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Welcome to MLDA
Instilling a passion for dance since 1992
Michelle Latimer Dance Academy was founded in 1992 to create a safe space for dancers to learn, grow, and express themselves through the art of dance!
We pride ourselves on our excellence in technical training and our accomplished faculty, who offer the best dance education in Colorado.
At MLDA we offer a welcoming family atmosphere where our students can achieve their dance dreams, develop confidence through goal setting, and forge life long friendships made in class.
Whether you want to dance once a week or daily, we have something for everybody! The most important part is to make sure you're having fun.
Meet The Team
Our teachers are passionate about their students! Creating an environment where students can explore their creativity and gain the confidence to take them to the next level.
Michelle Latimer
Founder/Director
Lyrical
Turns
Jazz
Michelle Latimer opened Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in 1992, after having been a highly sought after dance teacher and choreographer in the Denver Metro area for over a decade. Michelle has successfully nurtured and developed thousands of dancers over the past 30+ years, many who have gone on to prosperous careers in the areas of dance, music, acting, teaching and choreography. Michelle's studio is one of Dance Spirit Magazines " Top 20 Studios", and has garnered many national awards and achievements for excellence since the studio's inception.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1986, with a major in Sociology and a minor in Political Science.
Michelle developed her love of dance and choreography from her mother, Janet, who was also an accomplished dancer and teacher. In high school, Michelle was featured in Megaphone magazine as one of the top 25 dance spirit dancers in the country. Michelle has performed in "West Side Story" in the role of Graciela, and in"42nd Street'. She has danced in industrials for Lincoln Mercury, Big Sur, Xenon and more. She has choreographed for The Denver Bronco Cheerleaders as the Dance Captain in 1992. She was a former Denver Nugget Dancer in the 1980's, as well as choreographing for the dancers in later years. Michelle was a member of the CSU Modern Touring Dance company. Other choreography credits include; "John Tesh "Live at Red Rocks" (Olympic Special), Star Search "Valor', 9News "Ramblerettes'. Most recently, Michelle had the honor of helping the director of the movie "The Adjustment Bureau" starring Matt Damon, on the initial development/research of the dancers/characters, and was able to visit the NYC set during filming. Michelle's greatest love is teaching and choreography and she continues to "live the dream", with the support and love of her amazing husband,Fred and her two beautiful daughters, Chelsea and Savannah.
Lyrical
Turns
Jazz
Michelle Latimer opened Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in 1992, after having been a highly sought after dance teacher and choreographer in the Denver Metro area for over a decade. Michelle has successfully nurtured and developed thousands of dancers over the past 30+ years, many who have gone on to prosperous careers in the areas of dance, music, acting, teaching and choreography. Michelle's studio is one of Dance Spirit Magazines " Top 20 Studios", and has garnered many national awards and achievements for excellence since the studio's inception.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1986, with a major in Sociology and a minor in Political Science.
Michelle developed her love of dance and choreography from her mother, Janet, who was also an accomplished dancer and teacher. In high school, Michelle was featured in Megaphone magazine as one of the top 25 dance spirit dancers in the country. Michelle has performed in "West Side Story" in the role of Graciela, and in"42nd Street'. She has danced in industrials for Lincoln Mercury, Big Sur, Xenon and more. She has choreographed for The Denver Bronco Cheerleaders as the Dance Captain in 1992. She was a former Denver Nugget Dancer in the 1980's, as well as choreographing for the dancers in later years. Michelle was a member of the CSU Modern Touring Dance company. Other choreography credits include; "John Tesh "Live at Red Rocks" (Olympic Special), Star Search "Valor', 9News "Ramblerettes'. Most recently, Michelle had the honor of helping the director of the movie "The Adjustment Bureau" starring Matt Damon, on the initial development/research of the dancers/characters, and was able to visit the NYC set during filming. Michelle's greatest love is teaching and choreography and she continues to "live the dream", with the support and love of her amazing husband,Fred and her two beautiful daughters, Chelsea and Savannah.
Julie Webb
Studio Manager
Musical Theater, Jazz, lyrical
Julie discovered her love for dance at the age of 3 and hasn't stopped since. She has been teaching in competitive dance studios for many years. Julie has the privilege to have been with MLDA for 20 years and is an instructor, choreographer and the studio manager. While she likes several aspects of studio life she in particularly enjoys watching her students progress year to year, seeing them achieve goals and helping create and kindle a passion for dance in them. Julie admires several different genres of dance which makes it hard to pick a favorite, you will find her teaching a variety of classes year to year but most commonly in Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and of course Musical Theatre! Julie loves to create and choreograph; she really enjoys the creative process from start to finish. Her choreography has been recognized at both the Regional and National levels. She has been in Dance Spirit Magazine for her work with soloist, maximizing a dancer's potential through choreography and for costuming. When not at the studio Julie treasures time with her Husband and Daughter and is grateful for their constant support.
Musical Theater, Jazz, lyrical
Julie discovered her love for dance at the age of 3 and hasn't stopped since. She has been teaching in competitive dance studios for many years. Julie has the privilege to have been with MLDA for 20 years and is an instructor, choreographer and the studio manager. While she likes several aspects of studio life she in particularly enjoys watching her students progress year to year, seeing them achieve goals and helping create and kindle a passion for dance in them. Julie admires several different genres of dance which makes it hard to pick a favorite, you will find her teaching a variety of classes year to year but most commonly in Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and of course Musical Theatre! Julie loves to create and choreograph; she really enjoys the creative process from start to finish. Her choreography has been recognized at both the Regional and National levels. She has been in Dance Spirit Magazine for her work with soloist, maximizing a dancer's potential through choreography and for costuming. When not at the studio Julie treasures time with her Husband and Daughter and is grateful for their constant support.
