Honoring the Success of Our Alumni
Artistic
We are thrilled to showcase the remarkable journey of some of our distinguished alumni from the Georgia Dance Theatre and Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts! These artists have not only embraced their passion for dance but they also embody the philosophy of positive and high-quality training that is core to the Academy and it's performing company. Their dedication to the craft and commitment to excellence serves as an inspiration for current and future artists.
JENNIFER PEDRAZA
Jennifer Pedraza began her dance training at the Ballet Concierto of Puerto Rico under the direction of Carlos Cabrera. She continued her training with the Joffrey School of Ballet of New York, the New York Dance Project and with the National Ballet of Cuba – originally founded by legendary ballerina Alicia Alonso.
Ms. Pedraza has performed in such esteemed artistic works as Alberto Méndez’s Phantom of the Opera, Isadora Bruno’s Latin Suite, Jimmy Gammonet’s Pico Rico Mandorico, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Bach in Three Movements, La Vivandiere, Don Quixote and The Nutcracker Ballet with soloists and demi-soloist roles.
Ms. Pedraza has performed with the New York Dance Project under the direction of Artistic Director Davis Robertson and has performed legendary works by Gerald Arpino. In addition, she performed original works by Stage Directors & Choreographers Foundation Award recipient and famed Broadway choreographer Larry Keigwin. Ms. Pedraza has also been honored to showcase works by Joffrey Artist Tyler Gilstrap and New York Dance Project’s Artistic Director Davis Robertson. In Napoli, Italy, Ms. Pedraza was honored to dance with her beloved Ballet Concierto of Puerto Rico in the classic ballet Coppelia and Swan Lake with National Ballet Theater of Puerto Rico under the direction of Jose’ Rodriguez.
With Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Pedraza has danced various lead roles in Georgia Dance Theatre's production of The Nutcracker Ballet and for the 21-22 season, Ms. Pedraza performed the lead role of Kitri in GAD & the Performing Arts' production of Don Quixote.
Ms. Pedraza performed the role of Stepsister in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Cinderella in the 22-23 season. Ms. Pedraza will be dancing the soloist role of Street Artist in GAD's Artistic Director's original ballet of An American In Paris in June 2024.
Ms. Pedraza is the Ballet Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and is a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Pedraza continues in her dance life as a guest artist with Georgia Dance Theatre.
(photo by Davel Photography)
SOFIA ISETT
Sofia Isett's journey as a dancer began at the age of 4 at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Since 2017, she has been an integral part of the non-profit performing company, Georgia Dance Theatre, where her talent has shone brightly.
Sofia's performances at GAD include unforgettable soloist roles such as the Shepherdess and Angel Fairy in The Nutcracker Ballet, as well as the Summer Fairy in Cinderella. She also mesmerized audiences with an excerpt of Lise from La Fille mal Gardee in GAD's Masterworks series.
Sofia Isett's dedication and passion for ballet have been recognized through various achievements. In 2022, she enriched her artistry at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts' summer dance program and continued to hone her craft at Nashville Ballet's summer intensive in 2023. Additionally, her talent has been acknowledged through acceptances into esteemed summer programs, including those at Texas Ballet Theatre, Atlanta Ballet, BalletMet, Oklahoma City Ballet, and Milwaukee Ballet. Through her hard work and commitment, Sofia continues to make her mark in the world of ballet.
We are honored that Ms. Isett has chosen to continue her dance career with the company and studio that trained her and nurtured her growth in the arts.
Ms. Isett is a member of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre.
(photo by Davel Photography)
SYDNEY BYARS
Sydney Byars began her training at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts under Director Sherri Davis. Ms. Byars received additional training from Atlanta Ballet where she was honored to be in the world premiere of Yuri Possokhov’s Nutcracker in 2018 as well as Beauty and the Beast by Bruce Wells with Atlanta Ballet’s second company.
Ms. Byars received additional training from the Nashville Ballet’s summer intensives. As a Georgia Dance Theatre member, Ms. Byars has performed various corps and soloist roles including Shades in La Bayadere, the Hungarian Princess in Cinderella, and the Angel Fairy in The Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Byars is in her 1st season as a professional member with Georgia Dance Theatre and her eighth season with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
(photo by Davel Photography)
GEORGIA NEAL
In 2019, Georgia Neal began her dance training at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts as a one-hour student and progressed to the Academy's daily Conservatory program. Ms. Neal was also a member of the scholarship program of Georgia Dance Theatre - performing company of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
In the 22-23 Season, Ms. Neal received the opportunity as the student choreographer selected by Artistic Director Sherri Davis for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Master Works.
For 2024-2025 season, Georgia was accepted to the Joffrey Ballet Chicago summer intensives, The Rock School of Dance Education of Philadelphia in the professional division with scholarship in their summer intensives, Georgia Dance Theatre professional Trainee position, and the Colorado Ballet as a Trainee with scholarship for their year round program.
Ms. Neal is a full time scholarship student in the Trainee Program of Joffrey Chicago for the 24-25 Season.
Delaney Hernandez
DeLaney Hernandez is a talented dancer with an extensive training background in contemporary and classical dance, having spent the past 15 seasons at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. As a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre, she has honed her skills and performance techniques.
In addition to her foundational training, Ms. Hernandez has broadened her experience by attending prestigious professional summer programs, including Alonzo King LINES Ballet in San Francisco and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York, both renowned for their excellence in dance education and performance.
Currently, Ms. Hernandez is pursuing her degree in Commercial Dance at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee, where she has been awarded a $20,000 dance scholarship, underscoring her dedication and talent in the field. With her strong background and ongoing education, she is well-equipped for a successful career in dance.
(photo by Davel Photography)
CAROLINE HAWES
Caroline Hawes has cultivated a rich and dedicated dance education since the age of 3 at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Over the course of 10 seasons, she honed her skills and faced new challenges that led her to become a key member of the scholarship program at the Georgia Dance Theatre, eventually achieving Senior Company status.
Throughout her journey, Ms. Hawes distinguished herself by dancing soloist and principal roles in various significant productions, showcasing her talent and artistry. Notable performances include portraying the Autumn Fairy in GAD's enchanting rendition of Cinderella and stepping into the role of Clara in the beloved Nutcracker Ballet presented by Georgia Dance Theatre.
In pursuit of furthering her skills and experience, she participated in prestigious summer programs with the Boston Ballet and Nashville Ballet, which provided her with invaluable training and exposure to additional professional dance environments.
