Meet Our Staff

About Jennifer Schumann

Jennifer is originally from Connecticut. She moved to the Carolinas with her family 25 years ago. She has 2 children and a granddaughter. Jennifer works in the Fort Mill School District as well as an Instructional Assistant. Her daughter danced for 13 years and she was excited when the opportunity to work at Miller Street came up and to be involved in the dance community again!

About Alex Ryan

Alex grew up at Miller Street Dance Academy. She joined the competition team at age 7 and spent every day dancing her way through school! After graduating high school she went on to college at UNCW where she joined dance team and was captain her junior and senior year. After graduating college and moving back to Charlotte with her husband and 2 boys she had the opportunity to help work in the office of the studio she holds so close to her heart! She’s happy she gets to be a part of a studio that means so much to her even if she’s not dancing anymore!

About Taylor Gallman

Taylor Gallman began dancing at Miller Street Dance Academy at 2 years old. She was on the competition team for 10+ years until she graduated and attended the University of South Carolina where she got her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health. Since graduating high school, she has always come back to the studio to help with recitals, open houses, summer camps, and now works in the office. She has been in the mortgage industry for over 4 years and currently works as a Wholesale Account Executive, selling loan products to mortgage brokers. She has always had a passion for dance and jumped at the opportunity to return to the studio as an Office Assistant.

About Helen Stengel

A native of Connecticut; Helen has spent the last 34 years in Charlotte, NC, building a successful career in real estate and mortgage. Her passion helping clients navigate their real estate and finance journeys was an-easy transition to Miller Street in 2022. She feels honored to be part of the Miller Street Family, serving as Miss Michelle’s Personal Assistant and helping our dancers and parents in the front office. She looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional support and service to our treasured students and their families.

About Pam Gallman

Pam Gallman is a retired dance mom who’s daughter danced at Miller Street for 17 years recreationally and competitively. Pam credits the studio for being such a positive influence on her daughter Taylor, and wants to encourage as many people as she can to be a part of Miller Street. After her almost 40-year career in Technology Sales as an Account Manager, she is excited to be back at MSDA as an Office Assistant, doing something that makes her smile!

About Paige Williams

When Paige had the opportunity for an office position at Miller Street, she jumped at the chance to be a part of the studio. As a child, she began dancing at the age of 3 taking ballet, jazz and tap. She took a few years off, then returned in her early teens and really enjoyed the experience. Although she stopped attending classes, she never stopped enjoying dance and still loves to watch all the performances.

About Colette Anderson

For the last 30+ years I have been in the real estate and mortgage lending industry. When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, golfing and walking my 100 lb. German Shepherd.

About Jade Harbin

Jade is originally from Calabash, NC where she started dancing at the age of 5. She danced at the Academy of Dance and Fine Arts in Little River, SC up until she graduated high school. She is still furthering her education at The University of Charlotte and committed to their dance team for 2 years. Jade is planned to major in Criminal Justice. She is trained in, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, hip hop, tap, and Pom! Jazz and Pom are her favorite styles of dance. She loves working with children and helping them grow as better dancers and people. Jade is excited to start her teaching journey at Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Christine Underwood

Christine Underwood began dancing at age 2 and was a member of Miller Street’s competition team for 13 years where she trained in tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop, acrobatics, lyrical, and contemporary. In 2019, Christine won the title of Miss Dance of North Carolina, placed in the top ten at Miss Dance of America, and won the highest-scoring tap routine award. She attended The University of Alabama where she studied psychology and criminal justice and was a member of The University of Alabama’s Hockey Dance Team and the group Dance Alabama! In the summer of 2023, she danced professionally for the United States Football League where she danced for the Birmingham Stallions and the New Orleans Breakers. She is excited to return to Miller Street to teach dance! 

About Hayden Shugart

Hayden has been at Miller Street since the age of twelve when she left the competitive gymnastics world for dance. She joined the Performance Company Senior Team in 2019 and was a member until graduation in June 2024. Hayden has been trained in many styles of dance such as jazz, tap, acro, ballet, and lyrical. Lyrical and jazz have always been her favorites to perform as well as teach. Hayden has been an assistant at Miller Street for four years, and is excited to join the studio as a teacher. She is passionate about working with children and watching them learn and grow as dancers.

About Jamie Harvener

Jamie embarked on his dance journey at the age of ten, igniting a lifelong passion that has blossomed into an extraordinary career path, showcasing his talent, dedication, and artistry.

At the age of thirteen, Jamie’s talent for dance was recognized when he was admitted to the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCAPA), in Lexington, Kentucky, as a Contemporary Dance major. His potential was further showcased at sixteen when he was chosen as one of only twenty-four dancers from across Kentucky to participate in the prestigious Governor’s School for the Arts summer program.

Throughout his formative years in middle and high school, Jamie’s commitment to excellence in dance was evident, earning him multiple regional titles under the Dance Masters of America organization. Notably, he was awarded the Grand National Champion title for his self-choreographed duet.

While Jamie’s foundation in dance was solidified during his university education, it was his foray into choreography that truly ignited his creative spirit. Since then, his choreographic prowess has garnered national acclaim within the competitive dance circuit. His choreography has consistently elevated performances to new heights, culminating in notable achievements such as crafting the winning routines for prestigious competitions including Master Dance of America and Teen Mr. Dance of America.

Notably, Jamie’s artistic contributions were recognized with the esteemed Sherry Gold Memorial award for best choreography, a testament to his innovative approach and creative vision.

Beyond his local roots in Kentucky, Jamie has shared his talent as a guest choreographer in prominent dance communities such as Charlotte, NC, Cincinnati, OH, Nashville, TN, and Orlando, FL.