Jessica Maxwell
Contemporary, Technique
Nicole Kahre
Jazz, Turns, Hip Hop
Nicole has been teaching at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since 1998. After graduating high school, Nicole moved to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career. She was featured in a "Mellow Yellow" commercial along with training and performing with the industries top choreographers. Nicole was seen on billboards and in People Magazine for a dance campaign in 1999. After moving back to Colorado, she was the director and choreographer for the Denver Nuggets Dance Team. Nicole has received numerous awards for outstanding choreography and loves working with kids of all ages and levels.
In 2000 Nicole joined forces with Brian Friedman, Creative Director of The X Factor UK and The X Factor USA, to help form Be Free Productions dance conventions. Nicole has also worked with many high school and college dance teams locally and nationally. She has been the technique coach of an 9 time 5A State Champion Pom Program since 2006.
Nicole is grateful to her husband and two boys for their constant love and support.
Nicole has been teaching at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since 1998. After graduating high school, Nicole moved to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career. She was featured in a "Mellow Yellow" commercial along with training and performing with the industries top choreographers. Nicole was seen on billboards and in People Magazine for a dance campaign in 1999. After moving back to Colorado, she was the director and choreographer for the Denver Nuggets Dance Team. Nicole has received numerous awards for outstanding choreography and loves working with kids of all ages and levels.
In 2000 Nicole joined forces with Brian Friedman, Creative Director of The X Factor UK and The X Factor USA, to help form Be Free Productions dance conventions. Nicole has also worked with many high school and college dance teams locally and nationally. She has been the technique coach of an 9 time 5A State Champion Pom Program since 2006.
Nicole is grateful to her husband and two boys for their constant love and support.
Dana Benton
Ballet
Dana Benton was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and at the age of 9, she was accepted to the National Ballet School in Toronto where she trained for eight years. Dana graduated from the National Ballet School with Honors in Academics and was awarded the Peter Dwyer Award for Excellence in Dance. Upon graduating in 2000, Dana received a contract with Alberta Ballet Company in Canada. She spent one year with the Company as an Apprentice. In 2001, she joined Colorado Ballet and she has performed many soloist and principal roles with the Company. Dana was promoted to Soloist in 2007 and then to Principal in 2014.
Dana Benton was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and at the age of 9, she was accepted to the National Ballet School in Toronto where she trained for eight years. Dana graduated from the National Ballet School with Honors in Academics and was awarded the Peter Dwyer Award for Excellence in Dance. Upon graduating in 2000, Dana received a contract with Alberta Ballet Company in Canada. She spent one year with the Company as an Apprentice. In 2001, she joined Colorado Ballet and she has performed many soloist and principal roles with the Company. Dana was promoted to Soloist in 2007 and then to Principal in 2014.
Jonnathan Ramirez
Ballet
Jonnathan is originally from Cali, Colombia. At the age of 8 he began his training at the Colombian Institute of Ballet, Incolballet. After graduating at 16, he moved to New York City where he received a full scholarship to continue his training at American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet. In 2007 he danced with Cincinnati Ballet for two seasons, then in 2009 he joined Houston Ballet. In 2010, Jonnathan joined the Tulsa Ballet Theatre where he performed numerous soloist and principal roles over ten consecutive years before joining Colorado Ballet in 2020. Jonnathan was promoted from Soloist to Principal in 2021.
Jonnathan is originally from Cali, Colombia. At the age of 8 he began his training at the Colombian Institute of Ballet, Incolballet. After graduating at 16, he moved to New York City where he received a full scholarship to continue his training at American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet. In 2007 he danced with Cincinnati Ballet for two seasons, then in 2009 he joined Houston Ballet. In 2010, Jonnathan joined the Tulsa Ballet Theatre where he performed numerous soloist and principal roles over ten consecutive years before joining Colorado Ballet in 2020. Jonnathan was promoted from Soloist to Principal in 2021.
Lauren Sigler
Jazz, Turns, Lyrical
I grew up in Colorado and spent most of my childhood dancing competitively at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy. From there, I spent 9 years dancing professionally
in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, and touring in Europe. I had some wonderful opportunities in my dance career performing in television shows, films, Broadway-style Las Vegas shows, music videos, touring in Europe, and doing live performances with music artists. Top credits include Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Parks & Recreation, High School Musical 2, and being the dance captain for Steve Wynn’s Showstoppers in Vegas (a Broadway-style show). I was also an assistant choreographer to Marguerite Derricks (director and choreographer) in Los Angeles and New York for 3 years. I assisted top choreographers including Tyce Diorio, Dominique Kelly, Michael Rooney, Stacey Tookey, and Doug Caldwell. While pursuing my dance career, I achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from CSU-Global. I am very excited to be teaching at MLDA, my home away from home, and empowering young dancers in pursuing their passion and love through the artistry of dance!
I grew up in Colorado and spent most of my childhood dancing competitively at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy. From there, I spent 9 years dancing professionally
in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, and touring in Europe. I had some wonderful opportunities in my dance career performing in television shows, films, Broadway-style Las Vegas shows, music videos, touring in Europe, and doing live performances with music artists. Top credits include Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Parks & Recreation, High School Musical 2, and being the dance captain for Steve Wynn’s Showstoppers in Vegas (a Broadway-style show). I was also an assistant choreographer to Marguerite Derricks (director and choreographer) in Los Angeles and New York for 3 years. I assisted top choreographers including Tyce Diorio, Dominique Kelly, Michael Rooney, Stacey Tookey, and Doug Caldwell. While pursuing my dance career, I achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from CSU-Global. I am very excited to be teaching at MLDA, my home away from home, and empowering young dancers in pursuing their passion and love through the artistry of dance!
Noelle Schramm
Noelle Schramm has been teaching dance for 8 years at studios all across Colorado. She has been dancing in the state of Colorado since the age of two. In 2018 she moved to Arizona to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance. This gave her the opportunity to work with many choreographers including Stacey Tookey, Andrew Winghart, Chantel Aguirre, Chelsea Thedinga, and many others. She has also performed the repertoire of Paul Taylor, Martha Graham and many other modern technique choreographers. Noelle is extremely excited to continue her teaching career at MLDA.
