Owensboro native Brendan “Wicked Curls” Stewart opened The Vault Dance Studio on Chuck Gray Court last month, offering various classes. Stewart has been involved in the dance industry since 2nd grade performing in several capacities, and he’s excited to share what he’s learned with the community.
Summer classes include children’s jazz and hip-hop ranging from level one to level three, as well as adult hip-hop classes. Stewart also offers sweat classes, where he puts his spin on fitness and movement for individuals of all levels.
“We have something for 6-year-olds up to adults,” Stewart said. “We have something for everyone. Anyone that wants to dance is welcome here, regardless of their skill level. I chose The Vault as the name because our goal is to motivate everyone to unlock their true potential.”
Stewart said he’s had people tell him they can’t dance and would never hit the dance floor, and that’s not OK with him.
“They can come in here and find a corner and make small movements to ease themselves out of their comfort zone,” he said. “Before you know it, they’ll be making big movements, dancing and having a good time, and hopefully, turning a bad day into a good one.”
His ultimate goal is for his students to climb the ladder of classes, pushing further with each movement they make. Opening the studio was his dream, and he wants to use it to inspire others to chase their dreams, regardless of what they are.
“I want to encourage my students to never give up on themselves and to chase anything they want to do, whether it includes dancing or not,” he said. “In everything I’ve done, I’ve had a great support system in Owensboro, and this is the perfect opportunity for me to give back.”
Stewart traces his passion for dance back to Sutton Elementary when he participated in a fine arts festival at a young age. Shortly after that, he joined Joy Johnson’s Dance Academy, where he learned all the essentials from Johnson and Ashley Martin.
“Ms. Johnson helped me a lot when I was younger,” Stewart said. “She allowed me to come out and try dance classes. I got an opportunity to be in the apprentice company and then the company. It encouraged me to branch out and grow my knowledge.”
Stewart said Johnson and Martin reached out to share their excitement about his new venture.
From Chicago to New York and Los Angeles, Stewart has trained and performed with some of the country’s most talented dancers. More than anything, he’s excited to grow The Vault and inspire a new generation of dancers.
A complete class list is available on The Vault Dance’s Instagram here.
