In Step With DC
Getting to Know You: Miss Nikki!
Written by Joe Naftal on November 1, 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.

Why do you love teaching at Dance Connection? I love teaching at Dance Connection because it is where I learned to dance. I love being able to share my passion for dance and for this studio with all my students. 

What’s the best way for dancers to approach your class?   The best way for dancers to approach my classes is to come in with an open mind! I never want a student to feel down or like the cannot do something the second they walk into my class. Everyone is different and no one is going to understand the same steps at the same pace. Also do not be afraid to ask questions! The more questions the better. You may be afraid to ask a question but you don’t know if other kids the have same question and you just helped them by asking!

What’s the best way for parents to support their dancers?  The best way for parents to support their dancers is always encourage them to do their best and always try their hardest. Talk to them about not getting discouraged so easily and that the teacher is here to help you and guide you! Even if they are having a bad day, come to dance. This is a safe space to talk about whatever they want and they have teachers here who will listen.

What do you do in your spare time? In my spare time I enjoy hanging out with my family and friends. I also love going to Boston to watch my brother play hockey! 

What’s your go-to coffee order? My go to coffee order is a medium french vanilla iced coffee with milk.

What’s your favorite vacation spot? My favorite vacation spot is Walt Disney World, it is the happiest place on earth. I am happiest when I am there with my family and soaking in all the magic.

What’s your favorite local restaurant? My favorite local restaurant is Bubbas Burrito Bar! 

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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