Chance to Dance Studio presents First Ballroom Show December 18

By Sally Jack
Contributing Writer
“You know what we’ve got in Monticello? We’ve got dance!” exclaims Dani Wilkins, owner, operator, and instructor of Chance to Dance Ballroom in Monticello. “We’re putting on our first show, and I want everyone to take the chance to come and enjoy the show!”
“The Year to Christmas Ballroom Show” takes place Thursday, December 18 at the Monticello High School Auditorium. The show starts at 7 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
Admission is $2.50 per ticket or 5 tickets for $10 or 1 can of non-expired food per person. Tickets for children under age 4 are free.
Dani notes that this is a community event and all are welcome. “The show we had scheduled for July 24 had to be postponed, so it really has been ‘A year to Christmas.’
Dani’s students are from all ages and walks of life. They come from Moab, Bluff, Blanding, Monticello, and Cortez.
“We have worked hard. My students have their routine. They are ready. They are excited, and nervous, and look forward to sharing their hard work and accomplishments with you. Please take the chance to watch us dance.”
If anyone knows about taking chances, it’s Dani (DeGraw) Wilkins. When Dani lost her job due to government cutbacks, instead of getting discouraged, or beating the streets looking for a new job, she saw it as a perfect opportunity to pursue her dream.
“This is my chance to do something I’ve always wanted to do. I’m going to open a dance studio of my own,” she said. And she did.
There was a learning curve as she navigated the waters of a new territory, learning how to start and run a small town business, advertise, find students, and turn a vacant building into a ballroom.
Much of the time it was just Dani and her little girl scrubbing and painting away to make her dream a reality.
Chance to Dance studio opened its doors on April 4, 2025. The ballroom, located at 65 South Main in Monticello, is a symphony of purple and gold, with mirrors, lighting, and exquisite artwork and accessories reminiscent of grand European ballrooms.
Chance to Dance offers Beginner dance lessons for youth and adults ages 13 to 95. Dani stresses that No experience is necessary.
“Most of my students have never danced before. When they begin, pretty much no one knows how to dance.”
As one of Dani’s students walked through the doors for the first time, he stated, “I do not dance.” Now, he will be in the show on the 18th.
A lot of people are afraid to chance, or think that they can’t do it. Learning to dance is a new experience for many people. It requires getting out of their comfort zone. The invitation to come and dance is typically met with a thousand reasons why they “can’t.”
Most of the excuses stem from fear, and Dani has heard them all: “I can’t dance.” “I don’t know how” “I’ve never learned.” “I’m no good at dancing.” “I’m too clumsy/awkward.” I’ll feel embarrassed.” And the big one, “I don’t have time.”
Everybody who has taken the chance gets over the fear,” says Dani. “It is hard, it takes effort, but you’re gonna be proud of what you can do. Was I good when I first started dancing?” asks Dani, “No. Most people are not good when they first start. But I can help you learn to dance well, if you are willing to commit.”
“Come and dance,” encourages Dani. “Take the chance to walk through those doors. The first time is free and fun. You have nothing to lose.”
Dance lessons are tailored for the individual, starting from where you are and what you need. The lessons, the cost, the schedule, are all customized for you. Students can learn to waltz, do the Swing, Tango, Foxtrot, and Rhumba.
Private and/or group lessons are offered throughout the week, from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. A dance party is held every Friday night from 8 to 9 p.m. where students and interested parties can come and have fun dancing and mingling with new friends in an informal setting. Even travelers who are just passing through town or spending the night in Monticello have sometimes come to enjoy the fun at the studio.
Exercise classes at the studio are Saturdays at 11 a.m. “Dancing is a very physical sport, so you have to be in condition.” explains Dani. It’s not required, but coming to exercise class is worthwhile and helps you to be a better dancer. While she can’t make any promises, Dani notes that she has seen people trim down and lose weight the fun way—when consistently dancing.
Dancing benefits people in many ways: (1) It’s social. Once you start dancing, you will find you have a whole community of new friends. (2) It’s physical. It gets you moving. Dani has seen elderly people overcome balance problems and become more stable on their feet. (3) It’s mental. Learning new routines is good for your brain. (4) It’s emotional. Dancing creates a feel-good, positive mindset. (5) Best of all, “Dance is fun!” says Dani. Take the chance to try it.
Prior to moving to Monticello, Dani taught ballroom dance at a studio in Florence, Alabama.
Find Chance to Dance Ballroom on Facebook, or call 385-258-3516.