

Kathy Smith Dupuy
Owner
Kathy started dancing seriously in high school and has continued to take classes and had the opportunity to perform through various studios in Austin. Through the years, dance has proven a great way… Read more

Christine Bourgeois Autin
Program Director
Christine has been teaching ballet for 25 years and most recently taught at Revolution Dance Company in Baton Rouge, LA. She implemented the first dance program at St. Joseph’s Academy in …. Read more

Shawna Hesketh
Director, Elevate Broadway Babies | Assistant Director, Ignite
Shawna started dancing at an early age, at her one-room studio, in her small central Texas hometown. Her love of dance continued to grow, and she went on to join her high school’s drill/dance team, and then began teaching dance at the age of 16. Read more

Kyrie Lloyd
Director, AYCB South
Kyrie Lloyd began her dance training in Philadelphia, PA where she studied classical ballet, modern, jazz, and tap. Upon graduating high school, she attended Palm Beach Atlantic University earning a degree in dance. Read more

Chantel Mead
Director, Elevate Performance Company
Chantel Mead is a seasoned vocalist, performer, recording artist, and voice educator. While she loves the stage & studio, she is also passionate about helping others more fully understand their voice, fall in love with their own unique sound, and feel truly confident with their voice in the world.. Read more

Kelsy Leyendecker
Ignite Director & Elevate Artistic Director
Kelsy began dancing at the age of 3 and has been teaching since the age of 16 years old. She began her studies and competitive years at Irvine Dance Academy but went on to receive training at some of the best studios in the country in the styles of ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, cheer, tumbling, and musical theatre. Read more

Kate McCann
Assistant Director, Ignite
Kate fell in love with dance at an early age. The way that movement and music creates its own unique form of artistry has had an unparalleled impact on her life, both in and outside of the studio. Read more

Haley Sikes
Director, UGK Hip Hop Crew
Haley is a dancer, performer, choreographer, and teacher based out of the Austin area. She started dancing at the age of three, training in many different styles, with a focus on hip hop and contemporary. Read more

Andi Loo
Communications Director | DNCE Adult Program Director
Andi Loo graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Spanish, and a love for dance! She studied Latin Fusion and Hip Hop classes in Los Angeles. Read more

Tatiana Mechinus
Client Services Manager
Tatiana is the Client Services Manager of Balance Dance Studios and the shining face you see every time you walk in the door for classes. She is skilled in all things administrative and prides herself in being a confidante for both new and seasoned parents in the dance world.