In Step With DC
Getting to Know You: Miss Nikki!
Written by Joe Naftal on February 26, 2019

Today we are featuring Miss Nikki 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? Islip, New York

What’s the story of how you became a dancer? My mom signed me up for dance at Dance Connection when I was 2 years old and I have loved it ever since. I started the Teacher Training Program when I was 9 and I’ve wanted to be a teacher ever since. 

What impact has dance had on your life? Dance has had a huge impact on my life. It has made me a stronger and hard working person. Without dance I wouldn’t have the friends that i do today. Dance has brought me a second family.

Why did you start teaching dance? I started teaching dance because it has always been my passion and I love kids. I have always wanted to be a teacher and theres nothing better than being a dance teacher.

What are you passionate about outside dance? Outside of dance I am passionate about my family. My mom works at the desk and my sister dances at the studio. My brother plays hockey and lives in Chicago. They are my best friends and without them I wouldn’t be who I am today. 

What question do you wish students would ask sooner rather than later? I wish students would ask me for help when they don’t get something instead of becoming discouraged. We are always here to help!

In your opinion, what makes dance such a great activity and art form? Dance is such a great activity and art form because it lets you express yourself in so many different ways.

College and Major? St. Joseph’s College and Child Study.

Favorite Color? Yellow or orange, just because they’re vibrant and really stand out. 

Favorite Dance Movie? Centerstage

Secret Talent?  I can eat an Oreo off my forehead. (Learned that from Halloween Party Week!

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Joe Naftal

Joe Naftal is the Marketing Director for Dance Connection. When not working at Dance Connection, Joe has a career as a theatrical lighting designer, assistant designer, and production manager. His experience spans the worlds of classical and contemporary theatre, musicals, ballet, modern dance, and opera. In addition to his work at Dance Connection, Joe collaborates with Dance Studio Owners across the country, is a member of the DanceStudioOwner.com Panel of Experts, has been featured in the business section of Dance Teacher Magazine, and was on the seminar faculty for the 2016 Dance Teacher Summit in New York City. Joe holds a BFA from UNC School of the Arts and is a proud member of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE).

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