Fusia Center for the Arts opens its doors to more than dance, it welcomes a mindset of creativity, connection, and community. PTN host, Deanna Fontanez recently visited and had the opportunity to learn more about Fusia and what they offer.

Owner and founder Francesca Marinaro, who grew up in the area, turned her lifelong love of dance into a vision for something greater. “I got to the point where I thought, wait a minute, I want to share what I love with others,” she said. Inspired by her affection for her hometown and encouraged by her husband, Francesca saw the area as “a thriving, mini city just waiting for more arts to flourish,” and in 2011, she made her dream a reality by opening Fusia.

From the start, she says, “Right at the inception of Fusia, I thought to myself, why me? Why do I feel like I’m being called to create this space? I wanted it from the beginning to be a space for everyone.” The name Fusia, derived from “fusion,” reflects her desire to bring together universal cultures, languages, and dance styles, embracing not only performance but the creative process itself. “It’s not just about the final product,” she explained. “It’s also about how to take that art form out into the community through self-expression, through human development, and understanding that it’s a togetherness.” I

nclusivity lies at the heart of her mission: “Our goal here at Fusia is to make sure that all students feel accepted, that they’re enough. They don’t have to change who they are to fit in. They come in the door, and no matter who or what, they can dance.” Francesca takes the most pride in the way her students support one another. “I see the kids sitting and watching one another, cheering for each other. There’s never that sense of judgment, that’s what I’m most proud of.” 

To ensure everyone finds their place, Fusia offers a wide range of classes. “We have classes right from newborn all the way to adult,” Francesca said. “We go into ballet, modern, contemporary, hip hop, tap, we also have an acro dance program, which is huge, and the teachers who run it are just incredible. Most recently, we started an aerial dance class, a Cirque program. What I love is that we’re always taking chances. Anyone who visits in town can drop in and take a class, you can fly on a silk or take a ballroom dance class. There’s something for everyone here.” 

As Fusia celebrates 15 years, Francesca reflects on the journey with humility and gratitude. “You don’t do it for the recognition or the praise. You do it because you love it, because you feel like you’ve been called to do it.” She recalls finding her old writings, her senior thesis where she first envisioned the name Fusia, and even a poem she wrote at eleven about “planting a seed” and having the courage to grow. “No, you can’t see the final piece,” she said. “But you can feel it, that something is pushing you. My message to my students, my children, and anyone with a dream is: just do it. Just plant the seed.” From one small room with “one floor, one curtain, and one boom box” to a thriving arts center, Fusia has flourished into a creative force in the community.

“Whether it’s confidence gained, friendships made, or just the joy of moving freely, it’s clear Fusia is doing more than just teaching steps, they’re helping people grow from the inside out.”, Deanna shared.

If you live in the area or are just visiting, make sure to check out Fusia Center for the Arts and stop by, for a fun night out of movement and dance!