2018 Performing Companies
Alison Owusu Experience Dance Company
Alison Owusu- Alison A. Owusu is an international choreographer/instructor. She was member of the Queenz NYC Hip Hop Dance Group. Alison is the creator of The Alison Owusu Experience Dance Company, Est. 2016. In addition to Alison’s many achievements she is a Helen Hayes “The Metros” award winner and Paper Mill Play House nominee for her choreographic work in the Northern Valley Old Tappan High School’s musical Tarzan in 2017. Alison is native New Yorker. She began her dance training in New York studying classical ballet, tap and jazz. She later moved to Teaneck New Jersey and continued dancing in New Jersey.
She then moved on to train at the world-renowned Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway, in NYC. She extended her training in ballet, hip-hop, modern, contemporary jazz, world dance, tap and jazz. Her experience has allowed the opportunity to train amongst esteemed teachers/ choreographers in the
business such as Debbie Allen, Gus Salmon, Sidra Bell, Karen Gayle, Jay T. Jenkins, Nancy Lushington, Kim Whittam along with many others. She has extensive training in Horton, Graham and Limon techniques. Alison has a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and health; with a minor in
dance from Montclair State University.
Alison has been working with young dancers all over the Northern New Jersey area for over 14 years now with a passion in choreography and modern/contemporary dance. In the fall of 2010 she formed the youth contemporary dance performance company Passion Flux. Her choreography had graced the stages of Alvin Ailey Black Box Theatre, Merce Cunningham Black Box Theatre and in Margarita at the National Performance Theatre in Venezuela.
She then moved on to train at the world-renowned Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway, in NYC. She extended her training in ballet, hip-hop, modern, contemporary jazz, world dance, tap and jazz. Her experience has allowed the opportunity to train amongst esteemed teachers/ choreographers in the
business such as Debbie Allen, Gus Salmon, Sidra Bell, Karen Gayle, Jay T. Jenkins, Nancy Lushington, Kim Whittam along with many others. She has extensive training in Horton, Graham and Limon techniques. Alison has a Bachelor of Science degree in physical education and health; with a minor in
dance from Montclair State University.
Alison has been working with young dancers all over the Northern New Jersey area for over 14 years now with a passion in choreography and modern/contemporary dance. In the fall of 2010 she formed the youth contemporary dance performance company Passion Flux. Her choreography had graced the stages of Alvin Ailey Black Box Theatre, Merce Cunningham Black Box Theatre and in Margarita at the National Performance Theatre in Venezuela.
Balance Dance Center Jr. Company
Originally from Montreal, Michelle Leininger toured with Les Ballets Jazz de Montreal, Dancing U.S.A. and Canadian Dance Express. Michelle’s dance performance
experience spans the stages of Montreal, Tokyo, and Haiti to American made TV and film productions. She has choreographed original works for theatre, film, and music video. Michelle studied at the Alvin Ailey School of Dance, the Broadway Dance Center, and the University of South Florida where she was a dance major. She has trained with many outstanding artists including Fred Benjamin, Miguel Godreau, Celia Franca, and Jurgen Schneider. Michelle’s teaching experience of more than twenty years includes directorships of dance schools in Canada, the Caribbean, and the US. A graduate of West Chester University and Cabrini College where she earned her Bachelors and Masters degrees respectively in Education, Michelle also holds the Pennsylvania State Certification in Dance and is a member of the National Dance Association. Over the past twenty years, Michelle has taught at several dance schools in the Chester County area and also headed the dance program at Great Valley High School in Malvern, PA for ten years. Michelle founded Balance Dance Center, located in Exton, PA, in early 2013. She is also the artistic director of the Balance Dance Company, creating original works for the company repertoire. In addition to her work with Balance Dance Company, she continues to nurture young talent as the artistic director of the Balance Dance Junior Company.
experience spans the stages of Montreal, Tokyo, and Haiti to American made TV and film productions. She has choreographed original works for theatre, film, and music video. Michelle studied at the Alvin Ailey School of Dance, the Broadway Dance Center, and the University of South Florida where she was a dance major. She has trained with many outstanding artists including Fred Benjamin, Miguel Godreau, Celia Franca, and Jurgen Schneider. Michelle’s teaching experience of more than twenty years includes directorships of dance schools in Canada, the Caribbean, and the US. A graduate of West Chester University and Cabrini College where she earned her Bachelors and Masters degrees respectively in Education, Michelle also holds the Pennsylvania State Certification in Dance and is a member of the National Dance Association. Over the past twenty years, Michelle has taught at several dance schools in the Chester County area and also headed the dance program at Great Valley High School in Malvern, PA for ten years. Michelle founded Balance Dance Center, located in Exton, PA, in early 2013. She is also the artistic director of the Balance Dance Company, creating original works for the company repertoire. In addition to her work with Balance Dance Company, she continues to nurture young talent as the artistic director of the Balance Dance Junior Company.