Currently, Caroline is expanding her horizons at the University of Georgia, where she is combining her passion for dance with her interest in law as a double major in Dance and Criminal Justice, with a focus on pre-law. This unique blend of disciplines reflects her commitment to both the arts and academia, paving the way for a multifaceted future.
REBEKAH DICKERSON HEMPHILL
Rebekah Dickerson Hemphill trained for 14 years in Ballet and Contemporary genres at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Dance at Kennesaw State University (KSU), set to graduate with Honors in May 2025. Ms. Hemphill is a member of the Inaugural Cohort of KSU Dance Ambassadors, a prestigious group chosen by the Chair of the Department.
As a student assistant for the Production Manager, Ms. Hemphill engages in numerous activities that foster her professional growth. She plays a key role in organizing the KSU High School Dance Festival, developing audition forms, crafting production and performance schedules, engaging in scene shop work, and facilitating professional communications. Additionally, she has worked backstage at the Cobb Energy Center.
With three semesters of dance production under her belt, Ms. Hemphill has honed skills in stage management, light board operation, basic light design and programming, audio management, rigging and focusing lights, and other scenic elements. Currently, she is an active member of the KSU Dance Theater stagehand crew.
Ms. Hemphill is also the Co-founder and current President of the Dance Production Registered Student Organization (RSO).
She is currently choreographing a 9-minute classical ballet piece to be performed at the KSU Dance Theater in April 2025. This has included original choreography, costume design, light design, sound design and stepping into a new leadership role.
Involving herself in various aspects like costume design, light design, and sound design demonstrates her creative versatility and ability to collaborate with different elements of performance art. Additionally, stepping into leadership roles positions Ms. Hemphill to continue toward mastering her craft but also guiding and inspiring others in the process.
(photo by Davel Photography)
ALISON CASPERSEN
Alison Caspersen grew up in Edwards, Colorado and began her training at Vail Valley Academy of Dance under the direction of Anne Powell and Karen Samuelson. She received additional training from The Rock School for Dance Education of Pennsylvania, Milwaukee Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, Washington Ballet, and Kaatsbaan. In 2014, Ms. Caspersen was honored to be a part of the Helen Pickett Choreographic Essentials Workshop.
Ms. Caspersen received professional trainee status with Ballet Austin and performed with the company in The Nutcracker Ballet choreographed by artistic director Stephen Mills. She has also appeared in Ballet Austin’s Paquita and Women in Light. Ms. Caspersen continued her training with Atlanta Ballet as both a Conservatory dancer and contracted Fellowship artist. She has performed in Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker and Pinnochio and danced the featured role of the Evil Queen in Snow White.
Ms. Caspersen has danced the lead roles of Sugar Plum Fairy & Snow Queen in Georgia Dance Theatre's production of The Nutcracker Ballet. In the 2018-19 season, Ms. Caspersen performed the lead role of Swanilda in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Coppelia. For the 2020-2021 Season, Ms. Caspersen danced one of the lead Fairies in Sleeping Beauty. Ms. Caspersen danced for 6 seasons as a Leading Artist for the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre.
In 2021, Ms. Caspersen was promoted to Rehearsal Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts & Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Casperson is a member of the board of directors of Georgia Dance Theatre.
(photo by Davel Photography)
KRISTY SHEA
Kristy’ Shea's early training at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts laid a strong foundation for her dance career, where she excelled in ballet, pointe, and jazz as a member of the Georgia Dance Theatre. During her time with the Academy, her performance repertoire included notable ballets such as Sherri Davis' original ballets such as La Boutique Fantastique and The Nutcracker Ballet as well as classic favorites of Cinderella, Coppelia, and The Sleeping Beauty.
In high school, she joined the McIntosh High School Varsity Chiefettes, where she had the remarkable opportunity to dance in the 1996 Olympic Opening Ceremonies in Atlanta and was part of the squad that won its first State Championship in Jazz Dance. Kristy's Dance Team formal training was led by Director
Sherri Davis.
Continuing her education at the University of Georgia, Kristy studied Child and Family Development alongside Dance, enhancing her versatility with training in various styles, including ballroom, hip hop, modern, and tap.
After completing her studies, Kristy took a break from formal dance training to focus on her family. During this period, she taught in Gwinnett County Public Schools, earning certifications in Elementary Education and Dance Education (K-12).
Kristy's deep-rooted passion for dance eventually inspired her to return to teaching. She achieved certification in the American Ballet Theatre National Teaching Curriculum for Levels Preprimary - 3 and Levels 4/5. Furthermore, in the summer of 2024, she broadened her expertise by becoming certified in In Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT).
Kristy is currently on staff at Clarkesville School of Dance (Clarkesville, GA) and Motus Dance (Alpharetta, GA). She teaches ballet, PBT, contemporary ballet, and jazz. She is grateful and excited to have these opportunities to share her love of dance with all her students!
GRAYSON DAVIS
Mr. Davis began his formal training at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of eight. In addition, Mr. Davis was a Georgia Dance Theatre scholarship member and a scholarship recipient of American Ballet Theatre at the age of 15.
Mr. Davis performed the original role of John in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet Peter Pan and continued with various roles throughout his tenure with GAD. Mr. Davis continued his dance education at the Governor’s School of SC under full scholarship. He was the 2003 Gold medalist recipient of the American Youth Grand Prix and the 2004 overall Grand Prix winner at the NYC finals.
In 2004, Mr. Davis was offered a contract to American Ballet Theatre Company of New York. Mr. Davis performs throughout the United States as a guest artist during his off season from American Ballet Theatre.
In 2009, Mr. Davis returned to Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts to perform the lead role in Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker.
In the 2018-19 season, Mr. Davis served as an Artist-In-Residence for the Academy before he retired from dance life. After saving a man's life on the New York subway system, Mr. Davis retired from dance to become a law enforcement officer. Mr. Davis was awarded the New York State Medal of Liberty for his heroic act.
(pictured: Gray Davis & Misty Copeland)
JOSH REYNOLDS
Mr. Reynolds has had a truly impressive and inspiring journey in the world of dance. Starting his training at just five years old and rising through the ranks at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and Georgia Dance Theatre is a testament to his talent and dedication.
Securing full scholarships from prestigious institutions like the American Ballet Theatre, School of American Ballet, and Houston Ballet speaks to his exceptional skills and potential from a young age. His professional experience with renowned companies, including the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, highlights the impact he has made in the ballet community.
