February 18, 2010
Dear Joe,
I just want to tell you thanks.
At one time I was in a rut, as you know dance can be very cut throat and/or competitive, and I had given up on dance and went to pursue a career in nursing... Ten years down the line I had that itch and was offered the chance to come back... I then realized that I was not in a rut, I had achieved all that I had set out to do - going to your convention(s) had reminded me of that.
I am now back in dance with full force. I teach 9 classes at a prominent studio as well as at the area university. I am also a coach/choreographer for area dance teams.
Again, thank you for reminding me that it's passion that makes dancers great.
Mytrice Williams DeLeon
December 20, 2009
Joe,
To a man who has done so many great things and has affected so many lives. Joe, where would we be without you? The world was blessed the moment you came into it.
Love ya,
Liz Imperio
October 20, 2009
Joe,
When I think of those that have taught and inspired me, you are on the top of the list. I thank you for your example in art and business. You have done so much for so many. I will be forever touched by your service to the dance world.
Thank you.
The LA Dancers Flashback Party went by in a flash. So little time to visit with so many I love. But what energy and love in that room.
Thanks for coming. I can't wait til next year!!!
Michael Chambers
(Editors note: Mr. Chambers is an Emmy winning choreographer)
October 19, 2009
Joe,
It was so great seeing you last night! I used to get your invited to your conventions in my little corn town in Sunbury, Ohio, and dream of going to one, and then I ended up on scholarship in your actual studio in Moro Landis! Now that was my first dream come true!!
Tony Burrer
October 5, 2009
Hi Joe,
My name is Richard Gaines. Back in the early eighties, I took your class. I know you have heard this a million times, but it truly changed my life. There is no reason you should remember me, but I wanted to tell you what an impact you had on my life.
After living in LA for awhile and attaining a bit of success in the music video scene, I moved back to the Midwest, my home area. Because of you, watching your success, your enthusiasm, your positive encouragement, on September 14th I opened my own studio. I had 53 students sign up the first day and every week more are coming.
Thank you for giving me the confidence to finally open this studio and for the love of the art that, under your tutelage, I have decided to pass on to my students.
God Bless and thank you again Mr. Tremaine,
Richard Gaines
September 12, 2009
Hi Joe!!!
It's been way to long... I miss you, your energy, your class, the funky chicken!!! Hahaha!!
As you probably already know from Tommy or Jim, I've been working side by side with Jimmy Kolb (my second hubby... I love him) at OCHSA, as his assistant for the Commercial Dance Department... 21 years now... time flies! About 5 years ago, I also took on the role as the schools Creative Director!
I don't really dance much... my knees just can't do it anymore! Still teach a couple of classes a week but mostly write, direct, produce and choreograph for all the schools VIP events and annual Gala. Our gala is responsible for raising over 1 million dollars in one night to support the Arts portion of our curriculum... Just a little pressure... but I LOVE it!!! I'm happily married 10 years, no kids, 1 dog and life is very busy!!!
Sadly, I lost both my parents over the past couple of years to cancer... I miss them both so much. They were amazing parents and role models... Truly selfless people. They gave so much of their time and energy to helping me achieve my goals and dreams! I hope I made them both proud!
You were also such a major influence in my life... A true mentor. I will never forget the first time I had to audition for your class, I think I was 11. At that time you didn't teach anyone younger than 16. You watched me take Casey Cole's Jazz 1, then let me take your Jazz 2, then you invited me to stay for your Jazz 3!!! I was thrilled and always wanted to dance my butt off for you! Your classes were the highlight of my day. We always had so much fun in your class... what an inspiration!!!
I'm so thrilled to know you're still out there, kicking butt and inspiring so many... I don't know if I've ever said this to you in person, so here it goes... Thank you Joe, from the bottom of my pinky toe, for sharing your passion for dance with me!!!
I hope we can see each other soon!
With love, respect and gratitude always,
Cindy Peca Dolan
Creative Director
Orange County High School of the Arts
Santa Ana, California
August 24, 2009
Joe,
I just wanted to say thank-you for providing such a great intensive summer workshop at such an affordable price. There are many intensives out there but they are all so pricey. The caliber of your intensive for the price we paid is unbelievable. Thank-you so much for keeping your prices attainable in an economy that is hard for everyone.
My students that attended had a wonderful time and learned so much from all the instructors. I can't say enough to commend them all.
We look forward to seeing you all this upcoming dance season.
Thank-you
Deborah Moore
Deborah Moore Academy of Dance
August 19, 2009
Joe,
Thanks for providing such a wonderful experience for my son in L.A. at the Intensive Workshop. He's ready to pack his bags and move. I was slightly nervous about sending him to L.A. on his own but as always your people were great and took good care of him.