Beat Addikts United
Beat Addikts United, Inc., also known as BAU, is located in Delaware and hosts an array of young hip hop dancers from PA, DE, MD and NJ. The company at large has over 180 young hip hop dancers that participate in an annual showcase in August of every year. "One Beat, One Love" is our slogan that represents unity, networking and a friendship where the dancers feel safe and equally appreciated.
The Beat Performance Team is our traveling team that competes, performs and does charity work across the area. Our Senior Crew of BPT is the older fraction of our traveling team, we also have 18 more dancers that are on the Junior crew.
The Beat Performance Team is our traveling team that competes, performs and does charity work across the area. Our Senior Crew of BPT is the older fraction of our traveling team, we also have 18 more dancers that are on the Junior crew.
Berks Ballet Theatre
Kelly Barber, Artistic Director
Nathan Bland, Ballet Master/Resident Choreographer
Berks Ballet Theatre is Celebrating its 42nd season, and continues to bring the highest quality performances to Berks County audiences under the Artistic Direction of Kelly Barber with Ballet Master & Resident Choreographer, Nathan Bland.
Berks Ballet Theatre is a non-profit 501(c)3 pre-professional ballet company whose primary purpose is to provide serious dancers the best possible forum of training and performance in classical and contemporary dance in Southeastern Pennsylvania. BBT was founded by Carol Ennis in 1976 with the philosophy that given the training and opportunity, the child next door could grow up to be anything they wanted, including a dancer in any major professional ballet company.
The company’s vision is to build an ever-strong artistic base for Berks Ballet Theatre; to establish more scholarship opportunities for serious students of dance; to identify additional cooperative performance opportunities with other groups in the community; and to create greater public awareness and appreciation for the art of dance.
Berks Ballet Theatre has performed and continues to perform for many local organizations including: Reading Pops Orchestra, Reading Symphony Orchestra, Berks Arts Council, BCTV, Reading Public Museum, Exeter Festival of Lights & West Reading Tree Lighting. The company also performs The Nutcracker annually. From1991-2016 BBT was a member of Regional Dance America/ Northeast and performed all over the Northeastern USA & Canada.
Our dancers have gone on to work professionally with Richmond Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Ballet Theatre of Annapolis, The Suzanne Farrell Ballet and Broadway National Tours. BBT’s studios are within The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, located in downtown Reading. Full of artists of every venue, BBT dancers have beautiful, state of the art studios to dance in, plus this beautiful art facility brings new exposure and community support to the company.
Nathan Bland, Ballet Master/Resident Choreographer
Berks Ballet Theatre is Celebrating its 42nd season, and continues to bring the highest quality performances to Berks County audiences under the Artistic Direction of Kelly Barber with Ballet Master & Resident Choreographer, Nathan Bland.
Berks Ballet Theatre is a non-profit 501(c)3 pre-professional ballet company whose primary purpose is to provide serious dancers the best possible forum of training and performance in classical and contemporary dance in Southeastern Pennsylvania. BBT was founded by Carol Ennis in 1976 with the philosophy that given the training and opportunity, the child next door could grow up to be anything they wanted, including a dancer in any major professional ballet company.
The company’s vision is to build an ever-strong artistic base for Berks Ballet Theatre; to establish more scholarship opportunities for serious students of dance; to identify additional cooperative performance opportunities with other groups in the community; and to create greater public awareness and appreciation for the art of dance.
Berks Ballet Theatre has performed and continues to perform for many local organizations including: Reading Pops Orchestra, Reading Symphony Orchestra, Berks Arts Council, BCTV, Reading Public Museum, Exeter Festival of Lights & West Reading Tree Lighting. The company also performs The Nutcracker annually. From1991-2016 BBT was a member of Regional Dance America/ Northeast and performed all over the Northeastern USA & Canada.
Our dancers have gone on to work professionally with Richmond Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Ballet Theatre of Annapolis, The Suzanne Farrell Ballet and Broadway National Tours. BBT’s studios are within The GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, located in downtown Reading. Full of artists of every venue, BBT dancers have beautiful, state of the art studios to dance in, plus this beautiful art facility brings new exposure and community support to the company.
Beth Jacobsen School of Dance
At BJSD, we strive to promote confidence and self discipline in a positive atmosphere. Our faculty of teachers are top-notch professionals with degrees in dance and the performing arts, a number of whom are currently performing themselves. Our studio is a warm and friendly place to fall in love with dance! We offer classes that will both allow recreational dancers to stay fit and develop their coordination, as well as enable a serious student to participate in our Performance Company and even pursue dance at the post secondary level. More than 50% of our senior students continue their studies in college. BJSD believes that everyone deserves the joy of dance. Our doors are always open and we welcome each and every student as individuals and with equal importance.