Janaya French
Jazz, Lyrical, Ballroom
Janaya is an Alum who danced at MLDA from age 3 to 18 yrs, and the dance studio has always been her home away from home! At age 19, Janaya moved to LA to pursue a professional dance career. Over the last 14 years, she has worked on various TV, Film and Live shows! Some of her career highlights include; So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, Grease Live!, Teen Beach 2, Ted 2, The Grammy's, Country Music Awards, Touring twice with Maks and Val from DWTS, and working with artists such as Shania Twain, Kelsey Ballerini and Fall Out Boy! During her time in LA, Janaya fell in love with teaching and educating young dancers, and is "beyond excited to come home and teach at the place that helped shape her into the dancer and human I am today! "
Janaya is an Alum who danced at MLDA from age 3 to 18 yrs, and the dance studio has always been her home away from home! At age 19, Janaya moved to LA to pursue a professional dance career. Over the last 14 years, she has worked on various TV, Film and Live shows! Some of her career highlights include; So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, Grease Live!, Teen Beach 2, Ted 2, The Grammy's, Country Music Awards, Touring twice with Maks and Val from DWTS, and working with artists such as Shania Twain, Kelsey Ballerini and Fall Out Boy! During her time in LA, Janaya fell in love with teaching and educating young dancers, and is "beyond excited to come home and teach at the place that helped shape her into the dancer and human I am today! "
Madyson Greening
Children's Programs
Madyson is originally from California where she grew up dancing and teaching for the last several years. She is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where she studied Elementary Education and Special Education. She was a member of the GCU dance team, as well! Miss Mady is dedicated to creating a positive and fun environment for the kids, while also sharing her love for dance. She is excited to be working at MLDA and cannot wait to help her students develop in the art of dance! Mady will be a 3rd Grade teacher at SkyView Academy this year.
Madyson is originally from California where she grew up dancing and teaching for the last several years. She is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where she studied Elementary Education and Special Education. She was a member of the GCU dance team, as well! Miss Mady is dedicated to creating a positive and fun environment for the kids, while also sharing her love for dance. She is excited to be working at MLDA and cannot wait to help her students develop in the art of dance! Mady will be a 3rd Grade teacher at SkyView Academy this year.
Ashley Cardon
ACRO
Ashley grew up in Northern California near Lake Tahoe. Ashley was a gymnast for over 18 years and trained with some of the best coaches in the world. She was a competitive gymnast for 12 years, was a level 10 gymnast for 5 of those years and traveled all over the country for competitions before she graduated and received a full ride scholarship to BYU. She graduated from BYU with a degree in elementary education. She has coached gymnastics at a couple gymnastic facilities and then made the transition over to teaching ACRO in the dance world. She has been teaching ACRO and tumbling for all ages and levels for the last 9 years. Ashley and daughter Tinzley will be coming to us from Bunker Dance Center in Las Vegas.
Ashley grew up in Northern California near Lake Tahoe. Ashley was a gymnast for over 18 years and trained with some of the best coaches in the world. She was a competitive gymnast for 12 years, was a level 10 gymnast for 5 of those years and traveled all over the country for competitions before she graduated and received a full ride scholarship to BYU. She graduated from BYU with a degree in elementary education. She has coached gymnastics at a couple gymnastic facilities and then made the transition over to teaching ACRO in the dance world. She has been teaching ACRO and tumbling for all ages and levels for the last 9 years. Ashley and daughter Tinzley will be coming to us from Bunker Dance Center in Las Vegas.
Megan Grabau
Hip Hop
Megan Grabau is a professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, and fitness enthusiast that has had the privilege to travel the world doing what she loves. Megan grew up in Colorado but moved to LA straight out of high school and soon after went on two European tours as a dancer and aerialist. Megan has worked in the commercial dance industry with some credits including P!NK, ShaunT, F45’s national campaign, dance team captain of the TV show “Floored” as well as being featured on Lifetime’s “Cheer Camp Killer.” Megan currently resides in Colorado but travels for work and is signed in Los Angeles. Megan is the proud owner of MEG Productions which stands for cultivating confidence and strength through movement. She prides herself in hard work, dedication, and kindness.
Megan Grabau is a professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, and fitness enthusiast that has had the privilege to travel the world doing what she loves. Megan grew up in Colorado but moved to LA straight out of high school and soon after went on two European tours as a dancer and aerialist. Megan has worked in the commercial dance industry with some credits including P!NK, ShaunT, F45’s national campaign, dance team captain of the TV show “Floored” as well as being featured on Lifetime’s “Cheer Camp Killer.” Megan currently resides in Colorado but travels for work and is signed in Los Angeles. Megan is the proud owner of MEG Productions which stands for cultivating confidence and strength through movement. She prides herself in hard work, dedication, and kindness.
Magda Fialek
Guest Resident Ballroom
MAGDALENA FIALEK is a professional ballroom dancer from Toronto, Canada. She is a 2x USA Dance National Latin Champion and has ranked internationally in multiple championships including the largest ballroom competition in the world, the Blackpool Dance Festival placing 6th. Magdalena appeared on So You Think You Can Dance Season 15, coming in the top 8. A principal dancer and dance captain in stage shows Dancing with a Twist, Dancing to the Movies, Dancing with the Stars at Sea, she has also toured with Dancing With The Star’s Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy on their Our Way tour and performed in Las Vegas with Dancing with the Stars; Live in Las Vegas. Currently touring and teaching with Lacey’s Ballroom Project, she focuses her time on training the next generation of dancers.
