Kathy Dupuy 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 for her to stay fit after having 4 kids and maintaining a busy lifestyle. She has successfully pioneered multiple businesses from start up to maturity including Texas’ largest household staffing service, Mom’s Best Friend, which she founded in 1994. She and her husband, Stuart, now run this together, along with the College Sitters & Tutors Barton Springs franchise. She also started and ran a residential care, assisted living home for seniors, for 10 years. Kathy has served on various boards, and her companies have been recognized for outstanding achievement, as well as a commitment to giving back to the local community. As a dancer herself and mom of 4 kids who all danced at one point or another, Kathy understands the need for a high quality studio environment catering to the needs of both adults and children, thus the creation of Balance Dance Studios in 2012. Kathy’s business expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her passion for the art of dance, create the perfect combination for her role as studio owner of Balance Dance Studios. Kathy purchased a Round Rock studio, The Dance Spot, in 2017, and now manages both locations. Kathy and her family reside in Southwest Austin and are the proud parents of Grace, Kaitlyn, and James and Jordan.
Kathy Dupuy 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 for her to stay fit after having 4 kids and maintaining a busy lifestyle. She has successfully pioneered multiple businesses from start up to maturity including Texas’ largest household staffing service, Mom’s Best Friend, which she founded in 1994. She and her husband, Stuart, now run this together, along with the College Sitters & Tutors Barton Springs franchise. She also started and ran a residential care, assisted living home for seniors, for 10 years. Kathy has served on various boards, and her companies have been recognized for outstanding achievement, as well as a commitment to giving back to the local community. As a dancer herself and mom of 4 kids who all danced at one point or another, Kathy understands the need for a high quality studio environment catering to the needs of both adults and children, thus the creation of Balance Dance Studios in 2012. Kathy’s business expertise and entrepreneurial spirit, combined with her passion for the art of dance, create the perfect combination for her role as studio owner of Balance Dance Studios. Kathy purchased a Round Rock studio, The Dance Spot, in 2017, and now manages both locations. Kathy and her family reside in Southwest Austin and are the proud parents of Grace, Kaitlyn, and James and Jordan.Daniel Broxton Daniel started dancing in high school, participating on a crew his freshman year that turned into a team his sophomore year. He started pursuing dance more and training more seriously throughout his high school years. He now directs a high school hip hop dance team, teaches workshops, and choreographs for music videos, musicals, events, and performances. Daniel is excited to bring his background and experience, as well as his excitement for hip hop, to dancers at Balance!
Daniel Broxton Daniel started dancing in high school, participating on a crew his freshman year that turned into a team his sophomore year. He started pursuing dance more and training more seriously throughout his high school years. He now directs a high school hip hop dance team, teaches workshops, and choreographs for music videos, musicals, events, and performances. Daniel is excited to bring his background and experience, as well as his excitement for hip hop, to dancers at Balance!Daniel Introduction Video
Dane Burch Dane grew up in Oregon, where he started training in dance at the age of 10. He quickly fell in love with movement and the expressiveness of it. He moved to Los Angeles, when he was 18, with a scholarship to EDGE Performing Arts Center. After completing his training, he continued to dance and perform. He worked with Tremaine Dance Convention for 5 years. He also worked for Move Dance Competitions, where he judged and taught master classes all around the U.S. In 2008, Dane moved to Austin. He works for numerous studios and high schools all around Texas. He loves sharing his knowledge and love for dance with all.
Dane Burch Dane grew up in Oregon, where he started training in dance at the age of 10. He quickly fell in love with movement and the expressiveness of it. He moved to Los Angeles, when he was 18, with a scholarship to EDGE Performing Arts Center. After completing his training, he continued to dance and perform. He worked with Tremaine Dance Convention for 5 years. He also worked for Move Dance Competitions, where he judged and taught master classes all around the U.S. In 2008, Dane moved to Austin. He works for numerous studios and high schools all around Texas. He loves sharing his knowledge and love for dance with all.Dane Introduction Video
Jairus Carr Jairus started his dance training at seven-years-old. Since then, Jairus has trained with Austin’s top instructors and choreographers, but Jairus primarily trained here, at Balance Dance Studios. Starting here when he was twelve, Jairus grew up and trained with Balance’s very own Push Dance Company. This allowed him to learn and understand Balance’s core message: Finding our balance in heart, soul, and mind. In more recent years, Jairus has danced with many local artists, such as the Early Era Collective, Jennifer Sherburn, and the UT student body. Jairus can’t wait to teach you!