Bucks County School of the Performing Arts
The Dance Company at the Bucks County School of the Performing Arts was developed to create a positive environment where dancers can grow as performers and teammates, as well as increase their self-esteem, self-discipline, and develop a genuine respect for dance as an art form. The BCPA Dance Company has been the proud recipient of the “Ballet Technique”, “Outstanding Choreography”, “Studio Etiquette” and “Best Director” awards at various regional dance competitions. Our 2017 competition tour includes Tremaine Dance Convention, Artists Simply Human, Pure Performance and Access Broadway. We are thrilled to be performing with all of the talented companies at the Philly Youth Dance Fest and we would like to thank Melissa Chisena for the opportunity. Merde dancers!
CDC Contemporary Dance Company
Established in 2012 as the official pre-professional company of Connecticut Dance Center (Stamford, CT), the CDC Contemporary Dance Company aims to create a launching platform for teens that are looking to take dance to the next level. Through mentorship, versatility in training, and community engagements, the dancers of CDC’s Contemporary Dance Company are challenged to become responsible citizens of the dance community. The Company has been the featured guest of The Nutcracker NYC for the last 5 years as well as participants in the Kat Wildish Showcase (NYC), The Dance Parade NYC, DanceFest (CT), and performance guest of Sacred Heart University Dance Department. Outside of the studio, CDC Contemporary Dance Company is passionate about giving back to their community through volunteer work with Walk for Wishes & A Race for the Cure. The Company’s dedication and love of dance to has gotten them into ABT, Joffrey, Ailey, CPYB, and Paul Taylor Summer Intensives.
For more information about the Company or Connecticut Dance Center please visit: www.ctdancecenter.com
For more information about the Company or Connecticut Dance Center please visit: www.ctdancecenter.com
Chester Valley Dance Academy
Dancers in our Company have the opportunity to dance in numerous festivals and conventions and travel around the country to experience different styles of dance. These dancers have traveled to conventions such as The Pulse in Atlantic city and were able to take part in master classes taught by Mia Michaels, Tyce Diorio, Brian Friedman, and more professional choreographers. Also, these dancers have represented the State of Pennsylvania at Dance Excellence in Los Angeles California. At this convention, our dancers took master classes from Stacey Tookey, Cody Green, and more. Also, our students were able to perform in Disneyland California, Knox Berry Farms, and adjudicate pieces in ballet, tap, jazz, modern, and variety. Locally, this performance group has participated in the West Chester Winter Dance Festival, Chester County Dance Festival, and Youth Regional Dance Festival. www.chestervalleydance.com
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Classified Dance Company
Classified Dance Company is comprised of students from Dance Class studio in Laurel Springs, New Jersey. The CDC is currently in their sixth season, under the
direction of Greg Anmuth. These young students are encouraged to develop their artistry through improvisation, understanding of the body, and critical thinking.
Classified Dance Company dancers have been awarded several choreography awards, national recognition, and two top ten placements at the World Dance
Championships in August 2017. We are honored to be performing alongside all the groups in this year’s Philadelphia Youth Dance Festival.
direction of Greg Anmuth. These young students are encouraged to develop their artistry through improvisation, understanding of the body, and critical thinking.
Classified Dance Company dancers have been awarded several choreography awards, national recognition, and two top ten placements at the World Dance
Championships in August 2017. We are honored to be performing alongside all the groups in this year’s Philadelphia Youth Dance Festival.
Dance Works
We have many students that are dancing professionally throughout the country. Some of our students are continuing their training, or have danced at DeSales University, Point Park University, University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Julliard School in New York City, Boston Conservatory, Radio City Music Hall, Cats National Tour, National Tour of 42nd Street, Mary Poppins on Broadway, “Across the Universe” A Sony Musical Movie, Carnival Cruise Lines,Royal Caribbean, NorwegianCruise Lines, Alvin Ailey, National Commercials, television series for Disney, Fox and NBC, voice overs, video games, music videos and many dance companies. We also have many students that have been accepted to summer programs like New York City Dance Alliance, Princeton Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet School, Joffery Ballet, Boston Ballet, and countless others. We also have many students who have danced at Dance Works through their High School years as a hobby and graduated with many great memories and lasting friendships they had made along the way. I am very proud of all my students’ accomplishments and wish them much success in their careers.Our programs prioritize refined technique, dancer wellness, and artistic development. We offer: Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Modern, Hip Hop, Tumbling, Boys Hip Hop, and Zumba.