MAGDALENA FIALEK is a professional ballroom dancer from Toronto, Canada. She is a 2x USA Dance National Latin Champion and has ranked internationally in multiple championships including the largest ballroom competition in the world, the Blackpool Dance Festival placing 6th. Magdalena appeared on So You Think You Can Dance Season 15, coming in the top 8. A principal dancer and dance captain in stage shows Dancing with a Twist, Dancing to the Movies, Dancing with the Stars at Sea, she has also toured with Dancing With The Star’s Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy on their Our Way tour and performed in Las Vegas with Dancing with the Stars; Live in Las Vegas. Currently touring and teaching with Lacey’s Ballroom Project, she focuses her time on training the next generation of dancers.
Ricky Maalouf
Guest Resident Hip Hop
Ricky Maalouf started dancing at a late age while at Arizona State University. While starting out dancing at ASU and with various NBA and WNBA teams in Arizona, he also danced with recording artist Yasmeen, who opened for Omarion. He danced for the professional dance company Automatic Response who were featured on Americas Best Dance Crew, opening for My Chemical Romance and Fergie while they also did shows with the Jabbawockeez. However, he quickly developed a true passion for teaching. His teaching has helped with several of his students having danced with artists such as Justin Bieber, Missy Elliot, Billie Eilish, Tate Mcrae and more. In addition, they have been showcased on shows including So You Think You Can Dance, World Of Dance, Dancing with the Stars, Dancing with the Stars Junior, Ellen, Dance Moms, Disney’s Shake It Up, Americas Got Talent and also on Broadway. His choreography has been seen on the Cheer live tour as well having worked with NBA and NFL in addition to several fantastic dance companies, conventions, organizations and Universities. Having worked with countless fantastic choreographers, teachers and students, his work has also resulted in winning Best Hip Hop studio on several occasions amongst oter accolades. Ricky spends most of his time trying to inspire and educate at studios around the country and believes in a high-energy class in which the students work hard while enjoying the process and looks forward to jumping around in class at every opportunity.
Ricky Maalouf started dancing at a late age while at Arizona State University. While starting out dancing at ASU and with various NBA and WNBA teams in Arizona, he also danced with recording artist Yasmeen, who opened for Omarion. He danced for the professional dance company Automatic Response who were featured on Americas Best Dance Crew, opening for My Chemical Romance and Fergie while they also did shows with the Jabbawockeez. However, he quickly developed a true passion for teaching. His teaching has helped with several of his students having danced with artists such as Justin Bieber, Missy Elliot, Billie Eilish, Tate Mcrae and more. In addition, they have been showcased on shows including So You Think You Can Dance, World Of Dance, Dancing with the Stars, Dancing with the Stars Junior, Ellen, Dance Moms, Disney’s Shake It Up, Americas Got Talent and also on Broadway. His choreography has been seen on the Cheer live tour as well having worked with NBA and NFL in addition to several fantastic dance companies, conventions, organizations and Universities. Having worked with countless fantastic choreographers, teachers and students, his work has also resulted in winning Best Hip Hop studio on several occasions amongst oter accolades. Ricky spends most of his time trying to inspire and educate at studios around the country and believes in a high-energy class in which the students work hard while enjoying the process and looks forward to jumping around in class at every opportunity.
Savannah Lynch
Social Media Manager
Savannah started dancing at MLDA as soon as she could walk! When she was 18 she moved to LA to pursue a career in dance!
While living in Los Angeles she found a love for marketing and social media!
She's been working as a full time content creator since 2017!
Now Savannah lives back in Denver CO with her husband Riker Lynch!
Savannah started dancing at MLDA as soon as she could walk! When she was 18 she moved to LA to pursue a career in dance!
While living in Los Angeles she found a love for marketing and social media!
She's been working as a full time content creator since 2017!
Now Savannah lives back in Denver CO with her husband Riker Lynch!
Cheri Janz
Office Manager
Cheri began dancing at age three and teaching dance at age eighteen. She is experienced in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and lyrical. She graduated with honors from Arizona State University with both performance and education degrees in dance, receiving the B.A.E. Outstanding Graduate Award and the Honorary University Dance Theatre's Award of Excellence. Cheri has studied with Martha Graham, Twyla Tharp, Alwin Nikolais and Bill Evans to name a few.
Cheri owned and directed her own dance studio for eleven years, and then founded and directed a student dance company for 16 years. Many of her former students are now teaching and/or dancing professionally. She has organized dance performance tours to California, Florida, the Bahamas and on cruise ships. She has judged dance, talent, and scholarship competitions on both the regional and national levels throughout the United States and Canada.
Cheri has now hung up her dancing shoes, but is happy to still be a part of the dance world by working in the office at MLDA, a studio known for its dedication to excellence, artistry, and positive environment.
Cheri began dancing at age three and teaching dance at age eighteen. She is experienced in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and lyrical. She graduated with honors from Arizona State University with both performance and education degrees in dance, receiving the B.A.E. Outstanding Graduate Award and the Honorary University Dance Theatre's Award of Excellence. Cheri has studied with Martha Graham, Twyla Tharp, Alwin Nikolais and Bill Evans to name a few.
Cheri owned and directed her own dance studio for eleven years, and then founded and directed a student dance company for 16 years. Many of her former students are now teaching and/or dancing professionally. She has organized dance performance tours to California, Florida, the Bahamas and on cruise ships. She has judged dance, talent, and scholarship competitions on both the regional and national levels throughout the United States and Canada.
Cheri has now hung up her dancing shoes, but is happy to still be a part of the dance world by working in the office at MLDA, a studio known for its dedication to excellence, artistry, and positive environment.
Dorothy Peters
Bookkeeper
Dorothy has been doing accounting for over 30 years. She has been the bookkeeper for Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since January of 1996. She was born and grew up in Denver, then moved to the mountains of Cotopaxi, Colorado in August of 2000. Unwillingly to leave the studio, she works from her home office with the staff and all the dance parents closely. She prides herself on keeping everyone informed and tries her best to work with each family on a personal level with their dance finances.
