The Dance Lab Opens in Downtown St. Charles
Published on September 09, 2024
Owner Brittni Thorne opened The Dance Lab in downtown St. Charles in 2024. Situated at 201 S. 3rd Street, The Dance Lab serves as a studio where individuals can learn the art of dance whether it be through Private Ballroom Lessons, Wedding Dance Lessons, or Social & Group Classes.
Prior to opening The Dance Lab, Brittni had been teaching dance for 15 years. Once she saw the location that would eventually be home to The Dance Lab, she instantly “fell in love” with the space and the potential that the 2,500 sq foot building had. “The City of St. Charles has been incredible when it comes to helping small businesses succeed,” said Thorne. “The officials of St. Charles have always been prompt at getting permits and licensing needed to start a business.”
Left: Owner, Brittni Thorne, in Front of a Photo Opportunity in the Studio. Right: Exterior of The Dance Lab
With the help of receiving a Building Improvement Grant from the City of St. Charles, Brittni has been able to transform this downtown space into a lively dance studio that has been utilized by many to learn or refine the skill of dance, as well as being a community gathering space during their Group Lessons - such as Salsa Nights or Line Dancing Events. She spoke on how the Building Improvement Grant benefited her business. “The Building Improvement Grant gave me an opportunity to put in very good quality flooring for my dancers. It also gave me the funds to update all the electrical outlets and make it more efficient. I really wanted to have a beautiful vibrant space which it allowed me a bit more funds to do so.”
Left: Vibrant Mural Inside the Studio. Right: Lounge Area Inside of the Studio
Along with the assistance from the City of St. Charles, The Dance Lab has also had the opportunity to take advantage of support from the St. Charles Business Alliance. “This is a non for profit that promotes small businesses in the area. They are committed to providing all the local activities, promotions, and new openings of businesses,” said Thorne. “They even go as far as creating an entertaining podcast that gives us an opportunity to talk directly with the public and fill them in with our promotions and talk about what we offer. I am so impressed with this city, and they go above and beyond my expectations.”
Left: Display of The Dance Lab’s Students. Right: Seating Area in the Studio
To find more information on The Dance Lab, tune in to The What’s Up St. Charles Podcast!
- Nick Lowe, St. Charles Business Alliance