Being recognized as one of Dance Magazine's "50 Dancers to Watch" further cements his status as a prominent figure in ballet. His historic promotion to full company status mid-season with the Atlanta Ballet and being the youngest apprentice signed illustrates his remarkable work ethic and talent.
Mr. Reynolds has danced professionally with the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Currently Mr. Reynolds & his wife oversee the dance educational programs and both dance as Leading Artists for New Orleans Ballet Theatre.
KYM BUSHMIRE
Kym Bushmire serves as the Chief Director of Operations for the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and The Dancer's Boutique, where she plays a vital role in the daily operations and staff management alongside CEO and President Sherri Davis. A proud alumna of the Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Bushmire received extensive dance training from the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, the Kris Cangelosi Dance Project, Georgia State University, and the LaGrange School of Ballet, supported by the LaFayette Society of the Arts.
Ms. Bushmire has demonstrated her creativity and leadership throughout her career, serving as a guest choreographer for several prominent productions, including Georgia Dance Theatre's "In the Spirit of Dance," the Sinfonicron Light Opera Company's "42nd Street" at the College of William and Mary, and various performances for the McIntosh High School Drama Department. Her performance experience includes collaborations with the Cangelosi Dance Project, the Movement Force of Georgia State University, and a notable appearance at the Centennial Olympic Games Opening Ceremonies in 1996.
As a dedicated Dance Educator, Ms. Bushmire has taught a variety of dance disciplines for over ten seasons at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She has also held leadership roles as Production Coordinator and Associate Director, where she was instrumental in overseeing and coordinating various productions and needs of the GAD staff.
Due to her passion for the arts and her leadership skills, Ms. Bushmire has established herself as a creative and solid force for the growth and overall well-being of the Academy and its students.
Ms. Bushmire is a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Dance Theatre and is the Secretary/Treasurer of the non-profit organization.
EMILY FRANZ
Ms. Franz trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 15 years and was under scholarship with Georgia Dance Theatre for 7 seasons.
She has also received invitations to schools across the country including the Atlanta Ballet, Rock School of the Pennsylvania Ballet, Milwaukee School of Ballet, Richmond School of Ballet, Kaatsbaan Extreme Ballet Intensive, American Ballet Theatre of New York, and the Boston Ballet. She spent three summers studying at the Rock School and was invited to study there under full scholarship for the 2008-2009 season.
Ms. Franz has performed soloist roles in various productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker Ballet. Her performing credits include the Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, multiple soloist roles in Don Quixote, Three Musketeers, Symphony in C, several original pieces by Christopher Flemming of the Rock School, and several contemporary works showcased in Georgia Dance Theatre’s In the Spirit of Dance series and various GDT productions.
Her extensive training has afforded her the opportunity to be a part of the Fayette County Mentorship Program where she received school credit as an Assistant Teacher for GAD & the Performing Arts during her senior year of high school. Additionally, Emily was accepted into the Dance Programs of the University of Georgia and Kennesaw State University.
She elected to continue her dance education at the University of Georgia where she was a member of the University of Georgia Dance Dawgs from 2009-2012 and was named Captain for the 2012 season. Emily graduated from the University of Georgia in May 2013 with a BA in English – area of Emphasis in Rhetoric and Composition – and a Minor in Communication Studies.
She currently is a Dance Educator for the North Georgia School of Ballet, formerly owned by GDT Alumna, Jennifer McDonnell.
CLAIRE MCILWRAITH
Ms. McIlwraith, a Georgia Dance Theatre alumna, has been a student of the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 14 years and a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 8 seasons. She received additional training from the Atlanta Ballet, North Carolina Dance Theatre, and Walnut Hill School.
In addition, she was awarded partial scholarships to the summer and year round programs of Walnut Hill and a full dance scholarship to GAD & the Performing Arts Summer Intensive program. Ms. McIlwraith has performed lead roles in various productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts including Don Quixote, The Three Musketeers, and The Nutcracker Ballet.
n 2009, Ms. McIlwraith performed the principal role of Dewdrop Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker.
Ms. McIlwraith continued her dance education on an an $18,000 dance scholarship to Birmingham Southern College.
SUMMER MADISON
Summer Madison started her dance training at the age of 9 at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, where she honed her skills and became a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre. During her time at GAD, she had the opportunity to perform various roles, including a notable part in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original ballet adaptation of Jane Eyre.
Now a full-time working actress, Ms. Madison has expanded her talents beyond dance, appearing in several television series. Recently, she has been seen in productions such as "Emergency," "The Summer I Turned Pretty," and "The Wonder Years." Her transition from dance to acting showcases her versatility and dedication to the performing arts.
MICAELA TARDIE MORRIS
Micaela Tardie Morris began her dance training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of three. She performed as a member of Georgia Dance Theatre for eight seasons. As a student, Micaela was accepted into prestigious national programs including American Ballet Theatre, School of American Ballet, Richmond Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, and the Atlanta Ballet.
During her time with Georgia Dance Theatre, Mrs. Tardie-Morris performed many soloist roles such as Clara, Arabian Lead, Spanish Lead, and Shepherdess in The Nutcracker Ballet, The White Cat in Sleeping Beauty, and the Flamingo in Alice in Wonderland. She also appeared as a corps de ballet member with Georgia Dance Theatre in many classical ballets such as Giselle, Coppelia, Romeo & Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Don Quixote. In addition, she performed in original ballets such as West Side Story, Three Musketeers, Peter Pan and the Hunchback of Notre Dame which were all created by Georgia Dance Theatre's Artistic Director Sherri Davis.
Mrs. Tardie-Morris continued her dance training under scholarship with Belhaven University in Jackson, Mississippi, where she completed a BFA degree in Dance. There, she performed in a variety of classical ballet and originally choreographed contemporary works under the leadership of Ravenna Tucker Wagnon, Laura Morton, Caleb Mitchell, Ryan Corriston, Catherine Batcheller, and other esteemed Belhaven faculty and guest artists.
Mrs. Tardie-Morris has preformed professionally with the San Antonio Metropolitan Ballet and is currently with the Texas Ballet under professional contract.
