At the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts, each Dance Educator's primary objective is to assist students with achieving their individual artistic goals.
We not only recognize our students’ genuine passion for this art form, but equally embrace the dedication they bring to the studio.
We believe their commitment to their arts educational training will enrich their daily lives.
We are known for an elite dance education to inspire each potential artist.
**Our Dance Educators are those who have obtained a professional career in the arts and who continue to provide positive instruction for the care and progression of each student. We do not have students or non-professionals leading classes.**
We not only recognize our students’ genuine passion for this art form, but equally embrace the dedication they bring to the studio.
We believe their commitment to their arts educational training will enrich their daily lives.
We are known for an elite dance education to inspire each potential artist.
**Our Dance Educators are those who have obtained a professional career in the arts and who continue to provide positive instruction for the care and progression of each student. We do not have students or non-professionals leading classes.**
Director of Operations
KYM BUSHMIRE
Chief Operations Director
Georgia Dance Theatre Board of Directors
Chief Operations Director
Georgia Dance Theatre Board of Directors
Kym Bushmire is the Chief Operations Director of the Academy & The Dancer's Boutique. A Georgia Dance Theatre alumna, Ms. Bushmire 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 Street at the College of William and Mary and various theater productions. 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' 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.
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 Street at the College of William and Mary and various theater productions. 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' 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.
Artistic Staff
GABBY MARQUES
GAD Associate Director
Contemporary Director
Classical Ballet | Early Childhood Educator |
Board Member
GAD Associate Director
Contemporary Director
Classical Ballet | Early Childhood Educator |
Board Member
Gabby Marques is an award- winning choreographer for various companies and a former professional contemporary dancer with such companies as Alchemy Dance Company out of Philadelphia.
She has trained in the Gala Hooks Method and Gaga Intensives out of New York and been a part of the Emanuel Gat Creative Workshop of Montpelier, France.
Ms. Marques danced with the Centre National de la Danse of Paris and was a part of the Ballet Preljocaj Apprenticeship Program in Aix en Provence, France.
In addition, she was a scholarship recipient for various dance programs including Focal Point Dance and Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida.
Ms. Marques has worked with various well-known and award-winning choreographers such as the 2019-20 Emerge Choreographic Award Winner Mark Caserta, Tommie Waheed, Mark Haim, Doug Varone, and Sharon Eyal.
Ms. Marques was a member of the Tae Talent Agency and a Green Mile contestant for So You Think You Can Dance.
A Director’s scholarship recipient and honor graduate, Ms. Marques received her BFA in Dance from The University of the Arts of Philadelphia.
Ms. Marques teaches various contemporary genres including competitive dance as well as our Early Childhood division. Ms. Marques is the Associate Director & Contemporary Director of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Ms. Marques is a member of the Georgia Dance Theatre Board of Directors.
She has trained in the Gala Hooks Method and Gaga Intensives out of New York and been a part of the Emanuel Gat Creative Workshop of Montpelier, France.
Ms. Marques danced with the Centre National de la Danse of Paris and was a part of the Ballet Preljocaj Apprenticeship Program in Aix en Provence, France.
In addition, she was a scholarship recipient for various dance programs including Focal Point Dance and Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida.
Ms. Marques has worked with various well-known and award-winning choreographers such as the 2019-20 Emerge Choreographic Award Winner Mark Caserta, Tommie Waheed, Mark Haim, Doug Varone, and Sharon Eyal.
Ms. Marques was a member of the Tae Talent Agency and a Green Mile contestant for So You Think You Can Dance.
A Director’s scholarship recipient and honor graduate, Ms. Marques received her BFA in Dance from The University of the Arts of Philadelphia.
Ms. Marques teaches various contemporary genres including competitive dance as well as our Early Childhood division. Ms. Marques is the Associate Director & Contemporary Director of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Ms. Marques is a member of the Georgia Dance Theatre Board of Directors.
ALISON CASPERSEN
Rehearsal Director
Classical Ballet | Contemporary|
Early Childhood Educator|
Board Member
Rehearsal Director
Classical Ballet | Contemporary|
Early Childhood Educator|
Board Member
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 addition, Ms. Caspersen was part of the Helen Pickett Choreographic Essentials Workshop in 2014.