Dorothy has been doing accounting for over 30 years. She has been the bookkeeper for Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since January of 1996. She was born and grew up in Denver, then moved to the mountains of Cotopaxi, Colorado in August of 2000. Unwillingly to leave the studio, she works from her home office with the staff and all the dance parents closely. She prides herself on keeping everyone informed and tries her best to work with each family on a personal level with their dance finances.
Michelle Latimer
Founder/Director
Lyrical
Turns
Jazz
Michelle Latimer opened Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in 1992, after having been a highly sought after dance teacher and choreographer in the Denver Metro area for over a decade. Michelle has successfully nurtured and developed thousands of dancers over the past 30+ years, many who have gone on to prosperous careers in the areas of dance, music, acting, teaching and choreography. Michelle's studio is one of Dance Spirit Magazines " Top 20 Studios", and has garnered many national awards and achievements for excellence since the studio's inception.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1986, with a major in Sociology and a minor in Political Science.
Michelle developed her love of dance and choreography from her mother, Janet, who was also an accomplished dancer and teacher. In high school, Michelle was featured in Megaphone magazine as one of the top 25 dance spirit dancers in the country. Michelle has performed in "West Side Story" in the role of Graciela, and in"42nd Street'. She has danced in industrials for Lincoln Mercury, Big Sur, Xenon and more. She has choreographed for The Denver Bronco Cheerleaders as the Dance Captain in 1992. She was a former Denver Nugget Dancer in the 1980's, as well as choreographing for the dancers in later years. Michelle was a member of the CSU Modern Touring Dance company. Other choreography credits include; "John Tesh "Live at Red Rocks" (Olympic Special), Star Search "Valor', 9News "Ramblerettes'. Most recently, Michelle had the honor of helping the director of the movie "The Adjustment Bureau" starring Matt Damon, on the initial development/research of the dancers/characters, and was able to visit the NYC set during filming. Michelle's greatest love is teaching and choreography and she continues to "live the dream", with the support and love of her amazing husband,Fred and her two beautiful daughters, Chelsea and Savannah.
Lyrical
Turns
Jazz
Michelle Latimer opened Michelle Latimer Dance Academy in 1992, after having been a highly sought after dance teacher and choreographer in the Denver Metro area for over a decade. Michelle has successfully nurtured and developed thousands of dancers over the past 30+ years, many who have gone on to prosperous careers in the areas of dance, music, acting, teaching and choreography. Michelle's studio is one of Dance Spirit Magazines " Top 20 Studios", and has garnered many national awards and achievements for excellence since the studio's inception.
Michelle received her Bachelor's degree from Colorado State University in 1986, with a major in Sociology and a minor in Political Science.
Michelle developed her love of dance and choreography from her mother, Janet, who was also an accomplished dancer and teacher. In high school, Michelle was featured in Megaphone magazine as one of the top 25 dance spirit dancers in the country. Michelle has performed in "West Side Story" in the role of Graciela, and in"42nd Street'. She has danced in industrials for Lincoln Mercury, Big Sur, Xenon and more. She has choreographed for The Denver Bronco Cheerleaders as the Dance Captain in 1992. She was a former Denver Nugget Dancer in the 1980's, as well as choreographing for the dancers in later years. Michelle was a member of the CSU Modern Touring Dance company. Other choreography credits include; "John Tesh "Live at Red Rocks" (Olympic Special), Star Search "Valor', 9News "Ramblerettes'. Most recently, Michelle had the honor of helping the director of the movie "The Adjustment Bureau" starring Matt Damon, on the initial development/research of the dancers/characters, and was able to visit the NYC set during filming. Michelle's greatest love is teaching and choreography and she continues to "live the dream", with the support and love of her amazing husband,Fred and her two beautiful daughters, Chelsea and Savannah.
Julie Webb
Studio Manager
Musical Theater, Jazz, lyrical
Julie discovered her love for dance at the age of 3 and hasn't stopped since. She has been teaching in competitive dance studios for many years. Julie has the privilege to have been with MLDA for 20 years and is an instructor, choreographer and the studio manager. While she likes several aspects of studio life she in particularly enjoys watching her students progress year to year, seeing them achieve goals and helping create and kindle a passion for dance in them. Julie admires several different genres of dance which makes it hard to pick a favorite, you will find her teaching a variety of classes year to year but most commonly in Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and of course Musical Theatre! Julie loves to create and choreograph; she really enjoys the creative process from start to finish. Her choreography has been recognized at both the Regional and National levels. She has been in Dance Spirit Magazine for her work with soloist, maximizing a dancer's potential through choreography and for costuming. When not at the studio Julie treasures time with her Husband and Daughter and is grateful for their constant support.
Musical Theater, Jazz, lyrical
Julie discovered her love for dance at the age of 3 and hasn't stopped since. She has been teaching in competitive dance studios for many years. Julie has the privilege to have been with MLDA for 20 years and is an instructor, choreographer and the studio manager. While she likes several aspects of studio life she in particularly enjoys watching her students progress year to year, seeing them achieve goals and helping create and kindle a passion for dance in them. Julie admires several different genres of dance which makes it hard to pick a favorite, you will find her teaching a variety of classes year to year but most commonly in Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and of course Musical Theatre! Julie loves to create and choreograph; she really enjoys the creative process from start to finish. Her choreography has been recognized at both the Regional and National levels. She has been in Dance Spirit Magazine for her work with soloist, maximizing a dancer's potential through choreography and for costuming. When not at the studio Julie treasures time with her Husband and Daughter and is grateful for their constant support.
Jessica Maxwell
Contemporary, Technique
Nicole Kahre
Jazz, Turns, Hip Hop
Nicole has been teaching at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since 1998. After graduating high school, Nicole moved to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career. She was featured in a "Mellow Yellow" commercial along with training and performing with the industries top choreographers. Nicole was seen on billboards and in People Magazine for a dance campaign in 1999. After moving back to Colorado, she was the director and choreographer for the Denver Nuggets Dance Team. Nicole has received numerous awards for outstanding choreography and loves working with kids of all ages and levels.