Looking ahead, Jamie is committed to continually pushing the boundaries of dance and choreography. And while incredibly grateful for the opportunities he’s had thus far, he is excited to embrace those that lie ahead.

About Annie Ward

Annie Ward has been training in dance for over 20 years and teaching dance for 6 years. She is trained in Jazz, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop and Ballet. Annie is originally from West Chester, Pennsylvania and has had to privilege to perform and compete across the tri-state area. Annie assisted her first dance class at age 12 and started teaching right after graduating high school. She attended Penn State University and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts Broadcast Journalism and Theatre. After graduating Annie combined her love of dance with her passion for photography and has worked with local companies and studios to capture dancers movement both onstage and in studio.

Annie has continued her dance training into adulthood by performing with Formerly & Tomorrow dance collective (Medieval Tragedy) and West Chester University Alumni Dance Chapter (Happiness is and Music in Motion). She has trained with Lydia Ciafonne (Formerly&Tomorrow) and Christie Valdiserri and is continuing her training in Charlotte.

Annie is thrilled to join the talented staff and Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Meriah Early

Meriah began dancing at the age of 5 in Buffalo, New York where she was born and raised. She attended Center Stage Dance Studio where she and her team won many national titles. At CSDS she was on the competition dance team and she trained in Acro, Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, and Tap. Meriah moved to Charlotte, North Carolina when she was 9. Her first and only studio in CLT was the best…Miller Street Dance Academy. Meriah was apart of Miller Street’s competition dance team for 8 years. In July 2023 her training ended and she is now an alumni. With her team, she has achieved many different awards including choreography, special awards, and technique awards. They also have made it to Grand Champions multiple times, and have been nominated for Industry Dance Awards.

Meriah graduated in June 2023, and is continuing her studies at UNC-Charlotte. She plans on majoring in Nursing to become a Nurse Practitioner in the future. In addition to her love for healthcare, she has a strong passion for dance and is looking forward to being able to teach. She has been taught by MSDA staff for many years, so she’s excited that she gets to now be a staff member.

Miller Street is Meriah’s second home and family and she can’t wait to bring that on to so many people this upcoming dance season!

About Nicolette Albano

Nicolette is originally from Colchester, CT where she began her dance career at the age of 4. She danced at the Dance Academy of Colchester for 14 years and then went on to become a instructor there at the age of 17. She dedicated her practice to many different genres, however, Hip-Hop and Pom are her all-time favorites! During this time, she was also a member of her high school dance team, the Bacon Academy Dance Team and was a captain for 2 years.

She then moved to Charlotte, NC and went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She was a member of UNC Charlotte’s dance team, the Gold Dusters from 2018-2021 where she performed at home football and basketball games and competed at UDA Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL each year. After graduating from UNCC with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she is excited to continue her dance career at Miller Street Dance Academy!

In her free time, she enjoys traveling to new places, boxing, and cooking.

About Abby Harmon

Abby Harmon began dancing at the age of 2, and was a member of Miller Street’s competition team for 12 years, where she trained intensively in many genres of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, hiphop, acrobatics, lyrical, contemporary, and modern. Abby attended The University of South Carolina, and was a member of the Carolina Girls Dance Team for four years. During that time, she had the privilege of dancing at the home football games, men’s and women’s basketball games, and traveling for any bowl games, as well as doing appearances on and off campus. She also competed with her team each year at a collegiate national competition in Daytona Beach, Florida, where her team is 3x National Champions in the D1A Team Performance category. Abby also graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education, and will begin her teaching career in August as a first grade teacher at Springfield Elementary School. She cannot wait to be back teaching dance at Miller Street!

About Liza Coccia

Liza believes it is very important to observe how each student learns and receives information and believes that taking the time to teach proper technique and fundamentals is essential in creating a successful dancer. Liza is a member of Southern Association of Dance Masters, where she is currently Chair and runs the Summer Ballet Forum in addition to being a member of Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. Liza has choreographed pieces to perform at various venues such as Southern Association of Dance Masters and dance competitions. Liza is trained in Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical and Musical Theater. Liza has professionally danced in shows with Carnival Cruise Lines, The Dino Show, Legends in Concert and Shoji Tabuchi Show in Branson, MO. She has been in the movie “21 Grams “and Hallmark’s “Christmas at Graceland.” She has also performed with the Springfield Muni Opera as Louise Bigelow in Carousel & Eliza the slave in The King and I. She has Judged for the Bravo! Dance Competition as well. Liza lives in Charlotte NC with her husband, her daughter and her dog Jewels

Liza is so happy to be teaching at Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Megan Raftery

Megan is from Lake Charles, LA and has been dancing since the age of 2. She began her dance training with Glenda Moss studying various styles including ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, lyrical, and contemporary for over 15 years. While competing, Megan won numerous scholarships and awards through Dance Masters of America including several acrobatic scholarships from the Louisiana Association of Dance Masters. She attended St. Louis Catholic High School where she was a member of the St. Louis Sweethearts for four years and served as captain her senior year.

Megan attended Louisiana State University where she performed with the LSU Dance Ensemble, was a member of the physical theater club, and received a B.S. in Kinesiology. After graduating, Megan moved to Charlotte where she began performing locally with two dance and circus companies, Caroline Calouche & Co. and Nouveau Sud. She also went on to continue her dance education with Dance Masters of America’s Teachers Training School where she received an Associate’s Certificate in ballet, tap, and jazz. This year Megan will proudly become a member of the Louisiana Association of Dance Masters. Megan has a special passion for acrobatics and has received her Acrobatic Arts Module One, Module Two, and Hoop Theory certification. On top of her dance education, Megan is also currently pursuing her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine.