Jairus Carr Jairus Introduction Video
Nikki “Blankenship” Chambers Since the age of three, Nikki has learned to master the art of expression through movement, sharing her love of dance with others. She received her formal dance training, at Hallmark Dance Studio, practicing Ballet, Contemporary, Tap, Folkloric, Flamenco, and Jazz. It was her exceptional performance as a jazz dancer which earned Nikki a scholarship to West Texas A&M University, where she earned her BFA in Dance. Some notable achievements include the Lady Viper Dance Team, Assistant Academy Director for the WTAMU Dance Academy, Artist in Residence for Lone Star Ballet, Amarillo Vixens Dance Team, and Captain and Choreographer for the WTAMU Thunderette Dance Team. She shares the positive energy and enthusiasm for her art with those around her, hoping that she can inspire others to discover and follow their own dreams.
Nikki “Blankenship” Chambers Since the age of three, Nikki has learned to master the art of expression through movement, sharing her love of dance with others. She received her formal dance training, at Hallmark Dance Studio, practicing Ballet, Contemporary, Tap, Folkloric, Flamenco, and Jazz. It was her exceptional performance as a jazz dancer which earned Nikki a scholarship to West Texas A&M University, where she earned her BFA in Dance. Some notable achievements include the Lady Viper Dance Team, Assistant Academy Director for the WTAMU Dance Academy, Artist in Residence for Lone Star Ballet, Amarillo Vixens Dance Team, and Captain and Choreographer for the WTAMU Thunderette Dance Team. She shares the positive energy and enthusiasm for her art with those around her, hoping that she can inspire others to discover and follow their own dreams.Micki Fields Since the first dance class at 5 until now, dance has been a constant in Micki’s life. From cheerleading, drill team and baton twirling, to dancing on stage in community theater, to a life long love of cardio dance classes, a passion has grown and blossomed into the incredible opportunity of becoming an instructor at Balance Dance Studios.
Micki Fields Since the first dance class at 5 until now, dance has been a constant in Micki’s life. From cheerleading, drill team and baton twirling, to dancing on stage in community theater, to a life long love of cardio dance classes, a passion has grown and blossomed into the incredible opportunity of becoming an instructor at Balance Dance Studios.Kenah Fuller Starting at the age of 3, Kenah has pursued her love for dance. Kenah was classically trained in Ballet and has danced on pointe for over 5 years. Along with her dance background, Kenah is an avid gymnast who is strong in power tumbling. Throughout her training she pursued a variety of genres of dance and competed in multiple styles including acro, modern, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre and hip hop as well. She began student teaching at 17 and is adamant to continue to share her love for the arts with students.
Kenah Fuller Starting at the age of 3, Kenah has pursued her love for dance. Kenah was classically trained in Ballet and has danced on pointe for over 5 years. Along with her dance background, Kenah is an avid gymnast who is strong in power tumbling. Throughout her training she pursued a variety of genres of dance and competed in multiple styles including acro, modern, contemporary, jazz, musical theatre and hip hop as well. She began student teaching at 17 and is adamant to continue to share her love for the arts with students.Kenah Introduction Video
Malia Gearhart– I have been doing acro since I was six years old. I was taught by a top acro/tumbling teacher in Nashville who teaches at every studio in the middle Tennessee area. I also used to teach at Milele Academy, teaching acro from ages 3 to 18. Watching kids gain skills is the most rewarding thing as a teacher, and I’m so excited to be working with your kids!Taylor Harbin Taylor Noel Harbin was born and raised in Dayton, OH where she began dancing in a creative movement class at the Jeraldine School of Dance. From there she attended Stivers School of the Performing Arts studying dance and choir. In addition to dancing in her school Taylor trained with form Dayton Ballet principal dancer Barbara Pontecorvo at Pontecorvo Studios later joining their pre-professional company Gem City Ballet. Upon graduating from High School Taylor initially attended Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA where she studied for a year and was able to perform a Martha Graham original piece ‘Heretic’. Later Transferring to University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music where she studied ballet and performed in Giselle, original pieces set by her professors, and fellow classmates.During her junior and senior year of school Taylor joined the Louisville Ballet as a Corps de Ballet dancer. Later retiring at Ballet Austin.