Ms. Caspersen received professional trainee status with Ballet Austin and performed with the company in The Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Stephen Mills. 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 taught Early Childhood, Ballet and Contemporary classes at the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education and as a ballet educator at Ballet Austin.
Ms. Caspersen was a Leading Artist for seven seasons of Georgia Dance Theatre professional company. She is currently a guest artist for the company.
She has danced multiple lead roles including Swanilda in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Coppelia and Sugar Plum Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Caspersen is the Rehearsal Director of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Caspersen is a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Caspersen teaches all levels and genres of dance at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Caspersen received professional trainee status with Ballet Austin and performed with the company in The Nutcracker, choreographed by Artistic Director Stephen Mills. 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 taught Early Childhood, Ballet and Contemporary classes at the Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education and as a ballet educator at Ballet Austin.
Ms. Caspersen was a Leading Artist for seven seasons of Georgia Dance Theatre professional company. She is currently a guest artist for the company.
She has danced multiple lead roles including Swanilda in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Coppelia and Sugar Plum Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Caspersen is the Rehearsal Director of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Caspersen is a member of the Board of Directors of Georgia Dance Theatre. Ms. Caspersen teaches all levels and genres of dance at the Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
ABBY BOIVIN
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Educator| Contemporary Educator
Strengthening & Conditioning Educator
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Educator| Contemporary Educator
Strengthening & Conditioning Educator
Abigail Boivin received her training from Atlanta Ballet and Mainstream Dance under the direction of Jaime Robtison. She has received additional training and scholarships from prestigious programs such as the School of American Ballet, Miami City Ballet, Rock School of Ballet, and the Covington Regional Ballet.
Ms. Boivin has danced various roles in Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker Ballet and had the privilege of dancing the lead role of Sophie in Twyla Tharpe’s world premiere of the Princess and the Goblin. In addition, Ms. Boivin performed in Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre’s “Italian Symphony” by Martha Goodman and Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre’s “Gust” by Tara Lee and “A step in three” by Heath Gill.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre professional company, Ms. Boivin has danced principal roles, such as Clara, Dewdrop, and Arabian in Georgia Dance Theatre's production of The Nutcracker Ballet. Ms. Boivin has also performed such roles as the Crystal Fountain Fairy in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of The Sleeping Beauty and demi-soloist roles in GAD's production of Don Quixote. In 2022, Ms. Boivin performed the lead role of Sugar Plum Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. Ms. Boivin will be performing the lead role of "Stepsister" in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' 2023 production of Cinderella.
Ms. Boivin teaches all levels of the Academy's Classical Ballet program, various Early Childhood, and Contemporary programs. Ms. Boivin is also a certified athletic trainer and conducts Strengthening and Conditioning classes at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Boivin has danced various roles in Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker Ballet and had the privilege of dancing the lead role of Sophie in Twyla Tharpe’s world premiere of the Princess and the Goblin. In addition, Ms. Boivin performed in Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre’s “Italian Symphony” by Martha Goodman and Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre’s “Gust” by Tara Lee and “A step in three” by Heath Gill.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre professional company, Ms. Boivin has danced principal roles, such as Clara, Dewdrop, and Arabian in Georgia Dance Theatre's production of The Nutcracker Ballet. Ms. Boivin has also performed such roles as the Crystal Fountain Fairy in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of The Sleeping Beauty and demi-soloist roles in GAD's production of Don Quixote. In 2022, Ms. Boivin performed the lead role of Sugar Plum Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. Ms. Boivin will be performing the lead role of "Stepsister" in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' 2023 production of Cinderella.
Ms. Boivin teaches all levels of the Academy's Classical Ballet program, various Early Childhood, and Contemporary programs. Ms. Boivin is also a certified athletic trainer and conducts Strengthening and Conditioning classes at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
JESSICA HE
Classical Ballet Educator|
Conservatory & Pro Classes
Classical Ballet Educator|
Conservatory & Pro Classes
Jessica He, originally from Rancho Cucamonga, California, received her early ballet training at Inland Pacific Ballet Academy. She moved to Philadelphia in 2012 at the age of 14 to enter the pre-professional training program at The Rock School for Dance Education on full scholarship, where she received multiple awards and merit scholarships at competitions, such as the Youth America Grand Prix and World Ballet Competition.
