BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The last few months have been challenging for the Devastation Dance Company on Bailey Avenue, not just because they had to close down temporarily because of COVID-19 but their studio was destroyed.
On June 16th, a car crashed into the front windows of the studio. Owner Tamera Ebo says their main dance floor is ruined and the crash caused extensive structural damage to the building.
"People have to understand that you can love something so much and it can be taken away from you instantly,” Ebo said.
Ebo has owned Devastation Dance Company for 23 years, opening up her studio in 2016 as a place for young girls and boys to call home. Calling her Auntie Tamee, Ebo said she hopes to provide support for around 90 students.
“We give them something positive to do," Ebo said. "They don’t feel like they are left out and we are taking care of the caregivers, making sure they have a program that’s one affordable and two enjoyable."
Even after this tragedy, Ebo is still keeping the dancing going. Working with coaches, parents, and the students, she has set up practices in Delaware Park. Getting the students outside and dancing again has brought their dance family back together.
“I was so happy to get back to dance,” Brooke Badger,13-years old and a student, and captain on the competition team. She said she is excited to be back with her friends again.
“We are pretty much a family, like sisters and a brother,” Badger said.
The team has been practicing in Delaware Park for two weeks. Ebo says she is working on getting the studio fixed, but in the meantime, the dancing can't be stopped.
