Abbie Anne Ware is a choreographer/dance artist based in Portland, OR. She has been choreographing and teaching for over 10 years and has won numerous awards for her work. Abbie is a native of Mobile, Alabama, and has danced competitively and professionally since the age of 8. She was classically trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, and tap and has competed and performed all over the U.S., working with numerous choreographers and companies in Austin, Las Vegas, Portland, New York, and Los Angeles. She has studied under Laura Glenn, Paul Dennis, Tapestry Dance, Ballet Austin, and Bodyvox Dance. For the last 10 years, Abbie has worked all over the Pacific Northwest in the United States, training serious competitive dancers, teaching master classes and intensives, and choreographing for various competitive companies. She has won innumerable Overalls and Choreography Awards for her work in the competitive circuit. Abbie has also worked in Manila, Philippines, choreographing for Daloy Dance Company, Elan Ballet, and Nude Floor Studios. Most recently, she has been choreographing and teaching for Elevate Dance Academy in Portland, Oregon and continues her training at studios in Los Angeles, Manila, and Singapore.

For over 28 years dance has been a main character in the life of Alexa Hubenak. A Fort Worth, Texas native, Alexa grew up in the competitive dance world training in all styles. She travelled all over the country with Tremaine Dance Conventions and Competitions as a part of the apprentice program for 3 years assisting and working with some of the biggest names in the dance industry including Joe Tremaine, Desiree Robbins, Doug Caldwell, Laurie Johnson, and many more. Growing up, she spent most of her summers in Los Angeles, California, training in all styles of dance at Edge PAC, Millennium Dance Complex and PAC. Amongst these accolades, she has also participated and learned from numerous intensives, conventions and master classes all over the country including SoulEscape, Soul2Sole Tapestry, DancerPalooza, University of Arizona Jazz Dance Festival to name a few. She has now dedicated her career to thriving and growing as a teacher to over 200 weekly students, an award winning choreographer of over 100 works for both dance studios and local drill teams as well as a nationally recognized costume designer and creator. Her students have gone on to prestigious colleges and obtained careers in dance of their own. Her most recent dance achievement is being hired as the Hip Hop instructor for the School of Classical and Contemporary Dance at Texas Christian University. Go Frogs! In addition to dancing and choreographing, Alexa is also heavily involved in the world of pageantry. She judges at State, National, and International levels for the National American Miss system where she was recently named the 2023 Georgia E. Stewart Judge of the Year. Dance and pageantry are her passions and she thrives off sharing her love and knowledge with the next generation!

Alexander “Lex” Dones is an interdisciplinary artist from Portland, Oregon specializing in dance performance, choreography, and education. At the age of 18, Lex moved to New York City to begin his freelance career, working with notable companies & artists including Doug Elkins, MOMIX, Chase Brock, NW Dance Project, Luna Negra Dance Theatre, ArtLab J, Cori Marquis, and more. As a performer, choreographer, and educator, Lex has had the opportunity to travel to venues & festivals throughout the USA, Canada, Asia, and Europe, including the Joyce Theater in NYC, Fall for Dance at City Center NYC, Jacob’s Pillow, The Yard in Martha’s Vineyard, New Dance for Asia Festival in Seoul, S. Korea, Detroit Dance City Festival, the Lobero Theatre, Théâtre de Suresnes Jean Vilar, Newmark Theatre, the current sessions in NYC, and others. In 2020, Alexander was commissioned by the Portland Dance Film Festival to co-create an original dance film titled HARBOR. The past few seasons Lex has been working primarily in youth programming at various schools and institutions, teaching dance and taking on various administrative roles. Currently, Lex teaches dance & performs around the Portland-Metro area and continues to create independent works of various mediums under the name of soothsayer. Lex’s artistic focus is to create safe, supportive environments where individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and stages in life can explore & express themselves through art while helping to bring attention and assistance to people and programs that serve the community. www.AlexanderDones.com

Ally Pawlowski is a movement artist and choreographer from Buffalo, NY, where she trained at Steppin' Out Dance Academy under the direction of Patty Wegryn-Pawlowski. In 2016, she received a BFA in Dance from the University at Buffalo. Ally presented work throughout her time at university, then trained as an apprentice with Jon Lehrer Dance, previously known as LehrerDance. In 2018, she moved to Los Angeles and joined The Assembly Dance under the direction of Lara Wilson. Ally performed as an artist in collaboration with Elizabeth Turks and Laguna Art Museum in Shoreline Project, a 1,000-person experience performed at the Pacific Ocean in Laguna Beach, CA. Ally's commercial credits include Silversun Pickups "It Doesn't Matter Why" music video, Native American Music Awards, and Hamburg Casino commercial promo. She has shown work at Mash Up Dance's International Women's Day and Brockus Project Dance's SHIFT/west residency. She is an adjudicator and master class teacher with Spotlight Dance Cup and works at Free People Movement, where she can combine her love of fashion and movement. Ally brings her passion for teaching to several studios throughout the Los Angeles area and Western New York. Ally is excited to be certified in Tspheres techniques and looking forward to bringing more light to the importance of self-care.

Andrea Dobbins is originally from St. Louis, Missouri, where she grew up as a competitive dancer. She studied at Chapman University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance, graduating with Summa Cum Laude honors. She now lives in Los Angeles pursuing a professional dance and performance career, under Bloc Talent Agency. Andrea recently closed the touring production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, during which she performed in multiple prestigious venues across the country. She has also served as Dance Captain and Swing for the theatrical production, Disney's Frozen, demonstrating leadership in maintaining choreographic integrity and versatility in covering multiple ensemble roles. Other credits include In the Heights, The King and I, and Joseph…Dreamcoat at La Mirada Theatre, where she has been seen dancing and singing in the ensemble, as well as performing as a swing. Andrea has also been featured in commercials for Nike House of Hoops and Huawei Technologies. Andrea has choreographed music videos for the artist, Marshmello, and has choreographed moments of Snoop Dogg’s documentary, G Funk. She currently is touring with the dance conventions, Adrenaline and Revive Dance, working as a dance assistant for major choreographers in the dance industry, as well as teaching masterclasses and adjudicating the competition. Andrea has been traveling, teaching and choreographing for over 10 years, teaching multiple genres, and absolutely loves the dance competition world. She is very excited to share her love for dance across the country with Spotlight Dance Cup!

Ashley is thrilled to return this season with her Spotlight family! So much love! Ashley lives in ATL and is a proud UGA Alum – Go Dawgs! Ashley has performed, choreographed and taught all over the country for the past 18 years. Some favorite credits include CATS National Tour, Catch Me if You Can National Tour, A Chorus Line (Cassie), and Jersey Boys (Lorraine). Favorite choreography credits: Jesus Christ Superstar (The Augusta Players), Atlanta Lyric Theatre (My Fair Lady), Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre (Cinderella), Bigfork Summer Playhouse (Shrek! and Seven Brides…).
For more info, check out her website: www.ashleychasteen.com and follow her on insta: @ugafan1. Cheers to a great season!

