A new RAD tradition
The Darryl & Linda Retter Legacy Scholarship
For the dancer who makes RAD a better place simply by being part of it. A strong dancer with a big heart. The one who lifts the room.
RAD has awarded more than $250,000 in scholarships since 1991.
“Dance Lessons are Life Lessons.”Linda Bernabei Retter
Five words that became a philosophy, then a studio, then a community. For 31 years Darryl and Linda built RAD on one conviction: that dance is the vehicle, and who a child becomes is the point. Technique mattered. Discipline mattered. But what they were really teaching was patience, perseverance, self-respect, and taking the high road, one class at a time.
Two people whose impact is felt in every corner of RAD
In 1991, Darryl Retter and Linda Bernabei-Retter opened the doors to Retter's Academy of Dance in Agoura Hills. For 31 years, from 1991 to 2022, they trained more than 10,000 young dancers, built a company recognized on regional and national stages, and did it all inside what they called a safe haven and nurturing environment, a place where dancers felt special, talented, and loved.
They were known for making people feel supported, valued, and cared for. Their love of dance always reached past the steps to the people: the relationships, the character, and the difference we can make in one another's lives.
They also taught by example how to honor the people who shape you. Throughout their years at RAD, Darryl and Linda created scholarships in the names of their own mentors, Winston Hemsley and Al Gilbert, and a solo scholarship honoring Joe Tremaine. In their words, Mr. Hemsley taught more than dance. So did they.
“The world needs your light, so go shine bright.”
Darryl & Linda, to RAD's graduating seniors
Legacy in motion
In 2022, Darryl and Linda passed the torch to Nadine and Ramsey Hassen. The name on the door changed to RAD Dance Studio. The mission did not. Their philosophy is now written on our studio wall as the five RAD Values, and it guides every class we teach.
At Concert of Love 2026, our 35th anniversary celebration, we invited Darryl and Linda onto the stage and surprised them with the announcement of this scholarship. Their portrait now hangs on the walls of RAD beside the mentors who came before them, and beside the scholarship recipients who will carry their values forward.
This scholarship is how we make that legacy something a young person can hold.
Who this scholarship is for
The Darryl & Linda Retter Legacy Scholarship recognizes a RAD dancer who lives the RAD Values, the same values Darryl and Linda spent 31 years teaching and modeling. This is not about being the most technically advanced dancer. It is about who you are.
Self-Worth
Knows their value and carries it with humility. In the Retters' words, dare to dream, then do the work.
Respect
Takes the high road. Shows respect for faculty, staff, fellow dancers, and the studio, on good days and hard ones.
Empowerment
Encourages others to find their magic. Celebrates a teammate's win like it is their own.
Inclusivity
An ambassador of goodwill. Welcomes the new dancer, includes the quiet one, makes sure everyone belongs.
Leadership
Leads by example, serves without being asked, and makes the people around them better.
What the recipient receives
- Tuition assistance toward one weekly RAD class for the 2026-2027 season
- Recognition at Concert of Love 2027 with a special award clip
- A place in RAD's decades-long tradition of scholarships that honor the people who shaped us
Who can apply
- A current RAD student, age 10 or older
- Enrolled at RAD for at least two consecutive seasons
- Enrolled in at least one RAD class for 2026-2027
- In good standing with RAD
- Shows a genuine love of dance and a commitment to keep growing
- Shows kindness, integrity, and respect, and a willingness to encourage and support others
- Makes a positive impact on the RAD community and sets a positive example for fellow dancers
How to apply
Two parts, both due by Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Dancers, this is your voice. Parents are welcome to help type, but the thoughts should be yours.
Written reflection
Six short questions about your journey at RAD, what you love about dance, and most importantly, the ways you strive to make a positive difference in the lives of others. A few sentences each is perfect.
A 2 to 3 minute video
Introduce yourself and share your answers out loud. A phone is perfect. No editing, music, or dancing required. Upload it to Google Drive (set to "Anyone with the link"), YouTube (Unlisted), or any share link, and paste the link into the application.
Apply here
Prefer a full-screen version? Open the application in a new window.
Good to know
Is this the same as the Retter Legacy Award given at Concert of Love?
No. The Retter Legacy Award is an annual recognition chosen by RAD faculty. The Darryl & Linda Retter Legacy Scholarship is new for 2026-2027, is application-based, and includes tuition assistance. A dancer may be considered for both.
Who reviews the applications?
Applications and videos are reviewed by RAD's directors together with Darryl and Linda Retter. The recipient will be notified later this season.
Does the video need to be polished?
Not at all. We want to hear from you, not a production. A quiet room, a phone, and your honest answers are exactly right.
Questions?
Email info@raddancestudio.com or call the front desk at (818) 889-5774.
“What they passed on to us was hope and strength, and in their presence, life was made extraordinary, and so were we. This is the spirit in which this scholarship will be awarded.”
From the scholarship tradition Darryl & Linda began at RAD
We can't think of a more meaningful way to honor Darryl and Linda than by recognizing a young person who carries their values forward and makes RAD a better place simply by being part of it.
With love,
Nadine & Ramsey