We spoke with Linda Francica Laraqui, owner of Magical Movements School of Dance. Her passion for dance and love of what she does is truly inspiring! With locations in both Harrison and Mamaroneck, this award winning School of Dance is easily accessible throughout the Sound Shore area. Visit https://magicalmovements.net/ for additional information and follow along on Instagram.
Where are you from originally and where do you live now?
I was born in the Bronx, and grew up in Pelham Manor. As a newlywed, I lived in Manhattan, but convinced my husband to move to Westchester (White Plains).
How many children do you have and what are their ages?
I have one vivacious daughter, who is 5 years old.
Tell us about your dance background!
As a little girl, I used to put on “ballet shows” for my grandpa, as I danced to my grandma’s music box. I trained at a local dance studio under the direction of Beverly Law, a former Rockette. Majoring in Dance & Theatre at Manhattanville College, I performed in the realm of amazing choreographers, created pieces of my own, and was president of the student dance organization. I danced on MTV’s Direct Effect, and performed at venues in Westchester and Fairfield Counties.
When did you open Magical Movements? Was it always something you always dreamed of doing?
I opened Magical Movements a year after graduating college – September 2003. Miss Bev (my home studio owner) was my idol, and I dreamt of having my own studio, since I was a child.
That is so amazing that your childhood dreams came true! What types of dance classes do you offer?
Aside from typical classes, we offer toddler music & movement, Grown-up & Me, Fairytale Ballet, Preschool Acro/Tumbling, Pop Star Kids, Contemporary/Floorwork, and Choreographers Workshop. We also have themed mini-camps throughout the year.
What do you love the most about owning your own dance studio?
I love the performance aspect! Whether it’s a benefit, the recital, or a competition, it’s so fulfilling to work toward a goal, watch the students grow, and see them perform for an audience.
In 2011, I formed a preteen-teen dance company, known as The Shooting Stars. The group went on to perform at the Palace Theatre, Westchester County Center, Hudson Guild Theater, Madison Square Garden, Purchase College, and Barclays Center. They keep the excitement coming!
Thank you, Linda, for taking the time to speak with us! We are so lucky to have such a passionate business owner in our community!
Interview by Kelly Postiglione. Photos submitted by Magical Movements School of Dance