CHRISTINA HUBELI
Christina Hubeli began dancing at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of 6 and joined Georgia Dance Theatre in 2011. In her debut season with Georgia Dance Theatre, she performed as the youngest member of the Wilis corps de ballet in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Giselle. She has also performed leading roles in various productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. These roles include Red Riding Hood in Sleeping Beauty, the Four Cygnets, and Act I Pas de Trois in Swan Lake. Ms. Hubeli performed the principal roles of Clara and Dew Drop Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's The Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Hubeli was accepted to and attended the Boston Ballet and Miami City Ballet's summer intensive programs. Ms. Hubeli completed her debut season as a trainee of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre.
In addition to performing, Ms. Hubeli became an assistant teacher through the Fayette County Board of Education Work Study program . Ms. Hubeli obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Strategic Communications from Ohio State University. She is currently using artistic talents as an Events Specialist with a company based in New York.
(photo by Davel Photography)
JENNIFER RITORO
Jennifer Ritorto is a former Georgia Dance Theatre Professional company member. She received her early training at the Academy of Ballet Arts in Marietta, GA and then went on to the University of Georgia where she graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Mathematics and a Minor in Dance. At UGA, she danced with companies such as Dancefx, UGA’s Ballet Ensemble, and Core Concert Dance Company. She continued her dance education with such well-known companies as Broadway Theatre Project, Pointe Park Intensive, and Charleston Ballet Theatre. She went on to dance with other prestigious dance companies such as Houston Metropolitan Dance Company, Sideways Contemporary Dance Company, and Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Ritorto danced the principal role of Anita in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts & Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original Ballet and world premiere production of West Side Story in June 2011. And in 2013, Ms. Ritorto danced the lead role of Esmeralda in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts & Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original Ballet of the Hunchback of Notre Dame.
Retired from the professional life of dance, Ms. Ritorto is a guest choreographer for Georgia Dance Theatre.
(photo by Davel Photography)
ABIGAIL REED
Ms. Reed trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 7 seasons and was under scholarship for 6 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Reed received additional training from the Atlanta Ballet and studied under many notable dance educators such as Franco De Vita (Principal of the JKO School at American Ballet Theatre), Robert Barnett (Balanchine protégé and former director of the Atlanta Ballet), Miki Orihara (Principal Dancer of the Martha Graham Dance Company), and Gretchen Warren (Ballet Mistress of ABT II).
Ms. Reed received acceptances to prestigious summer intensives including the Milwaukee Ballet and The Rock School for Dance Education. During her training, Abigail performed soloist roles in various productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, Georgia Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker Ballet, and several contemporary works showcased in annual performances of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Reed's extensive training afforded her the opportunity to be an Assistant Teacher and an Early Childhood educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Reed continued her dance education with the contemporary company of the University of North Carolina. Ms. Reed has continued her love of being an educator as a teacher in the public school system. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of North Carolina and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Georgia State University.
EMI MURATA FERGUSON
Emi Murata Ferguson was a member of the scholarship performing company Georgia Dance Theatre for 7 seasons. Ms. Murata Ferguson received additional training from the Atlanta Ballet, The Rock School of Pennsylvania and Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet’s summer intensives. She is a scholarship recipient to Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts Summer Intensive and a former dance educator for the Academy. Ms. Murata Ferguson has performed principal & soloists roles in various ballets and contemporary productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. These roles include Arabian, Chinese & Russian for Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker Ballet and as Bird in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Coppelia.
Ms. Murata Ferguson was a member of the CORE Dance & Aerial Performing Company and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance from the University of Georgia.
Ms. Murata Ferguson has held the position of Assistant Director of Dance at DANCEFX ATLANTA. She has been a professional performer with Atlanta Dance Collective. She is currently a free lance dance educator and performer in the Atlanta area.
Emi has credited her Artistic Director Sherri Davis as an inspiration in her dance journey: (Voyage ATL Magazine)
"Sherri Davis is the director of my studio growing up, and she gave me the tools and inspiration to continue my training and education to the professional level."
EMMA WERNECKE
Emma Wernecke began her dance education in Minnesota and continued with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts when her family moved to Peachtree City. Ms. Wernecke was accepted into the performing company Georgia Dance Theatre and worked her way up to receive a Trainee position with the professional company.
During her time with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, Ms. Wernecke received additional training and acceptances to several summer ballet intensive programs including American Ballet Theatre of New York, the Bolshoi of New York summer program in 2013 where she attended and the Joffrey Ballet of New York program under scholarship in 2014.
As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Wernecke received soloist and principal roles in such ballets as The Nutcracker Ballet as Clara and Dew Drop Fairy, The Nutcracker Tea as Clara and Sugar Plum Fairy, Sleeping Beauty, and leading roles in Sherri Davis’ original ballets of The Hunchback of Notre Dame and West Side Story.
Upon graduation, Ms. Wernecke received acceptance to Notre Dame University where she was a member of the Notre Dame University Dance Company.
CASSIDY RANSOM
Cassidy Ransom began her training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of 3 (15 years) and progressed through various programs of the Academy. Throughout her years with GAD, Cassidy trained in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Hip Hop and Contemporary genres.
In addition, she became of member of the performing company Georgia Dance Theatre at the age of 12 then progressed into the Conservatory Program. Cassidy was a part of the GAD mentorship program as an Assistant Teacher.
Cassidy received summer acceptances and additional training from the Boston Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, and Richmond Ballet.
While with Georgia Dance Theatre, she performed corps de ballet roles in Romeo and Juliet, La Bayadere, Coppelia, The Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, and the Nutcracker. She has also performed soloist and lead roles such as Clara, Waltz of the Flowers Demi Soloist, Harlequin Doll, and Ribbon Candy Lead in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Ransom is Trainee to the professional company of the Charlotte Ballet.
JENNIFER MCDONNELL
Ms. McDonnell trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the 17 years. Ms. McDonnell received additional training from such prominent professional schools as Boston Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Ms. McDonnell was a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 7 years and a member of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre for 4 seasons. Ms. McDonnell’s performing credits include the title role of Sugar Plum Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker Ballet as well as principal roles in Les Sylphides, Artistic Director Sherri Davis' Original Ballets of The Three Musketeers and Peter Pan. She performed soloist roles in Don Quixote, Swan Lake, La Bayadere, Symphony in D, The Nutcracker, and Alice in Wonderland. Additional performing credits include roles in Romeo and Juliet, Giselle, The Sleeping Beauty, and several original and contemporary works showcased in Georgia Dance Theatre’s In the Spirit of Dance series.
