Georgia Dance Theatre Alumni
Listed are just a few of our Georgia Dance Theatre Alumni
& Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts former artists who have continued in the celebration of the arts!
We celebrate those who continue in the philosophy of positive and quality training implemented at
Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
GRAY DAVIS
Professional Dancer/Gold Medalist/Guest Artist
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.
Professional Dancer/Gold Medalist/Guest Artist
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.
JOSH REYNOLDS
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator/Guest Artist
Mr. Reynolds stepped onto the GAD stage at the tender age of 5 and danced various roles throughout his tenure with GAD and Georgia Dance Theatre. These roles include the original Michael in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet of Peter Pan. Additional principal roles include Peter in Peter Pan, Basilio in Don Quixote and Romeo in Romeo & Juliet. During his training, Mr. Reynolds received full scholarships to Georgia Dance Theatre, American Ballet Theatre and School of American Ballet of New York, Houston Ballet and The Rock School of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Reynolds has danced professionally with the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Mr. Reynolds spent 5 seasons with the Atlanta Ballet and was the only member to ever be promoted to full company status in mid-season (February 2005) and the youngest apprentice member to ever be signed with the Atlanta Ballet. In 2009, Mr. Reynolds danced the lead role in Michael Pink’s production of Dracula.
Dance Magazine listed Mr. Reynolds as the Most 50 Dancers to Watch.
Mr. Reynolds has performed with the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet and is currently a Soloist with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Mr. Reynolds continues to be a guest performer and dance educator for the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts Summer Intensives.
Currently Mr. Reynolds & his wife oversee the dance educational programs and both dance as Leading Artists for New Orleans Ballet Theatre.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator/Guest Artist
Mr. Reynolds stepped onto the GAD stage at the tender age of 5 and danced various roles throughout his tenure with GAD and Georgia Dance Theatre. These roles include the original Michael in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballet of Peter Pan. Additional principal roles include Peter in Peter Pan, Basilio in Don Quixote and Romeo in Romeo & Juliet. During his training, Mr. Reynolds received full scholarships to Georgia Dance Theatre, American Ballet Theatre and School of American Ballet of New York, Houston Ballet and The Rock School of Pennsylvania.
Mr. Reynolds has danced professionally with the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet, and the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Mr. Reynolds spent 5 seasons with the Atlanta Ballet and was the only member to ever be promoted to full company status in mid-season (February 2005) and the youngest apprentice member to ever be signed with the Atlanta Ballet. In 2009, Mr. Reynolds danced the lead role in Michael Pink’s production of Dracula.
Dance Magazine listed Mr. Reynolds as the Most 50 Dancers to Watch.
Mr. Reynolds has performed with the Atlanta Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Smuin Ballet and is currently a Soloist with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet.
Mr. Reynolds continues to be a guest performer and dance educator for the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts Summer Intensives.
Currently Mr. Reynolds & his wife oversee the dance educational programs and both dance as Leading Artists for New Orleans Ballet Theatre.
ALISON CASPERSEN
Professional Dancer/Dance
Educator/Rehearsal Director
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.
For the 2021-2022 Season, Ms. Caspersen was promoted to Rehearsal Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts & Georgia Dance Theatre.
For the 2022-23 season, Ms. Caspersen was promoted to Guest Artist for the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre.
Professional Dancer/Dance
Educator/Rehearsal Director
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.
For the 2021-2022 Season, Ms. Caspersen was promoted to Rehearsal Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts & Georgia Dance Theatre.
For the 2022-23 season, Ms. Caspersen was promoted to Guest Artist for the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre.
KYM BUSHMIRE
Chief Operations Director/Dance Educator/ Board of Director
Kym Bushmire is the Chief Director of Operations of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and The Dancer's Boutique.
Ms. Bushmire assists CEO and President Sherri Davis in the day to day operations and staff management of the Academy.
Ms. Bushmire, a Georgia Dance Theatre alumna, received her dance training from Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, Kris Cangelosi Dance Project, Georgia State University and LaGrange School of Ballet (LaFayette Society of the Arts).
