08/13/2026
A note from the founder of Gotta Dance, Jana Belot:
Thirty-seven years ago, I founded Gotta Dance with a vision to create a community where passion, discipline, and creativity could thrive. Watching it grow into one of the largest and most vital schools in the country has been the privilege of my lifetime, and a dream come true.
The true heart of this studio has never been its size, but the community that fills it. And because this studio is a family, choosing its future leadership has been a deeply personal and careful decision. I am incredibly proud to officially share that Olivia Del Duca and Mandy Lekites entered into leadership roles three years ago, and are soon to be owners. There is no greater joy for a founder than passing the torch to the very people who helped build the flame.
Mandy and Olivia both began their dance journeys here, developing their passion and talent into successful professional careers. Mandy spent 13 seasons performing as an Ensemble Dancer in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Alongside her performing career, she is the Director of the Showstoppers Dance Company and has served in a wide range of leadership and operational roles at Gotta Dance. And Olivia has served as Director of Operations for more than a decade, while also teaching and wearing countless other hats behind the scenes. Mandy and Olivia have a deep understanding of our culture, our history, and our standards.
Together, we want to thank you, our dance families, for being part of this special journey. And I thank you in advance for your ongoing support of Olivia and Mandy as they continue to lead Gotta Dance in the same spirit.