Taylor Harbin Shawna Hesketh Shawna Hesketh 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. She attended Sam Houston State University, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree, in Photography and Dance. While at SHSU, she was in several performances, including a graduate thesis, and also worked in the costume department for their Nutcracker production. After moving to Austin, she got back into dance full-time, diving into ballroom dancing. Shawna then joined Balance Dance Studios, in the fall of 2012, in its inaugural year. Since then, she has created a home and family with Balance, and now gets to share this journey with her two children, as she watches them dance and grow.
Shawna Hesketh Shawna Introduction Video
Kirsten Kemp Kirsten Kemp is a former professional dancer, classical ballet instructor, creator of TwinTalksBallet on YouTube, and a Mindset Coach for dancers. A native of Corpus Christi, TX, Kirsten grew up dancing alongside her twin sister, Kelsey. At 13, their passion for ballet grew into a drive to pursue ballet professionally, which lead to training during the summers at programs such as San Francisco Ballet, Houston Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. Kirsten went on to train year-round in the top levels of the Houston Ballet Academy for two years, after which she went to study on full scholarship and perform numerous lead roles in the Department of Ballet at the University of Utah. She graduated from “the U” within three years with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Ballet and a Minor in Business Administration with top honors. Kirsten then danced professionally with Oklahoma City Ballet, where she performed in the corps de ballet of productions such as George Balanchine’s Serenade and Robert Mill’s A Midsummer Nights Dream. As a Company Apprentice, she was also chosen to perform with the company on their annual tour to Colorado Springs. After making the decision to step away from the professional realm due to a persistent knee injury, Kirsten now finds great joy and purpose in performing as a guest artist while supporting the next generation of dancers through her work as a ballet instructor and Mindset Coach for dance.
Kirsten Kemp Kirsten Kemp is a former professional dancer, classical ballet instructor, creator of TwinTalksBallet on YouTube, and a Mindset Coach for dancers. A native of Corpus Christi, TX, Kirsten grew up dancing alongside her twin sister, Kelsey. At 13, their passion for ballet grew into a drive to pursue ballet professionally, which lead to training during the summers at programs such as San Francisco Ballet, Houston Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre. Kirsten went on to train year-round in the top levels of the Houston Ballet Academy for two years, after which she went to study on full scholarship and perform numerous lead roles in the Department of Ballet at the University of Utah. She graduated from “the U” within three years with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Ballet and a Minor in Business Administration with top honors. Kirsten then danced professionally with Oklahoma City Ballet, where she performed in the corps de ballet of productions such as George Balanchine’s Serenade and Robert Mill’s A Midsummer Nights Dream. As a Company Apprentice, she was also chosen to perform with the company on their annual tour to Colorado Springs. After making the decision to step away from the professional realm due to a persistent knee injury, Kirsten now finds great joy and purpose in performing as a guest artist while supporting the next generation of dancers through her work as a ballet instructor and Mindset Coach for dance.Kirsten Introduction Video
Matthew Kennedy started dancing at the age of 12, when he first discovered Michael Jackson. From that point on, he spent years training, building his technique, performance, and foundation in Jazz, Ballet, and Musical Theatre (in the hope that he would someday moonwalk in front of millions). During his high school years, Matthew received opportunities as a dancer and performer, all around the Austin area, including Summer Stock Austin, ZACH theatre, Zilker Hillside Theater, and The Long Center For the Performing Arts, getting to work alongside NYC and LA professionals, as well as Tony-nominated actors. It wasn’t until about the end of his high school career that he discovered a passion for hip hop, and the passion and storytelling that comes from a combination of all the various styles, textures, vibes, and pockets. After teaching himself some popular moves from viral YouTube videos, he began his real training in hip hop and musical theatre, starting with his time in college at Texas State University. Having spent time studying styles of creativity from different lenses, he discovered that musical theatre and hip hop genres have a lot more similarities than one would think. In his classes, Matthew dives into this style fusion, focusing on artistic expression, while having the grooviest time ever!
