Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Robin Parfitt has created a new home for wary hearts. Just a year after the passing of Nicole Parfitt, 14, and Todd Parfitt, 50, widowed Robin Parfitt opened a studio in the memory of her daughter.
The idea of Shine Bright Dance Studio was dreamt up by Robin with Nicole and Rihanna’s popular song “Shine Bright Like a Diamond” in mind. To Robin, the song “Shine Bright Like a Diamond” embodies the spirit of her daughter and how she lived her life in so many ways. The song is as inspiring for her as the studio is for the growing number of students who are attending.

The dream crept toward reality this past summer, when a fundraiser was held Aug. 3 in Nicole’s honor. The function contained an auction, dinner and dance performances to raise money for the prospective studio. A moving prayer was read before the dinner began, setting the mood. The meal was followed by five dance performances, one performed to the singing and piano playing of former Antioch Community High School student Gillian Etherington. After the visual performances, all the guests were lead outside to witness a butterfly release by the dancers in Nicole’s honor. The event was a huge success and an emotional journey for everyone who attended.

Starting in October, the Shine Bright dancers began learning choreography and practicing skills in Robin’s basement. Although the arrangements were not the highest quality for dancing, the dancers embraced it whole-heartedly. The authenticity of the studio lies within the dedication of the students and teachers. Above anything else, the students and teachers are all there due to a mutual love for dance.

“Dancing at Shine Bright gives me inspiration every day. We dance for the girl we love and whatever we do, we do for Nicole. We could not show our love for Nicole in a better way. I could not be more honored to be a part of this dance family,” said Tori Borchert, a junior at Westosha Central High School.

The permanent location of the new studio can be seen from Route 173 in Antioch, across from Antioch Lanes at 880 Tiffany Rd. Upon entering the studio, one sees a gorgeous waiting area and is greeted by the phrase “Shine Bright Like a Diamond” painted on the wall. The waiting area has televisions where parents can watch a live feed of what is going on in each dance room. The studio is complete with three state-of-the-art dance rooms, two of which have sprung marley floors that help to absorb shock. The entire studio is bathed in purple, Nicole’s favorite color.

The private grand opening was held on Nov. 10 for the dancers who had been rehearsing for two months in Robin’s house. The reactions toward their new home away from home were priceless.

“When I walked into the studio for the first time I was absolutely awestruck. It was above and beyond anything I could have imagined. It represents Nicole so well, so it’s like she’s always there with us,” said sophomore Paige Gruber.

“The studio was the most breathtaking and beautiful studio I have ever seen. I love being able to dance with people who were also close to Nicole and being able to dedicate every dance to our beautiful angel,” said senior Haley Imler.

A public ribbon cutting ceremony was held on Nov. 15. The studio was full of tears when thanks were given, and all the dancers had a group hug with Robin. The mood lightened as the dancers were able to enjoy the new space and dance around in the new facilities. The formal event was attended by many, including Nicole’s friends, fellow dancers and the mayor of Antioch. A news crew from ABC 7 attended as well, and the ceremony was shown briefly on Channel 7’s 10 p.m. news.

The inspiration behind the studio’s creation is what makes it so incredibly special. For those who work there, it is so much more than a job. For those who dance there, it is a way to continue to dance alongside Nicole and honor her every single day.

“It’s different than any other studio because of the atmosphere and the teachers” said Liz Janito, a sophomore at Lakes Community High School.

The new studio offers recreational classes for several age groups. Competition classes are broken into the levels of Rubies, Emeralds, Sapphires and Diamonds. The studio offers the styles of jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, hip hop and modern.
“Robin has inspired me this past year by seeing things differently and showing us that when something so horrible happens you can create something beautiful,” said freshman Morgan Holub, who dances competitively through Shine Bright.

For those who attend Shine Bright, dance is more than just a hobby or a sport; it’s a livelihood. Shine Bright Dance Studio is a home and a family for everyone who walks through the Parfitt’s front door. The Shine Bright family is looking to grow even bigger. Registration for non-competition classes is still open. If interested, see Shine Bright’s official website, www.shinebrightdance.com.