History of Powell Moise

Margaret Powell Browne was born and raised in Meridian, Mississippi and later moved to Baton Rouge. Ann Buckner Moise was born and raised here in Baton Rouge. In September 1943, Margaret Powell and Ann Moise rented a building at Main and 11th Streets and that was the beginning of Powell-Moise School of Dance. In addition to their studio here, they conducted classes in Clinton, Zachary, Shady Grove and Greensburg.

In the 50’s Ballroom Dance was a very big part of the studio business. Powell-Moise taught both children and adult classes,· these classes became so popular that they were booked several years in advance.

In 1958, Ann Moise moved to New jersey with her family when her husband was transferred. This was the end of her teaching career, but she stayed very active in the dance world. With growing enrollment, Margaret moved the studio to Perkins Road. In 1963, Margaret bought the building we are in today. She had the house raised and built the studio underneath. By this time, gymnastics had become very popular at Powell-Moise. The back part of the studio was built with high ceilings to allow for the gymnastics equipment.

Having much success in AAU gymnastics meets, the studio was no longer large enough for all the gymnastic students or equipment. In 1972, Margaret bought the lot on Horace Street and built a new gym to accommodate the gymnasts while the studio remained full of dance students.

In the 80’s mirrors were put completely around the gym walls, mats were folded back and the gym became an additional dance studio as well. Instead of competitive gymnastics, the tide turned to competitive dance, which continues to grow today in both students and success.

In 1995, the studio was passed on to Donna Duncan Blanchard. Donna has been part of the Powell-Moise family since 1954 and still continues to be.

After 20 years "Miss Donna" passed the Powell Moise torch onto "Miss Lisa". She as well has been a part of the Powell-Moise family for years. Herself and her three daughters all took at Powell Moise. She loves being able to continue to traditions of Powell Moise while doing what she loves everyday!

In August 2001, we lost “Miss” Powell, and in July 2003, we lost “Miss” Moise, but, these ladies will never die! What they have given to so many generations will forever stay alive. Powell-Moise has earned an honored place in the Art of Dance and the respect of the Baton Rouge Community whose youth have enjoyed the experience of more than a dance education.