06/19/2026
Three Generations of Dance 🩰
For 91 years, the Baker School of Dance has been part of the rhythm of our community.
Long before social media…�Long before viral dance trends…�There was Irma Baker.
A young woman from Albany who loved to dance so deeply that she built a lifelong legacy around it.
Irma Baker’s journey began during one of America’s most difficult eras — born in 1917 during the Great Flu Pandemic. Despite losing both of her parents at a young age, she found strength and joy through music, movement, and performance.
In 1935, she hosted her first recital in Albany.�She sang with big bands on the radio.�She taught generations of dancers.�And over the next 80+ years, her studios became woven into the fabric of communities across New York State.
Her influence reached far beyond the stage, inspiring the next generation of dancers, including her own daughter and granddaughter. �
Today, Denise Baker and Kyle Hatfield continue that incredible family tradition right here in Glenville.
Denise Baker — Irma’s daughter — expanded her mother’s legacy far beyond the dance floor. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in Psychology, Denise spent years directing Human Services programs before returning to the family passion of dance and choreography. She has choreographed productions throughout the Capital Region, served as Director of Dance for the Empire State Youth Institute of Performing Arts at The Egg, taught Tai Chi locally and internationally, and even earned recognition for choreography through award-winning high school productions. Denise also continues her mother’s spirit of giving by providing scholarships to students in need.
Denise’s daughter, Kyle Hatfield — Irma’s granddaughter — represents the next chapter of the Baker legacy. A lifelong dancer and certified instructor through Dance Educators of America and Dance Masters of America, Kyle teaches multiple styles throughout the region and leads the Baker School of Dance Performance Group, whose dancers have performed at beloved local events including NiskaDay, the Scotia Memorial Day Parade, Joe Bruno Stadium, and the Times Union Center.
Three generations.�91 years.�One incredible family legacy rooted in creativity, discipline, passion, and community.
🇺🇸 As we celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, we are honored to have the Baker School of Dance supporting our event and sharing their talents with our community during the celebration on June 26, 2026.
From 1935 to 2026…and on to inspiring the next generation of dancers….�Now THAT is American history in motion. ❤️🤍💙