About Lauren Walker

Lauren began dancing at age 2. Her parents always say she was dancing before she could walk! She trained in Charlotte as a company member of a local studio, performing many lead roles and training under professionals from various ballet companies. The foundation of Lauren’s training is ballet. However, she trained in many other dance disciplines as well including; contemporary, lyrical, modern, tap, and jazz. Lauren was on the dance team at her high school and worked collaboratively to choreograph many dance pieces. She won the upperclassman dance award for being a distinguished dancer and choreographer at her high school. She continued her studies at the Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory in Connecticut where she trained with their international summer ballet program under the direction of: Victoria Mazzerelli, Tim Melady, Joan Kunsch, Eleanor D’Antuano, and Kate St. Amand. She went on to dance through college on a performance team as she received her BA in Early Childhood Education at the University of South Carolina where she pursued her passion for teaching children and creating positive classroom environments for students. She is now teaching dance at Greenway Park Elementary school where she teaches grades K-5 and gets to share her love for dance with students every day.

Lauren is very passionate about instilling a love for dance in children as well as using dance as a platform to help students gain self-confidence. She believes in the importance of creative movement and knows that expression through dance is one of the greatest gifts a child can have. Lauren is dedicated to inspiring young dancers to dream big and work hard. She is thrilled to be a part of the Miller Street family and is looking forward to dancing with you!

About Becca Retter

Becca Retter is a multi-talented dancer, teacher and choreographer. She is an expert at the Al Gilbert Tap Technique and the nation’s leader in pre-school material for your dance studio. She is known for creating the most usable, age-appropriate music and choreography for dance studios with her product Dance Advantage through MusicWorks Unlimited. Her products Dance Adventure and Dance Creation are the perfect solution for any preschool class combining technique and creative movement in a fun, imaginative way. Becca currently teaches for DanceMakers heading up their highly unique and popular convention preschool classes called Camp Dance since 2006. She has also had the pleasure of teaching for Dupree Dance Expos, Dance Masters of America (DMA), Dance Educators of America (DEA), SADM, CNADM, Dance Teacher Connection and Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Teacher Conference and Retreat Center.

Becca and her husband, Thommie, teach and produce Broadway workshops through their company, Retter Entertainment. She also co-directs their tap company the NYC Tap Crew. Becca is so excited to join the fabulous faculty at Miller Street Dance Academy! Previously she taught for Classical School of Ballet and Stars of Tomorrow in Long Island, NY. Becca also taught for Retter’s Academy of Dance in Los Angeles from 1995-2008 and was co-director of their Pre-School Department, known as The Starlet Academy. Becca has danced on MTV and internationally in Canada, Denmark, Guatemala and Russia. Her love and enthusiasm for dance make her a favorite among students and teachers and she always enjoys sharing her talents.

About Thomas Retter

Thommie Retter loves the entertainment business and you will see it shine through in each of his classes at Miller Street Dance Academy. While living a 3 ½ year run on Broadway playing the role of Mr. Braithwaite in Billy Elliot The Musical, Thommie had the thrill of performing for more than 1.5 million enthusiastic theatregoers. With the curtain closed, Thommie has been able to return to his first love, teaching dance. He is director and choreographer for the NYC Tap Crew, a professional teen tap company in NYC. Recently, Thommie had the honor of preparing the one and only Tony Danza for his Broadway show Honeymoon in Vegas and continues to work with Tony on a regular basis. Also, in his arsenal of tap dance celebrities are Isabela Mercer (Dora) Dora The Explorer, Transformers: The Last Knight, Mila Kunis from That 70’s Show and Black Swan and Meg Donnelly star of Disney’s Zombies / ABC’s American Housewife, and Larry Saperstein (Big Red from High School Musical The Musical The Series. Thommie has had students in a variety of Broadway shows including; Anastasia, Annie, Beetlejuice, Billy Elliot, Dr Zhivago, Finding Neverland, Fun Home, Kinky Boots, Macbeth, Matilda, School of Rock, Caroline, Or Change, Trevor The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire and The Music Man. Thommie also has students involved in the national tours of A Christmas Story, Annie, Beauty And The Beast, Billy Elliot, Kinky Boots, Pippin, The Lion King, The Sound of Music and White Christmas. With his production company, Retter Entertainment, Thommie has produced 13 The Musical and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Thommie is honored to join the faculty, staff and student body of MSDA and looks forward to meeting and working with you!

About Kayla Zisa

Kayla started dancing at the age of 4. She danced at the Performing Arts Academy in New Jersey and was part of their competitive team. She trained in ballet, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, acro, hip hop, and tap. She was always proud to learn from one of the principal ballerinas of The Bolshoi Ballet, Yuliya Akopyan. She is grateful to have had the experience to work with some remarkable choreographers and teachers. Some of her best memories were competing at the United States Tournament of Dance, Kids for Kids Dance Competition, American Dance Awards, Starbound and JUMP. Kayla has performed and choreographed for various dance teams. She continued her training and enjoyed dance classes at High Point University. Kayla recently graduated with a degree in strategic communications with minors in marketing and sales. She will be working for Tom James selling custom clothing. Kayla is excited to share her passion for dance at Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Tanzley Janik

Miss Tanzley is passionate about dancing and teaching the art form to students of all ages. From youth, Tanzley knew she wanted to perform for others. She worked with groups such as Hutton-Miller and Provident Films before discovering her love for live performance. She has been an active cast member at Narroway Productions since the age of 11. There, she has worn many hats as a dancer, actress, soloist, and animal handler.

