Beth Schiebel, founder of Northeast School of Dance, announces retirement

Northeast School of Dance has announced the retirement of its founder, Beth Schiebel, capping a remarkable 56-year legacy that began when she opened the studio’s doors in 1969.

News release from the Northeast School of Dance:

Beth Schiebel, Founder of Northeast School of Dance, Announces Retirement
Celebration set for September 7, 2025, 1–5 p.m., at the studio on East State Boulevard

Fort Wayne, Indiana (August 27, 2025) — Northeast School of Dance has announced the retirement of its founder, Beth Schiebel, capping a remarkable 56-year legacy that began when she opened the studio’s doors in 1969. What started as a neighborhood program has grown into one of Fort Wayne’s most enduring arts institutions, guiding thousands of students and helping launch alumni to collegiate programs, professional stages, and award-winning youth ensembles.

A public retirement celebration honoring Mrs. Schiebel will be held Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Northeast School of Dance, 6728 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46815. Community members, former students, and families are invited to attend. RSVP details are available via the studio’s Facebook page or by calling the studio.

“From the very beginning, Beth believed dance could change lives—by building discipline, confidence, and community,” said Ann Slen, Director of Northeast School of Dance. “Her vision and generosity created a second home for generations of Fort Wayne dancers, and her impact will resonate for decades.”
Under Schiebel’s leadership, the studio became known for accessible, technique-forward training across styles and for cultivating strong performance groups, including nationally recognized jazz and tap routines. Alumni frequently credit foundational training with Mrs. Schiebel as a springboard to further study and professional work.

Schiebel’s retirement follows a long-planned leadership transition that began in 2010, when Slen assumed day-to-day direction of the studio—ensuring continuity of curriculum, culture, and community partnerships. “Beth entrusted us with a living legacy,” Slen added. “Our commitment is to honor her standards of excellence while welcoming the next generation of families to the art of dance.”

Event Details

What: Retirement Celebration for Beth Schiebel
When: Sunday, September 7, 2025, 1:00–5:00 p.m.
Where: Northeast School of Dance, 6728 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46815
RSVP: See the studio’s Facebook page post for RSVP instructions or call (260) 493-2804.

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