08/04/2026
Starlight had an incredible farewell night on Saturday, July 25th. It was so special to see so many familiar faces and share one last evening of dancing, laughing, and being together. Ending with Country Two-Step taught by Brandi and Ronnie, followed by West Coast Swing with Michael Kiehm, felt like the perfect way to close this chapter. Having Michael—the person who started Starlight over 40 years ago—back to teach that final class made the night even more meaningful.
The very next morning, we began dismantling the studio that had been home to so many dancers for more than four decades.
Standing in the empty studio a week later, locking the doors for the last time, I expected to feel only sadness. Of course there was sadness—so many wonderful memories, friendships, lessons, and years of hard work lived within those walls. But looking at the empty rooms, with the floor and mirrors gone, reminded me that Starlight was never just a building or a location in San Diego.
Starlight was all of us. It was every dance, every class, every laugh, every friendship, and every person who walked through those doors. That's something that can never be taken away.
There are still some legal matters to work through, so this chapter isn't completely over yet. But for the most part, it's time to look forward while holding onto all of the incredible memories we've made together. Thank you to everyone who donated to help our cause. Because of your generosity, we were able to retain our dance floor and other studio assets. Soon they'll be installed in new studios, where they'll continue bringing joy to dancers for years to come. I can't think of a better legacy.
Thank you for being part of Starlight's story.
Larisa