He dances with Gino and Denise from Future Dance. I've met you at the Parents Forum at your conventions in Cleveland and Florida. Great fun!
Again thank you. Money well spent!
Linda
August 14, 2009
Hi Joe,
I hope you remember me, as part of "frick & frack" that assisted your classes back in the early 90's. I've been in and out of the dance community since then and am recently inspired by some of my students to look into the convention circuit again.
I hope to see you soon, but either way wanted you to know what a great influence you were to me and how much I appreciated all your contributions.
Katie Kalencki Freeman
July 29, 2009
Dear Joe and Staff,
Thank you for a great summer workshop in Dallas and a much needed "shot in the artistic arm" for the upcoming 2009-10 season. I have been away from Tremaine for the past 3-4 years and it was refreshing to return and feel once again... "part of the dance family".
Your faculty was top notch... pure class... giving and generous with their expertise before, during and after class... and Joe, as always, you pull yourself off any pedestal and completely relate to the teachers... addressing our needs and concerns in the Teachers Meeting.
Thank you for your persistant preparation... "going with the flow"... and offering excellence.
We will be back...
Jill Swink and Students
Swink Studio of Dance, Texas
July 13, 2009
Dear Joe,
We just wanted to drop you a note of Thanks.
We are just a little dancing school from Rockland, Massachusetts. Most of our dancers are recreational dancers. They dance once a week for fun. They also play soccer, softball, basketball and participate in theatre. We also have some challenged girls.
At our dancing school the New York City dance trip every other year is a huge deal. The girls, the M.a.D. Dancers fund-raise for two years to raise the money for their trip. They have held dance marathons, sold candy, candles, pizza, cookie dough, calendars, etc. It's alot of work but it's all worth it when we get to NYC. This will be our 17th trip, the first trip being in 1977 held at the Roosevelt Hotel during the NYC blackout. It was an interesting experience to say the least. We are going back to the Roosevelt and we are really looking forward to it.
While in NYC we will attend the Tremaine Dance Workshop and Competition, attend three Broadway shows and dine at many of the theme restaurants. We will be sightseeing to the Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, Empire State Building, Radio City, NBC Studios, etc. It's a full itenerary and we are really excited for this trip.
Thank you so much for still traveling to New York City, when other dance conventions do not.
Well, we are really looking forward to a great "Big Apple" experience!
Thanks again, see you there!
M.arie Little Austin
A.nd
D.ianne Little Banks
And the M.a.D. Dancers 2009
Marie Little Austin School of Dance
August 9, 2009
Dear Joe and the entire Tremaine Staff for Las Vegas,
Thank you again for another terrific convention. My students have always come away with so much and this year, we competed for the first time. Being a public school rather than a studio, we didn't think we had a chance but wanted the opportunity. It was a great experience for my students and turned out better than expected.
Again, thank you for everything! Keep up the good work.
Becky Reed
August 8, 2009
Joe,
Thank you for being such an inspiration at the DanceLife Teacher Conference in Florida. I could sit and listen to you talk forever. Of course your classes are fantastic too!
Thank you,
Cathy Jarmon
July 12, 2009
Joe,
What a Nationals!!! Amazing! And you are the funniest person ever!!!!!
Thank you for everything!!!!!!!
Denise Vaccaro
The Future Dance Centre
July 2009
Dearest Joe,
You have no idea how much I am missing you all this summer. Al got a great job in the Berkshires doing the pas de deux in Carousel so I've spent much of my time there. He also booked the national tour of Wicked. I'm so grateful for all you have done to mentor him & my students.
Richard & I got booked on a two month cruise to Australia & New Zealand & will be away from late September - December.
Will see you in New York in January & definitely next year at Nationals.
The brochure for DANCE POWER* is fabulous!
Love you,
Miss you,
Denise Blackstone
Denise Daniele Dance Studios
2004 Tremaine Teacher of the Year
*Editors Note: DANCE POWER is an innovative program sponsored by the National Children's Leukemia Foundation in partnership with Tremaine Dance Conventions. Developed by Dr. Sara Gardin, a Stanford and Harvard-trained publich health specialist, DANCE POWER is a very special program that enables young cancer patients to immerse themselves in the magical healing combination of music, dance and meditation. DANCE POWER teaches children to believe in their abilities and believe in themselves.
For more information on DANCE POWER please e-mail dancepower@leukemiafoundation.org
July 12, 2009
Joe,
You have inspired so many! Our studio loves coming to the convention every year!!
Jennifer Morrison
June 03, 2009
Hello Tommy,
I just wanted to thank you for taking the time to investigate our situation for National Finals. Many competitions would not go through the effort to clarify such a situation.