Ms. Bushmire has been a guest choreographer for Georgia Dance Theatre's productions of In the Spirit of Dance, Sinfonicron Light Opera Company's production of 42nd Streetat the College of William and Mary and productions of McIntosh High School Drama Dept.
Ms. Bushmire has been a guest performer with the Cangelosi Dance Project, the Movement Force of Georgia State University and the Centennial Olympic Games Opening Ceremonies of 1996. As a Dance Educator, Ms. Bushmire has taught various disciplines for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 10 seasons.
Ms. Bushmire has held leadership positions of Production Coordinator and Associate Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. In addition to assisting Director Sherri Davis, Ms. Bushmire oversees and coordinates all productions for the Academy and for Georgia Dance Theatre.
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's 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.
Chief Operations Director/Dance Educator/ Board of Director
Kym Bushmire is the Chief Director of Operations of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and The Dancer's Boutique.
Ms. Bushmire assists CEO and President Sherri Davis in the day to day operations and staff management of the Academy.
Ms. Bushmire, a Georgia Dance Theatre alumna, received her dance training from Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, Kris Cangelosi Dance Project, Georgia State University and LaGrange School of Ballet (LaFayette Society of the Arts).
Ms. Bushmire has been a guest choreographer for Georgia Dance Theatre's productions of In the Spirit of Dance, Sinfonicron Light Opera Company's production of 42nd Streetat the College of William and Mary and productions of McIntosh High School Drama Dept.
Ms. Bushmire has been a guest performer with the Cangelosi Dance Project, the Movement Force of Georgia State University and the Centennial Olympic Games Opening Ceremonies of 1996. As a Dance Educator, Ms. Bushmire has taught various disciplines for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 10 seasons.
Ms. Bushmire has held leadership positions of Production Coordinator and Associate Director for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. In addition to assisting Director Sherri Davis, Ms. Bushmire oversees and coordinates all productions for the Academy and for Georgia Dance Theatre.
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's 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
Dancer/ University Dance Program Recipient/Dance Educator
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 TheNutcracker Ballet. Her performing credits include the Sugar Plum Fairy andSnow 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.
Dancer/ University Dance Program Recipient/Dance Educator
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 TheNutcracker Ballet. Her performing credits include the Sugar Plum Fairy andSnow 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
Performer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient
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 scholarhsip 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.
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
Dancer/Professional Actress
Summer began her dance training at the age of 9 at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She became a member of the performing company Georgia Dance Theatre and performed various roles which included performing in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original ballet of Jane Eyre.
Summer is currently a full-time working actress and has been recently seen in Emergency (2022), The Summer I Turned Pretty (2022) and The Wonder Years (2021).
Dancer/Professional Actress
Summer began her dance training at the age of 9 at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She became a member of the performing company Georgia Dance Theatre and performed various roles which included performing in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original ballet of Jane Eyre.
Summer is currently a full-time working actress and has been recently seen in Emergency (2022), The Summer I Turned Pretty (2022) and The Wonder Years (2021).
MICAELA TARDIE MORRIS
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator/Professional Actress
Micaela Tardie Morris began her dance training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of three. and 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, 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 original ballets such as West Side Story, Three Musketeers, Peter Pan and the Hunchback of Notre Dame which were all created by 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
Professional Trainee Dancer/Dance Educator
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 Giselle. In 2014, she performed as Red Riding Hood in Sleeping Beauty. In 2015, she performed Four Cygnets and Act I Pas de Trois in Swan Lake. She has also performed as Clara and Dewdrop in The Nutcracker.
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 is continuing her higher education at Ohio State University.
Professional Trainee Dancer/Dance Educator
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 Giselle. In 2014, she performed as Red Riding Hood in Sleeping Beauty. In 2015, she performed Four Cygnets and Act I Pas de Trois in Swan Lake. She has also performed as Clara and Dewdrop in The Nutcracker.
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 is continuing her higher education at Ohio State University.
JENNIFER RITORO
Professional Dancer/Choreographer/Dance Educator
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-know 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.
