It’s a sultry June morning at Towson Dance Studio where we meet with Genya Bartashevich. Genya defines the eclectic wave of international entrepreneurs that are turning Towson into Baltimore County’s cosmopolitan hub of cuisine, art, and music.
How did a kid from Belarus end up over 4600 miles away teaching dance in Towson, Maryland?
In 2000, I came to America as part of a student exchange program and ending up working in Ocean City for the summer. I didn’t know it at the time, but later found that a summer job at Ocean City was a “rite of passage” for generations of Towson kids. I spent the summer bussing tables and doing general housekeeping at The Sheraton. I eventually made my way to Baltimore’s Belarus community and was hired as a dance teacher. I had been dancing since I was five years old, so it was an easy opportunity for me to take advantage of. In 2007, I turned professional and have been blessed with success at both the national and international level.
When did you take over Towson Dance Studio?
I took over in 2017 after I retired from competitive dancing. Towson Dance Studio is Maryland’s oldest commercial dance studio. We are celebrating our 65th anniversary next year, so I’m really excited to be the one to keep the legacy alive.
Tell Us About Your Clientele. Why do people want to learn to dance?
The majority of our clients come here to learn to dance in a social setting, such as, weddings, reunions, or nights out with friends. About 60% of our social clients are women. That number jumps to 80% when you only consider clients who want to learn to dance competitively. And there is really no age limit. Some of our clients are in their 70’s and 80’s and still dancing.
Dancing is obviously pretty physical. How do you stay in shape?
I turned 43 this year, so a good physical regimen is more important than ever. I work with a trainer twice and week and have my own specialized stretching routine. I also work with a massage therapist, acupuncturist, and chiropractor when needed.
Who is your hero? Who influenced the young Genya?
Easy question. It’s definitely Gene Kelly. He brought a rare combination of both grace and athleticism to dance. I’ve studied both “An American In Paris” and “Singing in the Rain.” And he also gave us one of the best quotes about life, ”Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, and it’s about learning to dance in the rain.” It’s just brilliant.
So what’s your favorite dance movie? Is it “Saturday Night Fever”?
Not at all. I actually didn't see “Saturday Night” until I came to America. My favorite dance movie is “Dirty Dancing.” Its presents a true version of dancer culture, its fun, and I always laugh at the line, “No one puts baby in a corner.”
Let’s talk about the upcoming Dancefest at Towson Dance Studio. What's that about?
It's an annual event at Towson Dance and we are proud to offer something for everyone. On June 27, we’ll be showcasing some of our students. It's a fun event and includes something for any level or interest in dance. The next day, June 28, we are hosting a formal Black and White Cocktail Party with a special dance presentation by World American Smooth Champions Roman Malkhasyan and Galina Detkina. The final day, June 29, is a series of workshops and private instruction for all levels.
We have a really prestigious line of instructors, such as Bachata World Champion Kat Arias. You can go to our website for details: https://towsondancestudio.com/finess/
One final question, “What do you want to be remembered for”?
Being a good teacher. As I’ve gotten older, my personal successes have faded into the background fade and now I take immerse pride in the ongoing success of my students. And that success can be placing in their first competition or simply navigating a ‘first dance” at a daughter’s wedding.
Special Thanks to David Riley for contributing this story to the Torch.