In 2000 Nicole joined forces with Brian Friedman, Creative Director of The X Factor UK and The X Factor USA, to help form Be Free Productions dance conventions. Nicole has also worked with many high school and college dance teams locally and nationally. She has been the technique coach of an 9 time 5A State Champion Pom Program since 2006.
Nicole is grateful to her husband and two boys for their constant love and support.
Nicole has been teaching at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since 1998. After graduating high school, Nicole moved to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career. She was featured in a "Mellow Yellow" commercial along with training and performing with the industries top choreographers. Nicole was seen on billboards and in People Magazine for a dance campaign in 1999. After moving back to Colorado, she was the director and choreographer for the Denver Nuggets Dance Team. Nicole has received numerous awards for outstanding choreography and loves working with kids of all ages and levels.
In 2000 Nicole joined forces with Brian Friedman, Creative Director of The X Factor UK and The X Factor USA, to help form Be Free Productions dance conventions. Nicole has also worked with many high school and college dance teams locally and nationally. She has been the technique coach of an 9 time 5A State Champion Pom Program since 2006.
Nicole is grateful to her husband and two boys for their constant love and support.
Dana Benton
Ballet
Dana Benton was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and at the age of 9, she was accepted to the National Ballet School in Toronto where she trained for eight years. Dana graduated from the National Ballet School with Honors in Academics and was awarded the Peter Dwyer Award for Excellence in Dance. Upon graduating in 2000, Dana received a contract with Alberta Ballet Company in Canada. She spent one year with the Company as an Apprentice. In 2001, she joined Colorado Ballet and she has performed many soloist and principal roles with the Company. Dana was promoted to Soloist in 2007 and then to Principal in 2014.
Dana Benton was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and at the age of 9, she was accepted to the National Ballet School in Toronto where she trained for eight years. Dana graduated from the National Ballet School with Honors in Academics and was awarded the Peter Dwyer Award for Excellence in Dance. Upon graduating in 2000, Dana received a contract with Alberta Ballet Company in Canada. She spent one year with the Company as an Apprentice. In 2001, she joined Colorado Ballet and she has performed many soloist and principal roles with the Company. Dana was promoted to Soloist in 2007 and then to Principal in 2014.
Jonnathan Ramirez
Ballet
Jonnathan is originally from Cali, Colombia. At the age of 8 he began his training at the Colombian Institute of Ballet, Incolballet. After graduating at 16, he moved to New York City where he received a full scholarship to continue his training at American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet. In 2007 he danced with Cincinnati Ballet for two seasons, then in 2009 he joined Houston Ballet. In 2010, Jonnathan joined the Tulsa Ballet Theatre where he performed numerous soloist and principal roles over ten consecutive years before joining Colorado Ballet in 2020. Jonnathan was promoted from Soloist to Principal in 2021.
Jonnathan is originally from Cali, Colombia. At the age of 8 he began his training at the Colombian Institute of Ballet, Incolballet. After graduating at 16, he moved to New York City where he received a full scholarship to continue his training at American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet. In 2007 he danced with Cincinnati Ballet for two seasons, then in 2009 he joined Houston Ballet. In 2010, Jonnathan joined the Tulsa Ballet Theatre where he performed numerous soloist and principal roles over ten consecutive years before joining Colorado Ballet in 2020. Jonnathan was promoted from Soloist to Principal in 2021.
Lauren Sigler
Jazz, Turns, Lyrical
I grew up in Colorado and spent most of my childhood dancing competitively at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy. From there, I spent 9 years dancing professionally
in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, and touring in Europe. I had some wonderful opportunities in my dance career performing in television shows, films, Broadway-style Las Vegas shows, music videos, touring in Europe, and doing live performances with music artists. Top credits include Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Parks & Recreation, High School Musical 2, and being the dance captain for Steve Wynn’s Showstoppers in Vegas (a Broadway-style show). I was also an assistant choreographer to Marguerite Derricks (director and choreographer) in Los Angeles and New York for 3 years. I assisted top choreographers including Tyce Diorio, Dominique Kelly, Michael Rooney, Stacey Tookey, and Doug Caldwell. While pursuing my dance career, I achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from CSU-Global. I am very excited to be teaching at MLDA, my home away from home, and empowering young dancers in pursuing their passion and love through the artistry of dance!
I grew up in Colorado and spent most of my childhood dancing competitively at Michelle Latimer Dance Academy. From there, I spent 9 years dancing professionally
in Los Angeles, New York, Las Vegas, and touring in Europe. I had some wonderful opportunities in my dance career performing in television shows, films, Broadway-style Las Vegas shows, music videos, touring in Europe, and doing live performances with music artists. Top credits include Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Parks & Recreation, High School Musical 2, and being the dance captain for Steve Wynn’s Showstoppers in Vegas (a Broadway-style show). I was also an assistant choreographer to Marguerite Derricks (director and choreographer) in Los Angeles and New York for 3 years. I assisted top choreographers including Tyce Diorio, Dominique Kelly, Michael Rooney, Stacey Tookey, and Doug Caldwell. While pursuing my dance career, I achieved a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from CSU-Global. I am very excited to be teaching at MLDA, my home away from home, and empowering young dancers in pursuing their passion and love through the artistry of dance!
Noelle Schramm
Noelle Schramm has been teaching dance for 8 years at studios all across Colorado. She has been dancing in the state of Colorado since the age of two. In 2018 she moved to Arizona to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance. This gave her the opportunity to work with many choreographers including Stacey Tookey, Andrew Winghart, Chantel Aguirre, Chelsea Thedinga, and many others. She has also performed the repertoire of Paul Taylor, Martha Graham and many other modern technique choreographers. Noelle is extremely excited to continue her teaching career at MLDA.