Ms. He danced with Houston Ballet’s second company for 2 seasons, where she enjoyed touring internationally and performing a varied repertoire.
One of the most memorable moments in her career thus far has been premiering the Principal Woman in Craig Davidson’s world premiere Remembrance/Hereafter during her 2017/18 debut season with Atlanta Ballet. She has since performed featured principal and soloist roles in George Balanchine’s Who Cares?, Helgi Tomasson’s 7 for Eight, Yuri Possokhov’s Don Quixote, George Balanchine’s Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux, Jiří Kylián's Return to a Strange Land, Kiyon Ross’ Sum Stravinsky, Liam Scarlett’s Vespertine and world premiere Catch, Ricardo Amarante’s Love Fear Loss, Lar Lubovitch’s Elemental Brubeck, and Yuri Possokhov’s Firebird.
Ms. He received praise and recognition as one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” in 2019 for her performances in Remembrance/Hereafter, Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux, and Who Cares?. Ms. He is in her 6th season as a professional artist with the Atlanta Ballet and currently is one of the Dance Educators for our Leading Artists of Georgia Dance Theatre and GAD Conservatory students.
Ms. He danced with Houston Ballet’s second company for 2 seasons, where she enjoyed touring internationally and performing a varied repertoire.
One of the most memorable moments in her career thus far has been premiering the Principal Woman in Craig Davidson’s world premiere Remembrance/Hereafter during her 2017/18 debut season with Atlanta Ballet. She has since performed featured principal and soloist roles in George Balanchine’s Who Cares?, Helgi Tomasson’s 7 for Eight, Yuri Possokhov’s Don Quixote, George Balanchine’s Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux, Jiří Kylián's Return to a Strange Land, Kiyon Ross’ Sum Stravinsky, Liam Scarlett’s Vespertine and world premiere Catch, Ricardo Amarante’s Love Fear Loss, Lar Lubovitch’s Elemental Brubeck, and Yuri Possokhov’s Firebird.
Ms. He received praise and recognition as one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch” in 2019 for her performances in Remembrance/Hereafter, Tschaikovsky Pas de Deux, and Who Cares?. Ms. He is in her 6th season as a professional artist with the Atlanta Ballet and currently is one of the Dance Educators for our Leading Artists of Georgia Dance Theatre and GAD Conservatory students.
CHRISTAL ODUM
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator |
Early Childhood Educator
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator |
Early Childhood Educator
Christal Odum received her training by invitation to the Brandon Ballet Pre-Professional Program of Florida. Ms. Odum received additional training from the Houston Ballet, Atlanta Ballet, Ellison Ballet, English National Ballet, Texas Ballet Theater and the Dance Alive National Ballet.
Ms. Odum has performed with the Sun City Gala, the International Ballet Festival of Miami, Houston Ballet and the Brandon Ballet in various Demi-Soloists and Principal roles. In addition, Ms. Odum danced with the Dance Alive National Ballet for 4 seasons and performed in various works such as Portraits and Ballet & Beyond by Ani Collier, Requiem by Kim Tuttle and classical favorites such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Nutcracker Ballet.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre Professional Company, Ms. Odum has performed the leading roles of Clara & Dew Drop Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet and Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' productions of The Sleeping Beauty& Don Quixote. In June 2023, Ms. Odum is dancing the lead role of Annabell, in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original work, The Growing Up of Annabell Potts.
Ms. Odum is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Information System Management and has a Minor in Mass Communications. Ms. Odum teaches in the Classical, Contemporary, and Early Childhood programs of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
Ms. Odum has performed with the Sun City Gala, the International Ballet Festival of Miami, Houston Ballet and the Brandon Ballet in various Demi-Soloists and Principal roles. In addition, Ms. Odum danced with the Dance Alive National Ballet for 4 seasons and performed in various works such as Portraits and Ballet & Beyond by Ani Collier, Requiem by Kim Tuttle and classical favorites such as A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Nutcracker Ballet.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre Professional Company, Ms. Odum has performed the leading roles of Clara & Dew Drop Fairy in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet and Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' productions of The Sleeping Beauty& Don Quixote. In June 2023, Ms. Odum is dancing the lead role of Annabell, in Artistic Director Sherri Davis' original work, The Growing Up of Annabell Potts.
