For the past 23 years, From the Top Studio of Dance has been helping dancers of all ages discover the joy of movement, build confidence and create lasting memories. What began as one woman’s dream of opening her own dance studio has grown into a Newtown Square institution, offering quality dance education where hard work and fun go hand in hand.
Sheila Turner-Hilliard receiving her Rose for Toni award with her husband Jeff Hilliard, daughter Eve Turner and mother, Kathy Clement The foundation for From the Top began long before the studio opened its doors. Owner Sheila Turner-Hilliard is a lifelong Newtown Square resident who started dancing at the age of three. Growing up as one of five children, she took classes at a local studio owned by a former Radio City Music Hall Rockette and quickly fell in love with dance. As a young dancer, Sheila performed at Rose Tree Park and the annual St. Albans Circle Tree Lighting Ceremony, experiences that would eventually come full circle when her own students began performing at many of those same community events. She also remembers the special trips to New York City, where her dance teacher introduced her to classes with legendary dancers and choreographers.
After graduating from Marple Newtown High School, Sheila attended Kutztown University, earning a degree in Speech Communications with a minor in Public Relations. Dance had given her confidence and helped her become comfortable speaking and performing in front of others, skills that influenced her educational and professional path. While attending college, she participated in the university’s dance program and taught dance at a local studio. After graduation, she spent 10 years working in sales and marketing in downtown Philadelphia.
But the dream of owning a dance studio never left her.
In 2004, Sheila decided it was time to make that dream a reality. As she searched for the right name, she thought about a familiar phrase heard in dance studios everywhere: “Let’s take it from the top!” The name stuck, and From the Top Studio of Dance was born. Over the years, the business has grown from one small studio space into a much larger facility with three studios and a talented team of instructors and staff. Today, the studio proudly celebrates 23 years of quality dance education with its signature “twist of fun.”
That combination of quality instruction and a welcoming atmosphere has always been central to Sheila’s vision. The supportive dance studio where she grew up profoundly influenced her, and she wanted to create that same sense of belonging for her own students. At From the Top, dancers are encouraged to develop their skills while also feeling safe, accepted and comfortable being themselves.
“I had felt so safe and comfortable as a student in that dance studio, with all the other students, whether they were competitive or recreational dancers,” Sheila explained. “At a very formative time in my life, it was very helpful to have such an outlet to be able to express myself.”
Today, that philosophy still shapes the studio. From the Top welcomes dancers of all abilities and offers instruction in Movers & Shakers, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern and Pointe, along with adult dance classes, birthday parties and other opportunities to get moving. The studio’s faculty brings a wide range of professional experience and backgrounds to the classroom, while sharing the same commitment to helping students learn, grow and enjoy the experience.
Students can participate recreationally or pursue more advanced opportunities, including the studio’s award-winning competition team. But whether a dancer takes one class a week or spends much of the week at the studio, every student has the opportunity to perform and experience the excitement of being on stage. The annual recital remains one of the season’s highlights, giving dancers and their families a chance to celebrate all they have accomplished throughout the year.
One of the most meaningful parts of Sheila’s work, however, has been her commitment to the special needs community. Since 2006, From the Top has worked with special needs programs throughout Delaware County and has welcomed dancers with a wide range of physical and intellectual challenges. Sheila also offers her own open enrollment class, creating an opportunity for students to experience the fun, friendship and freedom of dance.
“It is by far the most rewarding and fun part of my day,” Sheila said. “Our dance classes are more like dance parties, where I can express myself just as much as my students.” Her dedication to these students has earned Sheila recognition throughout the community, including the Rose for Toni Award from AALIVE (Adults with Autism) and Marple Newtown High School’s PEPPER Award for her positive influence and commitment to students.
Sheila and her special needs dance crew have also performed at community events, including the ANEWAY for Purpose Gala, helping demonstrate the important role that people of all abilities can play in their communities.
Beyond the regular dance season, From the Top offers additional ways for the community to get involved. Adult dancers, from beginners to experienced performers, can continue dancing for fun, fitness and personal growth. Summer dance camps give younger dancers the opportunity to spend their days dancing, playing games, making crafts and building friendships, with each camp culminating in a performance for family and friends.
Through it all, From the Top has remained deeply connected to the Newtown Square community. Its dancers have performed at the St. Albans Circle Tree Lighting Ceremony and other local events, continuing a tradition that Sheila herself experienced as a young dancer. For her, that sense of community is one of the most rewarding parts of owning a studio in the town where she grew up.
Sheila has always viewed her students as more than just dancers who come to class each week. She takes pride in watching them grow, not only as performers but as people. Over 23 years, countless students have passed through the studio doors, developing confidence, friendships, discipline and a lifelong appreciation for the performing arts.
That may be the true legacy of From the Top Studio of Dance. The steps, routines and performances are important, but so are the memories made along the way. For 23 years, Sheila and her staff have created a place where students can challenge themselves, express who they are, have fun and feel like they belong.
From the Top Studio of Dance is located at 3603 Chapel Road in Newtown Square. For more information about classes, registration and upcoming programs, visit FromTheTopDance.com or call 610-353-2623.