Act II - Darcy

Darcy received her early training from her parents (Ken and Jean) and could often be found teaching along side them throughout the country. Before moving back to Pittsburgh in the early ‘90’s to take over the studio, she appeared in several Broadway shows, including Sophisticated Ladies with Gregory Hines and The Most Happy Fella. Her television credits include the Miss America Pageant, the Grammy Awards, Great Performances on PBS, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve, and Night of A Hundred Stars. She has appeared in numerous television commercials and in a feature film. She also consulted on the editing of dance numbers for the iconic 1987 movie Dirty Dancin’. Darcy also taught in New York City at the Luigi Dance Center, at the Harkness Ballet School, and for the Canadian and American Dance Festivals.

The arrival of Darcy back in Pittsburgh marked an exciting new chapter in the incredible rise of Ken and Jean Dance Studio! With the talented Sandra Plavchak by her side, the studio’s reputation soared—known far and wide for its unmatched professionalism, elegance, and class. Wherever their groups traveled, dance teachers and choreographers lined up to see their latest awe inspiring creation. Their Broadway level choreography earned the studio eight Dance Masters of America/Dance Educators of America Choreography Awards, sixteen Grand National Championships, and five Overall Champion of Champions/National Presidents Awards… in just nine trips to Nationals.

Darcy’s thoughtful approach to dance education placed equal value on artistry, technique, and personal growth—far beyond the pursuit of trophies. She believed that true passion for dance is nurtured through balance, and her philosophy fostered a deep, lasting love for the art. For more than 30 years, Darcy was a constant presence in the studio, inspiring and guiding each dancer with genuine care. Whether it was comforting a nervous beginner or motivating a seasoned performer, her warmth and encouragement never wavered. With great intention, she assembled a teaching team that brought not only fun and energy to the studio, but also upheld the highest standards of dance excellence.

The legacy of Darcy—along with that of Ken and Jean—lives on through Austin, Jennifer, Michele, and the tens of thousands of dancers who have stepped through the doors of Ken and Jean Dance Studio. Their influence continues to shape each generation of dancers, carrying forward a tradition of excellence, passion, and love for the art of dance.