Photography by Jerri Shafer
Saturday Free Classes
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Intermediate/Advanced Modern 9-10am – Melissa Hinchman
This modern class explores the use of release and momentum to inform and guide our movement as we spiral, slide, and glide into the floor and air. Class will feature a warm up, across the floor, and finish with a combination. Melissa Hinchman holds a BFA in Dance from The Ohio Sate University. She has taught ages 3 to adult over the past 13 years at Columbus DanceArts Academy and is the founder and Artistic Director of Cultivate Dance Project, a Columbus-based, professional contemporary dance company. Her work has been featured in City Dance Showcase, Cleveland Dance Fest, Columbus Arts Festival, and New Albany Dance Festival. |
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Yoga 9-10am – Line Martineau
Integrated yoga practice for all levels. Certified 200 hours at Asheville yoga center and 300 hours at Sattva academy, India. |
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Beginner Hula 9-10am – Aizel Cabungcal
Our dance lesson will be a basic Hawaiian hula called Hukilau. All levels are welcome, no experience necessary. Aloha! Mahana Productions is a Polynesian Dance Group based in central Ohio. Our goal is to perpetuate the Polynesian culture through music and dance. We perform dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and Samoa. |
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Intermediate/Advanced Contemporary Ballet 10-11am – Jennifer Muselin
Intermediate/Advanced contemporary ballet based floor barre and center combinations and the class will learn a portion of Ballet Legato repertoire. Former Principal Dancer with Ohio Dance Theatre, Jennifer Muselin is the founder and Executive Artistic Director of Cleveland-based contemporary ballet company Ballet Legato since 2019. |
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Beginner Belly Dance 10-11am – Maela Belly Dance
Introduction to Belly Dance We will learn some basic foundational moves of belly dance to the Saidi Rhythm. We will focus on these basic moves specifically used in one of Maela's favorite styles of dance Raqs Al Assaya. Maela is a professional belly dancer and teacher in the central Ohio area known for her elegant and authentic style. |
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Barre 3 10-11am – Krystal Sharrock
Our efficient + effective workout combines strength, cardio, and mindfulness. When you work out with us, you'll move through low-impact isometric moves, large-range cardio bursts, and mind-centering breath work. Krystal Sharrock began her journey as a client at barre3 in 2022 and is thrilled to be part of the barre3 New Albany community. She fell in love with the b3 format; a low-impact yet high-intensity class that combines strength, cardio and mindfulness. As an instructor, her biggest reward comes from teaching clients how to turn inward, listen and trust their body with modifications or layered intensity to experience successful results from the inside out. |
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Beginner Ballroom 11am-12pm – Patty Petecca
Ballroom basics. We will be learning basic steps to 5 common ballroom dances: Foxtrot, Waltz, Rhumba, Cha Cha and Swing as well as Electric Slide. Great for Prom, Homecoming, Weddings and Fun! Patty is a former studio owner from Lake County, Ohio. Currently works at Opening Night in Gahanna. Teacher and choreographer 30+ years. |
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Intermediate/Advanced Hip Hop 11am-12pm – Shannon Filmore ft. TK Mega Dancers
First 15 mins of class will be warm up. Full body stretch and a work through basic drills to ease into choreography they will be done later in class. J. Shannon Filmore is a graduate of Fort Hayes Performing Arts High School, where his passion for dance began. He's worked closely with various recording artists as a dancer and choreographer/creative director for live performances, in music videos, and on tours. Shannon is the President of Tru Kingdom Mega Crew Inc., an all-styles dance crew he co-founded in 2017. |
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Brain Function and Memory for Dance 11am-12pm – Katherine McDonnell
In this class you’ll explore the fascinating connection between dance and the brain. Gain valuable insights into the positive influence of dance on brain health and cognitive abilities. This is lecture-style seminar. Since certifying as an AFAA Mat Science instructor and ACE Health Coach, Ms. McDonnell has expanded her skills to develop wellness and fitness programs that include brain health, nutrition, yoga, Pilates matwork, and conditioning. She spent five years as founding Artistic Director of the West Valley Ballet youth company in Phoenix’s west valley and is thrilled by the invitation to teach at the 2025 New Albany Dance Festival. |