Janaya French
Jazz, Lyrical, Ballroom
Janaya is an Alum who danced at MLDA from age 3 to 18 yrs, and the dance studio has always been her home away from home! At age 19, Janaya moved to LA to pursue a professional dance career. Over the last 14 years, she has worked on various TV, Film and Live shows! Some of her career highlights include; So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, Grease Live!, Teen Beach 2, Ted 2, The Grammy's, Country Music Awards, Touring twice with Maks and Val from DWTS, and working with artists such as Shania Twain, Kelsey Ballerini and Fall Out Boy! During her time in LA, Janaya fell in love with teaching and educating young dancers, and is "beyond excited to come home and teach at the place that helped shape her into the dancer and human I am today! "
Janaya is an Alum who danced at MLDA from age 3 to 18 yrs, and the dance studio has always been her home away from home! At age 19, Janaya moved to LA to pursue a professional dance career. Over the last 14 years, she has worked on various TV, Film and Live shows! Some of her career highlights include; So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, Grease Live!, Teen Beach 2, Ted 2, The Grammy's, Country Music Awards, Touring twice with Maks and Val from DWTS, and working with artists such as Shania Twain, Kelsey Ballerini and Fall Out Boy! During her time in LA, Janaya fell in love with teaching and educating young dancers, and is "beyond excited to come home and teach at the place that helped shape her into the dancer and human I am today! "
Madyson Greening
Children's Programs
Madyson is originally from California where she grew up dancing and teaching for the last several years. She is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where she studied Elementary Education and Special Education. She was a member of the GCU dance team, as well! Miss Mady is dedicated to creating a positive and fun environment for the kids, while also sharing her love for dance. She is excited to be working at MLDA and cannot wait to help her students develop in the art of dance! Mady will be a 3rd Grade teacher at SkyView Academy this year.
Madyson is originally from California where she grew up dancing and teaching for the last several years. She is a graduate of Grand Canyon University where she studied Elementary Education and Special Education. She was a member of the GCU dance team, as well! Miss Mady is dedicated to creating a positive and fun environment for the kids, while also sharing her love for dance. She is excited to be working at MLDA and cannot wait to help her students develop in the art of dance! Mady will be a 3rd Grade teacher at SkyView Academy this year.
Ashley Cardon
ACRO
Ashley grew up in Northern California near Lake Tahoe. Ashley was a gymnast for over 18 years and trained with some of the best coaches in the world. She was a competitive gymnast for 12 years, was a level 10 gymnast for 5 of those years and traveled all over the country for competitions before she graduated and received a full ride scholarship to BYU. She graduated from BYU with a degree in elementary education. She has coached gymnastics at a couple gymnastic facilities and then made the transition over to teaching ACRO in the dance world. She has been teaching ACRO and tumbling for all ages and levels for the last 9 years. Ashley and daughter Tinzley will be coming to us from Bunker Dance Center in Las Vegas.
Ashley grew up in Northern California near Lake Tahoe. Ashley was a gymnast for over 18 years and trained with some of the best coaches in the world. She was a competitive gymnast for 12 years, was a level 10 gymnast for 5 of those years and traveled all over the country for competitions before she graduated and received a full ride scholarship to BYU. She graduated from BYU with a degree in elementary education. She has coached gymnastics at a couple gymnastic facilities and then made the transition over to teaching ACRO in the dance world. She has been teaching ACRO and tumbling for all ages and levels for the last 9 years. Ashley and daughter Tinzley will be coming to us from Bunker Dance Center in Las Vegas.
Megan Grabau
Hip Hop
Megan Grabau is a professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, and fitness enthusiast that has had the privilege to travel the world doing what she loves. Megan grew up in Colorado but moved to LA straight out of high school and soon after went on two European tours as a dancer and aerialist. Megan has worked in the commercial dance industry with some credits including P!NK, ShaunT, F45’s national campaign, dance team captain of the TV show “Floored” as well as being featured on Lifetime’s “Cheer Camp Killer.” Megan currently resides in Colorado but travels for work and is signed in Los Angeles. Megan is the proud owner of MEG Productions which stands for cultivating confidence and strength through movement. She prides herself in hard work, dedication, and kindness.
Megan Grabau is a professional dancer, choreographer, teacher, and fitness enthusiast that has had the privilege to travel the world doing what she loves. Megan grew up in Colorado but moved to LA straight out of high school and soon after went on two European tours as a dancer and aerialist. Megan has worked in the commercial dance industry with some credits including P!NK, ShaunT, F45’s national campaign, dance team captain of the TV show “Floored” as well as being featured on Lifetime’s “Cheer Camp Killer.” Megan currently resides in Colorado but travels for work and is signed in Los Angeles. Megan is the proud owner of MEG Productions which stands for cultivating confidence and strength through movement. She prides herself in hard work, dedication, and kindness.
Magda Fialek
Guest Resident Ballroom
MAGDALENA FIALEK is a professional ballroom dancer from Toronto, Canada. She is a 2x USA Dance National Latin Champion and has ranked internationally in multiple championships including the largest ballroom competition in the world, the Blackpool Dance Festival placing 6th. Magdalena appeared on So You Think You Can Dance Season 15, coming in the top 8. A principal dancer and dance captain in stage shows Dancing with a Twist, Dancing to the Movies, Dancing with the Stars at Sea, she has also toured with Dancing With The Star’s Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy on their Our Way tour and performed in Las Vegas with Dancing with the Stars; Live in Las Vegas. Currently touring and teaching with Lacey’s Ballroom Project, she focuses her time on training the next generation of dancers.
MAGDALENA FIALEK is a professional ballroom dancer from Toronto, Canada. She is a 2x USA Dance National Latin Champion and has ranked internationally in multiple championships including the largest ballroom competition in the world, the Blackpool Dance Festival placing 6th. Magdalena appeared on So You Think You Can Dance Season 15, coming in the top 8. A principal dancer and dance captain in stage shows Dancing with a Twist, Dancing to the Movies, Dancing with the Stars at Sea, she has also toured with Dancing With The Star’s Maks and Val Chmerkovskiy on their Our Way tour and performed in Las Vegas with Dancing with the Stars; Live in Las Vegas. Currently touring and teaching with Lacey’s Ballroom Project, she focuses her time on training the next generation of dancers.