Ms. Odum is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science degree in Information System Management and has a Minor in Mass Communications. Ms. Odum teaches in the Classical, Contemporary, and Early Childhood programs of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.
JENNIFER PEDRAZA
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator|
Early Childhood Educator|
Progressing Ballet Technique
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator|
Early Childhood Educator|
Progressing Ballet Technique
Jennifer Pedraza began her dance training at the Conservatorio de Ballet Concierto of Puerto Rico under the direction of Carlota Carrera. She attended summer programs at Joffrey Ballet School, the New York Dance Project and with the National Ballet of Cuba – originally founded by legendary ballerina Alicia Alonso.
Ms. Pedraza was honored to perform as a trainee member of her beloved Ballet Concierto de Puerto Rico under the direction of Carlos Cabrera 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, Coppelia and Swan Lake and Napoli.
Ms. Pedraza has just completed performing with the New York Dance Project under the direction of Artistic Director Davis Robertson. She had the incredible opportunity to perform legendary choreographer Gerald Arpino’s work of Viva Vivaldi and Birthday variations as a soloist. 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 Tyler Gilstrap and New York Dance Project’s Artistic Director Davis Robertson.
As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Pedraza has danced such lead roles as Kitri in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Don Quixote and Snow Queen, Pastilles, & Spanish in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. In June 2023, Ms. Pedraza will be dancing the lead role of Stepsister in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella.
Ms. Pedraza was a dance educator at Ballet Concierto of Puerto Rico and currently teaches in the Classical Ballet, Early Childhood, and Contemporary programs of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Ms. Pedraza is also a certified Progressing Ballet Technique Educator at the Academy.
Ms. Pedraza was honored to perform as a trainee member of her beloved Ballet Concierto de Puerto Rico under the direction of Carlos Cabrera 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, Coppelia and Swan Lake and Napoli.
Ms. Pedraza has just completed performing with the New York Dance Project under the direction of Artistic Director Davis Robertson. She had the incredible opportunity to perform legendary choreographer Gerald Arpino’s work of Viva Vivaldi and Birthday variations as a soloist. 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 Tyler Gilstrap and New York Dance Project’s Artistic Director Davis Robertson.
As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Pedraza has danced such lead roles as Kitri in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts production of Don Quixote and Snow Queen, Pastilles, & Spanish in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. In June 2023, Ms. Pedraza will be dancing the lead role of Stepsister in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella.
Ms. Pedraza was a dance educator at Ballet Concierto of Puerto Rico and currently teaches in the Classical Ballet, Early Childhood, and Contemporary programs of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts. Ms. Pedraza is also a certified Progressing Ballet Technique Educator at the Academy.
SARA SHARPLES
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator
Classical Ballet Educator |
Contemporary Educator
Sara Sharples received her dance training from Brenau University, the Georgia Ballet, Steps of Faith, and the Gainesville Ballet where she performed with the company. She has received additional training from Ballet Magnificat and Steps on Broadway of New York.
While at Brenau University, Ms. Sharples had the privilege to work with and performed works by various guest artists such as Charlotte Boye Christensen, Kristy Nilsson, Jody Sperling, and Kassandra Taylor Newberry. Sara’s performing credits include Gainesville Ballet Company productions, which encompasses “The Nutcracker,” “Into Grimm’s Woods,” and “Frozen.” She also has performed various guest choreographers’ works by Pytron Parker, Kavin Grant, Peter Swan, Martha Goodman, Armando Luna, Stevan Novakovich, and Kassandra Taylor Newberry.
As a choreographer, Sara has choreographed contemporary works for the Brenau’s Department of Dance student concerts and choreographed various genres of dance for multiple Atlanta Studios.