As I mentioned to you, this is our 30th year in business and we are just returning to Tremaine competitions. My mother, Debbie Apalucci, talks so highly of your conventions and competitions from when she used to have the kids attend years ago. Tremaine has certainly lived up to its high expectations and your customer service, dance quality, and instructors are impeccable.
Thank You for making "old" customers feel comfortable and welcome again! Pass our regards to Joe! Hope to see you at Nationals in Orlando!!!
Tara Liberatore
Director - Touch of Class Dance Studio
May 14, 2009
Hey Everyone!
Just wanted to tell you guys what an exciting honor to have Mitzi at Tremaine this summer. I'm getting ready to educate my little ones today about the legend that she is. Thanks for remembering the real stars of theater and dance! We are in a world of who is hot and new but we can always rely on you guys to put forth the best quality education from a convention that always HAS the best faculty out there! Can I get an amen?!
Thanks again,
Marie Bandres
In Motion Dance Center
5/12/09
Dear Joe,
Thank you for inviting us to yet another SPECTACULAR show! It's amazing how you never age and how your joy for dance shines through every time you are on stage!
I remember the very first time we saw a convention show in Atlanta when Kelli was six years old. We were standing in that big room and you walked over to us with open arms... I looked over my shoulder to see who you were walking toward and there was no one behind me! What a warm welcome!
I can't tell you how much over the years your teaching, support and encouragement has meant to me and Kelli. Kelli danced in her very first convention/competition when we moved back to the L.A. area at the age of twelve. She did her first Nationals in Florida with you and absolutely loved it. Over the next few years she went to several different competitions, but none could ever compare to TREMAINE!!! You not only teach dance but you teach the kids to respect and appreciate each other... that is BIG.
As you know Kelli got very sick and had to have surgery - you still invited us to come and watch the entire convention - we felt part of the TREMAINE family. When Kelli was so sick she could not express her feelings in words, but was able to touch her heart and soul through dance. There were many hospital visits where she had spent the day with an IV drip and everyone was amazed that she would go directly to dance class - that was the best medicine.
Kelli had a wonderful time on tour with you, not only dancing but learning how a convention and competition is run.
Kelli just got her AA degree from FIDM and plans to continue on to get a BA degree in business. She also sent a video to MSA (a Los Angeles talent agency) and just got signed. Kelli is enjoying assisting at The Edge (performing arts center) and teaching for Laura Klein and Ali Porter at California Dance Theatre. A few days ago the agent called and she was in a music video with The Pussycat Dolls!
Once again, thank you for your encouragement, support and for making us part of the TREMAINE family.
Sincerely,
Denise McKee
April 28, 2009
Mr. Tremaine,
I just wanted to send you a quick note & thank you for your organization. My studio was at the convention/competition in Tulsa & my kids have not stopped talking about it. I'm a teacher with Dance Branson and we spoke about how I'll be performing in Peter Pan with Cathy Rigby. I hope you can make it! We'll be open May 23 - August 9.
Thank you again so much for the energetic, educational & professional atmosphere that you bring to the weekend. We all had a great time.
Regina Laughlin
April 28, 2009
Oh Joe,
I cannot tell you what a wonderful time I had with you at the convention on Sunday. The excitement, the energy, the encouragement and the inspiration were overwhelming. I am in awe of your never-ending energy and commitment to changing lives. You changed mine too - which proves, it is never too late!
And thank you for the lovely introduction. Your mention of Disney actually brought one of the mothers seeking me out after the show! I knew her when she was a character (Chip? Dale?) at Disneyland. She proudly introduced me to her daughter, and up-and-coming dance bunny, as well as another mother & daughter who were glowing from the Staff Show. I keep forgetting that most of my connections are actually from the 38 year-long career with the Disney Company and the hundreds of shows and projects I did over the years in the States and Japan. As a Hollywood/Vegas dancer, I am a blip.
Your staff, teachers, assistants and all involved are top class. I am now your biggest fan and have such a love and respect for all of the wonder you have given the world of dance.
Amazing (as the youngsters say). You are an inspiration and a positive power to try and emulate. Thank the Gods and Goddesses of Dance for sending you our way. How lucky could we get?
Thank you,
Larry Billman
(Editor's note:
Mr. Billman's credits:
-Board Member of The Professional Dancer's Society
-President and Founder of The Academy of Dance on Film
-Director of Entertainment, WDAJ at the Walt Disney Company
-Director of Entertainment at Walt Disney Attractions Japan)
April 24, 2009
Hi Joe!
It has been so long since I have seen you. I miss seeing you and you look as amazing as ever. Thank you for all the wonderful memories that you have given me through the years. I will treasure them always! You are an inspiration to dancers everywhere!
