Today we are featuring Miss Kellyann in our latest edition of “Getting to Know You”!  The “Getting to Know You” series helps us get to know each of the Dance Connection teachers and staff we get to see at the studio every week and learn a little bit more about them.

What is your hometown? Brentwood, NY

What’s the story of how you became a dancer? My older sister, Nicole, started dancing here a few years before me and my other sister, Megan, did. So since Nicole loved dancing and enjoyed coming to class we followed right in her footsteps. I became a teacher by going through the teacher training program (TTP) starting at age 9. When it became my time to teach, I was very excited!

What impact has dance had on your life? Dance has been in my life for almost 20 years and the impact dance has had on my life has been very rewarding! It has shown me that dance isn’t only anchored towards a certain body type or flexibility level. Anyone can dance and I think that’s an important thing to keep in mind. I’ve always been shy, so I believe being able to come out of my “shell” stems from dancing on stage and meeting so many people in classes.

Why did you start teaching dance? My simple answer is, there is no greater feeling than teaching children to be expressive through their dancing and to be able to see their growth at the end of the dance season.

What are you passionate about outside dance? I really, really, love writing and find that it also helps me express myself just like how dance does.

What question do you wish students would ask sooner rather than later?  I just think questions in general and how to execute the step correctly. I can see sometimes that they struggle but their arm doesn’t go up asking for help. Your dance teachers are here to help you become the best YOU, that you can be!

In your opinion, what makes dance such a great activity and art form?  Being active is obviously always a great thing and learning to focus and reach for your goals through persistence and commitment will help anyone in life. Dance is so broad with the many styles as well, so being able to learn about different cultures through their style of dance just opens up someone’s mind and reminds you that there’s so much out there to learn.

College and Major?  I currently go to Suffolk County Community College, majoring in Liberal Arts: General Studies. I will be graduating in May and continuing my education at a four year school in the fall!

Favorite Color?  Blue, blue, blue!

Favorite Dance Movie? I have two; Hairspray & every Step Up movie!

Secret Talent?  Moving a miniature plush chick across the floor with my nose 🙂  (Easter party week!)