Astoria dancer opens studio that will act as ‘haven’ for dancers, musicians and actors By Angela Matua Art Suzana Stankovic, who grew up in western Queens, has been dancing since she was a child. The professional dancer, choreographer and teacher recently opened a studio in her hometown and is hoping to help her fellow dancers, many of whom have recently moved to Astoria, refine their skills. Stankovic began teaching dance to 3- and 4-year-olds when she was 17 years old and said it “felt very natural” to do so. “I love communicating, I love supporting people in their growth,” she said. “I love encouraging them to question their limiting beliefs and keep reaching higher and further and I love sharing what I have learned in my own life as a dancer and choreographer and everything I continue to learn.” Wild Hearts Performing Arts Studio officially opened on Jan. 26 at 32-32 Steinway St. It is the first dance studio in western Queens that focuses on adult classes though Stankovic will soon introduce classes for children. She said she’s always wanted to open a studio and decided that Astoria was a great location, especially since many dancers, musicians and actors have recently moved into the neighborhood. Stankovic teaches ballet, pointe, lyrical and Ballet Nymph Workout classes. Other classes include contemporary and classic jazz, which Stankovic said will be taught by professional dancers who are currently working. She added that she is selective with who she hires because bringing in dancers who are still in the business and not retired is “a huge and important detail.” “Teachers who are still active artistically and professionally bring fresh energy and insight,” she said. “They’re not stale in their teachings.” She also wants to change the way dance classes are conducted. Usually, studios cram as many dancers into one room as they can for financial purposes, she said. Stankovic aims to personally know each dancer and what his or her specific goals are. Photos by Andy Altmann Photo by Rachel Neville 36 April 2017 i LIC COURIER i www.qns.com
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