I just wanted to add that I will never forget all the amazing classes that I took from you. Thank you for all the kindness that you showed me during all those years of going to the convention and to the studio. The best years of my life!
Shawna Armstrong
4/6/2009
Hi Joe,
It was so great to see you again after so many years... You look fantastic!
What a terrific weekend we had in Tulsa! Your Organization is top notch in every way! Your teachers are amazing and talented and child friendly, patient, and best of all FUN. Thank you for my "big shot" wrist band. It was sooooo much fun to watch the classes. You know, I'm just a "hoofer" at heart!
My granddaughters couldn't stop talking about how "awsome" their experience was... the classes (of course, they are in love with Marty and Nick)... the audition experience (a few tears, but a great reality lesson learned)... and the competition (they won 2 First and a Second). The security was great and so important when the little ones are running around, oft times with no parent in sight. We will definitely come back next year (Maybe in Branson?)
If you come to check out Branson, my sisters and I would love to take you to dinner or lunch or even coffee, depending on your "social calendar".
Lots of love and, again, thanks for your amazing "grace under pressure"
XXOO's
Janet (Lennon)
(Editor's note: Janet and her sisters are The Lennon Sisters)
March 31, 2009
Hi Joe!
Hope you are having a great year, and that it is still booming for you.
Thank you for everything you do for everyone! You are a hero and fabulous example of everything I look up to and respect. I wish you more continued success, in all your endeavors, and for continuing to support dance and all the kids who are able to benefit from all that you do!
Hope to see you soon!
XOXO Betsy
March 17, 2009
Greetings from Cape Cod Joe!
Just wanted to thank you and your staff for another amazing weekend in Boston. We missed you Saturday night and Sunday (Editor's note: Mr. Tremaine began the convention on Saturday but left Saturday night in order to attend the Annual Gypsy Luncheon for The Professional Dancers Society, of which he's a Board Member, in Beverly Hills, California, honoring legendary costume designer Bob Mackie.) but your staff did a lovely job for you, as expected.
A special thank you to Stevie at the merchandise booth for being so wonderful to my student, Mackenzie, when she hurt her knee. He and Pat (Tour Director) kept her calm, gave her ice packs and even had her smiling a little when the EMT's arrived.
Very professional and a wonderful testament to your organization Joe.
We're looking forward to Florida!
Thanks again,
Amy DeFeudis
March 3, 2009
OMG! You were such a huge part of my growing up in dance in the 80's & 90's! I think that I mention you at least once a year, so it stuck!
Jill Merin
March 2, 2009
Joe,
You do look good. I'll never forget when you told me that there were no more scholarships so I came every day and practiced outside the door, and then you finally put me on scholarship back on Ventura Blvd./Vineland decades ago.
Thanks to you I pursued a dance career which eventually led to my modeling and now singing. I'm truly grateful.
God bless you!!!
Brian K. Smith
2-17-09
Joe Tremaine,
Thank you for a great convention. This was our first experience with Tremaine and the girls definitely want to return.
As a mom I really appreciated the final showcase. The numbers were very entertaining. You have a great group of kids. It was so nice to get on the road early and not sit through a very long showcase. The whole weekend and all your staff were very professional.
Thank you,
Jennifer Pelluer
(for Jessica & Elizabeth too)
February 11, 2009
Dear Joe,
After having returned from Washington DC & NYC where I started out the New Year with 2 wonderful Tremaine Conventions, I just had to write and Thank You! For 11 years (6 with another studio & 5 with my own) I have never been disappoointed on any Tremaine weekend. You continue to have the most professional, well-run, and highly respected organization. Your staff, from the registration desk, to the merchandise booth, is extremely helpful. Your stage tech crew are very accommodating and polite. Most of all, in a world with such uncertainty now, the 1 thing we can count on is the wonderful faculty you provide us teachers and our dancers with each weekend. The stability and family-oriented atmosphere at your conventions is a tribute to you and your teachers. It is such a joy to watch my dancers' faces as they pick up the schedule in the hotel lobby and see all their favorite teachers names on the agenda. I will be honest and say that Desiree was missed very much in Washington DC & NYC and Keri in Indianapolis by my dancers. They are fabulous teachers and I hope they'll be at the rest of the cities.
You are someone I have admired for many years. Great dance teachers with a caring attitude towards children are hard to come by nowadays. It is important to me and I can see how important it is to you! Thank you and I look forward to many more Tremaine Conventions!
Love,
Liz LeBar
Dancin' In The Spotlight
1/12/2009
Hi Joe,
I just wanted to send a note saying thanks for another wonderful Tremaine Dance Convention in DC this past weekend! I attended your Teacher Forum which, again, was very helpful! We had 30 members of our studio in attendance over the weekend and every single one of us had a great time! I am always amazed at the enthusiasm and professionalism of your entire staff and how much they are able to inspire our kids. Thanks again for the exceptional experience!
