About Us
Dance Centers was founded in 1979 as a Brick & Mortar business teaching all forms of dance to children & adults for 40yrs. June of 2019 has now launched a mobile dance business only called “Joy of Movement”, serving Preschools, 55+ Communities and Assisted Living & Senior Centers throughout Berks County.
Mission Statement
To provide students of all ages with the skills they need to enjoy the art of dance for a lifetime. We don't stop dancing because we grow old, we grow old because we stop dancing.
Meet Our Staff
Michele Schartel
Founder and Director
Michele has been an instructor in all forms of dance and specialty classes, plus musical theater choreographer in Berks and surrounding counties for 50 years. She is also a Dance Competition judge for the past 18 years for David Blight's “Talent Olympics” competitions in the Pocono's twice a year. She also judges at 2 different locations for Cathy Tubolino's competition “Dance Expressions” in Pennsylvania and Delaware and Mary Ann Christopher's “Rhythms & Dance Competition” in Voohrhees and Eatontown, New Jersey. Michele is also a judge for the past 10 years with Gloria Dillon's “Performing Arts Alliance Competition” in King of Prussia, PA .
Michele attends numerous dance workshops and conventions each year, and is a believer of keeping the curriculum fresh and up to date. Some of her students have gone onto Broadway shows, Touring Companies, Danced in Disney and on Royal Caribbean Cruise lines. Ms. Michele choreographs and teaches classes, and is active on the workshop and seminar circuit.
Co-owner of Talent Stars of America and creator of the “Joy of Movement” program.
Member of NAEYC.