Auggа Hawkins is an accomplished dancer, choreographer, and visionary educator with a lifelong passion for movement and mentorship. Originally from Beijing, China, Augga began her formal dance training at the prestigious Central University of Nationalities, where she studied ballet, acrobatics, ethnic dance, jazz, and lyrical. Her extraordinary talent and dedication earned her a place as lead dancer with the National Chinese Ballet Company, performing around the world for dignitaries and on celebrated stages. After moving to the United States, Augga continued to shape the next generation of dancers through teaching and choreography at top institutions, including university-level programs. In 2007, she fulfilled her dream of opening Northwest Dance & Acro in Marysville, Washington—a studio founded on excellence, inclusion, and her deep belief in the power of dance to change lives. Under her direction, NWDA has become a renowned training ground for both recreational and elite dancers. Augga is known for her high standards, nurturing spirit, and commitment to developing not just strong dancers, but confident, resilient young people.  Her dancers performed on tv shows like So You Think You Can Dance (top 20) and America Got Talent’s Final round in Las Vegas.  Furthermore, many of them were admitted to highly regarded dance teams or programs like USC Kauffman, BYU, WSU, UW, Boise, NYU Tisch Dance and Point Park. Her legacy lives on in every student she inspires and in the continued success of NWDA’s nationally recognized programs.

Brenda Rodriguez began her career as a Professional Dancer at the Disneyland Resort while earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Dance from California State University, Fullerton. She has appeared in film, television, and commercials as both a Dancer and Actor for renowned companies such as Disney, McDonald’s, Paramount, MTV, Fox, Warner Bros, and NBC.  Additionally, she has both performed and choreographed for an array of stage productions, including the LA premiere of The Who’s rock opera, Quadrophenia. Her choreography was first seen across the country on the National Tour for Barbie, where she also held the role of Show Director. Internationally, she shared her creativity as a choreographer for the North Queensland Cowboys, a professional rugby team from Australia.

For 14 years, Brenda taught at the prestigious Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA) where she also coordinated + directed multiple programs including the highly successful Summer Dance Program. Her talents extend to production as well, where she has stage-managed events for New Balance, Nike, Hershey, Latin pop star Thalia’s US Tour, the Jonas Brothers 3D concert movie, Disneyland Special Events, and the Super Bowl Halftime Show. As a Producer, she has brought to life various conservatories’ Spring Ballets, annual Recitals, and the beloved Nutcracker.  Currently, Brenda teaches master classes across the US and also at several colleges in California. She is thrilled to be returning to the Spotlight adjudication panel for her 4th year!

Brittany Sprung is a professional dancer, aerialist, adjudicator, and show director based in Las Vegas. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and a Bachelor of Arts in mathematics and has performed with Norwegian and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, on tour with Disney Live!, at the Pro Bowl half time, with the Backstreet Boys, on Got Talent Spain and Romania’s Got Talent. Brittany has also taught at numerous studios and conventions across the country, has won national awards for her choreography, and has over a decade of experience judging competitive dance. She is currently an aerial rehearsal director for Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Lines and a core member of the one-of-a-kind aerial group, Piano in the Sky.

Chris Rutledge, the TapArtist, started his dance training at 19 in Alabama, by the renowned Lisa Lyndon. He has training in Tap, Jazz, and Ballet, but his Professional Career is mainly through TapDance and Body Percussion.

Chris has Co-choreographed/performed in tap shows for both Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland. He also helped cowrite, co-produce, and co-choreograph performances and a full length stage show, for the leading step/body percussion group MOLODI(mo.lah.dee), out of Las Vegas. He also choreographed a body percussion number for Italian pop star, Tiziano Ferro, and his world tour called ‘Per Dono’, and he was a tenured Tap teacher at EDGE Performing Arts Studio in Hollywood, CA.

‘Hines/Pollock’ is an award winning Performance Art act he created in 2010 as ‘the TapArtist’, where paintings are made by tap dancing in paint, on a canvas! Chris’s choreography was also nominated this last season at the IDA’s for ‘Best Tap Performance’. He also wrote a full stage show called FootPrints of a TapDancer, which was seen with his company theFYVgroup, around LA and in the Hollywood Fringe Festival.

When the dance competition season comes around, he is currently an adjudicator/instructor with Spotlight Dance Cup, Leap NDC, and Starquest International.

Danielle discovered her love for dance after enjoying a performance of the Cincinnati Ballet’s Nutcracker at the age of 2 years old and began her training shortly after at Just Off Broadway in Cincinnati, Oh. Her early career includes winning the Cincinnati Arts Association award in Dance, representing Ohio Dance Masters as Teen and Miss Dance in the Dance Masters of America national title competition, and performing in local productions such as Awaited: A Christmas Show, and in a full circle moment performing for 7 years in the Cincinnati Ballet Nutcracker. Danielle moved to New York City at the age of 18 upon accepting a position as a Radio City Rockette and has enjoyed a ten-year career dancing with the company. Her career with The Rockettes has included The Christmas Spectacular and the inaugural New York Spring Spectacular, as well as special events with various artist’s such as Mariah Carey at MSG in her CBS Christmas Special, Pitbull on America’s Got Talent, and Michael Buble in his Christmas Special. Other specialty performances with The Rockettes include The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, the New York Knicks halftime show, The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting and the Macy’s Fourth of July Fireworks Special. During her time with the company, she has had the privilege to work with choreographers such as Linda Haberman, Warren Carlyle, and Mia Michaels. Other credits include Jerome Robbins Broadway (Theater Under the Star’s, ensemble). Danielle has been teaching since the age of 15, and when not performing she continues to share her passion for dance by teaching and judging across the country.

Fred’s dynamic career as a dancer includes performances with icons like Paula Abdul, Tina Turner, and Cher, as well as appearances on Dancing With the Stars, Glee, Dance Flick, and Shrek. He has worked on commercials for major brands such as Orbit Gum, Gap, Sketchers, Nike, Adidas, Wella, and Disney Theme Parks. After performing in Tokyo Disney’s acclaimed show ENCORE!, Fred joined Celine Dion’s legendary Las Vegas residency A New Day…, followed by the Radio City Christmas Spectacular  arena tour and Cirque du Soleil’s Viva Elvis. In 2011, he moved to New York City, performing internationally as Snow Boy in West Side Story  in Germany, and adding Broadway credits like Finding Neverland, Kinky Boots, Moulin Rouge! The Musical, and The Heart of Rock and Roll.

Hannah Campanelli began training at Draper Center for Dance Education and Pittsford Dance Studio and then went on to earn a BFA in Commercial Dance from Pace University, studying jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, tap, hip hop, and theater dance under the mentorship of renowned choreographers including Scott Jovovich, Lauren Gaul, Rhonda Miller, Jess Hendricks, Mandy Moore, and Jen Hamilton. As both a performer and choreographer, Hannah has presented work in New York and Los Angeles at showcases such as the Young Choreographer’s Festival, On One Condition, Reconstruct, Club Jete, and Carnival. She is currently signed with Movement Talent Agency and has worked professionally with choreographers including Hannah Gallagher, Dominique Kelley, Cat Rendic, Richy Jackson, Jaci Royal, and Jojo Siwa. Her performance credits include XOMG Pop, M3gan 2.0, and the upcoming television competition America’s Top Choreographer. She also served as Assistant Choreographer for the feature film Step Aside. Alongside performing, Hannah has dedicated over a decade to teaching and choreographing for studios nationwide, including Temecula Dance Company, N10 Dance Studios, Dan & Company/Atlanta Jazz Theater, and numerous Rochester-area programs. Her choreography has been recognized with multiple awards at the competitive level. Hannah is also the creator of the Pre- Professional Intensive Momentum, which is going on its third year.

