ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — There is a new performing arts studio set to open in St. Pete September 1, that’s giving people of all talents a chance to pursue their dreams.
Heather and Dave Hamar have been performing professionally most of their lives. The husband and wife love the exhilaration and now they are striving to pass that feeling on to others through their new studio, The Mar.
“You can be something small that’s just trying to grow and thrive and we want to be a part of helping you get there,” said Heather.
Located in an old escape room on the corner of Central Avenue and 23rd Street, the couple has been renovating the space for the past six months. They already have bands, dance groups and improv troops signed up to rent it out.
“Sort of bridging the gap, maybe those companies that aren’t big enough for their own brick and mortar but bigger than their own house,” said Dave Hamar.
The Ballet Academy of St. Petersburg says it’s the perfect spot to give their company a leg up.
“Definitely being associated with Heather and Dave there is a lot of resources, a lot of connections, a lot of other people looking to join up,” said Trisha Geinzer, of the Ballet Academy of St. Petersburg. “The larger places start upwards of $5,000 for one day, so to have a space like this where you can come in and rent for a reasonable price.”
Heather and Dave also plan to employ friends from across the Tampa Bay entertainment industry, when it comes to offering private lessons.
“To help some of the more underserved students in the area, to give them more programing, to give them more knowledge of this craft and what it is to be a performing artist professionally,” said Heather.
Professional musician Ronnie Dee has been entertaining crowds in St. Pete since 1990. He said now more than ever we need to do all we can to promote creative expression.
“The opportunities that are going to be planted here as seeds know no bounds right now and I am proud to not only be there friends but to also be an artist that is also planning on having shows here,” said Dee.
For more information, go to themarstpete.com.
