Client Corner

This client was featured in November 2003. The information in this profile was accurate at the time of writing. Please contact us if you believe something should be changed.

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Ranae Keane-Bamsey
Kinetic Energy School of Movement
Cedar Falls, Iowa

Dancing has not only been a way of business for Ranae Keane-Bamsey, it has been a way of life. Still in high school, the wheels of opportunity started turning for Ranae as she received call after call requesting that she teach lessons and choreography. This spurred her interest to pursue movement training in college. She earned a B.A. in Dance/Theatre, a B.A. in Commercial Fitness Instruction & Promotion and an M.A. in Non-Profit Administration.

When she finished school and settled down with her husband, Ranae realized that she wanted a more family type of atmosphere; so she decided to take the extra step and start her own "family" business. This had been a major change from teaching dance at UNI, so she needed a little assistance and counseling in starting her own business. It was then that she decided to turn to the UNI Regional Business Center for assistance.

Because there is a lot associated with opening a business, Ranae took advantage of the many learning opportunities at the RBC. She's attended everything from Smart Start to Fast Trac and QuickBooks classes to several one-day programs such as OSHA's Knocking. Aside from the great classes, Ranae says that the personal connection with the people of the RBC, who work with her on an individual basis, is the most helpful to her. She was able to open her doors after only three short months of planning.

Now, Ranae's "Kinetic Energy School of Movement" - bodies in motion creating art- is in full swing and seems to be blooming everyday. With only three instructors, including her husband Duncan Bamsey who teaches instrumental music, she manages to offer a full array of activities for the community. Walking in, one can experience anything from ballet, jazz, tap, and ballroom dancing to yoga and capoeira. She also offers group classes and private lessons, music lessons, and a large supply of dance and yoga wear. Her classes represent real life as much as possible. They are filled with students of many different ages, cultures, and ability levels.

A fourteen-year veteran of teaching dance, Ranae has overcome many challenges. While getting the business on its feet, she worked full time teaching at UNI for the first three years. She also moved locations shortly after she opened her doors, which added to the stress of business. But she would definitely do it again - seeing the students grow is worth it.

Although she would have done it over again, she also would have done things differently. Ranae wishes that she had gone into business for herself years before she actually did, and that she had incorporated more business classes into her schooling. When asked what every entrepreneur needs to do in order to open a business, Ranae replied: "They must be extremely dedicated and have an understanding family. They also have to be open to change and always continue their own education."

The "Kinetic Energy School of Movement" is now accepting new students and the adult population is increasing.

"The feet may learn the steps, but only the spirit can dance" (unknown.)

You can view the contact information for Kinetic Energy School of Movement in our Business Directory.

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