Whitewater Police Chief Dan Meyer is known for keeping people safe and building community.  And he recently unveiled another talent – dancing!  He spent an afternoon at Studio 84 getting to know the dancers of all abilities who are students there, and he joined the troupe in dancing for joy.

Margaret Wheeler, the artist in residence who teaches dance at the studio, invited Chief Meyer to attend and learn more about the program. 

Co-choreographer Katherine M. Sainsbury and Margaret agree that the Chief was very interested in the students and enjoyed the dances. 

Margaret said, “The Chief was so kind; he listened to the students talk about their artwork and asked questions. He danced with us—he was a great sport and fine with wearing a Santa hat!”

Dancer Stuart Nagy said, “I have met three other really nice police officers. The Chief was awesome!”

Dancer Mila Holcombe agreed, “He’s such a nice Officer.”

Chief Meyer said, “Some of the artists I spoke with have been working at Studio 84 for over a decade and it was very apparent how important this opportunity is for them.”

Dancer Steven Paprocki said, “He really liked my artwork.”

Meyer said, “This was my first time being inside Studio 84, and I had no idea what it was all about beforehand. I was blown away by the positive atmosphere and how much pride the artists have in their work.”

An incredibly talented dancer herself, Margaret Wheeler donates her time each week to bring joy, laughter and dance to Whitewater’s Studio 84 at 121 West Center Street.  

People with all abilities are invited on Tuesdays from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. to join the dance class.  Each dancer pays $15 per hour to participate, and all proceeds are donated by Margaret to Studio 84.  More information and sign-up information can be found at:  www.studio84inc.org.

Her dance company has performed at the Multicultural Event through the Whitewater School District, Fairhaven, other local places, and is available for other venues.   Anyone interested in having a performance at their location or event should contact Studio 84 at info@studio84inc.org.

Dance is just one of the arts featured at Studio 84.  Stuart can often be found at the Whitewater City Market selling his pottery to help raise funds for Studio 84.  He has been involved in Studio 84 for about seven years and said, “I just love doing the arts.” And of dance he said, “It’s fun.  And it gets me energized.”

Meyer said, “The Co-Directors (Lynnette Gmur and Benjamin Kelly), Artistic Mentor (Karina Pittro), and volunteers really do amazing work and embody what community looks like. It’s a fantastic place.”

Their website says, “Studio 84 is a nonprofit art studio, gallery and store.  We specialize in the creative and vocational development of people with disabilities including those with Autism, Down Syndrome physical disabilities, cognition delays and mental illness.  We believe in creating an environment of inclusion. Open to all ages and all abilities.”

Editor’s Note:  This article was written by volunteer Marjorie Stoneman with photographs by volunteer Tom Ganser.