your plans for the future? Plans include what one would typically aim for such as student growth, fine tuning of current programs and facility expansion. On a personal level, my plans include carving out more time for my adorable children, scrapbooking and maybe getting a little extra sleep every once in a while.

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