Rhinestones Unlimited Celebrates 25 Years with a Special Dance Partner: Larkin Dance Studio, Celebrating 75 Years!

Celebrating Success: Two Shining Stars

Rhinestones Unlimited, thrilled to be celebrating 25 years of serving sparkly creators, is honored to partner with a special customer: Larkin Dance Studio! As they mark a remarkable 75 years of top-quality dance instruction, Larkin Dance Studio continues to inspire generations of dancers.

Larkin Dance Studio: A Legacy of Excellence

Founded in 1950 by Shirley Larkin, Larkin Dance Studio is thriving under the leadership of her daughters Molly (Larkin) Symanietz, Michele (Larkin) Wagner, and granddaughter Mackenzie (Symanietz) Mitsch. With Michele's choreographic genius, Molly's heart and dedication, and Mackenzie’s eye on the future, the studio has continued the legacy of Mrs. Larkin as an industry leader with a heart for children and families.  

Recently, Mackenzie has played a crucial role in their success, choreographing routines for her cousins Ava and Ellie Wagner, and Savannah Manzel, who captivated audiences as finalists on NBC’s World of Dance.

The studio boasts a talented team including Chelsea Jennings, Shelby Fedema, Linda Muir Finney, Ilia Gorev, Julia Morrison, Madison and Jarrod Paulson, Laura VanRipper, Ashley Loughner, Tiffany Kirby, Corrie Rolf-Dunn, and countless other parents and teachers who are dedicated to help the dancers reach incredible heights.

A Legacy of Achievements

In the summer of 2023, Larkin Dance Studio was named “Studio of the Year” at The Dance Awards in Las Vegas. This honor is bestowed on only the best of the best and requires the dedication of the faculty and staff, as well as the dancers and their support “staff” of room moms, prop dads, and siblings. It is a full commitment to pursue this goal and 2023 was the second time Larkin was awarded this honor.

Larkin Dance Studio's legacy extends far beyond the walls of their studio. They have nurtured many successful professional dancers including, Chase Peterson @chase_peterson_, Reed Kelly @thetwofathoms, Nico Lonetree @nicogoofs, and Josh Green @wicked_musical. Plus, currently two of the three featured Claras in the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular are Larkin dancers; Savannah Jackson @savannahjackson5678 and Lilly Anderson @lillyjeananderson. 

In addition, Larkin consistently provides a pipeline of talent to top ranked college dance teams such as the local 20-time UDA champions and viral sensation, the University of Minnesota Dance Team. Current University of Minnesota Dance Team dancers include Michele’s granddaughter Ava Wagner and Matthew Greco who trained with Kelley Larkin, Molly and Michele's sister, at Studio L in New Jersey.

A Special Bond: Mrs. Shirley Larkin and Rhinestones Unlimited

A heartfelt connection ties our two companies together. Shirley Larkin, a friend of Rhinestones Unlimited founders Angie Peery and Sandy Price, played a vital role in our early success. Her passion for dance and business not only inspired us but has inspired generations of dancers, teachers, and competitors, and we are forever grateful for her influence.

Burlesque: A Celebration of the Larkin Legacy

To celebrate Larkin Dance Studio's year as 2023 Studio of the Year and their upcoming 75th season of excellence, we proudly showcase "Burlesque”, the opening number of their 2024 spring revue. This sparkling performance, choreographed by Michele Larkin Wagner and the Larkin Dance Studio faculty, embodies the studio's dedication to artistry, athleticism, and creativity.

The Burlesque costume, sewn by Larkin seamstresses led by Sue and Georganne, is adorned by parents with the highest quality  MAXIMA by Preciosa rhinestones in Light Peach Shimmer AB and Jet Hematite. The sparkle was part of the wow factor of this incredible piece.

The breathtaking performance by the Larkin Junior and Senior Dancers was filmed by Aura Studios and Laura Sukowatey. Featured dancers include Alexis Adair, Keira Redpath, Cece Thielen, Tahari Conrad, Kelsie Jacobson, and Savannah Manzel.

Sit back, enjoy the show, and join us in saluting Larkin Dance Studio's 75th anniversary!