Matthew Kennedy started dancing at the age of 12, when he first discovered Michael Jackson. From that point on, he spent years training, building his technique, performance, and foundation in Jazz, Ballet, and Musical Theatre (in the hope that he would someday moonwalk in front of millions). During his high school years, Matthew received opportunities as a dancer and performer, all around the Austin area, including Summer Stock Austin, ZACH theatre, Zilker Hillside Theater, and The Long Center For the Performing Arts, getting to work alongside NYC and LA professionals, as well as Tony-nominated actors. It wasn’t until about the end of his high school career that he discovered a passion for hip hop, and the passion and storytelling that comes from a combination of all the various styles, textures, vibes, and pockets. After teaching himself some popular moves from viral YouTube videos, he began his real training in hip hop and musical theatre, starting with his time in college at Texas State University. Having spent time studying styles of creativity from different lenses, he discovered that musical theatre and hip hop genres have a lot more similarities than one would think. In his classes, Matthew dives into this style fusion, focusing on artistic expression, while having the grooviest time ever!
Kelsey Kimble
Kelsey Kimble uses her vast experience in performing a variety of different genres to entertain and educate others. As a performer, Kelsey sings jazz music and also writes and performs her own original songs. Trained in classical voice technique from The University of Texas at Austin under the direction of Rose Taylor, Kelsey still enjoys acting in theater productions. Recent roles include: “Louise/Eve” in Ruthless (City Theater, Austin), as well as “Regina” in Rock of Ages, “Calliope” in Xanadu, and several Theatre for Young Audiences Productions at the Georgetown Palace Theater.
Kelsey Introduction Video
Jaylin Lane I’m from Del Valle Texas and have been dancing for 9 years! My dance career started in middle school where I entered talent shows and local competitions that landed me a handful of wonderful opportunities. Those include becoming a national competitor in the NAACP “Act-So” competition in Las Vegas, auditioning for America’s got talent, and numerous productions with artist and directors from all over. My style of dance is a mix of Hip Hop and Urban movements with strong contemporary influence; And an emphasis on musically and energy! Dance has always been a vital and highly influential part of my life. I can’t wait to share my ever growing knowledge and love of dance with you!
Jaylin Introduction Video
Kelsy Leyendecker Kelsy Leyendecker is our assistant director of Elevate and PUSH Dand Company’s Opal director. She 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. She has had the opportunity to study under legends such Joe Tremaine, Doug Caldwell, Molly Lynch, Christine Baltes, Jerome Robins, and Susan Stroman. In addition to them, she credits much of her growth and passion to her mentor, Monie Adamson who is a 3 time Emmy nominee and 2004 American Choreography Award winner. While still in school, she began choreographing young for her high school show choir and other local area theatre and children’s programs. As a diverse and performer, Kelsy danced as an extra on a couple TV shows, strutted the parade routes and stages of Disneyland as well as toured parts of the US as a member of the company, “Dance N’ ETC” and the “Concordia professional Chamber Choir”. She quickly found her passion in musical theatre and was cast in multiple theatre company ensembles such as “Guys and Dolls”, “Cabaret” and “Oklahoma” as well as lead roles such as Penny in “Swingtime” and Carol in “South Pacific”. She is proud to be a part of the Austin dance community and loves teaching all her students of all ages at Balance Dance Studios.
Kelsy Leyendecker Kelsy Leyendecker is our assistant director of Elevate and PUSH Dand Company’s Opal director. She 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. She has had the opportunity to study under legends such Joe Tremaine, Doug Caldwell, Molly Lynch, Christine Baltes, Jerome Robins, and Susan Stroman. In addition to them, she credits much of her growth and passion to her mentor, Monie Adamson who is a 3 time Emmy nominee and 2004 American Choreography Award winner. While still in school, she began choreographing young for her high school show choir and other local area theatre and children’s programs. As a diverse and performer, Kelsy danced as an extra on a couple TV shows, strutted the parade routes and stages of Disneyland as well as toured parts of the US as a member of the company, “Dance N’ ETC” and the “Concordia professional Chamber Choir”. She quickly found her passion in musical theatre and was cast in multiple theatre company ensembles such as “Guys and Dolls”, “Cabaret” and “Oklahoma” as well as lead roles such as Penny in “Swingtime” and Carol in “South Pacific”. She is proud to be a part of the Austin dance community and loves teaching all her students of all ages at Balance Dance Studios.Stacey Lizette Stacey has been studying belly dance for twenty years. (Woah, how did that happen?) She is one of five dancers currently Level 5 certified in the internationally recognized Suhaila Salimpour format and hosts annual Suhaila workshops in Austin. Besides being a dance instructor, Stacey has taken on many roles and projects as part of the belly dance community, including: performer, choreographer, costume designer, artistic director of Tekatek Dance Ensemble, (former) producer of the annual Austin Belly Dance Convention, teaching assistant to Suhaila Salimpour, workshop sponsor, and show producer. Stacey’s style of teaching is patient yet challenging to guide students safely beyond their comfort zones and into personal growth. Belly dance will grow your brain, move your body and feed your soul!