Ms. Sharples is trained in various styles of Ballroom dance and toured throughout the US as a professional performer with the Utah Ballroom Dance Company. In addition to performing dance works, Sara has had opportunities to work in various films such as “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Show” and Weird Al Yankovic’s Atlanta’s performances. In June 2023, Ms. Sharples will be performing the lead role of Stepmother in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella.
Ms. Sharples teaches various genres of dance including Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Ballroom, and Contemporary. Ms. Sharples holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from Brenau University.
While at Brenau University, Ms. Sharples had the privilege to work with and performed works by various guest artists such as Charlotte Boye Christensen, Kristy Nilsson, Jody Sperling, and Kassandra Taylor Newberry. Sara’s performing credits include Gainesville Ballet Company productions, which encompasses “The Nutcracker,” “Into Grimm’s Woods,” and “Frozen.” She also has performed various guest choreographers’ works by Pytron Parker, Kavin Grant, Peter Swan, Martha Goodman, Armando Luna, Stevan Novakovich, and Kassandra Taylor Newberry.
As a choreographer, Sara has choreographed contemporary works for the Brenau’s Department of Dance student concerts and choreographed various genres of dance for multiple Atlanta Studios.
Ms. Sharples is trained in various styles of Ballroom dance and toured throughout the US as a professional performer with the Utah Ballroom Dance Company. In addition to performing dance works, Sara has had opportunities to work in various films such as “Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Show” and Weird Al Yankovic’s Atlanta’s performances. In June 2023, Ms. Sharples will be performing the lead role of Stepmother in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella.
Ms. Sharples teaches various genres of dance including Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Ballroom, and Contemporary. Ms. Sharples holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from Brenau University.
Danielle Perez
Contemporary Educator | Ballet Educator
Contemporary Educator | Ballet Educator
Ms. Perez holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from The Julliard School of New York. She has received additional classical and contemporary training from The Martha Graham School, Focal Point Dance, and New World School of the Arts. Ms. Perez has performed various leading contemporary and classical roles throughout her career.
Ms. Perez has performed such notable contemporary works such as Martha Graham's The Rite of Spring, Paul Taylor's Promethean Fire, Jose Limon's Missa Brevis, Ohad Naharin's Sessions, and Thomas Armour's The Nutcracker Ballet as the role of Dewdrop Fairy.
Ms. Perez is currently a professional artist with the Xcel Talent Agency of Atlanta and teaches throughout the Atlanta area. Ms. Perez is a guest choreographer for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' Master Works Series and Georgia Dance Theatre.
Ms. Perez has performed such notable contemporary works such as Martha Graham's The Rite of Spring, Paul Taylor's Promethean Fire, Jose Limon's Missa Brevis, Ohad Naharin's Sessions, and Thomas Armour's The Nutcracker Ballet as the role of Dewdrop Fairy.
Ms. Perez is currently a professional artist with the Xcel Talent Agency of Atlanta and teaches throughout the Atlanta area. Ms. Perez is a guest choreographer for Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' Master Works Series and Georgia Dance Theatre.
LINNEA SWARTING
Classical Ballet Educator | Contemporary Educator
Dance Without Limits Educator
Classical Ballet Educator | Contemporary Educator
Dance Without Limits Educator
Ms. Swarting has danced professionally with the Los Angeles Ballet, Washington Ballet, and Nashville Ballet.
She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Boston Ballet, and Nashville Ballet Training Divisions. In addition, Ms. Swarting is certified in Arts Management from the University of California Irvine and is a writer for Pointe Magazine.
Ms. Swarting has performed in Georgia Balanchine's Western Symphony, Paul Vasterling's Swan Lake, Carmina Burana, The Nutcracker, & The Sleeping Beauty. She has been a guest artist with the Connecticut Theater Dance Company and with Ballet Arts of Jackson, TN.
Ms. Swarting has taught for several years in the area of Ballet and Pointe. While at Nashville Ballet, Ms. Swarting created the Adaptive Dance: New Perspectives Program for students with special needs at the Nashville Ballet.