Performer, teacher, and choreographer Hannah Dusso grew up in Nebraska. She started studying dance at a young age, quickly finding a passion for the art. She has trained in Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Contemporary, Jazz, Acro, Tap, and Hip Hop. With a history of Dance, Tumbling, Cheerleading, Musicals, and Show Choir she has always enjoyed performing and making memories on the stage. After High School, she moved to California and joined a performing arts company, The Young Americans. She was given opportunities to Teach, Perform, and Stage Direct internationally in Germany, Holland, Poland, Sweden, Denmark, England, Ireland, Wales, Scotland, China, Japan, and across The United States. She has performed with Broadway stars such as Hugh Panero, Kelli O’Hara, Susan Egan, Nita Whitaker, Kevin Odekirk, and more. Wanting to settle down and begin teaching, Hannah decided to move to Seattle. While in Seattle she taught and choreographed and was awarded choreography awards as well as being voted as one of “Seattle’s Top 10 Most Loved Dance Teachers” in 2014. Hannah, along with her husband and kids, moved back to the Midwest to continue teaching, choreographing, mentoring the next generations of dancers, and opened her own business “All MOVEMENT Store”. Excited for another season with Spotlight, she is ready to share her passion and educate others in the dance world.

Harper-Jewel Harris is a Los Angeles & Portland based dancer, teacher & choreographer. Harper moved to Los Angeles to receive their BFA in Dance Theatre at AMDA LA. They have performed and been a featured dancer in many stage and film productions including Club Jeté, Carnival LA, Harvest by Ryan Heffington & Nathan Kim, Stomping Ground LA & Mash Up’s International Women’s Day Festival. Harper has worked with brands such as Adidas, American Tourister, Audible, & Apple. Harper recently set work on the collegiate company Kaleidoscope at the University of Central Oklahoma.

Jessica Jourdan is a dynamic dancer originally from Chicago, IL, with a BFA in Dance Performance from the University of South Florida and advanced training from Theatre Arts Preparatory School. She has performed alongside major artists including J Balvin, Will.i.am, French Montana and Gwen Stefani, and was featured in CineView Studios’ POPSTAR. Currently based in Los Angeles and represented by MSA Agency, Jessica is a member of contemporary companies DMD and HMG. With strong foundations in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary, and experience working under renowned choreographers such as Hannah Gallagher, Will Bell, and Dani Maloney.

Jillian DuHadway has been the director of DuHadway Dance Dimensions since 1992. She has been judging exclusively for Spotlight since 2017 and truly enjoys sharing her love and knowledge of dance at every event she attends. Miss Jillian holds dance teaching certificates in Ballet, Tap and Jazz and is a member of the esteemed ballet organization, Cecchetti Council of America with an Elementary Professional Certificate. She is immediate past president of the Western Michigan Cecchetti Council and holds a B.S in Education from CMU with a music minor. Jillian has been on the faculty at Central Michigan University teaching Jazz II and III. Her professional credits extend to performances in New York City/Detroit/Phoenix with Tap 24.7. In addition, Miss Jillian directs and choreographs for the award winning DDD Elite competitive team which she founded in 2000. Jillian brings 40 years of teaching experience teamed with immense technical knowledge in all styles as well as a deep appreciation for music. Her students have gone on to professional careers in Chicago, Florida, Michigan, New York, Utah and internationally. Dozens of her dancers are pursuing dance in higher education. She enjoys teaching and choreographing for dancers of all ages and is very proud to have instructed her own children who are both dance professionals.

Jonathan Mercer, a proud Bay Area native, lives and breathes the arts. Born into the world of dance, his creative journey expanded into fine art, taking him from the legendary Central Saint Martins in London to Temple University in Tokyo. Trained in every style at elite studios across the globe, Jonathan’s career has put him center stage—and on screens—alongside some of the world’s most iconic names. His credits include Jennifer Lopez’s “Papi” music video, campaigns for Stella Artois and Fiat 500, the National Tour of CATS, Reprise Theater Company’s award-winning Cabaret, Victor Victoria produced by the legendary Dick Van Dyke, Yahoo Korea, Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, Holland America Cruise Lines, and the Bollywood fusion production Bollywood Rise with Karmagraphy. He’s also performed in productions such as FACT/SF’s Home Season 3.0, Namita Kapoor’s Hindu Swing, and pre-production work for the remaster of the tap classic The Cotton Club. In addition to performing, Jonathan works as a dedicated teacher, choreographer, and producer, shaping dancers and productions across the country. In 2016, he served as choreographer and coach for Team USA Tap, leading one of his students to a top five finish at the IDO Tap World Championships in Riesa, Germany. Holding an NASM-accredited Youth Exercise Specialization certificate, Jonathan champions strength, safety, and empowerment in every dancer he mentors. Passionate and driven, Jonathan thrives on collaborating with focused, fearless students, whether in the studio, on stage, or behind the scenes.

Joe Rivera came to America from Puerto Rico at age 14, where he started dancing in high school. He attended the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, receiving a BFA in Dance Performance (2006). He relocated to Las Vegas (2007) to join the cast of Dan Arden's Jubilee. Since then, he's also been part of Cirque du Soleil's Zumanity, Le Reve/ The Dream, Showstoppers! and most recently Awakening at The Wynn Hotel. Other credits include: The Lion King Musical, On Your Feet! 1st National Tour, America's Got Talent Live, Step One Dance Co. Creation. Television: Kennedy Honors, The Talk, Latin Grammys, Dancing with the Stars, Daytime Emmys, Kristine W. Music Video. 

From NYC Kara Kimmer is a film + television actress, stuntwoman, dancer, voice over artist, and singer songwriter. As an actress, her latest role was Ann Poole in Amazon Prime’s Creepshow. Her work as a stunt double began on 5 seasons of AMC's The Walking Dead. She is a Christian singer songwriter and a commercial voice over artist for brands such as Apple Pay, TikTok, Tula Skincare and Blackberry. She trained dancing at Paavola Ballet Academy, TNT gymnastics, Oakland University, and Atlanta Ballroom Academy. She has danced in musicals in NYC for 10+ years as well as in films with Dolly Parton, Debbie Allen, and Marvin Hamlisch. Recent films include Black Panther 2, Baby Driver, Superman Legacy, Red One, Loki and Tomorrow War. 