ABIGAIL REED
Dance Educator/Dance Company Member
Ms. Reed has trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 7 years and has been under scholarship for the past 6 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. She has 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 has also received acceptances to prestigious summer intensives including the Milwaukee Ballet and The Rock School for Dance Education. During her training, Abigail has 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 Dance Theatre in association with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Abigail’s extensive training has afforded her the opportunity to be an Assistant Teacher and an Early Childhood educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Abigail performed with the contemporary company of the University of North Carolina where she holds a BA degree.
Dance Educator/Dance Company Member
Ms. Reed has trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 7 years and has been under scholarship for the past 6 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. She has 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 has also received acceptances to prestigious summer intensives including the Milwaukee Ballet and The Rock School for Dance Education. During her training, Abigail has 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 Dance Theatre in association with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Abigail’s extensive training has afforded her the opportunity to be an Assistant Teacher and an Early Childhood educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Abigail performed with the contemporary company of the University of North Carolina where she holds a BA degree.
EMI MURATA FERGUSON
Director/Dancer/Aerial Performer
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 studio. 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, Chines & Russian for Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker as well as Bird in 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 is in her 4th season as a professional performer with Atlanta Dance Collective. In addition, she is making her debut as a dance educator and performer at a Zouk conference in Chicago this summer.
Director/Dancer/Aerial Performer
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 studio. 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, Chines & Russian for Georgia Dance Theatre’s Nutcracker as well as Bird in 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 is in her 4th season as a professional performer with Atlanta Dance Collective. In addition, she is making her debut as a dance educator and performer at a Zouk conference in Chicago this summer.
EMMA WERNECKE
Collegiate Dancer
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.
Collegiate Dancer
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
Professional Dancer
Ms. Ransom began her training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of 3 (15 years) and has 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 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.
Ms. Ransom will be joining Ballet Pensacola as a Corps de Ballet dancer to the professional company for the 22-23 season.
Professional Dancer
Ms. Ransom began her training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts at the age of 3 (15 years) and has 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 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.
Ms. Ransom will be joining Ballet Pensacola as a Corps de Ballet dancer to the professional company for the 22-23 season.
JENNIFER MCDONNELL
Professional Dancer/Studio Founder/Artistic Director
Ms. McDonnell has trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 17 years. Ms. McDonnell has received additional training from such prominent professional schools as Boston Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Ms. McDonnell has been a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for the past 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, The Three Musketeers and Peter Pan. She has also 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)
Professional Dancer/Studio Founder/Artistic Director
Ms. McDonnell has trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 17 years. Ms. McDonnell has received additional training from such prominent professional schools as Boston Ballet and American Ballet Theatre.
Ms. McDonnell has been a scholarship member of Georgia Dance Theatre for the past 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, The Three Musketeers and Peter Pan. She has also 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
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator/Choreographer/
Pursuing Doctor of Physical Therapy
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 has performed in multiple classical and contemporary ballets. She has 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 has 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, Stanislav Issaev, 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 on scholarship with the
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 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.
MARY GRACE PHILLIPS
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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.
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 and performed original and classical works with the Belhaven Dance Ensemble and Belhaven Theatre Department. She recently 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.
Ms. Phillips continues to pursue her art form as a performer and choreographer in Atlanta.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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.
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 and performed original and classical works with the Belhaven Dance Ensemble and Belhaven Theatre Department. She recently 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.
Ms. Phillips continues to pursue her art form as a performer and choreographer in Atlanta.
MEREDITH ROGERS
Professional Dancer Trainee/ Dance Educator
Meredith Rogers trained for 9 seasons 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, Joffrey Ballet, and the Kirov Academy where she was invited to join their year-round program. Ms. Rogers was offered a trainee position at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City.
As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, Meredith performed various roles in Coppelia, Giselle, Nutcracker Ballet and Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballets West Side Story and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. 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.
Ms. Rogers continues her life in dance as a dance educator in the Landmark School system.
Professional Dancer Trainee/ Dance Educator
Meredith Rogers trained for 9 seasons 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, Joffrey Ballet, and the Kirov Academy where she was invited to join their year-round program. Ms. Rogers was offered a trainee position at the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City.