As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Swarting has performed the lead role of Snow Queen in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. In June 2023, Ms. Swarting will be dancing the lead role of Fairy Godmother in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella along with additional lead roles in The Growing Up of Annabell Potts and A Celebration of Contemporary Dance.
Ms. Swarting teaches the Pre-Professional level students at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and is the Special Needs instructor for the Academy's Dance Without Limits program.
She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Boston Ballet, and Nashville Ballet Training Divisions. In addition, Ms. Swarting is certified in Arts Management from the University of California Irvine and is a writer for Pointe Magazine.
Ms. Swarting has performed in Georgia Balanchine's Western Symphony, Paul Vasterling's Swan Lake, Carmina Burana, The Nutcracker, & The Sleeping Beauty. She has been a guest artist with the Connecticut Theater Dance Company and with Ballet Arts of Jackson, TN.
Ms. Swarting has taught for several years in the area of Ballet and Pointe. While at Nashville Ballet, Ms. Swarting created the Adaptive Dance: New Perspectives Program for students with special needs at the Nashville Ballet.
As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Swarting has performed the lead role of Snow Queen in Georgia Dance Theatre's Nutcracker Ballet. In June 2023, Ms. Swarting will be dancing the lead role of Fairy Godmother in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' production of Cinderella along with additional lead roles in The Growing Up of Annabell Potts and A Celebration of Contemporary Dance.
Ms. Swarting teaches the Pre-Professional level students at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts and is the Special Needs instructor for the Academy's Dance Without Limits program.
Laura Hart
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Assistant |
Contemporary Educator
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Assistant |
Contemporary Educator
Originally from Mississippi, Laura Hart received her dance training from the Mississippi Metropolitan Ballet, Ballet Arts Academy, Ballet Arizona, and the Pittsburg Ballet Theatre. She has received additional training from such esteemed companies as Ballet Virginia, San Francisco Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Ballet West, Next Generation Ballet, and Colorado Ballet.
She has received Youth American Grand Prix Semi-Finalist Top Classical Award and was a MusicFest Northwest Ballet Young Artist Gold Medalist. Ms. Hart was a featured dancer at the Regional Dance American National Festival. Ms. Hart has danced soloist and principal roles throughout her career as a dancer including featured roles in Pittsburgh Ballet's The Nutcracker Ballet, Beauty and the Beast, Spokane Ballet and Symphony's Haunted Hallows, and Metropolitan Ballet's The Nutcracker.
Her professional career began at Ballet Arizona under the direction of Artistic Director Ib Anderson. As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Hart will be dancing the lead role of Cinderella in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' June 2023 production of Cinderella.
Ms. Hart is a current Dance Educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts in Classical Ballet and Contemporary genres.
She has received Youth American Grand Prix Semi-Finalist Top Classical Award and was a MusicFest Northwest Ballet Young Artist Gold Medalist. Ms. Hart was a featured dancer at the Regional Dance American National Festival. Ms. Hart has danced soloist and principal roles throughout her career as a dancer including featured roles in Pittsburgh Ballet's The Nutcracker Ballet, Beauty and the Beast, Spokane Ballet and Symphony's Haunted Hallows, and Metropolitan Ballet's The Nutcracker.
Her professional career began at Ballet Arizona under the direction of Artistic Director Ib Anderson. As a Leading Artist of the professional company of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Hart will be dancing the lead role of Cinderella in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts' June 2023 production of Cinderella.
Ms. Hart is a current Dance Educator at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts in Classical Ballet and Contemporary genres.
Cambria Dancu
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Assistant |
Contemporary Educator
Classical Ballet Educator |
Early Childhood Assistant |
Contemporary Educator
Cambria Dancu received her training from Charlotte Ballet under the direction of Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux and Patricia McBride. She received additional training from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts under the direction of Susan Jaffe and Endalyn Taylor. During her training, Ms. Dancu received full scholarships to the Atlanta Ballet, Charlotte Ballet and was awarded SERBA recognition.
She has performed various roles throughout her career as a dancer in such ballets as Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux's Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Dancu has danced in Georgia Balanchine's Raymonda Variations staged by Patricia McBride and danced as a soloist in Mark Diamond's Yamato.