Kara Willingham is originally from Dallas, Texas. She is trained in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, and hip hop. Upon graduating high school Kara opted to move to Los Angeles and begin her professional career. She has taught and choreographed recreational and competitive dance for teens and adults at schools and private studios throughout the greater Los Angeles area for 20 years. During this time Kara performed with Unrestricted Element Dance Company, Ray Entertainment, and LA’s Metro theater company. She has performed in various film and stage productions including Good Day LA and, during a stint in Las Vegas, Nevada, the T Fox Musical Revue. Over the years, Kara has choreographed many award winning performances for kids/teens and is most proud of coaching Polytechnic High School’s Dance/Drill Team— to a 5 time 1st Place National winning team as well as a first place win entering the team into a Paramount Studios Talent Showcase for all of Southern California. She started her own dance company called LADC(Los Angeles Dance/Drill Co) in 2019 for competitive teens and college aged dancers. Her choreography was showcased in a music video for the band Eden Effect. She also performed and is now an alumni of Hollywood’s Improv Olympic. Other credits include print work for companies such as P&G, Nioxin, Wella, Paul Mitchell, and Inspire Magazine. Her passion for dance and acting has never ceased and Kara hopes to spread her love of the arts with every student she has the pleasure of training.

Karlyn Schneider is the owner and executive director of New Attitudes Dance Company New Holstein, Wisconsin where she loves helping others find and develop their passion for the performing arts. Dancing & competing from an early age herself, she has experience with many styles including ballet, pointe, contemporary, drill team, hip hop, multiple styles of jazz, lyrical, musical theatre, and tap. Karlyn has over 15 years of training experience, starting her teaching career in Northeast Wisconsin. Experiencing students' growth in real time inspired her to pivot her focus solely on Dance Education at the University of Wisconsin – Green Bay, studying both Dance Pedagogy and Arts Management.

In her time at UWGB, Karlyn was a featured soloist as well as a choreographer for the department's annual productions. Along with welcoming her students each week at NADC, she’s also an adjudicator, award-winning choreographer, and traveling master class instructor. Karlyn is certified with the National Dance Coaches Association, a member of Dance Masters of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Association of Cheer & Pom Coaches Inc, and the National Dance Education Organization. When she’s not in class, Karlyn enjoys being on the road sharing her unique outlook & approach to dance education with students of all ages and abilities via competition judging, guest instructing at conventions and workshops around the country, and choreography projects.

Dancing has been a part of Kelli’s life since the early age of three and she has been teaching at various studios in the Chicagoland area for over 25 years. She received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Dance from Illinois State University, and holds two Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Art- one from Elgin Community College and the other from The Illinois Institute of Art specializing in Graphic Design. Kelli has been a performer, judge and choreographer in numerous dance competitions and conventions and has received many choreography awards. Her work has taken her to many places including England and Guatemala, where she served as an international choreographer and teacher, hired to do master classes and be a co-creator for their international concert. Kelli has judged numerous competitions over the past 9 years. She loves judging because it takes her all over the country. She enjoys experiencing the art teachers are presenting onstage and is inspired every weekend by their creativity. There’s nothing better than watching these young, passionate dancers do what they love!

Kim is well known as a professional dancer, choreographer and instructor. She has worked with Lionel Richie, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, The Whispers and B.B. King just to name a few. As a member of the Lula Washington Dance Theater, she appeared in the 2000 Emmy Awards among a multitude of nationwide performances. Kim recently danced with Zina Bethune in her multimedia production: “Frost & Fire” and was asked to join Zina again in performing “Silent Roar”! Kim is also known for her partnership with Robert Gilliam whom she both dances for and assists in several performances including 3 Los Angeles Kaleidoscope Festivals and his grant recipient debut “Graffiti” at the El Portal. Kim has taught, choreographed, and performed in cities all over the world including Hong Kong for the Hong Kong Arts Festival, Seminario Internacional de Danca de Brazilia Brazil, The Joyce Theatre, The Egg, and “BAM” (Brooklyn Academy of Music)-in New York, and Vancouver BC, Canada. Kim has also performed at all the major theatres in Los Angeles: The John Anson Ford Theatre, The Wiltern, The Japan American Theatre and for Billy Goodson’s “Reunion” Performance at The House of Blues!! Kim currently teaches at El Camino College as well as studios in Los Angeles. She is an Adjudicator and Master Teacher with Spotlight Dance Cup, and is in high demand for her choreography around the world.

Kim Pendzimaz is a Chicago-land native receiving her training from all over the Chicagoland area. Her performing credits include Chicago Human Rhythm Project, Disney World, Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, Bring In Da noise, Bring in Da Funk and Dance for Life. She has also released how to videos on Musical Theater through CR Productions. Kim had the pleasure to work with Rebel Dance Convention. She also has been a masterclass teacher and national’s choreographer for Cathy Roe Productions and Starquest National Talent Competitions. Along with being a guest artist and choreographer, Kimmy is an adjudicator for Bravo Dance Competitions, Starquest Talent Competition and Edge Talent Competition. For 13 years Kim owned, taught and choreographed Jagged Edge Dance. Throughout the years her students have been accepted to Chicago Academy for the Art, The Julliard School and Interlochen. Also they have been signed to The National Dutch Ballet, Des Moines Ballet and Austin Ballet. Her dancers have won the gold medal (first place) at International Dance Organization in Germany for Tap as well as Poland for ballet and lyrical.

Kimmy's studio has won Best Technique, Best Choreography, Industry Dance Award nominations, highest Scoring routine at national and regional level. Jagged Edge has been fortunate to receive 2016, 2017, 2018,2019 ADCC studio of excellence award.

In 2021 Kim had closed Jagged Edge Dance. Kim is currently working and choreographing with Deforest Dance Academy, On your toes Academy of Dance and Dreams Dance academy. Kim is looking forward to spreading her knowledge and passion with Spotlight Dance Cup!

Kimberly is a lifelong dancer, choreographer, and dance educator. Growing up in competitive dance, finding a love of musical theatre along the way, diving deep into concert work in college, and working professionally in the commercial world she has experienced many facets of the dance world. Kim holds a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography from UNLV. She has taught at her alma mater as an adjunct professor in the dance department for over a decade. Kim has choreographed multiple regional theatre productions including Chicago, Matilda, and Cabaret, which earned her a Broadway World award for best choreography. Still an avid performer, Kim has graced stages coast to coast and around the world in countless musicals and industrials for companies including Jack Daniels and Zappos, as well as immersive events and one-off shows with Table 8 Productions, Majestic Repertory Theatre and more. Kim has a passion for dance education having worked with students from every walk of life and ability level. She prioritizes technical achievement and performance quality in equal measure. As an instructor she leads with a love of anatomy and kinesiology because dancers should understand their bodies and be able to work and, more importantly, live comfortably inside them. Kim is hopeful for the future of dance education to be kinder, trauma informed, and inclusive for all.

