Obetz Honors Wiseman Dance Studio
Obetz, Ohio, October 28, 2024 – At last night’s City Council meeting, the City of Obetz proudly recognized and celebrated the legacy of Wiseman Dance Studio and its founder, Ms. Sharon Wiseman, with an official proclamation. The proclamation, presented by Mayor Angela Kirk, commemorated the studio’s 57 years of unwavering dedication to the art of dance, its contributions to the community, and the countless lives it has enriched.
Wiseman Dance Studio has been a cherished institution in Obetz, guiding generations of dancers with skill and passion since its founding in 1969. Ms. Wiseman’s journey began early, as she started dancing at the age of five at Georgia Gay Dance Studio. Her talent and commitment took her to the renowned Jacobs Pillow Dance School in Massachusetts on a scholarship at 17, and later back to her hometown to start her own studio in the basement of her family’s home. In 1980, she opened a dedicated studio on Williams Road, eventually relocating to Lockbourne Road in 2000 and then to its final home on Alum Creek Drive.
Ms. Wiseman’s devotion to her students went beyond just teaching dance. Known for creating a welcoming and nurturing environment, she instilled creativity, confidence, and a strong sense of discipline in all her students. Her influence extended to many aspects of community life. In addition to producing talented dancers, Wiseman Dance Studio became an Obetz mainstay, frequently performing at Hamilton Township High School and the annual Obetz Zucchinifest, participating in parades, and even performing at Disney World on four occasions. Ms. Wiseman’s reach also extended to coaching, where she contributed her time and leadership as a softball coach for the Hamilton Youth Athletic Association (HYAA) for a decade.
Wiseman Dance Studio was not only a place for dance but also the birthplace of the Emerald Lasses Baton Corp, providing even more opportunities for youth to explore the performing arts. For 25 years, Ms. Wiseman shared her expertise on a national level by judging dance competitions, becoming a respected figure in the dance community far beyond Obetz.
Although Ms. Wiseman retired in 2020, her love for dance and teaching kept her connected to her students until she officially closed the studio on June 8, 2024. Her impact, however, endures, with many families returning to her studio across generations. Her former students often recount fond memories and proudly showcase dance moves she taught them, whether performing a shuffle ball change or demonstrating a perfect first position.
The proclamation presented on October 28, 2024, by Mayor Angela Kirk, declared June 8, 2025, as an official day of honor for Wiseman Dance Studio. The day commemorates Ms. Wiseman’s legacy of artistic achievement, community spirit, and the family-like environment she cultivated within her studio. Mayor Kirk expressed her deepest gratitude for Ms. Wiseman’s decades of service and dedication to fostering the arts within Obetz.
“Sharon Wiseman has not only enriched our community with her talents but has left an incredible legacy that will be cherished by generations,” Mayor Kirk shared at the council meeting. “Obetz is grateful for her contributions, and we join in celebrating the enduring impact Wiseman Dance Studio has made on our city.”
As Obetz reflects on the closure of Wiseman Dance Studio, we offer our heartfelt appreciation to Ms. Sharon Wiseman and celebrate the legacy of an institution that has brought joy, discipline, and creativity to so many.
Wiseman Proclamation – October 28, 2024