OMAHA, Neb. —

Shannon Barnhart, who founded her dance studio in Omaha 53 years ago, continues to teach tap dance, sharing her passion with thousands of students over the years.

"When I think 53 years, it's just like I blinked and I can't believe it's been that long," she said.

She specializes in tap dance, particularly the old style reminiscent of Fred Astaire, although she can teach ballet and jazz as well.

Barnhart estimates she has taught about 18,000 students, a number she calculated five years ago.

Her studio welcomes anyone who steps inside, encouraging them to join in the dance.

"I think that some people say you're too old to dance, and that is such a myth. I mean, I'm still dancing and I'm older," she said.

Barnhart's teaching philosophy is inclusive, believing that everyone

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