Kristyn Abbadini and her love of dance started at the young age of three. She has over 30 years of experience in the dance industry. At the age of 10, Kristyn was asked to be a part of the Tremaine Teen Company, "Next Generation", under the direction of Marguerite Derricks. Some of her many teachers include Joe Tremaine, Marguerite Derricks, Doug Caldwell, Tyce Diorio, Liz Imperio, Brian Friedman, Chris Dupre, Michael Rooney, Jackie Sleight, Meredith Baylis and Sally Whelan. While assisting many of the choreographers, at the age of 14, she began assisting Chris Dupre and touring the states to teach and set choreography. Under the direction of Chris Dupre, she has assisted at various conventions such as Urban Jamm, Tremaine, and Company Dance. Under the direction of Paula Abdul, she was also able to be a part of UDA. At the age of 21, Kristyn took on the hat of choreographer to Lizzy McGuire co-star Lalaine. She toured with Disney as Lalaine's lead choreographer and dancer for three years. She has had the pleasure of working for Bruno Mars, Ivan Reitman, Demi Moore, Elizabeth Berkley, Britney Spears, Michael Myers, Gina Gershon, Jamie Foxx, Paula Abdul, and Janes Addiction; to name a few. Some of her credits include: The Joffrey Ballet, Austin Powers, Starsky and Hutch, Power Rangers, KFC, Green Day, Janes Addiction (dancer and assistant choreographer), and USPS. Over Kristyn’s 20 years in the competition circuit, she has won numerous titles, national titles, grand champion titles, International grand titles, choreography awards and more. Kristyn loves to teach, motivate, and inspire the youth of tomorrow. Kristyn hopes to pass on her knowledge of her love for dance to all that want to learn and is excited to continue to embark on her future in the entertainment and dance industry. 

Kyla Hanshew, a native of Kansas City, Missouri, has been immersed in the world of dance from a young age. Growing up in a competitive dance environment, she trained extensively in multiple styles, with a strong focus on Ballet and Jazz. At 18, Kyla relocated to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career, where she continued her training under renowned choreographer Shannon Mather. She went on to spend much of her performing career with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, appearing in five different productions across their fleet. In addition to her cruise ship career, Kyla performed internationally in the Christmas production Broadway Christmas Wonderland in Tokyo during the 2024 and 2025 seasons. After several years as a performer, Kyla transitioned into a creative role with Royal Caribbean Entertainment. For the past four years, she has been a member of the creative team, specializing in teaching and installing new productions onboard some of the company’s newest ships.

Lesley Thompson is a versatile dancer, teacher, and choreographer.  She began her professional journey with Idaho Dance Theatre and Off Center Dance, later performing extensively across the country in various contemporary works, and has been featured in print and on runways in Las Vegas. With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years in dance education, Lesley has shaped talent on faculty at premier dance studios in Seattle, Las Vegas, and Idaho. Currently serving as the Ballet Director at Dance Unlimited in Boise. Her comprehensive training includes ballet, pointe, jazz, contemporary, tap, and modern, honed at top studios nationwide such as The Edge Performing Arts Center, Millennium Dance Complex, Broadway Dance Center, The Rock Center for Dance, and The Studios in Seattle. Beyond dance, Lesley holds a BA in Psychology from Boise State University and is a certified 200hr Yoga instructor (vinyasa, yin), barre certified through Barre Bohemian and certified to teach aerial yoga through Flight Room Seattle. She actively contributes to the dance community as a judge for Spotlight Dance Cup and Thunderstruck Dance Competitions.

Lexi Dysart found her love for dancing in her hometown Spokane, Washington. Having trained in all styles, she started her advanced education as a Dance Major at Chapman University in Orange, California. She continued her studies in New York City and graduated from the Professional Semester Program at Broadway Dance Center where she was awarded “Most Promising Choreographer”. Since then she has presented her work at various showcases in New York and LA, most recently for Club Jete in Hollywood. Lexi has participated and assisted in Erica Sobol’s 7 week training program, the Gypsy Project: LA, where she has trained intensively with choreographers and dancers from Nederlands Dans Theater, Batsheva Dance Company, and The Forsythe Company. She is now a member of Erica Sobol’s company, Lobos Art Collective.

Lexi has taught at various dance studios on the east and west coast, including Peridance Capezio Center in New York City. Most notably she was on faculty at the Broadway Dance Center’s Children and Teen Program also in New York City, and at Boogiezone Utopia in Torrance, California. She is also currently a judge for StarQuest International and Spotlight Dance Cup. Residing in Los Angeles, Lexi is excited to continue learning and growing with new students and teachers anywhere and everywhere.

Master Teacher and choreographer, Lindsay Pierson Mains, is a resident of Nashville, TN. She started her dance training with Ballet Arts of Jackson and completed her Training as part of their Pre-Professional Performing Company. At the age of 18, Lindsay moved to Los Angeles, CA to pursue an education at California Pacific Performing Arts and started her career with The Young Americans.  The Young Americans Performing Company opened many opportunities for Lindsay. She joined the touring company and began performing and teaching dance all over the United States and in countries all over the world such as Canada, England, Ireland, Scotland, Germany, Holland, Japan, Korea, and China.  She went on to become a staging director for International Tours with the Young Americans’ Performing Company. Lindsay then moved to Seattle where she began pursuing a career in teaching. She became a Ballet Director and choreographer for competition teams in the area where she won various awards. Lindsay moved to Nashville, TN where she began working as the Rehearsal Director for Ballet Arts under the direction of Pat Brown working on shows including The Nutcracker and went on to choreograph and direct a full-length ballet, Beauty and the Beast. Lindsay then joined the staff at The School of Nashville Ballet where she taught in the Academy and Community Division.  Currently Lindsay is the Ballet Director at Hermitage Dance Academy.

Mariah Spears is a professional dancer, choreographer, and educator based in Los Angeles. She graduated from Chapman University with a BFA in Dance Performance, along with clusters in Theater Technology and Honors. Mariah has been featured in numerous national commercials, including campaigns for Marshalls, Allstate, Sonos, Hollister, SoFi, Fujifilm, and The Greatest Showman Live. Her performance credits also include dancing for artists such as Kelly Clarkson and Camila Cabello, appearances on television shows including Schooled, and touring internationally with the pop group Rebelde. She was also recently featured in the film Big Bold Beautiful Journey under the direction of Galen Hooks. In 2013, Mariah was a featured performer as one of the Top 16 dancers on FOX’s Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance. As a choreographer, Mariah has created work for artists including Warren G and Snoop Dogg. Her choreography has been featured in the film G-Funk, the musical Teddy’s Café, and commercial projects for Mercedes, Nike, and the Academy Awards. In addition to her professional career, Mariah is an internationally sought-after educator, having taught throughout the United States as well as in Australia, Paris, Shanghai, and South Africa. Mariah is also the co-founder of Artist Only, an in-studio mock commercial convention designed to give dancers real-world experience and preparation for professional commercial work.

