Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth DeRusha.
Hi Elizabeth, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey with dance began at a very young age, when a preschool dance program visited my school. That first experience sparked a love for movement, creativity, and performance that stayed with me as I grew. I went on to train extensively in dance and later spent over a decade teaching in my community, working with students of all ages and abilities.
As a teacher, I discovered that what I loved most wasn’t just choreography or technique, it was helping children grow in confidence, discipline, and self-expression through dance. That passion led me to open my first studio in 2012, where I gained hands-on experience building programs, leading teams, and creating a positive, welcoming environment for families.
In 2022, I opened Twinkle Star Dance Academy of Plano with a clear mission: to provide high-quality dance education for young children in a nurturing, age-appropriate setting that focuses on both skill development and character growth. Today, I lead the studio with a strong focus on community, consistency, and creating meaningful experiences for dancers and their families. Every step of my journey has reinforced my belief that dance can shape not just strong performers, but confident, joyful kids, and that continues to drive everything I do.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a perfectly smooth road, and I think that’s pretty normal when you’re building something that’s growing. One of the ongoing challenges has been learning how to balance growth with sustainability.
As the studio grew, I realized we couldn’t continue to grow with everything flowing through me alone. That was a turning point, recognizing the need to build the right team, clearly define roles, and be more intentional with how my time and energy are used. That process is still very much in progress and requires constant evaluation and adjustment.
Some moments feel challenging, but they’ve also been incredibly clarifying. Each step has helped strengthen the foundation of the business and reinforced the importance of thoughtful leadership, systems, and support. It’s a work in progress, but one that has made the studio healthier and better positioned for continued growth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Twinkle Star Dance Academy of Plano is a children’s dance studio that specializes in introducing young dancers to the joy of movement in a nurturing, age-appropriate environment. We serve students beginning at 18 months through elementary age, with a strong focus on early childhood dance education.
What sets us apart is our intentional approach. Every class is thoughtfully structured to support both technical skill development and personal growth. Our dancers learn ballet, tap, jazz, and creative movement while also building confidence, focus, and positive character traits. We place a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming, encouraging atmosphere where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.
We are especially known for our high-energy classes, consistent teaching standards, and the strong sense of community we’ve built with our families. Our performances are designed to be positive, joyful experiences that celebrate progress rather than pressure, allowing dancers to shine at every stage of their journey.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust families place in us. Parents know that when their child walks through our doors, they’re entering a safe, uplifting space where growth is prioritized alongside performance. Our brand is rooted in consistency, care, and creating meaningful experiences, both in and out of the classroom.
What I want readers to know most is that Twinkle Star Dance Academy is about more than dance steps. We’re committed to helping children build a lifelong love of movement, confidence in themselves, and memories that extend far beyond the stage.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
I do see myself as a risk-taker, but in a very intentional way. I’m comfortable stepping into the unknown when I believe in the vision and have done the work to prepare. For me, growth has always required a willingness to take thoughtful risks rather than wait for everything to feel perfectly safe.
Opening my studios was a major risk—financially and professionally, but it was one I felt deeply aligned with. I believed in the need for a studio that truly served young dancers and their families, and I was willing to take that leap to build something meaningful from the ground up.
I also take risks in choosing how we grow. I’m willing to make decisions that protect quality, culture, and the dancer experience, even when that means turning down faster or easier options. Those choices don’t always feel comfortable in the moment, but they’ve helped create a brand that families trust and connect with.
Overall, I view risk as a necessary and healthy part of building something special. When a risk aligns with my values, supports long-term sustainability, and serves our dancers well, I’m willing to take it, and that mindset has shaped both my business and my leadership.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.twinklestardancers.com/plano
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tsdaplano/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TSDAPlano