Delaware Arts Conservatory
Delaware Arts Conservatory is celebrating its 11th year as a comprehensive dance, musical theatre, acting, music, and visual arts training facility located in Bear, Delaware, training artists from Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. All of our instructors have years of professional performance, company, and teaching experience and our students are consistently accepted into competitive dance, musical theatre, and acting universities including Boston Conservatory, Marymount Manhattan, Elon, and Point Park just to name a few. DelArts students have gone on to perform professionally in movies, TV, on national tours, and on Broadway. DelArts offers three pre-professional Companies - Ballet, Contemporary, and new this year, Tap. Our Contemporary Company has been a finalist in the Youth America Grand Prix in NYC for three consecutive years. Company members have also been featured in the national tour of “Maurice Hines is Tappin’ Thru Life,” at Paper Mill Playhouse in “Elf”, and as members of The Lady Hoofers in Philadelphia and Sole Talk Youth Company. www.DelArts.com
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Ballet is central Delaware’s premier student ballet company, funded by individual and corporate donors and contributions from Delaware State University. Founded in 1991 by Artistic Director Daniel Kaiser, Delaware Ballet is an independent company, fielding members through audition and employing the services of guest artists from renowned companies. It is the mission of the company to provide residents of Kent County and its surrounding communities with access to high quality classical and contemporary ballet performances, aiming to share the dancers’ passion and the gift of dance with the broadest possible audience. In addition to its regular performance season, Delaware Ballet has an extensive outreach program that reaches thousands of families every year. www.delawareballet.net
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Delaware Valley Dance Academy offers the finest dance training in an encouraging and professional atmosphere. Our classes are designed to take students from their first introduction of dance to a full and varied course of dance training. An emphasis is placed on proper body placement and lines. We stress the importance of musicality and the joy of artistic expression. We have an enthusiastic staff of professionally experienced teachers supplemented by visiting guest teachers. A close working partnership between student and teacher is an important aspect of our program. Whether in pursuit of a professional dance career or simply to derive the joys and physical benefits of dance class, our students enjoy the highest quality of classes in a warm and nurturing environment. Delaware Valley Dance Academy students have been accepted and received scholarships to such prestigious summer programs as the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Arts, American Ballet Theater, North Carolina School of the Arts, Princeton Ballet School, and South Carolina Summer Dance Conservatory. Our graduates have been accepted to attend some of the finest collegiate dance programs in the country including the Ohio State University, University of Michigan, SUNY Purchase & University of the Arts. www.delawarevalley dance.com
Inertia Dance Company
Inertia is a program consisting several ensembles of the Westside High School Fine Arts Dance Program. The Inertia Dance Company consists of girls trained in the traditional dance forms of ballet, modern and jazz, with boys who specialize in the street styles of breakin' (breakdance), house, popping and locking. The Company displays a style and feel all their own. Inertia is under the direction of Bryan Paule, an Inertia and Westside alum, with the assistance of Amberly Altamirano. While dance training and experience is important, the real goals of Inertia are to encourage and facilitate the tools for students to be successful in “Grade 13”, the steps all former students take following graduation. Inertia has a 100% graduation rate and continues to be an expectation. Alumni have gone forward to UT, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Oklahoma U, Oklahoma State, SHSU, Baylor, TCU, LSU, Boston, Chapman, Arizona, UH, Texas State, Colorado, Texas Women's University and etc.
The Inertia Dance Company is nationally recognized with 42 National Championship titles, numerous choreography and technique awards, as well as invited presentations for the NDA National Dance Gala, the National High School Dance Festival, the NBA's San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks, the BCS National Title Game Halftime Show, the Houston Symphony, DanceHouston, Dance Source Houston, and the ERJCC's Dance Month. Inertia has been featured in People Magazine, Dance Teacher Magazine, Southern Living Magazine, Houston Chronicle, Houston Press, and Houston Business Journal. Television credits include The Tony Danza Show, CBS Early Show, HEB Holiday Parade, with Naturi Naughton, FedEx Orange Bowl with Kool & The Gang as well as spots on all local affiliates. Inertia has performed in New York City for People Magazine, Chicago, Miami, Baltimore, New Orleans, and all across Texas. In October 2010, Inertia members and alumni dancers represented the United States at the 8th China Folk Art Festival in Shanghai, Shuzhou and Beijing China.
Inertia is proud to be long time partners and featured performers for the Houston Symphony, Dance Houston, and DanceSourceHouston.
The Inertia Dance Company is nationally recognized with 42 National Championship titles, numerous choreography and technique awards, as well as invited presentations for the NDA National Dance Gala, the National High School Dance Festival, the NBA's San Antonio Spurs and Dallas Mavericks, the BCS National Title Game Halftime Show, the Houston Symphony, DanceHouston, Dance Source Houston, and the ERJCC's Dance Month. Inertia has been featured in People Magazine, Dance Teacher Magazine, Southern Living Magazine, Houston Chronicle, Houston Press, and Houston Business Journal. Television credits include The Tony Danza Show, CBS Early Show, HEB Holiday Parade, with Naturi Naughton, FedEx Orange Bowl with Kool & The Gang as well as spots on all local affiliates. Inertia has performed in New York City for People Magazine, Chicago, Miami, Baltimore, New Orleans, and all across Texas. In October 2010, Inertia members and alumni dancers represented the United States at the 8th China Folk Art Festival in Shanghai, Shuzhou and Beijing China.
Inertia is proud to be long time partners and featured performers for the Houston Symphony, Dance Houston, and DanceSourceHouston.