Marie Choate was born and raised in Northeast Ohio where she danced and competed for 15 years. She studied at The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC, NY and AMDA College of the Performing Arts in Los Angeles, CA and graduated with her BFA in Dance Theatre. Over the past decade, Marie has danced around the country and world! Marie began her career as the inaugural cast of “Mamma Mia!” onboard Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. She also performed in “Saturday Night Fever” and numerous other dance and aerial productions while on RCCL ships. Marie was thrilled to play “Wendy” in the “Finding Neverland” 2nd National Tour traveling across the US. Her international travels brought her to Mexico where she performed in a variety of productions at a luxury resort. Marie loved getting to perform in NYC at Citi Field for Amaze Light Festival holiday shows. She has danced in productions at various theme parks such as Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Carowinds, and Valleyfair. Throughout her career, Marie has enjoyed being a Dance Captain and a Swing. Most recently, Marie could be seen dancing in the 2025 Halloween shows at Cedar Point in Sandusky, OH and at Christmas performances at Boar's Head Resort in Charlottesville, VA! She still loves to teach and choreograph when not performing, with a focus on musical theatre, tap, and jazz.

Born in France, Marjolaine received her professional dance education at a leading ballet academy in France before training at the world-renowned Rudra Béjart School in Switzerland. She enjoyed a 15-year professional career, performing both classical and contemporary repertoire across Europe and internationally. Her classical credits include Swan Lake, La Bayadère, Nutcracker, and works from the Bournonville repertoire. She has also performed modern masterpieces such as Martha Graham’s “Acts of Light” and Alvin Ailey’s “Memoria” with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Marjolaine was a guest artist at the International Copenhagen Summer Dance Festival and collaborated with leading Scandinavian choreographers, premiering new works—many nominated for Denmark’s prestigious Reumert Prize for artistic excellence. Certified as a Dance Teacher from an accredited national pedagogy program in France, Marjolaine is a guest teacher in private studios and teaches regularly across the United States and Europe, sharing her passion for artistry, musicality, and technical precision with the next generation of dancers. Marjolaine has been a dance competition judge for seven years.

Matthew Rich brings over a decade of experience in the world of movement and dance. Beginning his career under the tutelage of Rambert’s artistic director Benoit Swan Pouffer, Matthew honed his craft as a dancer at New York City-based Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet for ten years. Afterwards, Matthew was a guest artist with Ballet of Difference in Munich, the Korean National Contemporary Dance Company in Seoul, and acted as a cultural ambassador for the arts with DanceMotion USA in Israel and Jordan. Matthew’s collaboration with Pouffer resumed in 2018 where he served as Rambert’s Senior Rehearsal Director until 2023. He’s supported productions by renowned choreographers such as Sharon Eyal, Imre and Marne van Opstal, Marion Motin, Ohad Naharin, Hofesh Shechter, Jill Johnson, Alonzo King, and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui. In 2022, Matthew took on an additional portfolio of responsibilities collaborating with the audience development, creative, and marketing teams to extend the reach of Rambert's programming that included collaborations with H Magazine, British Vogue, Vogue World: London, MAC Cosmetics, and the Valentino S/S 2024 Fashion Show for Paris Fashion Week featuring FKA TWIGS. Recently, Matthew has diversified his portfolio of work and has appeared as a dancer, in Universal Film’s Wicked: Part 1 and For Good; as a judge, on South Korea’s reality dance television show, STAGEFIGHTER; and as creative movement director for campaigns with Patrick Ta and Y-3. Matthew currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Michael holds a BA in Dance from Point Park University and an MA in Arts Management from the University at Buffalo. He has served as an Assistant Company Manager and Development Assistant for Garth Fagan Dance Company in Rochester, NY. Recently, he worked as a Coordinator for Legends Global at three of Louisiana’s most highly prominent entertainment venues: Caesars Superdome, Smoothie King Center, and Champions Square. His dance and performing credits include Graham 2, Spectrum Dance Theater, Amy Marshall Dance Company, Jessica Gaynor Dance, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Holland America Cruise Lines, August Wilson Center Dance Ensemble (Dance Magazine’s Top 25 to Watch in 2012), Lightwire Theater, and Aquamob Nola in their production of Drowned by Dawn. He has worked with and/or performed works by Sidra Bell, Donald Byrd, Camille A. Brown, Kim Bears Bailey, Darrell Grand Moultrie, Kyle Abraham, David Parsons, Eva Sone, Nathan Trice, Tony Bordonaro, Omar Roman De Jesus, Melanie Lewis, Tiger Martina, Jason McDole, Ahmad Simmons, Annalee Traylor, and Kiesha Lalama. In addition, he's performed as a guest artist for Nick Cave’s Soundsuits, Olympic Ballet Theatre, Seattle Men’s Chorus and Electric Daisy Carnival in Las Vegas.

Mindy Moeller, a native of Overland Park, Kansas, began her training at Miller Marley School of Dance and Voice where she trained in tap, jazz, ballet, and pointe. She continued her dance education at the University of Arizona School of Dance where she earned a BFA in dance. After graduation, she moved to New York where she has been a Radio City Rockette since 2012. Under the Radio City umbrella, Mindy has had the privilege to perform in special events such as the Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show on Amazon Prime, Today Show, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Rockefeller Tree Lighting Ceremony, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and the Tony Awards.

Natalli started as a competition girl. She has many stories to tell and many lessons to teach. Growing up in Denver CO, as a competitive dancer, she learned how to work with professionals at a young age. She knows all the ins and outs of the performing world. Working with choreographers like Brian Friedman, Jason Parsons, Mia Michaels, Marty Kudelka, Dana Wilson and many more. Some shows she's been in are "White Christmas", "Urinetown", "RENT", and the opening cast of "Frozen" in Disneyland's California Adventure. Following some Commercials in Gap + Old Navy. She currently works and lives in Los Angeles teaching where she graduated (American Musical + Dramatic Academy) as well as Choreographing and Performing as much as she can. The journey of a performer is a crazy one but there's nothing like it.

Noah is from Bloomington, Indiana. He grew up dancing competitively, where he specialized in the styles of jazz, lyrical, contemporary, acrobatic, and musical theater. In May of 2022, he graduated from Indiana University Bloomington with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Contemporary Dance and minors in Tourism, Hospitality, and Event Management, as well as Media with a concentration in Creative Advertising. Noah was on the Regent Seven Seas Voyager and Norwegian Star as a Dancer. He was on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer as a Singer/Dancer. He has worked since 2020 as an instructor and choreographer for ages 3-30.

Nycole Altchiler is a New York native that has always been driven by her love of movement.  Studying technical, commercial, and street/hip hop styles, she fuses her knowledge of body awareness, and her love of storytelling and self-expression.  The goal in her class is to understand yourself better as not only an artist and mover, but as an individual. Education and training have always been of the utmost importance to her, so while receiving her degree at the Fashion Institute of Technology in Cosmetics and Fragrance Marketing, Nycole simultaneously pursued her dance career.  Soon after training in the city, she was cast in the Monsters of Hip Hop show, where she continued to take classes and assist the top choreographers in the industry. Nycole also teaches at Brickhouse Dance NYC, Broadway Dance Center, and has taught at Millennium Dance Complex, Movement Lifestyle and TMilly in Los Angeles. Most recently you can find Nycole on Sabrina Carpenter’s Short N’ Sweet Tour.  Some additional highlights of Nycole's career have been dancing for Jennifer Lopez, Justin Bieber, Camila Cabello, JBalvin, DJ Khaled, Chyno Miranda, and Yandel.  She has also had the privilege of performing on Dancing with the Stars, The VMA’s, America’s Got Talent, The Voice, BET Awards Hip Hop 50th Anniversary, Saturday Night Live, The Latin Grammy Awards, among many others, and choreographing for NYFW and Norwegian Cruise line.