Stacey Lizette Stacey has been studying belly dance for twenty years. (Woah, how did that happen?) She is one of five dancers currently Level 5 certified in the internationally recognized Suhaila Salimpour format and hosts annual Suhaila workshops in Austin. Besides being a dance instructor, Stacey has taken on many roles and projects as part of the belly dance community, including: performer, choreographer, costume designer, artistic director of Tekatek Dance Ensemble, (former) producer of the annual Austin Belly Dance Convention, teaching assistant to Suhaila Salimpour, workshop sponsor, and show producer. Stacey’s style of teaching is patient yet challenging to guide students safely beyond their comfort zones and into personal growth. Belly dance will grow your brain, move your body and feed your soul!Andi Loo Native to Texas, Andi Loo graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Spanish and quickly jumped on the earliest flight to Los Angeles. While in L.A., Andi worked for a local newspaper while studying dance at local venues. She recalls pre-Zumba days in L.A. being filled with healthy doses of “Latin Hip Hop” and “Salsa-esque” aerobics. Needless to say, her love and commitment to dancing grew quickly and after 3 children and a move back to Texas, she found her passion in teaching dance fitness classes.
Andi Loo Native to Texas, Andi Loo graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Spanish and quickly jumped on the earliest flight to Los Angeles. While in L.A., Andi worked for a local newspaper while studying dance at local venues. She recalls pre-Zumba days in L.A. being filled with healthy doses of “Latin Hip Hop” and “Salsa-esque” aerobics. Needless to say, her love and commitment to dancing grew quickly and after 3 children and a move back to Texas, she found her passion in teaching dance fitness classes.For a short video of Andi, Click HERE
Emily Lofton Emily Lofton is a Texas native who enjoys yoga and pilates, walking long trails with her husband and consuming all types of art. She graduated with the class of 2020 from the University of Oklahoma’s Ballet Pedagogy program with a minor in Psychology and special focus in childhood development. While attending OU, Emily worked closely with Nilas Martins and performed Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco, a standout in her educational experience. Emily worked with Jan Fugit and Rebecca Herrin on further developing her voice as a teacher, and is grateful to join Balance Dance Studios and The Dance Spot beginning June of 2020.
Emily Introduction Video
Natalia Maravi Natalia was born to dance. From dancing on the bleachers of a football game at 5 years old, to choreographing a dance performance for her and her friends for their 5th grade class talent show, to tearing it up on the dance floor of many clubs as an adult. However, it wasn’t until she was 26 years old that she took her first dance class and started her training. She fell in love immediately and got to work. She’s taken a ton of hip hop classes and heels classes and has traveled to LA to train with Brinn Nicole and Tevyn Cole. Her passion for dance and teaching runs very deep and she is grateful for every opportunity to shake her hips and flip her hair.
Natalia Maravi Natalia was born to dance. From dancing on the bleachers of a football game at 5 years old, to choreographing a dance performance for her and her friends for their 5th grade class talent show, to tearing it up on the dance floor of many clubs as an adult. However, it wasn’t until she was 26 years old that she took her first dance class and started her training. She fell in love immediately and got to work. She’s taken a ton of hip hop classes and heels classes and has traveled to LA to train with Brinn Nicole and Tevyn Cole. Her passion for dance and teaching runs very deep and she is grateful for every opportunity to shake her hips and flip her hair.
Kate McCann 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. She has been working with children since the age of 14, and has found that one of her greatest joys is being able to share her passions with a younger generation. Because Kate didn’t start her formal dance training until high school she is a huge proponent of self discipline, and regards dance as the medium which taught her that all things are achievable through hard work and diligence. It was at Balance Dance Studios she cultivated this understanding, as she is one of our very own Push Dance Company alumni. Kate looks forward to teaching, training, and exploring movement with you!
Kate Introduction Video
Mark Moy A veteran instructor and choreographer with over 20 years of teaching experience, Mark has a passion for teaching the love of dance. Beginner and advance students alike benefit from his warm, enthusiastic, and patient style. Mark’s greatest joy is watching his students have the “lightbulb” moment. Mark tries various approaches for presenting concepts until that happens for each and every student.