Warm Regards,
Lauren McCausland
Studio Bleu Dance Center
August 30, 2008
Dear Joe, Doug, Keith, Brandi, Tommy
and the rest of the Tremaine Staff,
Just a quick note to thank you for yet another wonderful Nationals in Orlando this season. We are consistently pleased by the professionalism shown by all the staff and how this convention and competition is run.
Denise is consistently pleased with the great level of talent that participated in all the classes for all the dancers and with the wonderful banquet you organized for the fifth year in a row. For her, it is like coming home.
It is always a pleasure dealing with your organization and our school is proud to return to regionals year after year and attend Nationals on a pretty regular basis.
We look forward to many more competitions in th future. I would like to especially thank Tessa and Brandi for being so very helpful when it came to assisting us with the placement of our props for our National numbers. We know we are not the only school participating and that they have a million things to attend to to assure that everything turns out perfect. Also, a special thank you to Doug Shaffer, who helped my daughter at the convention.
Stay well. See you in the winter!
Best Regards,
Karen Friedman
Competition Director
Denise Daniele Dance Studios
August 2008
Joe,
I can not thank you enough for allowing us to capture your world. What a generous passion filled life you live... and so many lives you have touched.
Personally I thank you again for opening my eyes and heart to the life I was destined to live. It never leaves you... even when you leave it. This is the gift of following your soul's longings.
Many blessings & much love,
Melinda Soderling
movethefilm.com
8/4/2008
Re: LA Summer Intensive
Thank you for an awesome week in LA. The teachers were great. I learned so much and also got to experience an earthquake. Thanks again for all of the dance experience, I will be back next year! See you on the 08-09 tour.
Luv,
Jessica Pickett
7/13/2008
Re: Orlando Nationals... The Best
Hi Joe,
Thank you for giving me and my dancers a wonderful week of dance training. You have always been and will always be the best class act in the WORLD. I mean it... Absolutely a fantastic dream come true. You have fulfilled many of our dance lives with your giving.
Again, I thank you for giving my dancers the opportunity to excel in their dream. I know I will have more for you to use in your program.
I love you, my friend,
Cece White
I am not certain if there would ever be sufficient awards to Joe and all that he has contributed to dance and dancers - and continues to "give." Watching his young dancers rehearsing for their performance for the Professional Dancers Society luncheon, I was awed by their talent, passion, technique and professionally upbeat behavior. Joe has nurtured several generations of "The Next Great Dancers," hasn't he? Very few leave a "Legacy." Joe Tremaine is still "writing" his.
Larry Billman
Founder & President
DanceOnFilm.org
3/31/2008
I just want to say that my daughter really enjoyed the convention this weekend. She loved Keri LaGrand's Jazz class. I have never seen her move so confidently. She also really enjoyed Marty Dew, Doug Caldwell and Desiree Robbins. All of the teachers were wonderful. The whole experience was great for her. This convention was money well spent. I saw a side of my daughter that I didn't know was there. Having the dancers there to demonstrate for the studetns was great. That is something that we don't have at our studio that I feel was part of the reason why I saw my daughter dancing so confidently.
I also really enjoyed hearing Joe Tremaine speak at the Parent Forum. It was nice to hear what we were doing correctly and what we needed to look into.
Your Final Show was amazing. We really enjoyed watching. You have many talented people working with Tremaine.
Thank you so much for a wonderful weekend.
Janice Hoene
3/10/2008
Hi Joe,
Thank you for the sweet comment in your letter and indeed my feelings are mutually the same for you! Our teachers and students across America are indeed fortunate to have your sophistication, charm and class, as you are a great example of honest leadership and professionalism in the Dance World. My teachers and students thoroughly enjoyed and learned so much at your convention in Cleveland two weeks ago! May God continue to bless you and your staff of teachers with good health, travel safety, and many, many more years of successful conventions and competitions!
Thanks again for all you do for us!
Love,
Judy Conti
March 5, 2008
Re: 2008 Chicago Regional
Dear Tremaine Faculty:
I wanted to take a moment to thank you on behalf of the Illinoise Dance Academy and the Xplosive Edge Competitive Dance Team for a wonderful experience at your Chicago Regional event. Your teachers were amazing and made a lasting impression on the IDA dancers. Personally, I love the "get down to teaching" attitude of your faculty. The girls came back to IDA full of energy and enthusiasm to apply the skills they had learned over the duration of the weekend.
