T-L Photo/CARRI GRAHAM Dance Factory co-owner Jessica Trout stands behind the front desk of the studio. The Dance Factory is open from 4-8 p.m. Monday to Wednesday.

MARTINS FERRY — The Dance Factory of Martins Ferry is moving into its 14th year in operation and is accepting new students for a variety of its summer programs.

Jessica Trout, co-owner of The Dance Factory along with Ashley Pietro, said the studio, which recently won the 2021 Best of Martins Ferry Award in Local Business, accepts boys and girls ages 18 months to 18 years old. She said they offer both recreational and competitive dance.

“Anyone of any level is welcome. We offer all genres of dance,” she said.

The studio also offers cheer classes, a boy’s strength and conditioning class for sports, and private and group lessons.

Trout said they moved into their new location along Fourth Street just before the COVID-19 pandemic began last year. She said she and Pietro are excited for people to stop in and tour the brand new facility.

“People can come and tour the building and meet the staff,” she said.

The Dance Factory participates in competitions in the tri-state area. Trout said 10 students have won multiple regional titles already this year and are preparing for nationals, which will be held this summer in Sandusky, Ohio.

Trout said the owners and students are looking forward to this year’s showcase, which has been held every year since the business opened in its original location in 2007. The studio’s annual event, with the theme “A Season to Dance,” will be held at 11 a.m. June 5 outdoors at the St. Clairsville Amphitheater. Trout said every dancer that participates in competitions will perform what they have learned throughout this past year at the event.

“Last year’s (event) was really nice. Everyone had a lot of fun,” she said.

With the coronavirus restrictions that were in place last year, the show was moved outside to help ensure everyone’s safety.

“We wanted to make sure everyone could still come see their child and family members’ performance,” she added.

The showcase is open to the public for a cost.

Trout said The Dance Factory offers a comfortable environment for all students to learn while also having fun.

“We treat all of our students equally, whether you’re recreation or competitive. It’s a great learning environment. We have highly qualified staff who all have degrees in child development,” she said. “We make sure when the kids come here they feel welcome and loved.”

She said the studio also has dance apparel, shoes and bags available for purchase.

The dance studio is accepting registrations for its summer dance programs and the 2021-22 dance season. The summer program begins in June, while the dance season begins in early September. Those interested in registering can call Trout at 740-275-1253 or stop at the new facility from 4-8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday. For more information, visit tdfdancefactory.com or the studio’s social media pages.