Miss Tanzley began her dance education right here at Miller Street. While ballet is her first love, she had the pleasure of joining MSDA’s Pre-Professional Program where she trained intensively in many other styles of dance, including tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop and acrobatics.

Tanzley has been a dance educator since 2016. She believes that the lessons learned in dance classes stretch beyond performance and help students connect with others, gain confidence, and channel creativity. She feels overjoyed to help the next generation develop these skills at Miller Street!

About Hannah Harshman

Hannah Harshman was the founder and original owner of Dance 360 Orlando. While under Hannah’s direction, Dance 360 garnered several regional and national accolades including “Orlando’s Best Dance Studio”, “Orlando’s Most Loved Dance Studio”, and “National Studio of the Year” (2015-2018). A native of Lexington, KY, Hannah grew up under the direction of Diana Evans Pulliam and also trained at the School for the Creative and Performing Arts. After continuing her education at Point Park University and the University of Kentucky, Hannah began teaching and choreographing professionally. Her students have received numerous overall awards and titles at both the regional and national level. Hannah’s students have held titles for Dance Masters of Ohio, Dance Masters of Florida, Dance Masters of America, Kids Artistic Revue, Applause National Talent, Star Systems, Starpower, Rainbow National Talent, Believe National Talent, and Dance Educators of America. She has had former students also travel throughout the country as assistants for both The Pulse and Tremaine dance conventions, perform in national commercials for Disney and Universal, and work in numerous theatre productions across the country as well as on Broadway. Hannah’s highly sought after lyrical and contemporary choreography has received multiple national choreography awards throughout the past decade. She has also had the opportunity to work for the Miss America and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organizations where she has served as a judge, choreographer, and talent consultant. She is currently a member of Dance Masters of Florida where she has held the position of both First and Second Vice President. Hannah has judged for for Kids Artistic Revue, Rainbow National Talent, and Dance Masters of America and she continues to share her love and passion for dance by guest teaching and choreographing throughout the country. Hannah currently resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband (Brian) and three children (Sawyer, Shepherd, and Magnolia).

About Michelle (Rogers) Soutier

 Michelle is a native of North Carolina and a graduate of UNC Charlotte and has an extensive background in performing arts and education. Michelle has been recognized for outstanding achievements in dance. Michelle is the Past President of Carolina Dance Masters and is a member of Dance Educators of America and Dance Masters of America. Michelle also serves on the advisory board for The Ziegfeld Club, Inc, is on the faculty for the 2018 I.D.E.A. Conference, and is an Executive Administrator for the Dancer Against Cancer Board of Directors.

Michelle is the owner of Miller Street Dance Academy, which is home to more than 2,000 dancers. She has won many state and national awards for choreography and is the teacher of Miss Dance of America 2018, Mr. Dance of America 2017, Petite Miss Dance of America 2016, Teen Mr. and Miss Dance of America 2014, Teen Mr. Dance of America 2011, and Petite Miss Dance of America 2008. She represented the Carolinas as Miss Dance of NC & SC in 1992 at the Miss Dance of America pageant and was Miss Dance Aquarius 1991. Michelle was selected as Director for 2006 through 2010 Teen Miss Dance of America Pageant.

Other honors include being named one of the 2011 Top 50 Influential Area Women by Mecklenburg Times, a 2005 Leading Link Ladies by Charlotte Radio Station 107.9, chosen as the winner of The Business Journal’s “40 Under 40″ Business Leaders, and a finalist for the 2006 and 2007 Channel 9 “Nine Who Care” award. Michelle was Miss UNCC 1991 and went on to compete for the title of Miss North Carolina 1991. In 2014, Michelle was one of the producers for the hit off-broadway show, ‘Pageant: the Musical,’ which was nominated for a 2015 Drama Desk Award.

In addition to teaching dance, Michelle maintains her commitment to community service. In 2015, she was inducted into Make-A-Wish Foundation’s ‘W.I.S.H. Society’ (Women Inspiring Strength and Hope) for her dedication to raising funds to grant the wishes of children battling life-threatening illnesses in the Charlotte area. In 2016, Michelle received the Humanitarian Award from African Christians Fellowship International (ACFI) for her continued support of ACFI’s work supporting Liberian orphans. Michelle currently serves as a National Ambassador for Dancers Against Cancer, an organization that provides financial assistance to dancers, dance teachers, and choreographers who have been diagnosed with cancer.

2024 Women to KNOW in North Carolina.

About Alyson Wright

Alyson is a native of North Carolina. She has been teaching for over 20 years and is proud to call Miller Street her home. Alyson loves to work with children of all ages and ability levels, from the youngest beginner to the most advanced teen and everything in between. In addition to years of training in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, musical theater, modern, lyrical, acting, and vocal performance, Alyson is certified to teach through Dance Masters of America and Acrobatic Arts. Alyson works to bring energy and excitement for learning to her classroom and hopes to instill a love of the arts into each and every student.

A Cum Laude graduate of UNC Charlotte with a degree in Marketing, Alyson was inducted into the Order of Omega Honor Society, National Society for Collegiate Scholars, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Golden Key International Honor Society. In addition to scholastic achievements, during her competitive years, Alyson received countless state and national awards including Miss Dance of North Carolina in 2000, placing in the top ten nationally and receiving the highest score for tap a the Dance Masters of America National Convention. Alyson became a member of Carolina Dance Masters and Dance Masters of America in 2002. She served on the state board of directors from 2012-2016 and has served nationally as Co-Director of the Teen Miss Dance of America Pageant 2006 through 2010. Alyson has been recognized regionally and nationally for her choreography. In August of 2019 she was awarded the coveted Industry Dance Award for tap performance for her piece “Consequence of Sound.” This piece was selected out of thousands of entries nation wide. In addition to choreographing for her own students, Alyson has worked with students around the country, judging and teaching master classes.