This was the girls' second competition of the season. They rose to the occasion and it proceeded to teach them a lot about themselves as dancers. After the weekend, the girls were eager to return to IDA and hear their critique tapes to gain a better insight on how to improve their pieces. They have nothing but accolades, respect and admiration for your entire staff. From attending your convention and competition, my dancers have truly learned "responsible" dancing and performing. It is lovely to be able to attend Tremaine whom educates, motivates and inspires young impressionalbe dancers. Thank you for doing such a wonderful job.
We look forward to seeing you again next season. Keep up the great work!
Sincerely,
Trish Rowley
Artistic Director
Illinois Dance Academy
Feb. 6, 2008
Thank you so much for making the Chicago convention/competition such a wonderful experience! The Renaissance Hotel was a perfect location - We are so happy you have moved from downtown Chicago. This hotel was conveniently located and the staff went above and beyond to make it a pleasant experience. We hope you will continue to come back to this location each year. Likewise, your staff is wonderful to work with and your graciousness at all times makes for a great dance weekend!
Thanks again for EVERYTHING!
Lisa Hunziker
Jan 28, 2008
Dearest Joe, Desiree and The Best Team in the Business,
Words, these few tokens, and thanks are small gestures compared to the incredibly profound experience I felt this weekend. My attempt to describe how I feel after witnessing such energy and passion is feeble; how do you capture such an emotional experience. But what I can say is that with every spin, every stretch, and every step, you all share your love and passion for dance, and everyone in the room can feel it. Your dedication to the art makes the dream come alive. For three wonderful days, your fans can see the dream, feel the dream, and for a brief moment of their lives, see themselves in a totally new perspective. No wonder so many dancers and their parents love you all so much; you bring them unimaginable happiness and hope, and all they want to do is share that with everyone and come back over and over again; I know I do!!
Thank you all so much for letting me into your special family. I have never seen such teamwork and dedication to the customer. Pat, Edgar and the team's professionalism and attention to detail is second to none, and represents a level of innovation and execution which should be the model of all businesses. I know at times it all seems so routine, but that is because you have made it so efficient, that even when there are small challenges, they can be corrected with little effort and without sacrificing the customer experience. Of course when you are selling "The Dream", you have to be the best; and you are all the best!!
I look forward to seeing you all again and I can't wait to be back in my childhood fantasies of being on stage, being the star, and feeling the energy of a hungry audience. In a world so cynical and full of worthless distractions, your dance conventions are a "wave of inspirational energy" that nothing can compare to.
From all of your fans and myself, thank you so much for sharing your heavenly spririts with us; we are all humbled and so grateful for your generosity and dedication to creating wonderful memories we will cherish for a lifetime.
Love you all,
Steve Alvarez
November 13, 2007
Hi Joe,
Thank you so much for a fabulous weekend in Dearborn - it was just what we all needed. I have been such a fan of your convention for so many years - it was wonderful to see my dancers experience it. They (& their parents) LOVED it. It is so nice to leave a competition happy - you made those kids feel like a million bucks, and you didn’t spend an hour on the awards! Thank you SO much for that!!
Comments I received from dancers & parents:
"This feels so good - it is so much fun, yet we are learning a lot"
"That is the BEST Faculty Show I have ever seen"
"ALL of the teachers are GREAT"
I left with SO much usable material - the most I’ve ever gotten from a convention. I appreciate your seasoned faculty teaching age appropriate material that will not harm the dancer’s young bodies during an intense convention weekend. I appreciate your audition process - so fair & accurate & not time-consuming, or the major focus of the weekend. Your assistants were beautiful - hard working, helpful, kind, not arrogant, and so disciplined - such great role models for all of the students! Than you also for the informative Parents Forum, and Teacher Forum.
The dates are always a bit challenging for us - (working around Nutcracker rehearsals & our High School Musical that many of the dancers are in, always premiers on the weekend you are in Michigan) - but please know we will always put you on our schedule & I know more will attend after hearing the positive experiences that those attending had.
I have never seen my kids dance with so much JOY at a convention before. It was a beautiful experience for all of us - Thank you! Thank you!
With Love & Admiration,
Betsy Carr & Company Dance Traverse
July 16, 2007
To the Tremaine family,
Before, yes the night before-like Christmas Eve as a child, I’m so full of excitement, I can hardly sleep. I awake before the 5 a.m. alarm, and within a couple of hours, there I am standing in front of the Tremaine counter. Then Joe walks up to greet me as if I was a long time personal friend. And I am always honored by his attention and respect. And it all begins. I give my familiar speech to my students, and with wristbands on they are off to their classes. I can hardly contain myself as I rush to Doug Caldwell’s class, to meet and greet like an annual reunion, but most of all knowing I’m about to feel like that dancer I was at 21 again. The joy is so fulfilling "I AM HERE!" And Doug reminds us all why we are here, with the passion of his music choices, his warm-up, his inspiring/encouraging words, reminding us that life is about living our dance or is it that living our dance is about life. It works both ways.