Paige Annette is a graduate of the University of the Arts with a BFA in Ballet Performance. Paige built a foundation in movement, training extensively in ballet, jazz, modern, Horton technique, burlesque, and tap, and possesses valuable aerial experience. Her dance career has taken her to stages worldwide, performing alongside music icons such as Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Smokey Robinson, and Tyrese. This high-level athleticism is also evident in her history as an alumna of the NFL Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders. Transitioning to acting, Paige has trained rigorously with renowned coaches, including Stan Kirsch at Stan Kirsch Studios and, since 2019, with Diana Castle at The Imagined Life Studio. On screen, Paige holds a recurring role on the popular series “Lace”, currently streaming on AMC Allblk. She also appeared in a supporting role in “Christmas in the Friendly Skies”, directed by Victoria Rowell, now streaming on Apple TV. In 2026, three feature films showcasing her lead performances will be circulating through international film festivals. These include “A Lasting Place” and “Mourning Sacrifice”. She is also set to star as the lead in the upcoming thriller, “The Braid”, which is being produced by Issa Rae’s production company, Color Creative.

Pam Erickson began her training and performing career in Southern California with the Santa Barbara Ballet Company and later dancing with the San Francisco Dance Theatre, Chamber Dance Ballet Company SF and the Sphinx Jazz-Ballet Company of Vienna, Austria. Spending a year on the high seas, Pam danced her way around the world aboard the M.S. Crystal Harmony cruise ship. Pam is a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, CA alumnus and is currently a lecturer at Gonzaga University where she teaches Ballet, Dance History and Pedagogy and directs the University's Summer Dance Program and the prospective student Fall Dance Day. As a dance educator, Pam has also taught master classes at Western Washington University and the Universities of Alaska and Utah. Pam completed the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet's teacher training course under Marcia Dale Weary and coaches regional ballet dancers for the Youth America Grand Prix competitions. In conjunction with the Mark Morris Dance Group Outreach Program, Pam received training and began teaching dance classes for Parkinson's patients and their care-partners. An advocate for equitable access to quality dance education, Pam is both a member of the professional CORPS de Ballet International, Inc. and the Dance Educators Association of Washington.

Raven Gantt, a Southern California native, has over 20 years dance experience. Throughout her dance career she has studied and trained under the industry’s top professionals in jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, lyrical and hip-hop. Raven graduated from California Baptist University, receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism and New Media. Raven is the co-owner and director at Define Dance Space in Riverside, CA. She has received top awards for her choreography at both the national and international level. Raven is the choreographer and creative director for the ‘Acrobots,’ the first ever acrobatic hoverboard dance group, who appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres Show and opened for Justin Bieber. Raven worked as a dancer in the Points of View Theatrical Dance Company under the direction of Terry Schulke. Raven has also appeared in several television series, major motion pictures, and music videos including ABC’s Television series, No Ordinary Family, and The Amazing Spiderman 2. In addition to performing, Raven worked 7 years as a head dance instructor for Universal Dance Association; currently she assists in choreographing curriculum for for their summer camps. Raven continues to share her passion for dance teaching, choreographing and judging throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Shannon is an impactful force in the dance industry whose multi-faceted career has profoundly shaped contemporary performance and technique for dancers nationwide. Holding a BFA in Dance Performance from East Carolina University, Shannon’s foundational training paved the way for a spectacular professional trajectory. Her performance credits span the most visible platforms in entertainment: starring roles in regional theatre productions, electrifying appearances in major music videos, featured spots on national television shows, and a memorable cinematic presence in films like the blockbuster movie Baywatch. Shannon has commanded stages across the globe by dazzling audiences as a principal dancer for major theme parks and elite cruise lines, culminating in the ultimate achievement of performing on a National Tour of The Addams Family. Beyond the stage lights, Shannon has proven to be a vital artistic educator and innovator. Most recently, she served as Adjunct Faculty at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ, where she was entrusted with shaping the next generation of artists by teaching advanced jazz technique. She also championed the fitness world as a highly knowledgeable Pure Barre instructor across the nation, influencing health and movement beyond the traditional studio. Shannon is a tenured adjudicator with Spotlight and is thrilled to bring her personal experience, professional rigor, and visionary approach to the next generation.

Shannon, an Illinois native, began dancing at 3 years old. She began training heavily in ballet at age 9 with Homer Bryant, Sherry Moray, Watmora Casey, and Tatyana Mazur. Later, her passion for dance expanded to include jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop. In high school, Shannon became one of the original members of Extensions Dance Company directed by Lizzie MacKenzie. She also took various classes at Visceral Dance Center, Lou Conte Dance Studio, Ruth Page School of Dance, Joel Hall Dance Center, and attended Alvin Ailey’s Summer Intensive.

Shannon graduated from Pomona College in Claremont, CA with a B.A. in Chemistry and Dance minor. She studied Ballet, Modern, African, Laban, and other movement studies. Shannon choreographed & worked with several guest choreographers such as Jesse Zarrit, Jessica Harris, Linda Lehovec, Marjani Forte, etc. She also performed reconstructed classics like “Panorama” by Martha Graham and “Rainbow Etude” by Donald McKayle. Since graduating, she danced for Mordine & Company Dance Theater, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Nomi Dance Company.

Shannon continues her training at Visceral Dance Center and Lou Conte Dance Studio. She believes we are forever growing and developing as artists and people. Currently, Shannon is a company dancer & rehearsal assistant with South Chicago Dance Theatre, the head dance coach at Niles North HS, a UDA instructor, and teaches & choreographs at various dance studios and teams in the Chicagoland area.

Shea Sol Saulino is a Los Angeles-based dancer and Chapman University class of 2020 graduate. His primary credits include the Academy Awards, Grammy Awards, American Music Awards, Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl, Alanis Morissette’s Las Vegas Residency, and Paula Abdul’s Magic Summer Tour. He has also performed in projects for Netflix, Nickelodeon, Disney Television Animation and AppleTV. His commercial credits include Adobe, Tillamook and Jennifer Lopez x Coppel. In addition to his commercial work, Shea has performed for Jacob Jonas and Jackie Sleight’s LA Jazz Company.

Shea is also a committed community organizer and volunteer through his work with Choreographers Guild, where he designed the organization’s logo and branding. He continues to support efforts to secure vital protections for choreographers.

Stacey Dion is a seasoned instructor, choreographer and dance adjudicator from Denver, Colorado where she is director of the elite competition team from Allana’s Academy of Dance.  She has received many regional and national awards for her choreography.  Ms. Dion loves judging, teaching master classes, and doing guest choreography across the country. 

Stacey received her training from the University of Northern Colorado where she majored in Musical Theater and Dance.  Before committing herself to being a full-time educator and choreographer, she performed professionally with several companies in Colorado including TIBS Production Company, Little Theater of the Rockies, and Colorado Dance Theater.  She has directed and choreographed musicals for many local high schools and community theaters in the metro area, including the prestigious Denver School of the Arts. 