As a member of Georgia Dance Theatre, Meredith performed various roles in Coppelia, Giselle, Nutcracker Ballet and Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original ballets West Side Story and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. 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.
Ms. Rogers continues her life in dance as a dance educator in the Landmark School system.
CATHERINE VINING
Professional Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient
Catherine Vining has 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 has received additional summer training from the Atlanta Ballet and Walnut Hill Performing Arts School.
Ms. Vining has 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.
She received a professional contract with the Nashville Ballet.
Professional Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient
Catherine Vining has 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 has received additional summer training from the Atlanta Ballet and Walnut Hill Performing Arts School.
Ms. Vining has 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.
She received a professional contract with the Nashville Ballet.
CAROLINE VINING
Professional Dancer/Scholarship Recipient
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.
Professional Dancer/Scholarship Recipient
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
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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 years.
She has also had the pleasure of training with Atlanta Ballet for a summer and under Sherri Davis’ direction for the last 7 seasons as a company member of Georgia Dance Theatre.
In 2011, Mrs. Johnson had the honor of dancing the lead role of Maria in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original work of West Side Story, demi-soloist in Giselle, Fleur De Lyes in Hunchback of Notre Dame, Lilac Ferry in Sleeping Beauty, Odette in Swan Lake, Blanche Ingram in Sherri Davis’ original Ballet Jane Eyre,as well as Sugar Plum Fairy, Dewdrop, Snow Queen, Dolls, Ribbon Candy, Chinese and Arabian lead in Georgia Dance Theatre's productions of The Nutcracker Ballet.
In addition, Megan performed the lead role of Juliet in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' 2017 production of Romeo & Juliet.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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 years.
She has also had the pleasure of training with Atlanta Ballet for a summer and under Sherri Davis’ direction for the last 7 seasons as a company member of Georgia Dance Theatre.
In 2011, Mrs. Johnson had the honor of dancing the lead role of Maria in Artistic Director Sherri Davis’ original work of West Side Story, demi-soloist in Giselle, Fleur De Lyes in Hunchback of Notre Dame, Lilac Ferry in Sleeping Beauty, Odette in Swan Lake, Blanche Ingram in Sherri Davis’ original Ballet Jane Eyre,as well as Sugar Plum Fairy, Dewdrop, Snow Queen, Dolls, Ribbon Candy, Chinese and Arabian lead in Georgia Dance Theatre's productions of The Nutcracker Ballet.
In addition, Megan performed the lead role of Juliet in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' 2017 production of Romeo & Juliet.
MEGAN DAVIS
Professional Dancer/Performer
Megan Davis, a former member of Georgia Dance Theatre, continued her dance education with 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 is a full time professional dancer and performer with Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios of Orlando, Florida. Ms. Davis has been opening cast for two new parades brought to Disney from the west coast and performed Christmas shows in front of Cinderella’s Castle.
She also does Jammin’ Jungle Parade along with many other roles as a Disney cast member. Visit Megan and watch her perform at Disney!
Professional Dancer/Performer
Megan Davis, a former member of Georgia Dance Theatre, continued her dance education with 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 is a full time professional dancer and performer with Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios of Orlando, Florida. Ms. Davis has been opening cast for two new parades brought to Disney from the west coast and performed Christmas shows in front of Cinderella’s Castle.
She also does Jammin’ Jungle Parade along with many other roles as a Disney cast member. Visit Megan and watch her perform at Disney!
LINDSAY DAVIS DROMERHAUSER
Professional Dancer, Dance Educator, Choreographer, Director
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 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
Professional Dancer/ Dance Educator
Abby Caldwell has 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 has 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 has 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 has 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 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.
Professional Dancer/ Dance Educator
Abby Caldwell has 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 has 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 has 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 has 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 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.
HAYLEY KEIR
Professional Dancer/ Dance Educator
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 an original ballet by Artistic Director Sherri Davis to rave reviews. 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 in dance as a dancer and dance educator. Ms. Keir obtained Board Member status of Georgia Dance Theatre until her family relocated to Florida.
