Today we’d like to introduce you to Chickee Sacco.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Chickee. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
CDW began in Oct. 1983, I was 19 years old. At the time of the opening, I had a full-time job with a fitness company. After opening I realized I needed some extra income to pay the bills, so I got a job; as an ER clerk 11:00 PM – 7:00 AM I delivered pharmaceuticals to local nursing homes, a waitress in a pizza parlor and a dance instructor at a local elementary school and a nursing home and also waiting for the phone to ring at the dance studio. Thankfully the phone did ring and I was able to put on my first recital June of the next year.
Now 34 years later, the studio has moved 3 times we have evolved from an 800 sq. ft. studio to a wonderful facility with over 5000 sq. ft. My daughter Ariana is the artistic/competition team director. I employ 3 part-time teachers and 1 full time. I take care of all the administrative responsibilities. Although, I still peek into the studios and put my “two cents” in every chance I get. I know this old dog still has something to teach these young students about how it used to be. The dance world, in general, has come full circle.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No never. I started working at full tilt at 19 years old. I missed those crazy 20 something years simply because I couldn’t afford it. But also my responsibilities were exceptional. I couldn’t fail or just change my mind because it was a hard road. This was my dream and I wouldn’t let myself down. I worried all the time about paying the bills, about enrollment. I had many setbacks; we were robbed & vandalized many times.
In the first few years students came and went but then about 4 or 5 years in students started staying with me. Most of my students until this day start with me at 2 years and take a class until they graduated high school. We even have a college-age program for kids who want to continue at 21 years old. We also have an adult program for ladies and men that want to get their groove on.
I have several second generation families. That’s the best!!!!
Please tell us about Chickee’s Dance World.
We offer programs for children 2 years – 18 years old, for College-age adults who want to continue their studies, and for adults who may or may not every danced, in the basic Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Pointe, Ballet, and an Acrobatic program for all levels. We are known for a caring and loving atmosphere. One where a student can flourish without the unnecessary pressures. I feel our young folk already have so much pressure on them, I wanted and still want to offer a homelike atmosphere. We are also known for our “No bullying policies.” CDW will never turn a blind eye in the event a child or parent may feel bullied. We face all issues head on.
Our parents like our mentoring program. Every student has been helped at one time or another by another student. All our students know each other and support each other. I will not stand for anything less.
What I’m most proud of? I have several second-generation families. I have had one family that was the 3rd generation. I feel it is quite an honor when one of my former dancers brings her daughter in because the mom enjoyed her time with me and wants her daughter to feel the same way. I’m one of the older studios in the area that is still around. Meaning I haven’t sold my business. I’ve have developed a studio with a connection to the past and commitment to the future.
What role has luck (good luck or bad luck) played in your life and business?
Bad luck has made me the humble person/director and boss that I am. I also run a humble business and am greatful for all of my success. I take nothing for granted and am not an entitled person, but that was also my upbringing and being at the tail end of the baby boomer era. Whatever I have, I have earned.
Good luck sure I have been very lucky. Lucky to have had 2 loving parents that brought me up with values and morals. A sister who will and has helped me along the way. A loving husband and two children who supprt CDW. Yes I’ve had good luck and I am very Blessed.
Pricing:
- Pre-School, Kinder and Danceworks programs 1.5 hours, $68.00 per month
- Acrobatic programs 1 hour, $55.00 per month
- Unlimited program $248.00 per month
Contact Info:
- Address: Chickee’s Dance World is located at 67 Millbrook Street
- Worcester Business Center, South Entrance lower level.
- Website: chickeesdanceworld.com
- Phone: 508-792-0959
- Email: cdw4dance@outlook.com
- Instagram: @cdw4dance
- Facebook: @cdw4dance
- Twitter: @cdw4dance
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