ABOUT US

Our Story:

In May of 2020, following the year end recital and closure of Midwest Dance Synergy, a studio that had

given over 15 years of service to the youth of our local area. Grant & Mariah Demke, Residents of

Gallatin, MO set out to continue the services needed in this area by establishing Elite Arts Dance

Academy. We determined that in order for us to be successful in this endeavor, we would need to

combine Mariah’s extensive knowledge in dance and instruction with Grant’s many years of business

management. We are making this journey to bring not only dance to the area but many other various

styles of the performing arts.

With the tremendous help of Friends and Family, We officially opened Elite Arts Dance Academy in

October of 2020.

Over the past 2+ years we have been working to improve the dance academy and have added many to

our staff who share with us, a love of the performing arts and a desire to expand the opportunities

offered in our local area.

We plan to continue growing and adding new talent, programs & opportunities to our community in the

future.

“I remember standing in the parking lot after the recital, waiting for Mariah and our kids when I

overheard multiple questions like “What are we going to do now?” or “Where will we go?” Before that

moment, I was disinterested in Dance. I was frustrated from all the long hours and weekends my wife

put into her work. Mariah tried to convince me in taking over MDS months prior but I decided it would

be too much work. When I heard those questions and saw the sad faces of the students whose passion

was slipping away, I understood that passion, these students had, and I knew right then and there that

WE had to do this. I knew that this service must not end as it was/is an avenue of expression that would

otherwise disappear.

I immediately set out to tell Mariah that I was onboard with the Studio and immediately learned she

didn’t want to do it. We were about to have our youngest child and she was scheduled for surgery

shortly afterward. I told her I knew it was supposed to be us doing the studio. After a week of

conversation and planning, we set out on this incredible journey.”

-Grant Demke

Co-Owner EADA