About Amy Santoro

Amy is certified in Dance Teaching from the Hartford Conservatory of Music and Dance in Hartford, CT. She is schooled in all forms of dance including Jazz, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Modern, Ballet, Pointe, Acrobatics, Contemporary, Rhythm Tap and Broadway Tap.

Through her years of experience teaching up and down the East Coast, Amy has amassed an abundance of various styles of dance and made them her own. She has been dancing since the age of 6 and has been performing and teaching for the last 14 years. She has taught at several institutions of dance education in NY, CT, MA and NC, including a performing arts high school, The Greater Hartford Academy of the Arts. From 2002 to 2007, she has been teaching and studying dance in NY, founding the Competition Team and working as Team Director.
It was there her teaching and choreography has solely won numerous high point, overall and special awards for jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary and hip-hop routines, including highest overall scoring production at Access Broadway Nationals in Orlando, FL and Grand National Champion at Encore DCS in Charleston, SC. Her choreography has made a name for itself by winning several prestigious awards in all age levels of competitive dance from solos to productions, beginner to advanced. Amy is certified by Dance Masters of America in Jazz and Acrobatics and is a member of the Carolina Dance Masters Chapter 15.

While she enjoys teaching competitive dance, she finds it immensely rewarding to teach toddlers and beginners. Amy feels there is nothing more fulfilling than being a mentor, and instilling the love of dance in a child.

About Jessica O’Keefe

A distinguished dance professional and educator with extensive performance experience and formal training in both dance and graphic design, Jessica O’Keefe currently serves as Director at Miller Street Dance Academy’s Baxter Village location, bringing a unique blend of artistic vision and leadership to dance education.

A Magna Cum Laude graduate from Appalachian State University, Jessica holds both a BA in Dance Studies and a BFA in Graphic Design. During her academic career, she demonstrated leadership as a National Honors Society Member, Art Department Ambassador, and Captain and Coach of the ASU Elite Dance Team.

Her professional journey at Miller Street Dance Academy began in 2010 as an instructor and choreographer for their award-winning Competition Team. She advanced to become the Performance Company Director at the Fort Mill location in Baxter Village in 2016, later co-directing the Pre-Professional Program in 2017. In 2018, Jessica accepted the role of Director for Miller Street’s Baxter Village location.

Throughout her career, Jessica has accumulated impressive performance credits, including appearances with Martha Connerton/Kinetic Works as a professional company member, Dance Chicago with Nick Pupillo, the American Dance Festival with Roger Belman, and the Hula Bowl in Maui. Her choreography has been featured in the North Carolina Dance Festival and Multiple Exposure in Raleigh, NC. She has performed principal roles including Cinderella, Dew Drop Fairy, and Lilac Fairy.

Her extensive training includes study at prestigious institutions such as Charlotte Ballet (formerly North Carolina Dance Theater), North Carolina School of the Arts, American Dance Festival, East Carolina University, The Academy of Dance and Fine Arts, Dance Davidson, and Appalachian State University. She has trained under notable instructors including Roger Belman, Karen Deese, Sadie Roberts, Emily Daughtridge, Patty Weeks, Tommi Galaska, and Nick Pupillo.

Jessica’s excellence in dance has been recognized with awards including “Top All American Dancer” and “Top Choreographer” from the National Dance Alliance, cementing her reputation as both a performer and choreographer.

About Gina Smith

Gina has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Montreat College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude. Gina has been the Office Manager for Miller Street Dance Academy Providence location (and the former Enchanting Dancers) for the past twenty-two years. She is highly involved with the Backpack Meals service society project, which is located on our Service Society page. Gina can be seen at all Miller Street dance competitions, as well as all Miller Street recitals and performances.

About Shae Tuttle

Shae grew up in Fort Mill, SC where she still resides today with her husband and three children. Shae attended Spartanburg Methodist College where she cheered for the Pioneers, and then transferred to the University of South Carolina. (Go Gamecocks!) Shae was awarded the crown for Miss Greenville Teen USA and went on to place 1st runner up in Miss South Carolina Teen USA. Shae now coaches cheerleading for the Town of Fort Mill. With her love of music and dance, it is only fit that she has now found her home here at Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Cheryl Harmon

About Laura Glynn

About Serena Richardson

About Cindy Milia

Miss Cindy is originally from Michigan before she moved to Charlotte. In her free time, Miss Cindy loves drinking Starbucks coffee, working out, and spending time with her family.

Cindy is a certified member of Dance Masters of America and Carolina Dance Masters Chapter #15. Cindy is Cecchetti trained up to Level IV in ballet and tap and has taught gymnastics and dance for over fourteen years. Cindy is an attorney with a Master of Law and a BBA, with majors in finance and social science.

Although Miss Cindy has trained in other fields, her goal is that everyone can share an appreciation and love for dance. Miss Cindy’s goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment that encourages self-expression through the movements of dance.