Professional Dancer/ Dance Educator
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 an original ballet by Artistic Director Sherri Davis to rave reviews. 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 in dance as a dancer and dance educator. Ms. Keir obtained Board Member status of Georgia Dance Theatre until her family relocated to Florida.
DANIEL WHITE
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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.
He was a Senior member of Georgia Dance Theatre and carried lead roles in productions of the Nutcracker Ballet and Sleeping Beauty. Daniel has received additional training with Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre 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.
Daniel has worked with Robert Battle, Stacy Caddell, Davis Robertson, Desmond Richardson and many more.
Daniel has danced professionally with the Richmond Ballet II and is a Dance Model for Dance as Art - The New York Photography Project.
COURTNEY DOOLITTLE
Collegiate Scholarship Recipient/Performer/
Dance Educator
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 Centerin 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
Physical Therapist/Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient
Ms. Morales, a Senior company member of Georgia Dance Theatre, attended Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 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 received Magna Cum Laude and was a 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.
Physical Therapist/Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient
Ms. Morales, a Senior company member of Georgia Dance Theatre, attended Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 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 received Magna Cum Laude and was a 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
Professional Dancer/College Scholarship Recipient
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 is currently a Trainee to the professional company of Ballet Frontier of Texas.
MADISON SCHRAMA
Performer/ University Dance Program Scholarship Recipient/Dance Educator
Ms. Schrama trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 12 years and has been under scholarship for 7 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Schrama has received additional training from the American Ballet Theatre of New York and Kaatsban Extreme Ballet Intensive of New York.
Madison has 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 The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and several contemporary works showcased in annual performances of Georgia Dance Theatre in association with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Madison’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. Madison was also 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 majoring in Dance.
Madison 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.
Performer/ University Dance Program Scholarship Recipient/Dance Educator
Ms. Schrama trained with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 12 years and has been under scholarship for 7 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Schrama has received additional training from the American Ballet Theatre of New York and Kaatsban Extreme Ballet Intensive of New York.
Madison has 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 The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and several contemporary works showcased in annual performances of Georgia Dance Theatre in association with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Madison’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. Madison was also 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 majoring in Dance.
Madison 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
Actor/Choreographer/Director
A GDT 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 flashmob 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.
Also 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 Ceremony of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.
In the spring, she will have the pleasure of getting back in the room with Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Brian Yorkey to both choreograph and perform in his 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.
Actor/Choreographer/Director
A GDT 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 flashmob 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.
Also 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 Ceremony of the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta.
In the spring, she will have the pleasure of getting back in the room with Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner Brian Yorkey to both choreograph and perform in his 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
Studio Owner/Artistic Director/Dance Educator
Ms. Payton continued her dance training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and was promoted to scholarship status with Georgia Dance Theatre.
She was a dance educator with 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. In 2005 Ms. Payton was selected as 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.
Studio Owner/Artistic Director/Dance Educator
Ms. Payton continued her dance training with Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and was promoted to scholarship status with Georgia Dance Theatre.
She was a dance educator with 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. In 2005 Ms. Payton was selected as 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
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter has trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 22 years and a 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 a member of the professional touring company of Angela Whitehill’s Paradise Ballet Theatre.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter performed under professional contract for Georgia Dance Theatre for 6 seasons.
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 has allowed her to teach multiple forms of dance at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She is currently teaching dance in the Atlanta area.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter has trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 22 years and a 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 a member of the professional touring company of Angela Whitehill’s Paradise Ballet Theatre.
Ms. Reynolds-Van Meter performed under professional contract for Georgia Dance Theatre for 6 seasons.
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 has allowed her to teach multiple forms of dance at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. She is currently teaching dance in the Atlanta area.
AMANDA SMITH BRAVO
Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient/ Dance Educator/Program Director
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.
Ms. Bravo attended Belhaven University under a full dance scholarship and is a recent graduate with a B.A. in Dance and a B.S. in Psychology. Upon graduation, Ms. Bravo danced with the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company under prominent choreographers such as Kate Hutter, Kevin Wlliamson, Jamila Glass, Hyosum Choi, Melissa Schade, & Mike Esperanza.
