It all began with a dream.

For over a decade, I have carried within me a vivid dream of creating a ballet studio. I envisioned a space of inclusivity and creativity, where people of all ages and abilities could come together to discover that dancing knows no limits. However, the dream took a backseat as I took a more conventional career path as an academic teacher in a government school.

In 2020, the unexpected events of the pandemic allowed some time and space for introspection, leading me to reevaluate my life choices. It was amidst this recalibration that the dormant dream stirred once again. The vision of crafting my ballet brand began to take shape. Armed with determination and faith, I decided to venture into the performing arts industry.

In August 2021, I launched Studio by Raquel Yeo. Balancing the roles of a marketer, an administrator, and a ballet instructor singlehandedly, each day demanded a new set of skills. The journey has not been without its share of trials. I found myself in cycles of researching, seeking guidance, experimenting, succeeding, failing, and pivoting. It has certainly stretched me beyond my comfort zone, compelling me to embrace the uncertainties that lie ahead. Nonetheless, amid the hustle, I was driven by the dream.

Today, as we celebrate our studio’s second anniversary, we do so with a heart full of gratitude. The studio has not only grown but flourished in ways that once existed solely in dreams. This occasion not only marks our achievements but signifies a new chapter for all of us. With much excitement, I introduce a renewed identity of our ballet studio – ASSEMBLÉ STUDIOS.

At ASSEMBLÉ STUDIOS, ballet is more than just dance — it is a catalyst for unity, creativity, and personal growth. Inspired by the ballet move assemblé [ah-SAHN-blay] (which means “to assemble” or “to gather”), our brand embodies the convergence of a fun-loving adult ballet community and artistic expression. This rebranding is not just a visual change; it is a reaffirmation of my mission to build an inclusive and safe community for adult ballet dancers of all ages, backgrounds and body types to explore, learn and grow in their passion for dance.

As I look back at the path that led us here, I am extremely thankful to each person who has been part of realising the narrative of the dream. I thank God for giving me the courage and strength to embark on this journey and for blessing me with a good support system. I am also immensely grateful to my dancers who have trusted me and given me the opportunity to teach you. You all have been patient, understanding, supportive and encouraging, and it means so much to me.

Here's to the courageous individuals who have taken a bold step out of their comfort zone to learn ballet in their adulthood and to the dreamers who have been seeking to pursue their dream of being a ballet dancer. May we continue to defy our limits and support one another in the ASSEMBLÉ community with love and kindness.

Stay en pointe,
Raquel
Founder of Assemblé Studios