And the Beat Goes On… My First Dance Teacher, Ms. Mariann
"Ms. Mariann" Mariann Sudzus
I was pretty excited when my mom gave me an update on “Ms. Marianne,” my first dance teacher. She is still performing and bringing joy to people’s lives. -mp
“It’s what I always wanted to do, to show the laughter, the fun, the joy of dance.” ~Martha Graham
Mariann has enjoyed the art of dance her entire life. At the age of five when she took her first lesson, the seeds were sown for a career in dance. Having first studied under the famed “Lorraine Sisters,” Mariann went on to own one of the largest dance studios in Northern New Jersey. She has excelled at tap, ballet and jazz with tap being her favorite. Mariann is particularly proud that many of her students have gone on to become stars on television and Broadway. In addition, she has been active in philanthropic causes having served as Treasurer of the New Jersey Dance Theatre Guild and Ballet Company for many years.
Retiring to Florida, Mariann’s love of dance led her to the Rockette Dance Academy, where she was thrilled to have Cathy Dooley invite her to join The Original Florida Follies. It is an honor to help Kids in Distress through participation in the Follies. She is blessed with 3 children, 12 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Mariann’s feet are always in motion, tapping to the beat of a new dance!
The Original Florida Follies is an organization dedicated to helping children at-risk and in-need of south Florida. Under the direction of Cathy Dooley, a noted New York and Florida Producer/Director, this company presents Broadway-Style Stage Extravaganzas every Winter season at 5 to 6 venues in Broward and Palm Beach Counties. Since its inception in 2000, and under Cathy Dooley’s skillful and professional guidance, The Original Florida Follies has emerged into a large energetic group of performing men and women, ages 60 to 90+ years young.
The OFF consists of former NY and Las Vegas Dancers, Showgirls, Choreographers, Dance Teachers and others who give generously of their talent and time. These dynamic dancers perform high spirited jazz and tap numbers often referred to as “The Happiest Sound in Show Business”. Stunning Showgirls and Models grace the stage in glamorous costumes described as “A Feast for the Eyes”.
