From RAHS to Center Stage: Delaney Oakes Brings "Next Level" Training Home

ByTyler Asp 

REEDSBURG —For many Reedsburg Area High School students, graduation is just the beginning of a lifelong connection to their community. For Delaney Oakes ‘18, it was the start of a journey that led her back home, fueled by a mission to grow the local dance scene and give back to the town that raised her.

Oakes is the owner and lead instructor of 1027 Dance, a studio that has quickly become a cornerstone of the Reedsburg community. With over 300 dancers currently enrolled, the studio is more than just a place to learn steps; it is what Oakes said is a "home away from home."

Born and raised in Reedsburg, Oakes’s decision to open her business here was driven by a deep connection to her hometown. "I already knew people here," Oakes said. "And I felt like there was a demand for a different type of studio."

Her journey toward becoming a dance educator was sparked during her time at RAHS. She credits orchestra teacher Mr. Hennig and retired chemistry teacher Ms. Fish for inspiring her career path. Their influence instilled what she said was a desire to "constantly learn new things and pass on knowledge to others."

At 1027 Dance, Oakes focuses on providing what she calls "next level training" that she said is not always available in smaller towns. By staying current with evolving dance trends, she ensures her students receive the best possible instruction, particularly in her favorite styles: tap and hip hop.

However, the technical training is only half of the mission. Oakes emphasizes an environment built on kindness and positive reinforcement. "A good dance teacher notices and praises when a dancer does something correct," Oakes said. "[They] correct and teach when a dancer does something wrong, but never criticize."

This philosophy has resonated deeply with her students. Mady Hora ‘27 joined the studio this year after 14 years of dance. "Delaney and her studio have allowed me to fall in love with dance all over again," Hora said. "It is such an uplifting environment... Dancers are in a space where it feels safe to make mistakes."

Success has not come without personal growth. Oakes said that the biggest hurdle was overcoming the pressure to be perfect and worrying about others' opinions. Today, she said she views her role as a female business owner as both an honor and a responsibility.

"I wanted to do more than just teach dance; I wanted to be a good role model and a safe person in kids’ lives," Oakes said.

Her impact as a role model is evident to her dancers. Addison Schultz ‘27 noted that Oakes manages to run a successful business while making every student feel seen. "I truly feel like I have become a better version of myself since knowing Delaney and dancing at her studio," Schultz said.

While 1027 Dance has already reached the 300-student milestone, Oakes isn't finished growing. Within the next five years, she said she hopes to expand into a larger facility with more studio space to accommodate more families and dancers.

For Oakes, the most rewarding part of the journey remains the community she has built. As 1027 Dance continues to evolve, it remains a testament to what an RAHS graduate can accomplish by bringing their passion back to the heart of Reedsburg."I’ve met some of my best friends and the most important people in my life through this studio," she said.