Trude Elliott is hanging up the dance shoes, retiring from directing the studio in uptown Mount Vernon after 14 years.

On Sunday, June 29, many of her family, friends and former and current dance kids and instructors did not let that event go unnoticed. Her granddaughter, Ashley Elliott helped organize a surprise retirement party at the Mount Vernon Memorial Gazebo.

Elliott said at the event that she was truly surprised of the event.

“It’s been a wonderful 14 years as owner of the Dance Arts Iowa studio,” Elliott said. “I remember when Hannah Day was a student at Dance Arts Iowa and then became one of the instructors.”

Other long time dancers include Ashlee Elliott and Violet Olinger, who started when they were 3 years old.

Over the 14 years, the Dance Arts Iowa has taught countless students at the space in First Street Community Center.

Jackie Happoldt will be taking over as the owner and administrator of Dance Arts Iowa moving forward.

“There are still great things on the horizon for the studio,” Elliott said.