09/02/2026
We have new and returning faces at the studio this season!
First off, we'd like to welcome back Rose Leach! Rose studied at CD&FS during her teen years and performed with the first Teen Jazz group under the direction of Lorraine Neal. Currently, she shares her love of movement as an elementary PE and Health teacher in public schools in Vermont. We are so excited to have Rose teaching Contemporary 1/2 this year after some time away!
And we're very excited to introduce our new teen/adult hip hop teacher, Sam Parker! Sam is a Vermont native whose dance journey began in Waterbury at age 7. By age 12, he had begun pursuing dance more seriously, continuing his training at Unity Dance Complex in Williston, where he worked with choreographers from Los Angeles and New York. During his eight years in LA, he performed and worked with artists including Janet Jackson, Phyno, Wale, and many others. Sam will be teaching all of our Wednesday hip hop classes this year - and there's still time to sign up!
Finally, please give a warm welcome to our new front desk assistant, Otto Mabley-Ward! Otto is a Senior at Vermont State University Lyndon in the Applied Psychology and Human Services program. She is the choreographer and president of the Twilight Players, the theater troupe on campus. Otto enjoys all types of dance, but currently dances with an ensemble in a variety of styles. When Otto is not at the studio, you can find them teaching at an Afterschool Program or volunteering with an elementary theater group. Otto will be helping us out at the front desk on Saturdays and assisting Jr Modern 1-2 with Sylvie. Please give them a warm welcome!