The School of First State Ballet Theater
Founded in 1999 by Pasha and Kristina Kambalov, The School of First State Ballet Theatre is located in Wilmington’s historic Grand Opera House and is affiliated with First State Ballet Theatre, Delaware’s only professional ballet company. FSBT enrolls students ages 4 and up with an emphasis on classical ballet training in the Vaganova method. Students of FSBT have been accepted at the JKO School of American Ballet Theatre, Houston Ballet Academy, Kirov Academy, Harid Conservatory, Boston Ballet School and Ellison Ballet, as well as many summer programs, including American Ballet Theatre (NYC), the School of American Ballet, Kirov Academy, Ballet West, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Houston Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet. FSBT graduates have gone on to dance professionally with Festival Ballet Providence, Milwaukee Ballet, Alabama Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Washington Ballet, Universal Ballet, Ballet du Capitole, Tulsa Ballet and First State Ballet Theatre.
Janice's DanceWorks
Photo by Lindsay Browning
Janice’s DanceWorks takes pride in offering quality dance education for ages 2 through adult in a structured, positive caring environment that instills creativity, discipline and self esteem. DanceWorks has an educated and accomplished staff of teachers, a state-of-the-art facility with surround sound, sprung wood floors, air conditioning, and a waiting room with two 42″ monitors to observe class every week! Janice's DanceWorks offers both a recreational program as well as a pre-professional program. One of the greatest pleasures of teaching dance is the privilege to work with young people- to see their skills develop, their ability to perform blossom and the special relationships that are fostered in a positive and exciting studio environment. www.janicesdanceworks.com
Kimberton Dance Academy Performing Company
KDAPC is the performance company of Kimberton Dance Academy's group of dedicated, advanced dancers. The company began five years ago with the inception of the studio and they have performed in numerous dance festivals, events and community functions each year. Kimberton Dance Academy (KDA) was established in Phoenixville, PA, as a school for children, teens, and adults to learn, love, and appreciate the art of dance. Offering a varied dance program for all levels of interest and ages, KDA’s mission is high quality dance education in a nurturing and supportive atmosphere. Whether students come for a pre-professional stepping stone or a recreational outlet, KDA's goal is to share the knowledge and joys of dancing. www.kimbertondance.com
Koresh Dance Company Youth Ensemble
Koresh School of Dance is widely recognized for its strong training in a comprehensive variety of styles. Our devoted faculty provides a positive and healthy environment, training and growing students from the youngest of our dancers through to the prestigious Koresh Youth Ensemble.
The Koresh Youth Ensemble was formed in 2008 to give gifted, young dancers more intensive dance training and greater performance opportunities. Overseen by Assistant Artistic Director Melissa Rector, these artists are mentored and trained to excel in performance under the direction of some of the most highly respected teachers and choreographers in Philadelphia.
What sets Koresh apart from most other schools in the area is it association with Koresh Dance Company. Sharing the same location as the school, this close access and immersion experience with the professional company, a gem of the Philadelphia arts scene for 27 years, is truly unique.
The Koresh Youth Ensemble was formed in 2008 to give gifted, young dancers more intensive dance training and greater performance opportunities. Overseen by Assistant Artistic Director Melissa Rector, these artists are mentored and trained to excel in performance under the direction of some of the most highly respected teachers and choreographers in Philadelphia.
What sets Koresh apart from most other schools in the area is it association with Koresh Dance Company. Sharing the same location as the school, this close access and immersion experience with the professional company, a gem of the Philadelphia arts scene for 27 years, is truly unique.
Longwood Performing Arts
Longwood Dance Company, the resident performing company of Longwood Performing Arts, was established in 1998 to provide aspiring dancers further training and performance opportunities. Company members participate in various master classes and conventions throughout the year, as well as a two-week annual summer intensive with industry professionals. Recent performances of Longwood Dance Company include the Kennett Square Annual Tree Lighting, the Kennett Square Mushroom Drop, Victory Spring Festival, West Chester University Winter Dance Festival, Chester County Dance Festival, Delawareness, Holiday Magic, A Summer Dance Festival and ASH Showcase. Dancers are encouraged to be well-rounded and versatile performers. In addition, company members participate in volunteer opportunities with local community organizations.
Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet
The Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet was established in 1974 to train students who wish to study the art of ballet and who also demand the very best dance training available. All Academy students, regardless of age or interest, receive the same high quality training whether enrolled in the Regular or Adult Division.
Academy founders, Margarita and John White, met as members of the Ballet Nacional de Cuba where they performed internationally as Principal and Soloist dancers. They began their teaching careers after learning the Vaganova teaching method from Soviet ballet masters. The Whites have extensive international performing and teaching backgrounds.
Joining them in 1991 as co-director is Melinda Pendleton who, after performing internationally, joined the faculty of the Academy. Together with their highly trained staff they teach the Vaganova method of classical ballet. The method emphasizes precise technique, musicality, proper body placement, and a carefully structured breakdown of each movement. Young children may begin at age 5 in our special Creative Movement and Pre-ballet classes which serves as an introduction to ballet. Academic ballet lessons are for children from age 8 and also teens and adults who attend at least two lessons per week. Advanced students take daily lessons and also have an opportunity to dance in our performing group. Students who are interested in pursuing a career in classical ballet are offered classes providing the technical and artistic skills required to pursue this dream. Many Academy graduates are dancing professionally in ballet companies throughout the world, and several have won high honors in international and national competitions. For more information visit us at www.paacademyofballet.com
Academy founders, Margarita and John White, met as members of the Ballet Nacional de Cuba where they performed internationally as Principal and Soloist dancers. They began their teaching careers after learning the Vaganova teaching method from Soviet ballet masters. The Whites have extensive international performing and teaching backgrounds.