About Randi Lee

Miss Randi is thrilled to be back in the south and teaching at MSDA!
Her dance experience began just one month after turning two, the years of training that followed were nothing short of amazing. She spent many years attending rigorous intensives and conventions such as: 13 consecutive years at Dance Masters of America Nationals, DMA’s S.H.I.P – Student Honors Intensive Program & Ballet Intensive, NC Rhythm Tap Festival, and many regional conventions. Miss Randi is well versed in ballet, tap, modern, lyrical, contemporary, classical/commercial/contemporary jazz, hip hop, musical theater, improv and acrobatics. She believes that technique and education in a structured, uplifting and creative environment is very important when training young artists!

Miss Randi is a former MSDA team member – She was a competitive dancer for 15 years and held the title of Miss Dance of North Carolina in 2010 & again in 2012 where she placed in the Top Ten in Anaheim, California. She was also President of Carolina Dance Masters Junior Member organization; she helped write the official bylaws for the Chapter. Miss Randi spent the last six years in New York City furthering her dance education as well as teaching and performing on a regular basis. She was on faculty at both The American Musical and Dramatic Academy (college/conservatory) and Broadway Dance Center’s Children and Teens Program! She also spent the last two summers working and training across Europe with World Dance Movement. There she assisted Michele Assaf daily, taught acrobatics for dancers, and adjudicated the international competition. She was able to learn from and work with incredible artists, such as Desmond Richardson, Macia Del Prete, AC Ciulla, Stacey Tookey, Bill Goodson, and so many more. She learned that dance is an incredible bridge between cultures and languages, a way to communicate and collaborate no matter who you are or where you are from. Randi has taught master classes all over the East Coast and spends most weekends judging for Encore DCS and Beyond The Stars!

Miss Randi is a graduate of AMDA, NY. She has since been selected by various choreographers to dance for The House of Blues, Danza Heights Festival, and Daniel Joseph Baker LIVE! Aside from her love for teaching she still enjoys any chance to perform! Her forever favorite hobbies are Juggling and Handwalking!

Miss Randi has officially relocated to Charlotte NC and is so excited to share her love for dance with all of you!

About Janelle Neal

Janelle Neal has been teaching dance for over 10 years. She is classically trained in ballet and has studied at the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Alfred Ballet Academy, and La Roche College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance and Psychology. In college, she performed with the Buffalo City Ballet and danced in several ballets including Giselle, Swan Lake, Coppelia, and the Nutcracker, as well as many contemporary ballet pieces.

After moving to Charlotte, Janelle earned her teaching certificate in K-12 Dance Education at UNC Charlotte. Over the past seven years she has been teaching dance in the public school system at South Charlotte Middle School. Currently, Janelle is a stay-at-home mom with her two young sons Connor and Owen. She is excited to be on the staff at Miller Street Dance Academy and looks forward to a great year!

About Mara Goebelbecker

Mara Goebelbecker began her dance training at the age of three at Ann Freeman Dance Academy in Hickory, North Carolina. Throughout her time there she participated in summer programs including SHIP and was an active participant in the Dance Masters of America organization. At the age of Fourteen Mara left Hickory and attended a ballet training program at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where she dedicated her high school years to training in all styles of Ballet and Contemporary dance under Dean Susan Jaffee as well as some of the most well known Ballet/Contemporary teachers across the country. Throughout her four years attending UNCSA, Mara also attended many summer intensives including The Rock Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, and Governor’s School North Carolina. Upon completion of her degree at UNC School of the Arts, Mara continued her dance training at Florida State University and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance in May of 2020.

Mara performed in many choreographic works throughout her time at FSU and also set several pieces while working with other students in the School of Dance. In 2018 her choreography was selected to be performed at the American College Dance Association’s southeastern regional conference. She was very thankful to have been chosen to work closely with Ann Carlson and performed Carlson’s Flag 2 Redo in 2018. Mara has also participated in a number of MANCC residencies throughout her time at FSU including Beth Gill’s 2020 residency. In the summer of 2019 Mara attended American Dance Festival on a leadership scholarship which allowed her to work with amazing artists like Charles Anderson and Kate Jewett. She was also lucky enough to attend San Francisco Conservatory of Dance’s last summer intensive in 2018. Mara was a participant in the Arts in NYC program in 2019 in which she interned for Movement Research (MR) as a studio coordinator intern. During her time in New York, Mara performed a work titled “12 minutes” for choreographer Sarah Rose many times throughout NYC and New Jersey as well as performing her own choreography in Brooklyn and along the High Line in Manhattan. Mara is a performer, teacher, and choreographer who has shown her work in many different venues to date. Mara is excited to be joining the Miller Street team and is looking forward to sharing her knowledge and passion for dance with everyone at Miller Street Dance Academy!

About Scout Shugart

Scout graduated in 2019 as a homeschooled student and Miller Street Dance Academy alumni. She danced for 14 years, 7 as a Miller Street dancer and 4 of those as an original Senior Performance Company member. Scout has been trained by numerous instructors including Jessica O’Keefe, Conor McKenzie, Randi Lee, and Denise Clarke. She attended several dance conventions throughout high school and had the pleasure of taking classes from Alex Wong, Curtis “TRIX” Pearson, Lauren Froderman, and Scott Fowler. The foundation of her training is ballet, but she is also trained in tap, jazz, contemporary, acrobatics, improv, modern, musical theater, and hip hop. Her freshman year she began teaching as an assistant teacher and instantly fell in love with it. She has a love for children and wants to make a difference in their lives through her love of dance.

Scout is attending Winthrop University on a partial academic scholarship and is majoring in graphic design. She hopes to one day have her own freelance graphic design and photography business during and after college. She plans to further her dance education by taking classes at Winthrop and trying out for their dance team next year. Scout is excited to be on staff at Miller Street and share her love of dance with you!