For six seasons, Ms. McDonnell was a dance educator in the classical ballet, early childhood and contemporary programs at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Ms. McDonnell’s educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a minor in Management from Kennesaw State University.
Ms. McDonnell was the original Founder and Artistic Director of North Georgia School of Ballet. (www.ngaschoolofballet.com)
KELLY O'SHAUGHNESSY
Kelly O’Shaughnessy began dancing at the age of 4 at Georgia Academy of Dance and the Performing Arts and became a member of Georgia Dance Theatre in 2010. As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. O’Shaughnessy performed in multiple classical and contemporary ballets. She performed with Georgia Dance Theatre in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original ballets including West Side Story, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Jane Eyre. In addition, she performed classical repertoire of Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Swan Lake, La Bayadere and various roles in The Nutcracker Ballet.
Outside of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. O’Shaughnessy was accepted into nationally renowned programs including Boston Ballet, Miami City Ballet, Washington Ballet, and Orlando Ballet’s trainee program.
During the summers of 2014 and 2016, she attended the Kirov Academy of Ballet of Washington, D.C., where she received Vaganova training from Elena Tenchikova, Victoria Yanchuck, and Cyril Pierre under the direction of Adrienne Dellas. Ms. O’Shaughnessy was offered a position in the Kirov’s Junior Company, a program designed to prepare dancers for success in the highly competitive field of ballet. In the summers of 2017 and 2018, Ms. O'Shaughnessy received additional training under scholarship status with Ballet West of Salt Lake City, Utah under the direction of Peter Merz and Adam Sklute, where she was able to train with the company under their world-class faculty.
Ms. O’Shaughnessy was under contract as a Leading Artist with Georgia Dance Theatre for 3 seasons. In addition, Ms. O'Shaughnessy was a Dance Educator for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and guest choreographer for Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. O'Shaughnessy is a graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She is a graduate from Duke University School of Medicine as a Doctor of Physical Therapy and currently assists dancers with their therapy needs.
(photo by Davel Photography)
MARY GRACE PHILLIPS
Ms. Phillips trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 14 years. She was a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre pre-professional company for 8 seasons and a contracted professional member for 3 seasons.
Ms. Phillips continued her dance education with summer intensives with the Richmond Ballet and Atlanta Ballet. Ms. Phillips has performed, choreographed and lead workshops for the Shachah Touring Company in Shizouka, Japan.
She continued with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts after college to become a dance educator of various dance disciplines. During her training with GAD, Ms. Phillips performed the original roles of Alice in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet Alice in Wonderland and Clara in Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker Ballet.
In 2010, Ms. Phillips was awarded the coveted role of Kitri in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Don Quixote. In 2011, Ms. Phillips originated the role of Graziella in Sherri Davis’ original ballet West Side Story. Ms. Phillips is a graduate of Belhaven College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance. During her time at Belhaven, she performed original and classical works with the Belhaven Dance Ensemble and Belhaven Theatre Department.
Ms. Phillips continues to pursue her art form as a performer and choreographer in Atlanta.
MEREDITH ROGERS PATTERSON
Meredith Rogers trained for 16 seasons at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts with 8 seasons as a member of Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Rogers also obtained professional company trainee full scholarship status with Georgia Dance Theatre.
She received additional dance training from summer intensives with The Rock School, Ballet Austin, Kaatsbaan International Dance Centre, American Ballet Theatre, Milwaukee Ballet on scholarship, Atlanta Ballet, and the Kirov Academy where she was invited to join their year-round program. Ms. Rogers was also offered a trainee position and scholarship at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City.
As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, Meredith performed various roles in Coppelia, Giselle, Swan Lake, Nutcracker Ballet and Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballets The Nutcracker Ballet, West Side Story, the Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Three Musketeers, Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland, and Jane Eyre. Her Nutcracker Ballet roles have included Clara, Dew Drop Fairy, Dolls, Shepherdess, Russian, Spanish, Chinese, Sugar Plum Fairy and Snow Queen.
Ms. Rogers performed the lead roles of Alice in Alice in Wonderland and the role of Aurora in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' 2014 production of The Sleeping Beauty.
She continued her dance education at the collegiate level at Texas Christian University in their School of Classical and Contemporary Dance and finished her degree in the Department of Education at Georgia State University.
Ms. Rogers continues her life in dance as a dance educator and director at Landmark Christian School.
CATHERINE VINING
Catherine Vining trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 12 years and is a former member of the Senior Company of Georgia Dance Theatre. She received additional summer training from the Atlanta Ballet and Walnut Hill Performing Arts School.
Ms. Vining received scholarships to The Rock School of Pennsylvania and Walnut Hill Performing Arts School. Ms. Vining received a $126,000 dance scholarship for three seasons with Walnut Hill School of Performing Arts as a full time resident student.
Ms. Vining danced with Nashville Ballet as a professional company artist.
CAROLINE VINING
Caroline Vining trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 10 years. She was under scholarship with Georgia Dance Theatre for 4 seasons and performed contemporary and classical works during her time with Georgia Dance Theatre.
During her years with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts she received additional summer training under scholarship with North Carolina Dance Theatre and the Atlanta Ballet.
Ms. Vining continued her dance education with the Atlanta Ballet and rose to the position of Trainee with the Atlanta Ballet.
MEGAN JOHNSON
Megan Johnson trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 7 years. Additionally, she was a professional company member of Georgia Dance Theatre for those 7 seasons.
Mrs. Johnson had the honor of dancing the lead role of Maria in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original work of West Side Story. She also performed as demi-soloist in Giselle, Fleur De Lyes in Hunchback of Notre Dame, Lilac Ferry in Sleeping Beauty, Odette in Swan Lake, and Blanche Ingram in Sherri Davis’ original Ballet Jane Eyre. Megan danced several principal roles in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet such as Sugar Plum Fairy, Dewdrop, Snow Queen, Dolls, Ribbon Candy, Chinese and Arabian.
Megan danced the coveted role of Juliet in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Romeo & Juliet. Mrs. Johnson was a dance educator of various genres during her tenure at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Upon retiring as a professional dancer, Megan has continued as a dance educator in the Atlanta area.
(photo by Davel Photography)
MEGAN DAVIS WALSER
Megan Davis Walser, a former member of Georgia Dance Theatre, continued her dance education with the Dance Academy of Stuart after relocating to Florida. She is a dance major and holds a fine arts degree from Indian River State College.