Joining them in 1991 as co-director is Melinda Pendleton who, after performing internationally, joined the faculty of the Academy. Together with their highly trained staff they teach the Vaganova method of classical ballet. The method emphasizes precise technique, musicality, proper body placement, and a carefully structured breakdown of each movement. Young children may begin at age 5 in our special Creative Movement and Pre-ballet classes which serves as an introduction to ballet. Academic ballet lessons are for children from age 8 and also teens and adults who attend at least two lessons per week. Advanced students take daily lessons and also have an opportunity to dance in our performing group. Students who are interested in pursuing a career in classical ballet are offered classes providing the technical and artistic skills required to pursue this dream. Many Academy graduates are dancing professionally in ballet companies throughout the world, and several have won high honors in international and national competitions. For more information visit us at www.paacademyofballet.com
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Artistic Director Joy Delaney Capponi
Established in 2000 by Artistic Director, Joy Delaney Capponi, Philadelphia Dance Theatre is a non-profit 501-(c)3 organization located in the northwest section of Philadelphia. Philadelphia Dance Theatre distinguishes itself by providing a premier venue for young dancers to authentically experience the world of dance, and presenting high-caliber performances that are accessible to it’s community. Philadelphia Dance Theatre offers a repertoire that is diverse in range: from the classical to contemporary, which includes full-length and short works.
Philadelphia Dance Theatre has performed by invitations at Esther’s Aid (Albany, NY), Symphony Space (New York, NY), and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The company’s outreach programs include: Boys Tuition Free Program, and has developed partnerships with Silver Springs Orphanage, St. Mary’s Home for Children, and VetTix.Org, including on site performances for the aging and those suffering from mental illness. PDT is deeply proud of it’s exceptionally dedicated students, many of whom have been awarded scholarships into some of the countries finest professional programs and universities. Alumni have gone onto careers in a diverse range within the industry including professional ballet companies, modern and contemporary companies, Broadway, arts management, dance movement therapy, nutrition, and commercial venues. Philadelphia Dance Theatre embraces the ever-expanding boundaries of the ephemeral art of dance. Creating artists one dancer at a time.
Established in 2000 by Artistic Director, Joy Delaney Capponi, Philadelphia Dance Theatre is a non-profit 501-(c)3 organization located in the northwest section of Philadelphia. Philadelphia Dance Theatre distinguishes itself by providing a premier venue for young dancers to authentically experience the world of dance, and presenting high-caliber performances that are accessible to it’s community. Philadelphia Dance Theatre offers a repertoire that is diverse in range: from the classical to contemporary, which includes full-length and short works.
Philadelphia Dance Theatre has performed by invitations at Esther’s Aid (Albany, NY), Symphony Space (New York, NY), and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. The company’s outreach programs include: Boys Tuition Free Program, and has developed partnerships with Silver Springs Orphanage, St. Mary’s Home for Children, and VetTix.Org, including on site performances for the aging and those suffering from mental illness. PDT is deeply proud of it’s exceptionally dedicated students, many of whom have been awarded scholarships into some of the countries finest professional programs and universities. Alumni have gone onto careers in a diverse range within the industry including professional ballet companies, modern and contemporary companies, Broadway, arts management, dance movement therapy, nutrition, and commercial venues. Philadelphia Dance Theatre embraces the ever-expanding boundaries of the ephemeral art of dance. Creating artists one dancer at a time.
Providence Creek Ballet Theater
Providence Creek Ballet Theater was formed in 2004 as an introductory after school ballet program at Providence Creek Academy in Clayton, DE under the direction of Dr. Lydia Creasy Cooper. By the beginning of the 2008 season, PCBT had grown to offer classes in various genres in levels ranging from Creative Movement through Performance Company. PCBT’s dance curriculum encompasses tap, jazz, hip hop, and lyrical, while maintaining a central focus on classical ballet technique. A full Summer Intensive Program began in 2011. From 2013 to the present, PCBT’s Summer Intensive Program has grown to include multiple Guest Artists, a chorography workshop, and a Showcase.
In 2011, PCBT introduced a new Artistic Director, Stephanie Artigliere, and her vision of growing PCBT and its dancers. In addition to PCBT’s annual Summer Concert, they have performed full-length ballets including Peter and the Wolf, Snow White, and Winter Suites. In March 2012, PCBT debuted at Delaware Dance Festival which is attended by numerous dance studios from Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. PCBT has returned annually to perform commissioned works. The Nutcracker has been performed annually since 2013.