About Nicole Hardy

Miss Nicole began dancing at age 3 and competing at age 8 as one of Miller Street’s original 20 students when the studio was first opened as “Enchanting Dancers.” Miss Nicole attended Clemson University from 2008 – 2012, where she was a member of the University’s dance team, the Clemson Rally Cats. Miss Nicole was lucky enough to be able to dance at each of Clemson’s football and basketball games while also traveling to compete with the Rally Cats each April in Daytona, Florida. After graduating Cum Laude with a master’s degree in Elementary Education, Miss Nicole now teaches 4th grade at Sharon Elementary School during the day, and enjoys teaching dance at night! Miss Nicole currently resides in Pineville, NC with her husband Tad and their 2-year-old black lab. Miss Nicole loves being able to teach at the studio that shaped her into the woman she is today, and is so happy to be back with her Miller Street family!

About Sadie Darrah

Sadie is a Las Vegas, Nevada native who is new to the East Coast residing in Lake Wylie, SC. Sadie has been training in multiple styles of dance since the age of four and her background includes seven years of teaching dance and six years of dancewear retail management working with the leading dance brand, Bloch Inc.

Sadie is a graduate of Nevada State College with a Bachelors in Business Management. During the day, she has a career in the Telecommunications/Engineering industry while she teaches dance at night. While growing up in Las Vegas and continuing her education, this is when she became specialized in pointe shoe fittings and dancewear retail while working for Bloch. Sadie has experience in competing in various dance styles as well as performing in the Legends show at the Flamingo Hotel and Casino on the Las Vegas strip.

Sadie’s passion for dance enables her to share her excitement, knowledge, and skills with her students. Educating and motivating students to feel confident about their skills and talents as well as creating an inspiring classroom environment is her top priority. Sadie is excited to be a part of Miller Street Dance Academy and looks forward to an amazing season with her students.

About Ann-Marie Ladnier

Ann-Marie Ladnier began her dance training in 2012 at the age of 13. Two years later, she started taking recreational dance classes at Miller Street Dance Academy and eventually joined their Pre-Professional Program in 2016. While attending Miller Street as a student, she also worked with MSDA summer camps and enjoyed instructing dance as an assistant. Ann-Marie has trained in many styles of dance such as jazz, hip hop, musical theater, acrobatics, ballet, pointe, tap, lyrical, contemporary, and modern.

In May 2016, Ann-Marie graduated from the School of Academics and Ethics. She received an Associates in Arts with a 4.0 GPA from Central Piedmont Community College in May 2017. In May 2020, she graduated summa cum laude from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.

About Kayla Goebelbecker

Kayla began dancing at the age of four under the direction of Ann Freeman at Ann Freeman Dance Academy in Hickory, North Carolina. During this time she attended many summer intensives and programs around the country including Dance Masters of America Nationals, Ballet Intensives, and SHIP. Her training later continued in New York City after being accepted into the Joffrey Ballet School’s Jazz and Contemporary Trainee Program in 2010. She continued and completed her high school academic education online during her junior and senior year through the North Carolina Virtual Public School while training in dance at the Joffrey Ballet School. Throughout her training at the local studio as well as the Joffrey Ballet School, she has studied many forms of dance including ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, tap, improvisation, and composition. She has worked within the dance world with different studios, dance competitions including Encore DCS and DTI, and one of the largest modern dance festivals in the world, the American Dance Festival. Through these work experiences, Kayla has gained knowledge and an appreciation of many different disciplines within the dance field.

Kayla is a graduate from the University of South Carolina with her Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance Education under the direction of Susan Anderson and Dr. Stephanie Milling. She has participated in performances with the University of South Carolina Dance Company in works by Stephanie Wilkins, Clay Taliaferro (reconstructed by Dr. Stephanie Milling), and student works. Throughout her time at the University of South Carolina, Kayla became a member and held leadership positions in organizations around campus including Phi Mu Fraternity, USC Dance Marathon, and National Dance Education Organization. She graduated in May 2016 and holds K-12 Dance Certification in South Carolina. After graduation Kayla taught dance at both Southwood Academy of the Arts in Anderson, SC as well as Busbee Creative Arts Academy in Columbia, SC. Kayla is excited to continue sharing her love and passion for dance as a member of the Miller Street team!

About Meghan Chaney

Meghan is from Winston-Salem, NC and started dancing at the age of 3 at In Motion Dance Center. She danced at the same studio all the way through her senior year of high school and then went on to dance throughout college with a couple of different companies. Meghan started dancing competitively in the 5th grade and won many top awards with her team. Growing up, Meghan had the opportunity to take master classes and learn choreography from many amazing guest choreographers and had the opportunity to perform up and down the east coast at college football games, festivals and even at Walt Disney World.

Meghan graduated with honors from UNC Chapel Hill with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Dramatic Arts. After college, she taught dance at her hometown studio for several years before moving to Charlotte.

Meghan enjoys teaching all styles of dance to all ages of students. She is excited to be a part of the Miller Street family, and she cannot wait to share her passion for dance with all of her students.

About Rebekah Hepp

Rebekah began dancing at the age of three from the instruction of Laura Smith. From there she transitioned to classical ballet and pointe training at York County Ballet. While at York County Ballet she became a member of the company where she had various roles in performances such as The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Alice in Wonderland, just to name a few. Rebekah also had the opportunity to participate in the STARTS program at Winthrop University for two summers. Rebekah was accepted into The Joffrey Dance Program and The University of South Carolina Dance Program where she learned from many talented artistic directors and choreographers. Rebekah also took multiple master classes with Ballet Companies such as Charlotte Ballet and The University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She has spent the last two years dancing at Miller Street where she has grown as a dancer and began assisting the instructors. Rebekah graduated with highest honors and she is currently working towards her Early Childhood Education Degree. She is thrilled to be working at Miller Street to share her love of dance with the talented dancers.

