This summer, Bellissimo Dance Co. will join the lineup of fun summer programs in which to enroll. The new dance studio in Niles is for all ages interested in expressing themselves through artistic movement.
Bellissimo Dance Co. was founded by longtime friends and dancers Nicole Pagán and Jessica Jimenez. Pagán discovered dance on a whim when she swapped swim class enrollment for dance class. “I saw these kids dancing and thought, ‘I could do that,’” she explains. “Soon, dance became an anchor for me.”
This path eventually led to her earning a B.A. degree in dance studies, performing in professional dance programs and projects in New York City, and gaining over 20 years of teaching experience in studios across the Bay Area.
Jimenez weaved her way into the dance community by following in her older sister’s footsteps through tap dancing. Soon, she dove into other genres such as hip-hop, where she got the opportunity to choreograph a few eight-counts. Her most memorable experience was joining the color guard of her high school’s dance company, IndepenDANCE—iDance for short.
“iDance not only taught me technique but also the history of dance and who helped create these genres,” says Jimenez. “Color guard taught me discipline through its military-style training. All of these factors that I’d never considered before helped me fall in love with it even more.”
Jimenez went on to earn several dance accolades and continue dancing in college. Ultimately, she decided to pursue a business career in human resources and operations. Jimenez’ business proficiency and Pagán’s teaching prowess make them exemplary co-founders.
The dream for this dance studio came from just that—a literal dream. Jimenez says, “A few years ago, I dreamed Nicole and I were retired and still friends and decided to open a dance studio. I woke up feeling really happy and excited, so I shared my dream with her. Last year, we decided, ‘Let’s not wait until we retire. Let’s just do it now.’”
However, the unexpected happened when Pagán received a breast cancer diagnosis. Despite this, Pagán says, “If anything, my diagnosis only solidified my decision to open the dance studio. I came to the understanding that life is very fickle. You don’t know if tomorrow is promised.”
Jimenez supported Pagán’s decision, adding, “I wanted to give her that emotional space but she surprised me and was ready to go.” The two continued to plan in between Pagán’s treatments. Now, Pagán is proudly cancer-free and pouring her gratitude into their studio.
“Bringing dance to the community that raised me is really special. Since I live here and can walk to work, it feels like I’m living a Hallmark dream.”
Nicole Pagán
Bellissimo Dance Co. embraces many dance styles including ballet, tap, hip-hop and contemporary. Its first season, beginning July 14, involves youth day camps, dance intensives and masterclasses. The youth day camps are for ages 4 to 10, while the intensives and masterclasses are for ages 6 and up.
As a third-generation Niles local, Pagán is eager to have the studio in town. “Bringing dance to the community that raised me is really special,” she says. “Since I live here and can walk to work, it feels like I’m living a Hallmark dream.”
Jimenez’ love for Niles runs just as deep. After moving to Fremont in 2014, her pregnancy craving for ice cream brought her to Niles Ice Cream Sweets & Eats. “I had no idea this little pocket of Fremont existed so I was in awe. It felt like I belonged,” she says.
Knowing that Niles’ is now home to Bellissimo Dance Co. is a full-circle feeling for its co-founders. They not only hope to teach dance, but to help students find themselves. Pagán says, “We’re not just training our students to develop in their dance but to develop emotionally and send them off with tools that they can utilize in the real world.” This affirmation of self-discovery makes this a unique space for inclusivity and creativity.
Jimenez adds, “I call Nicole a unicorn because not only is she an incredible dancer and choreographer, but she knows how to connect with every dancer she encounters. She knows how to take the shyest of kids and pull them out of their shells.” These qualities are what make Bellissimo Dance Co. shine in a way that promises students a place to move and space to grow.
To learn more about Bellissimo Dance Co. or to register for classes, please visit bellissimodanceco.com.
We are proud to call this talented, tenacious, compassionate and strong woman our niece, and know that her students will become more confident and joyful after taking dance classes at Bellissimo. Brava, Nicole!!!!! xoxoxo