Mark Moy A veteran instructor and choreographer with over 20 years of teaching experience, Mark has a passion for teaching the love of dance. Beginner and advance students alike benefit from his warm, enthusiastic, and patient style. Mark’s greatest joy is watching his students have the “lightbulb” moment. Mark tries various approaches for presenting concepts until that happens for each and every student.Giving back to the Austin community and participation and local charitable events is important to Mark. In 2011 and 2012, he was a featured dance professional in the Lake Travis Dancing with the Stars event to benefit the Lake Travis Community Library, and in 2011 & 2016, he was a featured professional in the Dancing with the Stars Austin, benefiting the Center for Child Protection. He served on the Board of Directors of the prestigious Mayfair Dance Club from 2011 – 2013 and served as Membership Chair of the organization in 2014.
Jason Rhodes is from the Austin area. After growing up in a studio he now travels to take classes in Dallas, Houston, and L.A. Jason was also a part of Austin’s competitive team EPEK for two seasons and is currently the Creative Director for New Genesis a performance based company. He has also danced for a local artist, performed for Old Navy and done a multitude of other dance gigs in and out of Austin. Jason has been teaching for 5 years and strives to bring out the best dancer in all of his students, using techniques and skills he has picked up over the years.
Ashley Rothwell Ashley was born and raised in Newcastle Upon Tyne in the UK. From a young age Ashley has thrived within the Performing Arts, She completed her Teaching Degree in the UK and taught Dance and Vocal technique for Sunderland University. She then went on to complete her Masters in Musical Theatre at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Shortly after graduation she packed up and moved to New York City to pursue Theatre and Film. During her time in New York she appeared in numerous Off-Off-Broadway plays such as ‘Exposed’ and ‘The Hurtling Stillness’ whilst continuing to develop her skills within the Performing Arts. She moved to Austin in October 2015 and is very excited to be a part of such a dynamic and nurturing dance school such as Balance.
Ashley Rothwell Ashley was born and raised in Newcastle Upon Tyne in the UK. From a young age Ashley has thrived within the Performing Arts, She completed her Teaching Degree in the UK and taught Dance and Vocal technique for Sunderland University. She then went on to complete her Masters in Musical Theatre at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London. Shortly after graduation she packed up and moved to New York City to pursue Theatre and Film. During her time in New York she appeared in numerous Off-Off-Broadway plays such as ‘Exposed’ and ‘The Hurtling Stillness’ whilst continuing to develop her skills within the Performing Arts. She moved to Austin in October 2015 and is very excited to be a part of such a dynamic and nurturing dance school such as Balance.Ashley Introduction Video
Dani Sanders Dani Sanders, CPT, FMT, is a fitness professional that focus’ on dancer health and performance, and functional fitness. She studied Exercise Sports Science at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX and graduated with her Bachelors in 2015. She has worked in multiple gyms and dance studios across Texas teaching her love of health and fitness and sharing the benefits of sport specific training with dancers. Dani started dancing at a young age up until her early twenties when a chronic hip injury pushed her into another direction. This is where her passion for cross training and educating dancers began. Her dance training experience coupled with her copious amounts of kinesiology and physiology knowledge has given her the ability to work with dancers in a unique way that has yet to hit mainstream dance studio training. Her program is designed using scientifically proven muscle training protocols that incorporate both dance techniques and Pilates ideologies. She works hard to cross train dancers in order to keep them dancing longer, injury free, and performing at their best.
Dani Sanders Dani Sanders, CPT, FMT, is a fitness professional that focus’ on dancer health and performance, and functional fitness. She studied Exercise Sports Science at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX and graduated with her Bachelors in 2015. She has worked in multiple gyms and dance studios across Texas teaching her love of health and fitness and sharing the benefits of sport specific training with dancers. Dani started dancing at a young age up until her early twenties when a chronic hip injury pushed her into another direction. This is where her passion for cross training and educating dancers began. Her dance training experience coupled with her copious amounts of kinesiology and physiology knowledge has given her the ability to work with dancers in a unique way that has yet to hit mainstream dance studio training. Her program is designed using scientifically proven muscle training protocols that incorporate both dance techniques and Pilates ideologies. She works hard to cross train dancers in order to keep them dancing longer, injury free, and performing at their best.Dani Introduction Video
Lisa Schreck has always had a lifetime love of learning and dance! This started for her in her hometown of Cedar Falls, IA and led her to Ball State University where she graduated with her BFA in Dance. During her time at Ball State, she had the opportunity to perform across multiple genres in shows such as; Swing! The Musical, A Chorus Line (Bebe u/s, Dance Captain), modern dance concerts, and collaboratively in student led grant projects. In 2017 she worked closely with Sidra Bell on the project i2i: impact to innovation, an immersive evening length concert. After graduating, Lisa moved to Indianapolis, IN where she performed in the annual IPL Yuletide Celebration, The Fringe Festival, and Flourish: A Modern Dance Showcase; a recurring concert at the White Rabbit Cabaret. In addition to performing, Lisa taught dance to students from ages 2 to adult. She is so excited to be in Austin and share her love of dance!
