Those who have come to Dancers Studio Inc. in Columbus over the past three decades have have learned far more than how to move to the music. They can thank Alma Wiley for that.
The Elizabethtown native co-founded the studio 27 years ago and has served as director of the nonprofit arts agency ever since.
An advocate for interpretive dance, Wiley has helped hundreds of students learn an art language, teaching them how to tell a story and share a message through symbolism expressed with motion.
Wiley, through her studio, did more than that, though. She provided an an opportunity for students to be active and included, to discover a passion and learn to express emotions, to find an identity and feel a sense of family.
Her care for students reached beyond Dancers Studio. She also taught dance to students with various disabilities through VSA Indiana.
Wiley’s contributions will be missed in the 62-year-old’s retirement.
An April 14 concert at Judson Erne Auditorium at Columbus North High School served as her farewell. Titled “Alma’s Attic,” the concert highlighted 10 full pieces and five partial works she choreographed over the years.
Despite Wiley’s retirement, her dance studio will continue. And, her legacy and influence will carry through the hundreds of dancers she has taught over the years.