Ms. Davis Walser has been a full time professional dancer and performer with Walt Disney World and Hollywood Studios of Orlando, Florida since 2007.
LINDSAY DAVIS DROMERHAUSER
Ms. Davis Dromerhauser, a former member of Georgia Dance Theatre , continued her dance education with Dance Academy of Stuart after relocating to Florida.
Ms. Davis Dromerhauser has performed extensively around the Treasure Coast and Palm Beaches with Preston Contemporary Company where she is currently holds the Rehearsal Director position. Along with continuing as a dance educator, Ms. Davis Dromerhauser choreographs and directs for community theater and for the professional theater company -Shiloh Theatrical Productions. Her choreography credits include Peter Pan, King & I, Pacific, Oliver, Jesus Christ Superstar, Gypsy, Grease, Damn Yankees and Camelot.
Ms. Davis Dromerhauser is a Dance Educator and Choreographer for The Dance Academy of Stuart of Florida. She continues to dance as a company member with Atlantic East Coast Dance Theatre. Ms. Davis Dromerhauser holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Indian River State College.
ABBY CALDWELL
Abby Caldwell trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 15 years and was a scholarship company member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 5 seasons.
Ms. Caldwell received additional training from prestigious companies such as Richmond Ballet, Atlanta Ballet and Milwaukee Ballet – all under scholarship. She was accepted to and attended such prominent companies such as Miami City Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Ms. Caldwell danced professionally with Milwaukee Ballet II under the direction of Michael Pink and had the privilege of performing with Milwaukee Ballet in Michael Pink’s La Boheme, The Nutcracker, & Momentum, Swan Lake Pas de Trois and Momentum, Napoli. Additionally, Abby has performed in Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker and Snow White and Miami City Ballet’s Noire in which she performed the Soloist role. In addition, she performed with American Ballet Theatre’s Summer Intensive Program as Soloist in Le Corsaire.
Ms. Caldwell received several Soloist roles as a Georgia Dance Theatre member. She danced as the French Immigrant in Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet of West Side Story. In addition, she performed the Cinderella pas in GAD’s production of The Sleeping Beauty and the Pas de Trois in Swan Lake. In Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker Ballet, Ms. Caldwell danced the lead roles of Dew Drop Fairy of Waltz of the Flowers and as the Ribbon Candy.
Ms. Caldwell was also given the opportunity to be a dance educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts until her retirement from dance.
(photo by Davel Photography)
HAYLEY KEIR
Ms. Keir received most of her formal training as a dance educator at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and was provided a professional career in dance by being accepted into the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre for 6 seasons under the direction of Artistic Director Sherri Davis.
In June 2012, Ms. Keir was given the lead role of Giselle in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts’ production of Giselle to a sold-out audience.
In 2015, Ms. Keir was selected to dance the coveted role of Odile in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Swan Lake. In 2016, Ms. Keir danced the lead role of Jane Eyre in the original ballet by Artistic Director Sherri Davis. In 2016-2017 Ms. Keir was afforded the opportunity to join the leadership team of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts as Ballet Mistress and staged a classical repertoire ballet of LaBayadere.
We are honored to have been able to provide Ms. Keir with a professional career as a dancer and dance educator. Ms. Keir obtained Board Member status of Georgia Dance Theatre until her family relocated to Florida.
(photo by Davel Photography)
DANIEL WHITE
Daniel White began his training under the tutelage of Yasmine Hassan and continued his advanced dance training under the direction of Sherri Davis of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Mr. White was a Senior member of Georgia Dance Theatre and carried lead roles in productions of the Nutcracker Ballet and The Sleeping Beauty.
Mr. White received additional training with Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre and Joffrey Ballet of New York. He danced alongside professional company members of Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre in such masterworks as Revelations. He later continued his training at The Joffrey Ballet School of New York and performed in ballets such as Gerald Arpino’s Kettentanz and Light Rain, among others.
Mr. White has worked with distinguished professionals in the dance world such as Robert Battle, Stacy Caddell, Davis Robertson, Desmond Richardson and many more. Mr. White danced professionally with the Richmond Ballet II of Virginia and Joffrey Concert Ballet of New York.
In addition to dancing, Mr. White was a dance educator for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and part of the leadership team of Joffrey Ballet of New York.
Mr. White is a Dance Model for Dance as Art - The New York Photography Project.
COURTNEY DOOLITTLE
Born and raised in Metro Atlanta, Courtney Doolittle took her first ballet class at 4 years old. She began her serious technical training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts in 2007 and received additional training from Ballet Magnificat!, under the Artistic Direction of Founder Kathy Thibodeaux.
Ms. Doolittle became a member of Georgia Dance Theatre in 2012-2013 season. As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, she performed various roles in The Nutcracker Tea, A Celebration of Contemporary Dance, Alice in Wonderland,and Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet, The Hunchback of Notre Dame.
In addition to performing, Ms. Doolittle became an Assistant Dance Educator at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts which sparked her interest and passion for dance education. Ms. Doolittle continued to teach as a full dance educator in Early Childhood and Contemporary classes for The Dance Center in Luverne, AL.
In the Spring of 2013, Miss Doolittle was offered a full dance scholarship to Southern Union Community College (Wadley, AL) and an academic scholarship to Troy University (Troy, AL). She chose to continue her education at Troy. During her college career, she performed in various showcases, full-length productions, and benefit concerts with Troy Dance Theatre (Troy’s Department of Theatre & Dance’s performance ensemble) and had the opportunity to choreograph works on her colleagues. She trained under resident faculty Tracy Gilland-Shillabeer (Tisch School of the Arts, Ad Deum) and Dominique Angel (Miami City Ballet, Joffrey Ballet), and guest artists such as Edward Villella (Founder: Miami City Ballet), Wes Chapman (American Ballet Theatre), Lori Belilove (Isadora Duncan Dance Company), and Dean McFlicker (NBC Senior VP & Creative Director), to name a few.
Ms. Doolittle holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance from Troy University. Miss Doolittle is a former Dance Educator in the Early Childhood & Contemporary Programs with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She continues teaching as a dance educator in Alabama.
DR. MEGHAN MORALES
Ms. Morales, a Senior company member of Georgia Dance Theatre, attended Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 15 years.
She received additional training from such notable professional schools as The Rock School in Pennsylvania, Kaatsbaan, and the Atlanta Ballet.
Ms. Morales has performed various lead roles as a Georgia Dance Theatre member including Dewdrop Fairy and Arabian in Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker.