Haley Sikes Haley Sikes 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. Haley has been teaching dance for the past five years, and her resume includes working for Prestige Dance Convention, choreographing for many Hip Hop crews all over Texas, and being a background dancer for local artists. She has a fresh new view that she uses to spark creativity among other young artists.
Haley Sikes Haley Introduction Video
Danielle Storey Loredo Danielle Storey Loredo grew up training at Tempe Dance Academy and Nina Marlow School of Ballet in Phoenix, Arizona. Her competitive dance experience has given her so much to be grateful for, and she also attributes her success as a dancer/human to her steadfast commitment to ballet training and technique. Danielle received a performing arts scholarship to the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University where she studied Dance Performance and Corporate Communications. In college, she was a student choreographer, co-founded the SMU dance club, and worked through an intense curriculum Upon graduating in 2011, Danielle came to work in Austin and taught dance classes part time. Her passion for teaching performing arts was so centric in her life that she decided to leave her corporate job, and help Kathy Dupuy and Kristin Nicolaisen start Balance Dance Studios.
Danielle Storey Loredo Danielle Storey Loredo grew up training at Tempe Dance Academy and Nina Marlow School of Ballet in Phoenix, Arizona. Her competitive dance experience has given her so much to be grateful for, and she also attributes her success as a dancer/human to her steadfast commitment to ballet training and technique. Danielle received a performing arts scholarship to the Meadows School of the Arts at Southern Methodist University where she studied Dance Performance and Corporate Communications. In college, she was a student choreographer, co-founded the SMU dance club, and worked through an intense curriculum Upon graduating in 2011, Danielle came to work in Austin and taught dance classes part time. Her passion for teaching performing arts was so centric in her life that she decided to leave her corporate job, and help Kathy Dupuy and Kristin Nicolaisen start Balance Dance Studios.Danielle is also passionate about performance and has danced for choreographers Danny Buraczeski, Kristin Nicolaisen, Quinton Weathers, Cat Cogliandro, Cheryl Copeland, Devon Adams, Millicent Johnnie and Jessie Smart. With experience in the commercial dance world of Los Angeles, she understands what it takes for pre-professional dancers to make a living with their art. Some of her most memorable LA experiences include assisting dance legend Jackie Sleight, apprenticing for Diavolo Dance Company and workshopping the choreography for Disney’s Frozen show at California Adventure. She pulls a lot of her stylistic inspiration from her time spent in LA training with her contemporary favorites, Jason Gorman and Cat Cogliandro. Danielle aims to train dancers into anatomically aware, sharp, dynamic and daring performers. She also hopes to make an impact in her students’ lives beyond the studio, mentoring and encouraging positivity and confidence!
Danielle Introduction Video
Dre Torres Dre Torres is an International performer, teacher and choreographer who received a Bachelor of Science in American Dance Pedagogy and Minor in Business Entrepreneurship at Oklahoma City University. Some Performances include Comedy Central, Radio City Music Hall, FOX, The Capezio A.C.E. Awards, BBC London, and PBS. Dre has been on faculty with Broadway Dance Center, Pineapple Dance Studios, DansEncore International Dance Festival, Soul to Sole Tap Festival, London Tap Dance Intensive to name a few. Dre premiered her latest tap show production ‘OSCiLLATE’, which she co-choreographed and performed in the UK. This show debuted at the renowned Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, and appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Latitude Music Festival and Shanghai’s Xintiandi Festival. Most recently, Dre performed at the Joyce Theater with Hoofer Award winner Ayodele Casel and 6 Time Grammy Award winning artist Arturo O’Farril.