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Afrofusion 12-1pm – Brianna Rhodes
Afrofusion focuses on the fusion of social dance styles rooted inside the Black experience. Some styles that we will focus on, but are not limited to, are Afrobeats, Dancehall, Traditional West African, Hip Hop etc. Brianna Rhodes, born and raised in Dayton, Ohio, is a graduate of The Ohio State University Department of Dance. Currently, she is touring nationally with Dianne McIntyre, teaches at Dance Extension and BalletMet, and choreographs throughout Ohio. As a creator, Brianna is driven by the Black dance experience. Her pedagogy is rooted inside of the fusion of Black dance styles along with their history as a catalyst for growth and expansion of the entire body, mind, and soul. Brianna uses her art to provide healing, storytelling, and comfort especially in spaces where it is needed the most. She is inspired by the African Proverb “Ubuntu” and remaining of a voice for the voiceless. |
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Movement for Mental Health 12-1pm – Leah Anthony
This class will focus on dancing for one’s mental health and recognizing the therapeutic value dance can bring to our lives. Leah is an Ohio native who graduated from the University of Akron with her BA in Dance with Business in 2015. She currently dances with Cultivate Dance Project and is the Assistant Rehearsal Director. Leah works at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in the Behavioral Health Pavilion and enjoys creating art and spending time with her animals in her free time. |
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Street Jazz 12-1pm – Christina Coppel
An open level class inspired by hip hop and jazz styles. A time to have fun and channel your inner performer in a low stress, supportive environment! Little to no dance experience required. Footwear: sneakers you can move in! Christina Coppel has over 20 years of experience training, performing, and teaching all styles of dance. She has a bachelor’s degree in Dance and has danced professionally for several years. Christina recently relocated back to Columbus after living and dancing in the Washington, DC area. |
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Intermediate Tap 1-2pm – Brandon Gano
An intermediate level tap class which will start with a quick warm-up and focus on learning and mastering fun, yet challenging choreography. Prior tap experience is recommended. Brandon is a Physician Assistant at the James Cancer Hospital however has been dancing since the age of 4. He danced competitively growing up and earned the titles of Mr. Dance of Ohio 2010 as well as Second Runner Up to Mr. Dance of America 2011. He is also a former company dancer with New Vision and is excited to support them as they sponsor this dance festival! |
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Capoeira Class (Beginner Friendly) 1-2pm – Joseph Lewis
Capoeira is a Brazilian Fusion Activity that combines elements of martial arts, dance, acrobatics, and music. Rooted in African and Brazilian cultural traditions, it is characterized by fluid movements, kicks, and spins. Capoeira fosters a sense of community, emphasizing collaboration, and respect. Beyond physical prowess, it's a dynamic expression of cultural heritage and personal growth. Join us for a fusion of tradition and innovation, that will build toward physical well-being, enrichment, and lasting connections. |
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Classical Ballet Variations 1-2pm – Katherine McDonnell
Bridging the worlds of classical and modern ballet let’s study some ballet history while learning variations and choreography from the 19th and 20th centuries. Be ready to dance. Bring pointe shoes if you have them. Ms. McDonnell has danced many of the principal roles in the classical repertoire, as well as ballets by Balanchine. Her career highlights also include 14 non-consecutive years performing as a legendary Bluebell Girl, traveling to Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada, as well spending a year in Paris, France. She continues to teach master classes in the Balanchine Technique and Style, and for summer ballet intensives throughout the United States. |
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Beginner Musical Theatre 2-2:30pm – Melissa Gould
Musical Theatre Dance for all levels. We'll have fun learning a short combo to music from a Broadway musical! Melissa Gould received her B.A in Dance at San Jose State University and enjoyed a professional dance career which included contracts in Japan, Las Vegas and Korea. Melissa has been teaching for over 40 years and has choreographed musicals for community theatres across the country. Melissa is the Director and Choreographer of the New Albany MS Theatre Dept. |
