BACK in February of 2022 spoke to a passionate but nervous Kathryn Cree as she opened her very own dance school.
Now, K.C Dance is nearing a year in operation - and the Irvine woman hasn't looked back since.
READ MORE: K.C. Dance: Owner ‘overwhelmed’ at response to new Irvine school of dance
Having taught in other dance schools for three years beforehand, Kathryn told the Times she has been "overwhelmed" with the success of her own venture.
She said: "Our first year has went so quickly but has been filled with so many amazing memories.
"I opened the dance school not knowing what to expect and I have been completely overwhelmed with the success of the school and the talented boys and girls in it.
"We have been attending competitions over Scotland throughout the last year, with lots of our kids and teams winning top spot trophies.
"We are growing in numbers and we are so excited to see where 2023 takes us."
Having began dancing herself at the age of five, Kathryn has some amazing memories of her own time performing.
She attended The Dance School of Scotland for six years while of secondary school age before further training at Bird College in London.
She loved her time on stage, and now can't wait for students at K.C Dance to experience this themselves.
She explained: "We have started preparations in the new year for our first big showcase which takes place at Centrestage Kilmarnock on Saturday April 1.
"Many of our kids have never danced on a stage due to the pandemic so I am delighted to give them that opportunity and can’t wait to watch them shine from the side of stage."
Though the dance school provides much more than just teaching.
Kathryn added: "In the future I hope to keep providing high quality dance training and continue to provide a safe space for children to do what they love whilst making lifelong friendships."
While with the K.C Dance's first birthday just on the horizon, it gave Kathryn the perfect opportuniy to reflect, and thank all those who made this dream a reality.
She commented: "I could never do this without the families that support K.C Dance and my fantastic teacher Caitlyn Duffy who we all love so much.
"I am so lucky to be surrounded by amazing parents/families of the children I teach.
"It really does feel like a dance family and I and forever thankful for their support."
For more information, or to get involved in K.C Dance, visit their Facebook page - facebook.com/k.cdanceschool/.
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