Dre Torres Dre Torres is an International performer, teacher and choreographer who received a Bachelor of Science in American Dance Pedagogy and Minor in Business Entrepreneurship at Oklahoma City University. Some Performances include Comedy Central, Radio City Music Hall, FOX, The Capezio A.C.E. Awards, BBC London, and PBS. Dre has been on faculty with Broadway Dance Center, Pineapple Dance Studios, DansEncore International Dance Festival, Soul to Sole Tap Festival, London Tap Dance Intensive to name a few. Dre premiered her latest tap show production ‘OSCiLLATE’, which she co-choreographed and performed in the UK. This show debuted at the renowned Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London, and appeared at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Latitude Music Festival and Shanghai’s Xintiandi Festival. Most recently, Dre performed at the Joyce Theater with Hoofer Award winner Ayodele Casel and 6 Time Grammy Award winning artist Arturo O’Farril. Dre Introduction Video
Alex Wood Alex Wood is a dancer and artist, originally from Michigan. He studied dance at Marymount Manhattan College, with a concentration in choreography. Since college, he has worked with several dance companies & performance art groups, including Ann Liv Young Dance Company, as well as creating independent works.
Alex Wood Alex Wood is a dancer and artist, originally from Michigan. He studied dance at Marymount Manhattan College, with a concentration in choreography. Since college, he has worked with several dance companies & performance art groups, including Ann Liv Young Dance Company, as well as creating independent works.Alex Introduction Video
Hannah Woolridge Hannah Woolridge, who recently relocated to Austin, TX, began dancing at the age of 3 in Corpus Christi, TX. She has gone on to earn a B.F.A. in Dance from Sam Houston State University, is certified in Mat and Reformer Pilates, as well as pursuing her Gryotonic® Certification. Hannah performed with the Corpus Christi Ballet from 2004-2013 starring in various roles such as; Clara, Dew Drop Fairy, Russian dancer, Mirliton, Pirouette Doll, and Harlequin Doll in Nutcracker, Cygnet in Swan Lake, and the Generosity Fairy in Sleeping Beauty. She attended several summer intensives including Ballet Austin studying under Stephen Mills, the School of American Ballet studying under Peter Martins and Kay Mazzo, and the Alonzo King Lines Ballet. While pursuing her degree at Sam Houston, Hannah had the opportunity to work with various international choreographers, including Gerard Theoret and Maurice Causey, as well as perform as a member of Nicolay Danceworks in A Wynne Home Nutcracker. After graduating from Sam Houston State University in 2016, Hannah spent three months in Rome, Italy dancing and performing with VivoBallet under the direction of Enzo Celli. Upon returning back to the states Hannah began dancing as a Resident Guest Artist with Corpus Christi Concert Ballet for the 2017-2018 season as well as teaching at the Ballet Academy of Corpus Christi. Hannah is ecstatic about joining the team at Balance Dance Studios and diving into the Austin dance scene.
Hannah Woolridge Hannah Woolridge, who recently relocated to Austin, TX, began dancing at the age of 3 in Corpus Christi, TX. She has gone on to earn a B.F.A. in Dance from Sam Houston State University, is certified in Mat and Reformer Pilates, as well as pursuing her Gryotonic® Certification. Hannah performed with the Corpus Christi Ballet from 2004-2013 starring in various roles such as; Clara, Dew Drop Fairy, Russian dancer, Mirliton, Pirouette Doll, and Harlequin Doll in Nutcracker, Cygnet in Swan Lake, and the Generosity Fairy in Sleeping Beauty. She attended several summer intensives including Ballet Austin studying under Stephen Mills, the School of American Ballet studying under Peter Martins and Kay Mazzo, and the Alonzo King Lines Ballet. While pursuing her degree at Sam Houston, Hannah had the opportunity to work with various international choreographers, including Gerard Theoret and Maurice Causey, as well as perform as a member of Nicolay Danceworks in A Wynne Home Nutcracker. After graduating from Sam Houston State University in 2016, Hannah spent three months in Rome, Italy dancing and performing with VivoBallet under the direction of Enzo Celli. Upon returning back to the states Hannah began dancing as a Resident Guest Artist with Corpus Christi Concert Ballet for the 2017-2018 season as well as teaching at the Ballet Academy of Corpus Christi. Hannah is ecstatic about joining the team at Balance Dance Studios and diving into the Austin dance scene.Hannah Introduction Video
Studio Interns