PCBT’s dancers have worked with award winning choreographers including Danielle Guillermo, Christine Aumiller, and Victoria Silva. PCBT students have been awarded numerous DDF scholarships, accepted into Delaware’s renowned Cab Calloway School for the Arts, and attended various summer programs nationally. In June 2016, PCBT evaluated for Regional Dance America/Northeast and was accepted into the prestigious organization as an intern company.
In 2011, PCBT introduced a new Artistic Director, Stephanie Artigliere, and her vision of growing PCBT and its dancers. In addition to PCBT’s annual Summer Concert, they have performed full-length ballets including Peter and the Wolf, Snow White, and Winter Suites. In March 2012, PCBT debuted at Delaware Dance Festival which is attended by numerous dance studios from Delaware, New Jersey, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. PCBT has returned annually to perform commissioned works. The Nutcracker has been performed annually since 2013.
PCBT’s dancers have worked with award winning choreographers including Danielle Guillermo, Christine Aumiller, and Victoria Silva. PCBT students have been awarded numerous DDF scholarships, accepted into Delaware’s renowned Cab Calloway School for the Arts, and attended various summer programs nationally. In June 2016, PCBT evaluated for Regional Dance America/Northeast and was accepted into the prestigious organization as an intern company.
Shannon Cooper's Academy of Dance
Shannon Cooper received her Bachelor of Science Degree at West Chester University in Finance and a minor in Dance Education/Choreography. She began her early dance training at the age of five in the Lancaster County area where she grew up. There she studied Jazz, Ballet, Tap, and Lyrical dance at Carol's Academy of Dance and with Chet Zercher at Dancer's Workshop. She has also studied dance at Broadway Dance Center in New York, Koresh Dance Center in Philadelphia and has attended dance conventions and studied from numerous internationally recognized teachers such as Frank Hatchett, Jermaine Brown, Brian Friedman, Joe Tremaine, Mia Michaels and Wade Robson. Shannon performed in West Chester University's Contemporary Dance Company both as a student and an alumni, the WCU Dance Team, and WCU’s Dance Production Workshop where she served as both President and a choreographer. She has also performed with Opus 1 Contemporary Dance Company based out of the Philadelphia area. Shannon has provided cheerleading camps for both Lionville and Downingtown Middle Schools, choreographed musicals for Downingtown Middle School, and choreographed for Great Valley High School Dance Team. Shannon is also a member of the female hip hop company, Flomotion.
She has been teaching dance since she was fourteen in Chester County, Delaware County and Lancaster County and loves being able to serve her community of Coatesville through the art of dance. Shannon and her husband reside in Valley Township with their son and two daughters.
She has been teaching dance since she was fourteen in Chester County, Delaware County and Lancaster County and loves being able to serve her community of Coatesville through the art of dance. Shannon and her husband reside in Valley Township with their son and two daughters.
South Jersey Danceworks
South Jersey DanceWorks students take part in student open house performances, as well as lecture demonstrations in the community. Naturally, all students perform in the Annual Recital, where the students demonstrate all they learned that year. The ample performing opportunities allow the students to gain exciting performance experience and prepare them for a future as a professional dancer.
Supernova Dance Company
Founded in 2015 by Antonia Vega and Alexa Conway, Supernova Dance Company offers pre-professional training for ages 2.5 to adult in Forest Hill, Maryland and the surrounding areas. We believe in the importance of arts education and its ability to empower its students, while creating a healthy outlet for self expression. We strive to provide our dancers with a solid technical platform in a variety of styles, numerous showcase and competitive performance opportunities, diverse learning experiences, and space for artistic expression. Whether or not our dancers go on to having a career in dance, we are confident that they will bring the same level of dedication, passion, and confidence that they discovered through their dance training to the next phase of their lives.
Teresa Andris Dancers/The Bowman School of Dance
The Teresa Andris Dancers is the resident dance company at The Bowman School of Dance. The group was created in 1983 by Teresa Andris for dancers with a serious interest in performing. The award winning Troupe has performed in a variety of venues in the tri- state area. They have appeared at The Arts Bank, Robin Hood Dell East, The Painted Bride Arts Center, The Drake, Waterfront Arts, The Tweeter Center, South Jersey Performing Arts Theater, The New Jersey State Aquarium, The Gorden Theater, The Tropicana & Taj Mahal Casinos, Rutgers University, Rowan University, local schools, civic events, charitable events, and many competitions. These well-trained dancers are uniquely Bowman; excelling in classical ballet, jazz, tap, modern, and musical theater. The company has performed at the LA based Hollywood Connection, The Pulse, The Tweeter Center Youth Festival, South Jersey Performs, The Young Dancer’s Association Benefit, The Cherry Hill Township Spring Festival, Urban Outfitters, with Dance Alloy and at Disney World. The company won top honors at New York City Dance Alliance for Hairspray at Nationals and appears annually at Manhattan Dance Project & Broadway Dreams. Additional prestigious performance venues include Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center in NYC, Carnegie Hall in NYC and The Kennedy Center in Washington DC.,The Kimmel Center, The Annenberg Center, and the Academy of Music in Philadelphia . This year’s charity performances and our outreach efforts marked another successful season. Company alumni are recipients of numerous awards and scholarships including over a dozen NJ Governor School of the Arts participants, five Presidential Arts Scholarship awardees and dozens of summer intensive invitees. We are proud of our many dancers currently working and training in the “business” while they pursue Broadway & theater credits, professional ballet careers, private studio associations, and college degrees.