In 2006-07 season, Ms. Morales danced the lead role of Wendy in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts’ original production of Peter Pan.
Ms. Morales furthered her dance education at Birmingham Southern College with a $23,000 dance scholarship. She is a graduate of Birmingham-Southern with a BA and BS in Biology and Psychology and Dance. She is a Magna Cum Laude graduate and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa.
Meghan Morales received her doctorate at Birmingham- Southern and is currently a practicing physical therapist. She is the resident Physical Therapist for Georgia Dance Theatre and Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
MICHAELA HILLMAN
Michaela Hillman began her serious dance training with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and was a Senior member of the performing company Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Hillman performed in several classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Giselle, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker Ballet. In addition, she had the opportunity to perform the original works of Artistic Director Sherri Davis - The Hunchback of Notre Dame and West Side Story.
Upon her family's' transfer to Nashville, Ms. Hillman continued her dance education with the Nashville Ballet. As a Trainee in the Professional Program of Nashville Ballet II, Ms. Hillman was the only recipient of the Patricia Todd Scholarship Award - the first year-round full tuition-based scholarship.
In 2022, Ms. Hillman graduated with a BFA in Ballet Pedagogy with a minor in Health and Exercise Science from the University of Oklahoma.
Ms. Hillman received professional Trainee status with the Ballet Frontier of Texas.
MADISON SCHRAMA
Ms. Schrama trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 12 years and was under scholarship for 7 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Schrama received additional training from the American Ballet Theatre of New York and Kaatsban Extreme Ballet Intensive of New York.
Ms. Schrama performed soloist roles in various productions of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and Georgia Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker Ballet. Her performing credits include Dew Drop and Lead Marzipan in The Nutcracker, Peasant Pas Des Deux in Giselle, Gypsy in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original ballet The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Ms. Schrama also performing in several contemporary works showcased in annual performances of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Schrama's extensive training afforded her the opportunity to be apart of the Fayette County Mentorship Program where she received school credit as an Assistant Teacher for GAD & the Performing Arts during her senior year of high school.
Upon graduation, Ms. Schrama was accepted into the prestigious Dance Programs of the University of Alabama, the University of Georgia and with a dance scholarship to the University of South Carolina. She elected to continue her college and dance education at the University of Georgia where she is majored in Dance.
Ms. Schrama returned to Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts as a Dance Educator for various genres for the Academy and as a guest choreographer for Georgia Dance Theatre. She is currently a full time Dance Educator and Dance Team Coach Head at a private school in Atlanta, GA.
KATHRYN VAN METER
A Georgia Dance Theatre Senior Company Alumna, Kathryn Van Meter is perhaps the most prolific and well-regarded musical theatre choreographer in Seattle, WA. Credits include Mary Poppins, Hairspray, The Who’s Tommy, The King and I, The Secret Garden, Man of La Mancha, High School Musical, Spring Awakening, Bat Boy, Urinetown, and CATS. Her work is continually recognized for serving the narrative needs of the show while simultaneously offering visually compelling stage pictures. In addition to musicals, her collaborations include work with high school and college students, corporate flash mob events, puppets, an NBA Halftime Show, circus dinner theatre, and The Seattle Men’s Chorus where she had the pleasure of working with the incomparable Debbie Reynolds.
In 2010, Kathryn lived and worked in a community in South Africa and created ONE WORLD THROUGH THEATRE, a generative theatrical conversation between her students there and high school students in Issaquah, WA, and Hendersonville, NC.
As an actress, some favorite roles include Shelby in Steel Magnolias, Gwen in Rapture Blister Burn, Lady Anne in Richard III, Anita in West Side Story, Ellie May Chipley in Show Boat, and Shirley Markowitz in The Producers. She had the great honor of dancing in the Opening Ceremonies of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.
Ms. Van Meter recently worked as a choreographer for Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Brian Yorkey in version of Cabaret.
She is a proud member of the Stage Director and Choreographer’s Union, Actors Equity Association, and the Sandbox Artist’s Collective.
TIFFANY PAYTON
Ms. Payton continued her dance training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and was promoted to scholarship status with Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Payton was a dance educator of various genres of dance for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Today, Ms. Payton is the owner and director of Dance South located in Whitehouse, Tennessee.
She is also the founder and Artistic Director of the performing company, Encore Dance Project. Ms. Payton is a four time recipient of the Outstanding Teacher of the Year by the Tennessee Governor’s School of the Performing Arts.
Her students have been accepted to study with the Nutmeg Conservatory, Nashville Ballet of the Arts and the Tennessee Governors School of the Arts. Dance South website: www.dance-south.com.
JENNY REYNOLDS-VAN METER
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 22 years and was a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 16 seasons.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter received additional training from American Ballet Theatre, Atlanta Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, Burklyn Ballet Theatre and The Lines Ballet of California. In addition, she received apprenticeships with Alvin Ailey American Dance Center of New York and Lines Ballet of California.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter was a guest performer with Burklyn Ballet Theatre’s tour to Edinburg, Scotland and was a member of the professional touring company of Angela Whitehill’s Paradise Ballet Theatre.
In 2010, Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter performed the lead role of Swanilda in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Coppelia.
She has also performed various principal roles such as Snow Queen in Georgia Dance Theatre’s production of the Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter's extensive dance training allowed her to teach multiple forms of dance at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She continued as a dance educator at the Atlanta Ballet.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter was a professional company member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 6 seasons.
AMANDA SMITH BRAVO
Ms. Smith Bravo trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 10 seasons. She was a Senior member of Georgia Dance Theatre and enjoyed performing multiple roles with the company.
Amanda Bravo is a dance educator, award-winning choreographer, and dance film maker based in Southern California. She holds an MA in Dance from California State University, Long Beach, as well as a BA in Dance and BS in Psychology from Belhaven University. She has been featured as a resident and guest teacher for several dance studios and pre-professional dance companies throughout California. She has also had the opportunity to teach Dance/PE for the Paso Robles Joint Unified School District, serving six different elementary school sites and teaching dance enrichment to roughly 2,500 students per week.
Amanda has earned recognition as a gifted choreographer as well. Her work has been awarded at several competitions including Dance League, JUMP Tour, LA Dance Magic and Dupree Dance. In 2015, her original work, Just Go, was selected for the Regional Dance America Pacific Festival in Sacramento, CA.