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Beginner Hip Hop 2:30-3pm – Jess Gould
Come take an easy, fun hip hop dance class, whether you've been dancing for years or this is your first dance class ever! You'll do a quick hip hop warm up and learn a short, simple dance in thirty minutes. This is a great way to try a new style you've been interested in but haven't had an opportunity to do before. Jess Gould (she/he/they) is a graduate from Capital University. She teaches at BalletMet and Village Creative Dance in Newark. She was a member of New Vision Dance Company for four seasons. |
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Introduction to Flamenco Dancing 2-3pm – Gabriela Flamenco Academy
Sevillanas and rumba Flamenco class An energetic and fun class where you'll learn the fundamentals of flamenco, including: - Body coordination and posture - Hand movement and arm placement - Feet percussion and rhythm Gabriela, originally from Venezuela, has over 20 years of flamenco experience. She has performed on stages in Venezuela, Panama, and the United States, and in 2020, she opened her own academy in Columbus. Gabriela continues to share her passion for flamenco through teaching and performing, expanding flamenco dancing around Ohio. |
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Stress Management for Dance Moms (and Dads) 2-3pm – Sandra Solano
Come to learn practical tools to manage the stress of being a dance parent from a retired dance parent and stress management expert. Dr. Sandra Solano, MD, MS, is a healthcare professional with 30 years of experience as a healthcare executive and consultant. She practices in New Albany, Ohio, where she merges her extensive public health and management background with evidence-based approaches to emotional self-regulation and stress management to empower individuals, teams, and organizations to manage stress, conflict, and challenges through emotional self-regulation. As a certified HeartMath master trainer, Dr. Solano coachees and trains executives and professionals in Fortune 500 companies, social services organizations, and some of the largest healthcare systems in the United States. |
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Dance Through the Rhythms of the World 3-4pm – Pam Conn
Global Grooves Dance Party With 17 years of experience as a dance and movement instructor, I’ve dedicated my career to bringing joy and energy through dance. As a master trainer for LaBlast Fitness and a certified Zumba and hip-hop fitness instructor, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring under the coaching of renowned dancer Louis Van Amstel. |
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Liturgical Dance 3-4pm – Samara Tillman
This class explores worship through movement, blending technique with spiritual expression. Dancers learn to embody scripture and music, deepening their connection to faith while developing grace, discipline, and purpose. All levels welcome to praise through dance. Samara Tillman is the visionary Founder and Artistic Director of Dance E.L.I.T.E. Performance Academy, a pre-professional dance studio empowering youth through diverse styles and transformative experiences. With over a decade of leadership, she has led dancers to international stages in London, Paris, and Toronto. Samara is committed to using the arts to inspire excellence, build confidence, and uplift her community. |
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Contemporary Flow and Form 3-4pm – Kenny Brown
An exploration of dynamics and movement quality through Contemporary style movement that helps bring authentic expression forward. Kenneth Brown is a homegrown dancer, choreographer, director, and instructor with over 2 decades of experience in a variety of genres. He has taught and choreographed in spaces as varied as recreation centers to college campuses and professional companies all with the same focus on authenticity and expression. |
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Preschool Dance 4-4:30pm – Dani Siefker
Pre-School Dance will be a fun class with upbeat music where our younger students can independently explore rhythms and movement. We will be focusing on gross motor movement, basic technique and classroom etiquette that can translate over to any activities or classes! Dani is the owner of Lima Dance Academy and has been teaching across the region for 14 years. She enjoys sharing her love for dance with every student she meets and can’t wait to dance with you! |
Sunday Free Classes
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Yoga 8-9am – Jen Quigley