The Dance Institute of Washington
The Dance Institute of Washington provides youth the opportunity to develop artistically, socially, emotionally and intellectually through dance. DIW operates as a school, outreach, and pre-professional youth ensemble, granting youth from diverse backgrounds the chance to experience the performing arts and develop skills. The late Fabian Barnes established DIW in 1987 after a career with Dance Theatre of Harlem. He sought to provide DC youth the same opportunity DTH gave him. DIW has grown to be one of DC's largest African American arts organizations and a cultural resource. In 2006 DIW opened its dance center in Columbia Heights. Graduates go on to Harvard, Temple, Howard and SUNY Purchase; others enter careers with Ballet San Jose, Suzanne Farrell Ballet, The Lion King and DTH.
Visions Dance Company
Visions Dance Performance Company, based in Boyertown, PA is comprised of dedicated dancers exploring additional performance opportunities in all dance styles. Established in 2016, these dancers have since performed at the Statue of Liberty, Cedar Crest, Hershey Park, Wing of Hope Benefit Concert, Arts in the Park, The Miller Center for the Arts, and numerous community events. They will perform this summer in Disney World. VDPC strives to provide quality dance education to students both pre-professional and recreational, spreading the pure joy of dance to all.
2017 Participating Companies
Addicted 2 Dance
Aurora Borealis Dance Company
Beat Addikts United
Berks Ballet Theater
Brandywine Contemporary
Bucks County School of the Performing Arts
CanDance & Company
Concepts in Choreography
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Dance Alliance
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Edge Dance Company
The School of First State Ballet Theater
Institute of Dance Artistry
Janice's DanceWorks
Kimberton Dance Academy
Koresh Dance Youth Ensemble
Longwood Performing Arts
Mariposa
Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Providence Creek Ballet Theater
School of Pennsylvania Ballet
South Jersey DanceWorks
Wissahickon Dance Academy
Aurora Borealis Dance Company
Beat Addikts United
Berks Ballet Theater
Brandywine Contemporary
Bucks County School of the Performing Arts
CanDance & Company
Concepts in Choreography
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Dance Alliance
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Edge Dance Company
The School of First State Ballet Theater
Institute of Dance Artistry
Janice's DanceWorks
Kimberton Dance Academy
Koresh Dance Youth Ensemble
Longwood Performing Arts
Mariposa
Pennsylvania Academy of Ballet
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Providence Creek Ballet Theater
School of Pennsylvania Ballet
South Jersey DanceWorks
Wissahickon Dance Academy
2016 Participating Companies
All Star Dance
Babylon School of Dance
Chester Valley Dance Academy
Cobalt Dance Company
Concepts in Choreography
Dance Elite
Dancefusion's fusion 2
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Innovation Dance Project
Institute of Dance Artistry
International Ballet Theater
Janice's DanceWorks
Kimberton Dance Academy Performing Company
Koresh Dance Company Youth Ensemble
Opus 2 Project
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Shannon Cooper's Academy of Dance
The DANCE! Workshop Company
Wilmington Ballet Jr. Company
Wissahickon Dance Academy
Babylon School of Dance
Chester Valley Dance Academy
Cobalt Dance Company
Concepts in Choreography
Dance Elite
Dancefusion's fusion 2
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Innovation Dance Project
Institute of Dance Artistry
International Ballet Theater
Janice's DanceWorks
Kimberton Dance Academy Performing Company
Koresh Dance Company Youth Ensemble
Opus 2 Project
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Shannon Cooper's Academy of Dance
The DANCE! Workshop Company
Wilmington Ballet Jr. Company
Wissahickon Dance Academy
2015 Participating Companies
Babylon School of Dance
Butler Center for the Performing Arts
Beat Addikts United
Chester Valley Dance Academy
Cobalt Dance Company
Dance Elite
Dancefusion's fusion 2
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Institute of Dance Artistry
International Ballet Theatre
Janice's DanceWorks
Metropolitan Ballet
Opus 2 Project
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Wissahickon Dance Academy
Butler Center for the Performing Arts
Beat Addikts United
Chester Valley Dance Academy
Cobalt Dance Company
Dance Elite
Dancefusion's fusion 2
Delaware Ballet
Delaware Valley Dance Academy
Institute of Dance Artistry
International Ballet Theatre
Janice's DanceWorks
Metropolitan Ballet
Opus 2 Project
Philadelphia Dance Theatre
Wissahickon Dance Academy
