Dance Teacher / February 2000

Mr. & Mrs. Teacher

(...) Darrvl Retter and Linda Bernabei-Retter, co-owners of Retter’s Dance Academy and co-directors of R&B Professional Dance Company and the Rhythm Machine Company in Agoura Hills, California, juggle many roles. "It is imperative to delegate”, explains Linda. "Darryl edits all the music, handles faculty payroll, meets with the accountant and manages finances and taxes. I prepare costuming and oversee all advertising, newsletters and public relations. Our studio manager, Lilian Manansala is our right hand." (...)

(...) Linda Bernabei-Retter agrees. "To he honest, they do intertwine. “We met professionally. Our work does define a part of our being. We do, however, cherish little moments like coffee, a quick lunch or just sitting together and watching our daughter play.

(...) “Life at the studio can be so intense until you realize it is only one aspect of your life,” say the Retters. “We take Laguna Beach gateaways - the beach has a calming effect on the entire family.”

(...) “We can give each other so much support with just a glance,” says Linda Bernabei-Retter. “We understand the demands of the job and it increases our respect and love for each other.” (...)