Slow Vinyasa Flow, beginner to intermediate. Experience breath work, balance, and strength as we flow through a traditional vinyasa yoga class. Jennifer has been teaching yoga for 3 years and brings a passion for mindful movement to every class. She currently teaches at GoYoga Gahanna, where she shares her love for creating a calm and intentional space for students to connect with their bodies and breath. Jennifer’s favorite class to teach is yin yoga, where she guides students through deep stretches and stillness to support relaxation and inner balance. |
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Pilates Matwork 8-9am – Katherine McDonnell
Based on the work of Joseph Pilates, this class creates optimal core strength through muscular balance using exercise bands. Bands provided (or use your own). Bring your own exercise mat. Since certifying as an AFAA Mat Science instructor and ACE Health Coach, Ms. McDonnell has expanded her skills to develop wellness and fitness programs that include brain health, nutrition, yoga, Pilates matwork, and conditioning. She spent five years as founding Artistic Director of the West Valley Ballet youth company in Phoenix’s west valley and is thrilled by the invitation to teach at the 2025 New Albany Dance Festival. |
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Pure Barre Classic 9-10am – Kelsey Perrin
Pure Barre is a high intensity, low impact work out, that targets every single muscle in the body during every class! Small movements = big results! Kelsey Perrin is the owner of Pure Barre Columbus: Grandview, Dublin and New Albany. After dancing all her life and an injury, she found Pure Barre to aid in recovery. She and her husband live in New Albany with there kids Millie and Maverick! |
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Tap Progressions 9-10am – Kirsten Frison
Develop your understanding of rhythm, speed, and sound with tap progressions! A variety of across the floor drills will be taught using short combinations with basic through advanced patterns to strengthen your tap training. It is recommended that participants know how to execute basic tap vocabulary, but all levels are welcome! Kirsten Frison is a dedicated dance instructor with over 12 years of experience teaching, choreographing, and performing. A former competitive dancer, she has trained with renowned artists through programs at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in New York City. Kirsten has also performed and choreographed as a company member with New Vision Dance Co. Today, her greatest passion lies in working with young dancers—sparking joy through movement and making dance a fun and enriching experience. |
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Intermediate Jazz 9-10am – Myles Lawson
An upbeat, high-energy class that blends classic and contemporary jazz techniques. Dancers will refine lines, musicality, and performance quality through intricate choreography, across-the-floor work, and dynamic combos. Myles Lawson is a professional dancer, choreographer, and educator with over a decade of experience performing and teaching nationally and internationally. Known for his dynamic styles and musical precision, he brings passion and professionalism to every class. Myles is dedicated to inspiring dancers to grow in confidence, technique, and artistry. |
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Mommy and Me 10-10:30am – Dani Siefker
This class will explore movement using fun music, guided lessons and tools like shakers and scarves. Such a fun way to start your day and dance together! Adult participation required. Dani is the owner of Lima Dance Academy and has been teaching across the region for 14 years. She enjoys sharing her love for dance with every student she meets and can’t wait to dance with you! |
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Cardio Jam 10-11am – Patrice Doran
Cardio dance ACE-CPT since 1995 |
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Adult Beginner Ballet 10-11am – Scott Brown-Heimlich
A fun yet simple Ballet Class for everyone for every age. Scott has been teaching in the Columbus metro area for the last 20 years. He is currently on staff at Otterbein University and BalletMet Academy. He looks forward to bringing fun to your ballet class. |
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Adaptive Dance 10-11am – Kelly Fabiano
Dance is a fundamental component of being human and everybody should have an opportunity to do so. Adaptive dance allows every person to experience movement, how it feels comfortable in their body, with their abilities. Kelly Fabiano began dance and gymnastics at the age of three at Dublin Dance Centre & Gymnastics! Over the last few years she found her passion for adaptive dance/gymnastics and has become a peer model and educator. Teaching students of all ages, she knows everybody has the ability to boogie! |