Snapshot: Tory Gozzi
Occupation: I’m the artistic director and owner of Newtown Centre of Classical Ballet and Voice, in Newtown.
Family: I’m married to Justin, and we’ve been married for three and a half years. We both have a lot of family in the area.
Pets: We have a dog, Jake. He’s a Havanese, the Cuban version of a Bichon Frise. He’s the studio mascot and definitely has the cuteness card.
How long have you been in Newtown? I’ve been the director of Newtown Centre of Classical Ballet for two years. We live in Brookfield right now. If we ever get up the courage to buy an house and renovate it, we’ll move to Newtown.
What do you like to do in your free time? My hobby is my job! What I do in my free time is go to the ballet, sing, and sew costumes. I do dance… around the house. We like to go for walks, and I like to read.
What are you reading right now? I’ve been working on the Michael Palmer series of medical mysteries. I do like the science part of the mysteries.
Do you have a favorite travel destination? The beach. Cape May, N.J., is one of my favorite beaches. My family has had family reunions there, and it’s where Justin and I got engaged. I love the boardwalk there. There’s lots to do.
What is the best thing about Newtown? I like Newtown for its community feel, an old town charm. I love the town center, the arts events, and the $2 movies. The arts are thriving here, which is fun to see, as a teacher. There are a lot of opportunities for the kids here. For a small town, it’s pretty impressive.
What has been the greatest influence in your life? My faith. I always feel like I’m not here to make a life for myself, but to impart hope and joy into the kids in my life. I’ve seen a lot of doors open. God has put me in a place where I can inspire kids toward goodness and hard work. I feel like it’s my vocation. There’s a greater purpose to my job than just going to work. I’m very grateful for all I’ve been given.
Do you have a personal philosophy? Strive to be the best you can be. That about says it all.
Do you have a guilty pleasure? Late night snacking! Putting my feet in a portable foot bath, and snacking on Thin Mints and milk.