Marie Toste Barlow grew up in Riverdale, where she first trained in gymnastics with dreams of becoming the next Nadia Comaneci. A few years later, a friend invited her to try a dance class at the new local studio. After just one class, she was hooked—dance became her passion. She immersed herself in all styles of training, studying jazz, ballet, lyrical, and tap four days a week.

 

Marie’s dedication earned her several scholarships to some of the nation’s top dance schools, including Dupree Dance Academy in Hollywood and the Gus Giordano School in Illinois. She also spent summers training at camps in Ojai and Los Angeles, learning from legendary instructors such as Doug Caldwell, Joe Tremaine, and Rhonda Miller. It was during this time that Marie knew she wanted to become a dance instructor and eventually own her own studio. On July 1, 1996, she made that dream a reality by opening Dancers Edge—now celebrating 30 years of dance excellence.

 

Marie strongly believes in the value of education. She earned her B.A. in Liberal Studies from California State University, Fresno, where she was a proud member of Phi Mu sorority. At Fresno State, she choreographed for Vintage Days’ air guitar competitions and helped fundraise for Children’s Hospital in Fresno through her sorority’s community events.

 

The early years of Dancers Edge were built on hard work and passion. Between Marie and Tyler, they taught nearly every class—yes, even hip hop! Over time, with dedication and vision, they grew the studio into one of the most recognized in the nation. Dancers Edge has earned numerous choreography awards at both regional and national competitions, been listed by the Federation of Dance Competitions (FDC) as a “Top 10 Studio in the Nation,” won multiple Victory Cups at Starpower Nationals, and celebrated the honor of receiving multiple Industry Dance Awards.

 

Marie takes immense pride in the opportunities her dancers have earned beyond the studio. Her students have gone on to professional careers, performing in movies, television, on Broadway, and in Las Vegas shows. They’ve danced at Tokyo Disney, Disneyland, and Disney’s California Adventure, while others have become collegiate and NFL cheerleaders. Several alumni have toured the world as backup dancers for recording artists, while many have become accomplished teachers and choreographers recognized throughout the United States.

 

Marie lives in Hanford with her husband Eric and their two sons, Zack and Dylan. When she’s not in the studio, she loves traveling, relaxing at the beach, and spending quality time with her family.