About Annette Marlow

Annette is a Rock Hill, SC native, and has performed as a professional singer for 15 years. She worked with Opryland Productions, based in Nashville, TN, performing in various shows including Fiesta Texas in San Antonio, TX; Alabama Theatre in Myrtle Beach; on a cruise ship with Celebrity Cruises; Country Tonite Theatre in Pigeon Forge, and finally performing in a Jazz Show on board the General Jackson Riverboat in Nashville, TN. She performed on tour with Brenda Lee and was in a Toby Keith music video.

She signed with a record company in Nashville, in 2002 and recorded her first country solo album and a year later she recorded a gospel album.

After getting married to her childhood boyfriend, a Rock Hill native – James Marlow, and having three children, they decided to move from Nashville back to the Carolinas to be close to family.

Annette is happy to be part of the Miller Street family and is looking forward to working with all of the talented kids here.

About Mary Katherine Cestrone

Mary Katherine Cestrone began dancing at the age of two and continued her training under the accredited and prestigious studio, Miller Street Dance Academy. She dedicated her focus on many genres, including jazz, lyrical/contemporary, tap, ballet, acrobatics, modern, hip hop, broadway heels, and musical theater.

At the young age of four, Mary Katherine became one of the first to join the competition team under the age of 8 and was part of the very first petite competitive at Miller Street Dance Academy. She competed for fourteen years and won numerous titles – including Grand National Champion, First Overall Soloist, and Miss Teen Platinum to name a few. She also invited to attend the Industry Dance Awards in LA where her and her teammates got to perform.

Mary Katherine graduated from the University of Western Carolina with a bachelor’s degree in Innovation Leadership and Entrepreneurship. With her strong passion for dance, she decided to rejoin the dance community she loves so dearly by joining the teaching staff at Miller Street Dance Academy. She enjoys working with children of all ages and finds watching her students enjoy the art of dance, having fun, and excelling extremely rewarding and fulfilling.

In Mary Katherine’s free time from the dance studio, her favorite hobbies include hanging out with friends and shopping!

About Amber Smith

From an early age, Amber started her training with Miller Street Dance Academy as one of Miss Michelle’s original students. In addition to taking classes and competing with the team, Amber also taught classes and assisted in the office. After graduating, Amber went on to dance professionally for the Charlotte Checkers Checkmates for several years. Amber remains a part of the dance community as a judge and tabulator for regional and national competitions and instructor for master classes up and down the east coast.

Amber can be found helping out in the office, assisting at studio events, building a following on our social media platforms, and designing ads for multiple publications in our community.

About Alexandra Kunis

Alexandra has enjoyed a remarkable career as a dancer, having graced the stages of Los Angeles Ballet for eight seasons and the New Chamber Ballet for two seasons. She had the privilege of performing leading roles in renowned works such as George Balanchine’s Jewels, Concerto Barocco, and Serenade, as well as classic productions like Giselle and La Sylphide.

Alexandra’s formative years were spent at the School of American Ballet, where she trained under the esteemed guidance of dance luminaries such as Kay Mazzo, Suki Schorer, and Susan Pilarre, developing her skills and laying the foundation for her dance artistry.

Driven by a passion for teaching, Alexandra has dedicated a significant portion of her career to sharing her expertise and nurturing young talents. She held the esteemed role of Director of the Children’s Division at Los Angeles Ballet, playing a pivotal role in shaping and inspiring the next generation of dancers.

In addition to her work on stage and in the studio, Alexandra made impactful contributions to the film industry. She served as trainer, coach, and on-set technique interpreter for the critically acclaimed film Black Swan, and also lent her choreographic expertise as a consultant for the feature film Oz: The Great and Powerful.

Academically, Alexandra graduated Summa Cum Laude from St. Mary’s College with a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts.

In the year 2020, Alexandra moved from the vibrant city of Los Angeles to the enchanting landscapes of Charlotte, accompanied by her husband and three children. She embarks upon this new chapter eagerly embracing the opportunities that lie ahead while remaining steadfast in her commitment to enriching the dance community with her profound expertise.

About Judy Thompson

Judy Thompson was the creative director and owner of The Dance Academy of Colchester, in the state of Connecticut, where she was born and raised. As a child, she studied dance under the tutelage of Lynn Grossi at her academy based in Vernon, CT. She was later accepted into the Vaganova Classical Ballet Pedagogy certification program at The Hartford Ballet where she studied under ballet master Enid Lynn and Martha Graham master, Peggy Lyman. She went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in dance from the University of Connecticut. Miss Judy has danced in various productions including, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Nutcracker,” and “A Chorus Line.” In her role as artistic director, she has also choreographed countless dance pieces in many dance genres, including ballet, jazz, modern, lyrical, and contemporary. She has been recognized by the city of Hartford, CT for helping to bring ballet to the Hartford Public School System. She is also an experienced Pilates instructor and loves to teach ballet-fitness to adults. She is currently studying for her certification in Energy Healing Modalities, Mindfulness, and Meditation.

In 2018, she moved to the Raleigh, NC area with her two daughters, Nicolette and Quinn. In Raleigh, she began working with special education students in the Wake County Public School System and found it to be one of the most rewarding and inspiring experiences of her life. In July 2023, she moved to the beautiful city of Charlotte and is excited to be teaching at Miller Street Dance Academy!