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The studio, at 141 Tompkins Avenue in Pleasantville, is putting together three holiday shows Saturday to raise money for Blythedale. The shows will feature 31 company members ranging from 5 to 17.
Artistry has already raised $15,000 for Blythedale through donations and selling tickets. The event will also feature a DJ, 50-50 ticket raffle, silent and live auctions.
"We're really hoping people come out Saturday and we get a lot of foot traffic," Kristina Wozniak Leitenberger, who runs Artistry and lives in Ridgefield, said. "People who looking for something festive should stop by. They can see a show or bid on an auction. It's going to be a super fun event."
Giving back has always been a part of Artistry's mission and the group regularly performs at rehab centers and nursing homes. But with the dance studio expanding, they were looking to do something bigger.
"All of our dancers have been involved with it," Wozniak Leitenberger said. "They've been soliciting donations from family and friends and working on making paddles for the live auction. They've been involved in every step of the way. I can't wait to see what Saturday brings."
By helping out Blythedale, Wozniak Leitenberger said the dancers have learned to appreciate how blessed and privileged they are to have their health.
"They are able to dance and use their bodies everyday," Wozniak Leitenberger said. "We think it's a given and it's not. They're so excited to give back and help other kids."
Wozniak Leitenberger, who grew up in Briarcliff, said she has a lifelong appreciation for how integral the hospital is to the community.
"I know people who have benefited from Blythedale," Wozniak Leitenberger said. "They help the children that need it most. It's been such a great part of my life, I used to do fundraising projects for them."
Already Artistry has sold 300 tickets for the show. Initially, the goal was to raise $5,000, but that was surpassed, and the goal rose to $10,000. That too was beaten and now they are hoping to raise $20,000.
Wozniak Leitenberger said they are looking forward to visiting Blythedale soon and will be presenting them with a check at the end of Saturday.
"The money will help make the hospital more warm and exciting for kids to help keep their spirits up," Wozniak Leitenberger said.
The three shows will be at 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. A silent auction will run from 12:30 to 3:30 with a live auction at 3 p.m.
For more information, contact Artistry at 914-579-2272. All proceeds will go to Blythedale Children's Hospital.
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