Ms. Bravo has been a dance educator and choreographer for the Lake Arrowhead School of Dance and the Director of the Modern Dance Department in San Bernardino, California. Ms. Bravo is the Director/School Administrator at Sugar Pine Academy and is the current Artistic Director of Bravo Dance Project.
Dancer/College Dance Scholarship Recipient/ Dance Educator/Program Director
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.
Ms. Bravo attended Belhaven University under a full dance scholarship and is a recent graduate with a B.A. in Dance and a B.S. in Psychology. Upon graduation, Ms. Bravo danced with the L.A. Contemporary Dance Company under prominent choreographers such as Kate Hutter, Kevin Wlliamson, Jamila Glass, Hyosum Choi, Melissa Schade, & Mike Esperanza.
Ms. Bravo has been a dance educator and choreographer for the Lake Arrowhead School of Dance and the Director of the Modern Dance Department in San Bernardino, California. Ms. Bravo is the Director/School Administrator at Sugar Pine Academy and is the current Artistic Director of Bravo Dance Project.
KAREN PARKER
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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, Dracula. Ms. Parker was also a part of Charleston Ballet’s extensive East coast Nutcracker tour.
Ms. Parker has 15 years of teaching experience, including directing and choreographing numerous productions at the early childhood thru senior company levels.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
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, Dracula. Ms. Parker was also a part of Charleston Ballet’s extensive East coast Nutcracker tour.
Ms. Parker has 15 years of teaching experience, including directing and choreographing numerous productions at the early childhood thru senior company levels.
BRIANNE WESOLOWSKI
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
Brianne Wesolowski trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 20 years and under scholarship with Georgia Dance Theatre for the past fourteen 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 continued to teach dance education in the Atlanta area and currently teaches Pilates.
Professional Dancer/Dance Educator
Brianne Wesolowski trained with the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for the past 20 years and under scholarship with Georgia Dance Theatre for the past fourteen 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 continued to teach dance education in the Atlanta area and currently teaches Pilates.
LAURA VANKOUWENBERG
Professional Dancer
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).
Professional Dancer
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
Dancer/Dance Educator/Choreographer
Executive Director/Board Member
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 is currently the 1st ever Executive Director of the Harvard University dance company - Dance Expressions. In addition to serving as Executive Director, Ms. Ohashi is Captain, Choreographer and a board member of the organization.
Ms. Ohashi oversees the 200 plus student member organization and all administrative and creative duties which include interaction among student organizations and administrative departments, scheduling, grant application, interaction and production management.
Ms. Ohashi has created original works for Dance Expressions and been a dance educator for the company's workshops.
In addition to her work with Dance Expressions, Ms. Ohashi is 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. She is interested in working with creatives and assisting them with positive life choices.
Dancer/Dance Educator/Choreographer
Executive Director/Board Member
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 is currently the 1st ever Executive Director of the Harvard University dance company - Dance Expressions. In addition to serving as Executive Director, Ms. Ohashi is Captain, Choreographer and a board member of the organization.
Ms. Ohashi oversees the 200 plus student member organization and all administrative and creative duties which include interaction among student organizations and administrative departments, scheduling, grant application, interaction and production management.
Ms. Ohashi has created original works for Dance Expressions and been a dance educator for the company's workshops.
In addition to her work with Dance Expressions, Ms. Ohashi is 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. She is interested in working with creatives and assisting them with positive life choices.
SARAH VAN ZANTEN
Dancer/Dance Educator
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 direction of Sherri Davis. Ms. Van Zanten trained with GAD for 16 years, and was a member of the performing company, Georgia Dance Theatre, for 5 years where she received instruction in ballet, jazz, modern, and hip-hop.
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 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 Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.
Ms. Van Zanten is a current dance educator at North Georgia School of Ballet. (photo credit: KMM Photography)
Dancer/Dance Educator
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 direction of Sherri Davis. Ms. Van Zanten trained with GAD for 16 years, and was a member of the performing company, Georgia Dance Theatre, for 5 years where she received instruction in ballet, jazz, modern, and hip-hop.
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 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 Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority.
Ms. Van Zanten is a current dance educator at North Georgia School of Ballet. (photo credit: KMM Photography)