In wanting to recognize everyone who makes such an amazing contribution to the Tremaine family, I wonder if it’s possible without turning this letter into a book. So I will limit myself to one line, but please keep in mind, that on the most part what I have to say would apply to most all of you.
Let’s start with Keith, "Mr. Efficient" who keeps things moving, which is a great way to start when we want to get registered fast.
Then we are greeted with an "I love you" kind of smile from Brandi, who calmly but quickly goes over our registration packet-making sure it’s all there and reminding me when to turn in my music (or anything else I have forgotten that I read).
Tommy, Tommy, Tommy. That man is everywhere all at once. He must have wings, and if I need something he helps make it happen. No, Tommy I’m not "brown nosing" (that’s an old expression marking my age) but I am so grateful for all you do.
The entire, THE ENTIRE, Teaching Staff was... more than the kids expected, it doesn’t get better than that! Knowing Desiree and Joelle since they were kids themselves, it is so much fun taking notes from them as truly knowledgeable teachers. They are so beautiful all grown-up.
Laurie’s book is on our shelf and also many of my students’ that I’ve bought it for. Thank you!
Chris and Marty- personally, well maybe I shouldn’t say personally - BECAUSE every other teacher was loving the same thing - they are just too cute, with different styles - new, new, new with the old and we all loved their routines. (meaning the students too)
Keri, I am forever grateful for those new stretches. I’ve had a bad right hip for years, and I have been pain-free every night since.
The students raved about Keith Clifton’s tap and they reminded me that they loved his ballet last year.
The joy is so fulfilling "I Am Here!" I always feel blessed to know the passion of dance, but please know how grateful I am and on behalf of my students for bringing the best of the best to restore, regenerate, and INSPIRE our love of dance.
Oh, there is so much more, but I must/get to go teach. God bless you Julie and Joe, for having the dream to share your passion with all of us. As one of many thoughts shared by Chucky "make sure the audience feels your passion" AND YOU DO.
Always "gotta dance"
For the Glory of God,
Cathy of SHOWTIME
Dear Joe,
I have often felt compelled to write and thank you for all you do, but in the hectic aftermath following a convention, while getting my personal world back in order, somehow I have managed to put an appreciation letter to you way to far down the "to do" list... inexcusable. I think it is important for you to know what an impact you, your staff and teachers and your hard work have had on me, my students and my business.
I am a real believer in the idea that you can create your own "luck," and I have to tell you that one of the reasons I have had 33 years of "luck" is because I have had great mentors. Through your "Teachers Only" discussions and year-after-year "Hands On" example, you have been one of my mentors, giving me the tools and inspiration to run my business with integrity and pride. For example, many years ago, you and Julie Adler expounded on the value of a front desk person. At the time, I felt you were talking to someone else, since I had no budget or need for such an extravagant extra. Twenty years ago I gave it a try, and now I can't imagine trying to operate without her (she is my highest paid employee... and worth every penny!). Over the years your suggestions concerning recital, tuition, choreography, music choices, websites, etc. have been right on the money... THANK YOU, THANK YOU!
Without fail, "Tremaine Weekend" has consistently given my students inspiration, enthusiasm, and appreciation for the art of dance. After being a part of the convention experience with your amazing faculty, they come back to my studio with a "fire" for class, craving critique, and desiring to work at their craft. They appreciate me and my teachers and have a renewed, healthy respect for other dancers and talent. My parents have a new found interest in all the positive aspects of the dance world, and have become educated right along with their kids.
Five years ago, I began bringing scholarship students to your LA Intensive. This amazing experience has now become part of our Competition Team operating budget, with dancers fundraising for a year to send eleven students "off to Hollywood." These lucky students are then required to produce a "Tremaine Experience" workshop for the rest of the team when they get back home, passing on choreography, technique, and "Dance Wisdom" they have gleaned from your teachers... a "pay it forward" lesson of sorts. It has been good for all!
Most of all, I want to thank you personally for being such a great example of success. I appreciate the way you are always there, always available, always "minding the store." Your influence has made me feel excited to be what I am and blessed to be able to do what I do - I am just one dance teacher speaking for hundreds more thanking you for what you have done for all of us!
Much love,
Debbie Jo
Dear Joe and Tremaine Family,
If I could look back on the past letters, I’m sure they would be very paralleled to my thoughts as I write this. In our lives we don’t always know what our "life memories" are until the thrill of them creeps into our body and gives us the very same chills of joy and excitement over again. Going to a Tremaine Convention, I get to relive those feelings and best yet, know that my students are getting a fabulous experience.
