ASHLAND — The Opus II Dance Studio, official school of the Ashland Regional Ballet, has introduced the school’s first new director, Ann Marie Benshoff-Todd.
“Opus II Dance Studio has been my second home since I was 4 years old. After living away from Ashland, I know that it was Opus pulling me home.,” Benshoff-Todd said.” I have always dreamed of sharing my love of dance with everyone around me. I am excited to carry the legacy and traditions that Hellie began into the future.”
Founder Hellie Schssler, who started the school in 1982, stated that the positions of Artistic Director and School Director are interdependent.
“The school (Opus II) provides the training and the company (ARB) provides the higher level performing opportunities,” the school stated in a press release. “These two directors must work hand in hand and must have complete and mutual understanding of the curriculum and repertoire.”
Schussler handed over Artistic Directorship to Sarah Cyders nine years ago. The baton has once again been passed with the position of School Director now going to Benshoff-Todd.
Schussler remains on staff as Executive Director.
“We are thrilled to have Ann Marie as part of our team,” said Becky A. Barnes, President of the ARB Board of Directors “We are very fortunate she is a product of our school, Opus II, and Ashland Regional Ballet and has worked with Hellie.
“She has lived and knows our mission and our commitment to providing quality education and performance opportunities.”
In the early years of the dance school and company, Schussler did all three jobs, the school noted in a press release.
“It was logical. I was the one who wanted to make it all work, but it was smaller back then and I was young and blessed with endless energy,” she said. “Also, Curt (my husband and co-founder of the School) was always there to pick up the pieces when I needed help.
“Now with family health problems occurring we are both feeling the need to take life slower.”
Schussler stepped down as Artistic Director in the summer of 2009. Cyders, an alumni of the school and company, is now in her 9th season at the helm of Ashland Regional Ballet.
“She has done an amazing job in this position. Anyone who saw our Nutcracker this past December can attest to the continuing and thriving artistry of our dancers,” Schussler said. “This is a direct result of Sarah’s leadership.”
Benshoff-Todd joined the staff at the beginning of the school year in 2014 as an administrative assistant.
“Ann Marie’s versatile capabilities and can-do attitude make every task more enjoyable,” Schussler said. “She was already performing the duties of School Director. It was only logical to promote her to the title.”
Cyders and Schussler both said they enjoy working with Benshoff-Todd, creating a strong teamwork atmosphere.
“Ann Marie has such a wonderful personality that you can’t help but be drawn to her,” Cyders said. “That personality and her positive attitude make her a great fit for the school.
“I am thrilled to be able to work beside her to continue bringing the love of dance to many generations to come.”
Ashland Regional Ballet’s Winter-Into-Spring season of dance continues with The Magic of Harry Potter, a collaborative performance with the Ashland Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, Feb. 3 at Archer Auditorium, Ashland High School.
In March the company will perform its annual Cabin Fever Shows for young audiences. In May the school and company will present the 36th annual Spring Dance Concert at Ashland University’s Hugo Young Theatre.
Ashland Regional Ballet may be contacted at www.AshlandRegionalBallet.org.