Stacey’s students have gone into very successful careers in entertainment and dance.  Her students have been seen on stage in Mean Girls on Broadway, Frozen at the Hyperion, Tap Dogs, and several regional stages.  You can also see Stacey’s dancers on Dancing with the Stars, So You Think You Can Dance, Bunheads, Glee, and Burlesque, to name just a few.  She is also so proud of her dancers that have performed with Cher, Taylor Swift, Lizzo, and many more amazing artists!  Stacey loves seeing her amazing students succeeding at whatever they set their mind to! 

Steven Atwater is a Los Angeles–based choreographer and educator. He is the founding director of companyONE, a pre-professional training program whose students have been accepted into BFA dance programs at Ailey/Fordham, SUNY Purchase, Marymount Manhattan College, and PACE University, as well as summer programs at The Rock School and American Ballet Theatre. Alumni have also performed in theater productions nationwide and with major recording artists including Lady Gaga and Justin Bieber. His choreographic work has been presented by Next@Graham (Martha Graham Dance Company), Capezio A.C.E. Awards, Peridance APEX Showcase, and STEPS NYC Performance Lab, and performed at venues such as Kaye Playhouse, Ailey Citigroup Theater, KnJ Theater, and the Boulton Center. In the competitive and pre-professional arena, Atwater’s work and students have earned top honors at prestigious events including The Dance Awards and New York City Dance Alliance. He is a two-time recipient of The Dance Awards’ Best Choreography award, and his students have been named Best Dancer and Best Dancer runners-up across multiple age divisions. Since 2016, he has collaborated with artistic partner Thomas Ford, creating work that integrates original sound scores, technology, and movement vocabularies inspired by historically marginalized bodies and sci-fi folklore. In 2025, their evening-length work, In Search of an Exit, was commissioned and premiered at Sierra Madre Playhouse in Los Angeles. Steven earned a B.A. in Theater from Hunter College and currently tours nationally as a choreographer, master teacher, and judge.

Tanya Kuhn was born and raised in Phoenix, AZ. She has recently returned home after residing in LA for almost two decades. She was Assistant to Choreographer, Robert Schultz, and worked for Flash Mob America helping spread joy around the country. Tanya enjoyed appearing and dancing on TV shows: Modern Family, Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Major Crimes, Heartbeat, 90210, Kimora: Life in the Fab Lane, and The Bachelorette. She has worked with artists Diana Ross, Lisette Bustamante, This Is She, and Rogue Romeo. Tanya also worked for Royal Caribbean as a dancer and has helped create Halftime performances for the Liberty Bowl, Holiday Bowl, and Champs Bowl which was a real treat since she loves college football. Tanya has also been fortunate to work with choreographers Jamie King, Brian Friedman, Ryan Heffington, Andre Fuentes, Chebar Williams, and Michael Taylor. She’s grateful for the experiences dance has given her and can’t wait to be inspired by the dancers on the Spotlight stage this season.

Taylor Bradley has been dancing professionally for 15 years on stages worldwide as well as the big screen. An Atlanta native, Taylor’s film credits include Footloose (2011), Vampire Diaries, and Cinderella Story. The past 10 years he has headlined the Vegas Strip in shows such as Le Reve, Cirque du Soleil’s The Beatles LOVE,  and Showstoppers, while also working with celebrities like Celine Dion, Jane Krakowski and Kristine W. With his BFA in dance, Taylor has served as guest faculty at UNLV, The University of Arizona, and several award-winning studios nationwide. His passion for movement includes group fitness instruction over the past decade, and when not dancing Taylor loves hiking outdoors with dogs  and traveling the world.

Taylor Cottrell grew up in North Carolina, where she discovered her passion for dancing and singing. She trained and competed in all styles of dance, specializing in jazz, tap, musical theater, and acrobatics. Taylor continued her training and education at Oklahoma City University, earning her Bachelor in Performing Arts under the guidance of celebrated industry professionals Jo Rowan, Brian Marcum, and Tiffany van der Merwe. Now based in New York City, Taylor is a performer, choreographer, teacher, and adjudicator. She feels at home most when guiding the next generation of dancers and helping them explore the art form with curiosity, discipline, and joy. Her choreography has been recognized at both the regional and national levels. Some of Taylor’s favorite performance credits include America's Got Talent (dancer/acrobat), The Music Man at the Fireside Theatre, the Orange Bowl Halftime Show, Texas! The Outdoor Musical Drama (Seasons 52 and 53), Frontier City’s Dead Man’s Party, HBO’s Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin, and Apple TV’s City on Fire. Taylor is excited for another season filled with creativity, growth, and watching dancers shine on stage.

Taylor Fields is a Jersey Girl who started to move and groove at the age of three. She has extensive dance, acting, and vocal training from credible institutions such as the New Jersey School of Ballet, Performance Theatre Workshop, and the Alvin Ailey School/Fordham University in NYC, where she earned her BFA Degree in Dance.

From cruise ships to commercial and theatre to television, Taylor has done it all! As a proud SAG AFTRA member, Taylor has TV & Film appearances on MTV, NBC, FOX NEWS, NETFLIX, AMAZON PRIME VIDEO, and HBO MAX to name a few. In fact, Taylor was recently featured in the new season 3 of Ryan Murphy’s American Horror Stories on HULU. For live stage, she has performed with star artists such as NEYO and FLO RIDA. She’s even performed on the high seas with the inaugural partnership between Holland America Line cruises and the Emmy-award winning powerhouse company, RWS Entertainment Group. Additionally, Taylor is a proud Actors Equity Association Member!

Favorite stage and theatre credits include: Off Broadway + Radio City Music Hall in NYC, and regional houses across the country such as Ogunquit Playhouse, Walnut Street Theatre, Paper Mill Playhouse, and many more! Accustomed to a heavy dance competitive upbringing, Taylor loves to return the favor as a dance judge to the next generation of stars whenever she’s not on set shooting or on stage. Her philosophy: To encourage that special passion for the arts in all, just like her teachers did for her!

Vickie Roan is a dance artist based in Los Angeles, CA, represented by BLOC Talent Agency. Born and raised in Orange County, she studied at the Orange County School of the Arts Commercial Dance Conservatory and went on to graduate from Chapman University with her BFA in Dance Performance. Vickie is proud to be a company member of Entity Contemporary Dance, co-directed by Marissa Osato & Will Johnston and to have professional credits that include Bang Energy, Blippo+, Renee Rapp, Apple, OneRepublic, Oculus x Billie Eilish, Ben Platt, The Late Late Show with James Corden, Ashe, Amber Liu, Justin Giles’ SoulEscape and Billy Bell’s Club Babalu. As an educator, you can find her teaching on faculty at West Coast Dance Explosion, the Los Angeles branch of Dance Church, and as a guest lecturer at her alma mater, Chapman University. Vickie is grateful to be a part of the Spotlight Dance Cup team, sharing her experience, knowledge and love of dance with the next generation of dancers performing on the same stages she grew up on!