Mary Murphy, the famous “So You Think You Can Dance” judge, known for her spirited on-air reactions, celebrated the 20th anniversary of her own dance studio in San Diego. Murphy celebrated her success in style on May 15 at her Champion Ballroom Academy Studio in Hillcrest. All 25 acts during the black-tie event — from experienced international stars to decade-long Champion Ballroom students — have a connection to America’s favorite dancing judge. Though her sparkling red gown and matching microphone stayed off the dance floor, fans didn’t miss out on her famous “woohoo” which followed each performance. The native Ohioan moved to San Diego for a partnership 23 years ago and now calls this Southern Californian city home. The national dance champion took a risk when opening the first, standing-bar free space in the city in 1990, and has since seen unparalleled triumphs. “Thank God everything worked out,” said the small business owner of her studio’s survival. “I guess [the studio is] just supposed to be there.” Going against all the odds to maintain a successful studio in San Diego the past two decades, Murphy will be the first to admit the road wasn’t easy. With what she calls a “roller coaster” of trials and tribulations that materialized in order to maintain Champion Ballroom Academy’s stature the past 20 years, Murphy found her strength in dance — and finally bought the building last year. “We all know the health benefits of dance, but for me, it’s about the sheer joy and personal transformation that comes with this journey,” she wrote in the event program. With renovations completed just in time, she “couldn’t be happier” with the results during her 20th anniversary gala and knew the “energy would be off the charts” during the three hour dance celebration, she said. Bringing in Canada’s “So You Think You Can Dance” team, former Broadway dance partner Vaidas Skimelis and Jurga Pupeltye, and some new friends in Chi Town Finest Breakers, guests were on their feet all night during the event. “I collect little dancers that I love and cherish, and bring them back to my parties,” Murphy said following the event. Unsure if she can outdo herself for the next big celebration, as she celebrates her anniversary every year, owning her own ballroom studio in itself is a dream come true. “To me, everything just went flawless and the dancers were on and everyone was having a good time,” she said. “It always makes me nervous for the next one. Someone will have to do a quadruple!”