TAMPA-The 2900 block of Tampa Street was filled with praise music and worship Saturday evening as the Exciting Central Baptist Church hosted a free benefit outdoor concert. The event was held to boost a locally owned Christian dance company back onto its feet after being shutdown by COVID-19.
After the outbreak in March, Studio 28 lost 60% of its student. This hit the small business hard.
“Our world turned upside down,” said studio owner, Janice Toussaint. “ The place where the youth called home was no longer there.”
In the United States, since COVID, more than 85 percent of small businesses have been forced to temporarily close while 70 percent are facing prolonged financial hardships, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Of those 70 percent, more than half worry they will have to permanently close.
Like these businesses, searching for alternative income streams, they started live streaming dance classes. They also upgraded their internet and devices to ensure a good connection for online consumers. To meet CDC guidelines for reopening, Studio 28 moved into a bigger space and invested in devices such as contactless thermometers for in-person health checkpoints.
Despite the financial challenges, studio owner, Janice Toussaint, offers free work out and dance sessions to the community, to give isolated neighbors a chance to get active and socialize.
“I’ve been so caught up with working from home and sitting around all day, the free exercise classes were a blessing!” said Hampton University Business student, Jada Kennedy.
The Christian-based studio has served Tampa since 2013 offering scholarships, free summer events, and dance activities open to the community. It is an outlet for Tampa Bay’s youth, -cultivating creativity, artistic expression while offering religious ministry.
“We teach our youth here at studio 28 the four C’s: confidence, courage, character, and craftsmanship,” said studio founder and CEO, Janice Toussaint. “The community and our students call Studio 28 their home and family.”
Students involved in the studio say it’s an important part of their lives
“I quit football to dance at the studio,” said 18-year-old high school senior, Cameron King, “and I can tell you I never been a part of a family as tight as this one.”
A few members of the Studio 28 family who also attend the church shared the studio’s story with the ministry leadership. Hearing about COVID’s impact, the church stepped in to help rebuild the studio that has poured into the community and youth.
“Janice is doing awesome work,” said associate pastor, Zeb McKinon. The church posted on its social media account: “We’re honored to be able to lend Studio 28 a helping hand.”
They decided to help organize and publicize a benefit concert, which was held on October 24 on the lawn of the church at 2923 N. Tampa Street. The show was free, but contributions were accepted.
Signs were posted on the lawn reading “Text Give to 833-385-8137” prompting the audience to donate throughout the show.
Studio owner, Janice Toussaint handed out t-shirts and recital tickets to guests who drove the furthest, attended the most shows, or brought the youngest attendee.
Members of the studio performed over 10 solo and ensemble pieces for the crowd of about 150. Dancers ranged from beginner to advance, from children to adults. Selections featured jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, and more.
Each dance choreographed to a Christian-based song allowing audience members to enjoy a worship experience throughout the show.
“With all the lights and energy, it felt like I was in a full-on production,” said 15-year-old viewer, Tyra Kennedy, “It was a very enjoyable praise break I needed after being cooped up in quarantine for so long.”
Onlookers sat in lawn chairs and blankets, clustered as family units, following COVID precautions. Event coordinators enforced CDC guidelines, marking the 6-feet barrier between groups with yellow flags. Attendees also wore masks and other protective gear throughout the night.
Following the dances and testimonies, DJ Ron provided sounds for the guest to enjoy as they packed up and left safely.
Although the church was only able to help the studio reach 10% of its goal, Janice Toussaint was very appreciative of the help and support in these trying times. Studio 28 is working to increase registration this season and continue the positive impact they’ve made on the community.
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