Ms. Dancu had the privilege to perform in American Ballet Theatre's former Principal Artist Ethan Stiefel's Nutcracker Ballet. While at the North Carolina School of the Arts, Ms. Dancu danced various film, contemporary, and classical works.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Dancu has danced lead roles in The Nutcracker Ballet and will be performing various lead roles in upcoming productions of Cinderella, A Celebration of Contemporary Dance, and The Growing Up of Annabell Potts.
Ms. Dancu is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
She has performed various roles throughout her career as a dancer in such ballets as Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux's Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker Ballet.
Ms. Dancu has danced in Georgia Balanchine's Raymonda Variations staged by Patricia McBride and danced as a soloist in Mark Diamond's Yamato.
Ms. Dancu had the privilege to perform in American Ballet Theatre's former Principal Artist Ethan Stiefel's Nutcracker Ballet. While at the North Carolina School of the Arts, Ms. Dancu danced various film, contemporary, and classical works.
As a Leading Artist of Georgia Dance Theatre, Ms. Dancu has danced lead roles in The Nutcracker Ballet and will be performing various lead roles in upcoming productions of Cinderella, A Celebration of Contemporary Dance, and The Growing Up of Annabell Potts.
Ms. Dancu is a graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
Resident Physical Therapist
Dr. Meghan Elizabeth Morales earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. With a desire to blend her two passions of dance and physical therapy, Meghan completed an internship/ clinical rotation at Agile Physical Therapy in 2014. With her eye for proper dance technique complemented by her extensive knowledge of biomechanics and anatomy, Meghan is an asset to dance students and professionals rehabilitating from injury, preventing future injury, and promoting the longevity of their careers.
Meghan focuses on movement analysis, body mechanics, and a hands-on-approach. She has helped patients rehabilitate from stroke, brain and spinal cord injury, trauma, amputation, and other neurological impairments. She has helped patients of all levels with a diversity of neuromuscular and orthopedic conditions. She utilizes Pilates in her physical therapy practice and specializes in using it with all orthopedic injuries, including her specialty of dance medicine. She is currently employed full time at First Step Physical Therapy in Fayetteville.
Ms. Morales trained at Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts for 15 years. She was under scholarship for 8 seasons with Georgia Dance Theatre. She received additional training from the Atlanta Ballet, the Milwaukee Ballet, Kaatsbaan Extreme Ballet, The Rock School of the Pennsylvania Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre, and the South Carolina Summer Dance Conservatory. In 2007, Ms. Morales was chosen for the Atlanta Ballet Professional Ballet Intensive where she was featured in Graduation Ball , a pas de deux staged by Jose Vieira, and Vivaldi Violin Concerto choreographed by Roger Van Fleteren.
Ms. Morales has danced various soloist and principal roles as a Georgia Dance Theatre company member. She danced the principal role as Wendy in Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts original production of Peter Pan. Additional roles included a pas de deux with Jonah Hooper of the Atlanta Ballet in Georgia Academy of Dance’s production of Romeo and Juliette, Dew Drop Fairy and Arabian in Georgia Dance Theatre’s The Nutcracker, and she was featured in the Bluebird variation from The Sleeping Beauty in Georgia Dance Theatre’s In the Spirit of the Dance. She also performed Corps de Ballet roles in The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, a Midsummer’s Night’s Dream, and Le Corsaire while a Senior Company Member of Georgia Dance Theatre.
She continued her dance training on scholarship at Birmingham Southern College where she holds dual degrees—Bachelor of Science in Biology /Psychology and a Bachelor of Arts in Dance. While part of the Birmingham Southern College Dance Department Meghan appeared as a Guest Artist in the Montgomery Ballet’s production of Le Corsaire. Additionally, she choreographed and performed in a piece selected for the Alabama Dance Festival.
Dr. Meghan has recently decided to pursue Pilates instructor certification through Balance Body leading to a PMA® Certified Pilates Teacher certification. As a dancer and physical therapist, Dr. Meghan has special knowledge of the specific issues of dancers and performers and how to adapt to their needs within the Pilates environment. She has developed an approach that addresses preventative, restorative, and maintenance based Pilates.