Please know that you have brought many life experiences to a place in my heart, which will be a part of me forever. And, to know that I’m just one of the thousands, or is it millions by now, that you’ve made a difference in our lives. What a legacy.
Of course, Doug"ie", Desiree, and Joelle are so dear to my heart, but your whole staff is such an important part of dance education, and living proof of the passion. And as a final note please let Brandi and Keith know how much we teachers appreciate being more than just a number and paperwork. They always are so friendly, while maintaining a very efficient, professional character. Again, a reflection of your leadership that we all benefit from.
Always "gotta dance"
For the Glory of God,
Cathy Gillaspie-Hillyer
Showtime Childrens Dance
Dance to me in a nut shell is TREMAINE!! Why? When I was very young my mother Judi went to Tremaine Nationals in Las Vegas. I had to be 9 or 10 years old, but I wanted to dance so bad. She enrolled me in the junior ballroom. I was a hot mess, but I loved it! Doug Caldwell pulled me up on stage, and I danced to "I Feel the Earth Move". It was the most amazing thing I had ever done. I knew then, it was what I wanted to do. I continued to go to Tremaine Conventions and Competitions through my teen years. I assisted, and eventually opened up my own studio, and brought students to it as a teacher.
What would dance be without Tremaine around? Not very fun. Where else do you hear Joe say "rubber legs, rubber legs"?
Tremaine, I love what you've done, and what you continue to do. Congratulations on 25 years, and 25 more to come.
With love,
Brian Friedman, B Free
Dear Tremaine,
Attending a Tremaine Convention is like going home. The organization seems to specialize in hospitality and personal attention. We have traveled quite a bit and used to attend a variety of other conventions. We have settled on Tremaine as our annual regional and national destination because our students learn more than dance.
Tremaine has struck the perfect balance between nurturing a love of dance and putting the students in a cutting edge, highly competitive environment. From our large past experience, we know this is very difficult to do. Joe is the Master. His insight into dance and education is unparalleled.
We are proud to be associated with the Tremaine organization. This is a top notch organization with highly organized regional and national conventions and competitions. Every dance teacher should check out one of their regionals at least once.
Anita Olson
Anita's Dance Center
Dear Joe,
Just wanted to congratulate you on 25 years of dance! And might I add you still look fabulous! It's been so many years since my scholarship term but I can't thank you enough for giving me the opportunity to dance with you. It has always been one of the greatest impacts in my life of dance. Hope you are well, think of you often! Congrats again.
Debbie Gould
Dear Joe,
Thank you for a terriffic weekend in Los Angeles. The kids and parents all had a great time, they loved the classes and the parents loved the professional atmosphere... so well run and organized! I especially loved Laurie Johnson. her tap is the best by far at any convention, she is a rare and beautiful gem!
It was great to see you, I really enjoyed the teacher workshop as I found it very informative. My parents all loved you and thought you were very sweet! It was a great kick off for our Spring Break! Now it's back to the grind stone!! Best wishes for your Nationals. Hope to see you again next year!
Much Love & Deep Respect
Betsy Melber
Agoura Hills Dance
Dear Joe,
Hi! Hope you are doing well and enjoying your year! I'm bringing about 40 students to Memphis this year for regionals. We're all looking forward to it! We also plan to join you in Orlando for the 25th Anniversary. I know that it will be great! My students and I were once again thrilled and honored to receive "Performance Of The Year" with "Think It Over". We will never forget Chita Rivera giving their performance a standing ovation in the National Finals. That was a moment to remember.
Thank you for always having such a professional first class event. The education that you provide for teachers and dancers of all ages is fantastic! That's why we keep coming back! Thank you also for the personal touch that you and Julie always add to make everyone feel special! See you in a couple of weeks in Winston-Salem!
Sincerely, Celi Shinn
Thank you for a great weekend in KC! My students, staff and parents are motivated and excited to work. Thank you for being so great year after year. We loved Ian in ballet and my kids feel like personal friends of the staff. I also appreciate the personal touch. Joe and Doug, you both made an impression on Holly. She is wanting to watch ALL of the classes next year! Thanks for all the inspiration!
Love, Heidi
Thank you so much for allowing the Dallas Cowboy's Cheerleaders to be part of your dance convention. We really enjoyed performing and watching everyone else. It felt so good to dance for all of the talented young ladies! I hope to work with you again in the future.
Cheers, Nicole
Dear Joe,
We all look forward to our Tremaine experience every year, it is such a tremendous infusion of energy and excitement! You must feel so proud to have your name synonymous with pure, positive, love of dance. I know you see hundreds of teachers, but you make all of us feel special, your presence at the convention is always inspiring. Bottom line... Thank you for making this weekend one of our special memories in our journey!
Love, Lori