Beth Clarke, owner and artistic director of Beth Clarke Studio of Dance, has over 25 years of experience as a dancer and an educator. Originally from Knoxville, Iowa, she earned a bachelor's degree in speech and theater from Central College in Pella, Iowa. She earned a master's degree from Iowa State University and has been a college dance instructor and a certified aerobics instructor.

Beth has lived in Ames, Iowa since 1976, and opened Downtown Studio of Dance Design in 1981. By 1992, her business had grown so that it required new facilities, so Beth Clarke Studio of Dance was built at 118 High Avenue. It features natural light, high ceilings, and elevated hardwood floors for injury prevention.

Beth firmly believes in the positive impact a dance education can have on a child's life. Nearly every child, regardless of innate ability, can improve his or her coordination, flexibility, and rhythm through dance. Dance classes also provide children with important social skills, and Beth and her associate instructors pride themselves on their accepting, loving attitude toward all students. In the annual spring recital, in which all students are invited to perform, the students gain the unparalleled opportunity of performing in front of an audience and enjoying the satisfaction of hard work rewarded by the tingling pleasure of applause.