Megan Park Grimm Balancing the Scales with Chance 2 Dance Studios

Chance 2 Dance Studio (C2D) did not happen by “chance.” It was years in the making and inevitable. Owned by former Arkansas Razorbacks Pom Dancer Megan Park Grimm, with over 30 years of dancing experience, Grimm has the right moves literally. C2D ranges from toddlers ages 2.5 years old to adults and with locations in the outskirts of Fort Smith, Arkansas, just shy of an hour from Walmart headquarters in Bentonville with two locations in Greenwood and Van Buren. The mission of the all-inclusive studios is for every child to have the “Chance 2 Dance.” In living out that mission, Chance 2 Dance is one of the few nationwide and the only in her area to offer classes specifically inclusive to special needs, all-male classes, financial programs, as well as classes for adults. The importance of including everyone has been a passion project. The C2D premise thrives on its mission to never exclude anyone from the opportunity to experience the world of dance. It is often served as a reminder that it’s never too early or too late for those who share the same passion for the art of dance. 

“Dance has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I attended The University of Arkansas, graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering, and worked as a process engineer in the oil & gas industry for a decade while moonlighting as a dance teacher at local studios. In early 2014, I was going through some major life changes and navigating a man's world in my career before the height of the Me Too movement.  I had a passion and drive and needed a change from a toxic work environment. With the guidance of an amazing mentor, I knew God was calling me back home (Van Buren, AR) to open a dance studio, cited the accomplished Artistic Director. I want to give back to the community that has given me so much.”  

C2D offers ballet, lyrical, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, musical theater, pom, and ballroom classes. Additional programs include tumbling and technique and both competitive and performance dance teams. Running a run-of-the-mill dance studio didn’t excite the former collegiate dancer; she wanted to serve with purpose. With expansion imminent due to the overwhelming success of her first location and amid the COVID-19 pandemic raging around the globe, Chance 2 Dance continued to grow. It opened up its second location in August 2020.

While social distancing has been encouraged and the safety of all students, instructors, parents, and audiences continues to be encouraged, C2D found new ways to reach and keep current students engaged through virtual dance classes, outdoor tumbling, and smaller class sizes.   “It was a rough go for a while, but my amazing staff has stood by me and worked harder than ever to keep providing a safe environment for dancers to come and learn,” says Megan. For more on dance programs, competition teams, and schedules information, visit www.chance2dance.net for more details.