Her MA thesis work, Plasticity, included a dance film that examines the K-12 public education system in America in relation to student agency for learning, individuality and creative trait strength outcomes. She presented her thesis and graduated with a 4.0 GPA in 2020. She launched her arts education nonprofit, Bravo Dance Project, in November of 2020 and continues as its sole proprietor and Artistic Director.
In 2021 her thesis film, Plasticity, earned an award for Best Dance Short from the Vesuvius International Film Festival, in Campania, Italy. The film was also an official selection for the Emotion and Soul Film Festival, sponsored by Emotions Physical Theatre and the Rockland Arts Council, in Rockland County, NY.
Amanda continues to produce dance films that highlight vulnerable aspects of human experience through storytelling and are accessible to all audiences. Her latest work, Take Care (2022), centers on the role of the caregiver in light of pandemic-era shifts to daily expectation, familial relationship, and community support. Amanda earned an Artist Award from PLACE Performance for Take Care and participated in their sponsored event, Some Dance Screen Fest (2021) in Riverside, CA. Take Care was also selected for the Stadium Feedback 1 immersive gallery in Los Angeles, CA.
KAREN PARKER
Ms. Parker, a Georgia Dance Theatre alumna, began her serious ballet training with Ballet Academy of Miami, and later with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Parker went on to perform professionally with the Charleston Ballet as a company apprentice, where she performed in such works as Sleeping Beauty, The Firebird, and Dracula. Ms. Parker was also a part of Charleston Ballet’s extensive East coast Nutcracker tour.
Ms. Parker was a professional company member of Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Parker has 15 years of teaching experience, including directing and choreographing numerous productions at the early childhood thru senior company levels.
Ms. Parker was a dance educator of various genres at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
BRIANNE WESOLOWSKI
Brianne Wesolowski trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 20 years and under scholarship with Georgia Dance Theatre for 14 seasons. Ms. Wesolowski received additional training from many notable ballet schools including the Houston Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre, the Burklyn Ballet Theatre on scholarship and the Milwaukee Ballet on scholarship. Following her summer with the Milwaukee Ballet, Brianne received an invitation to join Milwaukee Ballet II under the direction of Michael Pink. Brianne joined Georgia Dance Theatre professional company in 2005 and danced under professional contract for six seasons.
Ms. Wesolowski’s performing credits include the principal role of Black Swan in Swan Lake, Sugar Plum and Snow Queen in The Nutcracker, Titania in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the principal role in Melony Tribble’s Swallowed Up, the lead in Nadia Thompson’s Grande Terentella, Romantic Girl in Burklyn Ballet Theatre’s Graduation Ball, Queen of the Dryads in Don Quixote, and the principal role in Les Sylphides. Ms. Wesolowski has also performed soloist roles in La Bayadere, Symphony in D, Romeo and Juliet, Don Quixote, Le Corsaire, Peter Pan, La Fille Mal Gardee, Coppelia and several contemporary works showcased in Georgia Dance Theatre’s In the Spirit of Dance series. Ms. Wesolowski graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA in World History and a BA in Religious Studies from Georgia State University in May 2010 under full academic scholarship.
In 2012, Ms. Wesolowski completed a Masters of Theological Studies at Emory University, focusing on aesthetics and avant-garde art theory. She received a Master degree in Modern European History from Vanderbilt University and received her PhD at the Institute of Metropolitan Studies at the Technische Universität Berlin.
Ms. Wesolowski continued to teach dance education in the Atlanta area. Upon moving to Germany, Ms. Wesolowksi continues as an educator in Pilates.
LAURA VANKOUWENBERG
Ms. VanKouwenberg began her dance training with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of 5. She trained with the academy for 12 years and was a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for 5 seasons.
Ms. VanKouwenberg performed demi-soloists and soloists roles with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. These roles include Cupid in Don Quixote and Dewdrop in Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Vankouwenberg was awarded a professional contract as a Fellowship dancer with the Atlanta Ballet for 2 seasons and has been a guest artist with the New Orleans Ballet Theatre (photo by Jonah Hooper photography).
YURI GRACE OHASHI
Yuri Grace Ohashi began her dance education at the age of 4 with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She was accepted into the performing company, Georgia Dance Theatre, and performed with the company for 5 seasons.
Ms. Ohashi performed in various ballet and contemporary productions of the Academy. In addition, she performed in original ballets such as West Side Story and the Hunchback of Notre - both created by Artistic Director Sherri Davis.
Upon graduation, Ms. Ohashi was accepted to Harvard University where she was the 1st ever Executive Director of the Harvard University dance company - Dance Expressions. In addition to serving as Executive Director, Ms. Ohashi was Captain, Choreographer and a board member of the organization.
Ms. Ohashi directed the 200 plus student member organization and all administrative and creative duties which included interaction among student organizations and administrative departments, scheduling, grant application, interaction and production management.
Ms. Ohashi created original works for Dance Expressions and was a dance educator for the company's workshops.
In addition to her work with Dance Expressions, Ms. Ohashi was the Administrative Intern for the Harvard Dance Center.
Ms. Ohashi is a graduate of Harvard University with degrees in Psychology with a completed secondary in Classical Civilizations. Ms. Ohashi is a Research Development Consultant at Northeastern University at Boston. Ms. Ohashi is interested in working with creatives and assisting them with positive life choices.
SARAH VAN ZANTEN
With 23 years of dance experience under her belt, Sarah Van Zanten began training at the age of 2 at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts under the direction of Sherri Davis. Ms. Van Zanten trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts in multiple genres for 16 years, and was a member of the performing company, Georgia Dance Theatre, for 5 seasons.
While at GAD, Ms. Van Zanten received instruction from renowned artists and choreographers such as Ramazan Bapov of the Kazakh Ballet and Moscow Theater, Tatiana Jouravel-Malinkine of the Kiev Ballet Academy and Milwaukee Ballet, Christian Clark of Atlanta Ballet and Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre, and Artistic Director Sherri Davis. Ms. Van Zanten was educated in several repertoire ballets which included Coppelia, Don Quixote, Giselle, La Bayadere, A Midsummer Night's Dream, and La Fille Mal Gardee. In addition, she performed in original ballets by Artistic Director Sherri Davis which included West Side Story and The Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Van Zanten attended college at Georgia Tech where she studied International Affairs and was involved in Dance Tech and the Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.
Ms. Van Zanten is a current dance educator at North Georgia School of Ballet. (photo credit: KMM Photography)