Ricky Maalouf
Guest Resident Hip Hop
Ricky Maalouf started dancing at a late age while at Arizona State University. While starting out dancing at ASU and with various NBA and WNBA teams in Arizona, he also danced with recording artist Yasmeen, who opened for Omarion. He danced for the professional dance company Automatic Response who were featured on Americas Best Dance Crew, opening for My Chemical Romance and Fergie while they also did shows with the Jabbawockeez. However, he quickly developed a true passion for teaching. His teaching has helped with several of his students having danced with artists such as Justin Bieber, Missy Elliot, Billie Eilish, Tate Mcrae and more. In addition, they have been showcased on shows including So You Think You Can Dance, World Of Dance, Dancing with the Stars, Dancing with the Stars Junior, Ellen, Dance Moms, Disney’s Shake It Up, Americas Got Talent and also on Broadway. His choreography has been seen on the Cheer live tour as well having worked with NBA and NFL in addition to several fantastic dance companies, conventions, organizations and Universities. Having worked with countless fantastic choreographers, teachers and students, his work has also resulted in winning Best Hip Hop studio on several occasions amongst oter accolades. Ricky spends most of his time trying to inspire and educate at studios around the country and believes in a high-energy class in which the students work hard while enjoying the process and looks forward to jumping around in class at every opportunity.
Ricky Maalouf started dancing at a late age while at Arizona State University. While starting out dancing at ASU and with various NBA and WNBA teams in Arizona, he also danced with recording artist Yasmeen, who opened for Omarion. He danced for the professional dance company Automatic Response who were featured on Americas Best Dance Crew, opening for My Chemical Romance and Fergie while they also did shows with the Jabbawockeez. However, he quickly developed a true passion for teaching. His teaching has helped with several of his students having danced with artists such as Justin Bieber, Missy Elliot, Billie Eilish, Tate Mcrae and more. In addition, they have been showcased on shows including So You Think You Can Dance, World Of Dance, Dancing with the Stars, Dancing with the Stars Junior, Ellen, Dance Moms, Disney’s Shake It Up, Americas Got Talent and also on Broadway. His choreography has been seen on the Cheer live tour as well having worked with NBA and NFL in addition to several fantastic dance companies, conventions, organizations and Universities. Having worked with countless fantastic choreographers, teachers and students, his work has also resulted in winning Best Hip Hop studio on several occasions amongst oter accolades. Ricky spends most of his time trying to inspire and educate at studios around the country and believes in a high-energy class in which the students work hard while enjoying the process and looks forward to jumping around in class at every opportunity.
Savannah Lynch
Social Media Manager
Savannah started dancing at MLDA as soon as she could walk! When she was 18 she moved to LA to pursue a career in dance!
While living in Los Angeles she found a love for marketing and social media!
She's been working as a full time content creator since 2017!
Now Savannah lives back in Denver CO with her husband Riker Lynch!
Savannah started dancing at MLDA as soon as she could walk! When she was 18 she moved to LA to pursue a career in dance!
While living in Los Angeles she found a love for marketing and social media!
She's been working as a full time content creator since 2017!
Now Savannah lives back in Denver CO with her husband Riker Lynch!
Cheri Janz
Office Manager
Cheri began dancing at age three and teaching dance at age eighteen. She is experienced in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and lyrical. She graduated with honors from Arizona State University with both performance and education degrees in dance, receiving the B.A.E. Outstanding Graduate Award and the Honorary University Dance Theatre's Award of Excellence. Cheri has studied with Martha Graham, Twyla Tharp, Alwin Nikolais and Bill Evans to name a few.
Cheri owned and directed her own dance studio for eleven years, and then founded and directed a student dance company for 16 years. Many of her former students are now teaching and/or dancing professionally. She has organized dance performance tours to California, Florida, the Bahamas and on cruise ships. She has judged dance, talent, and scholarship competitions on both the regional and national levels throughout the United States and Canada.
Cheri has now hung up her dancing shoes, but is happy to still be a part of the dance world by working in the office at MLDA, a studio known for its dedication to excellence, artistry, and positive environment.
Cheri began dancing at age three and teaching dance at age eighteen. She is experienced in ballet, modern, jazz, tap and lyrical. She graduated with honors from Arizona State University with both performance and education degrees in dance, receiving the B.A.E. Outstanding Graduate Award and the Honorary University Dance Theatre's Award of Excellence. Cheri has studied with Martha Graham, Twyla Tharp, Alwin Nikolais and Bill Evans to name a few.
Cheri owned and directed her own dance studio for eleven years, and then founded and directed a student dance company for 16 years. Many of her former students are now teaching and/or dancing professionally. She has organized dance performance tours to California, Florida, the Bahamas and on cruise ships. She has judged dance, talent, and scholarship competitions on both the regional and national levels throughout the United States and Canada.
Cheri has now hung up her dancing shoes, but is happy to still be a part of the dance world by working in the office at MLDA, a studio known for its dedication to excellence, artistry, and positive environment.
Dorothy Peters
Bookkeeper
Dorothy has been doing accounting for over 30 years. She has been the bookkeeper for Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since January of 1996. She was born and grew up in Denver, then moved to the mountains of Cotopaxi, Colorado in August of 2000. Unwillingly to leave the studio, she works from her home office with the staff and all the dance parents closely. She prides herself on keeping everyone informed and tries her best to work with each family on a personal level with their dance finances.
Dorothy has been doing accounting for over 30 years. She has been the bookkeeper for Michelle Latimer Dance Academy since January of 1996. She was born and grew up in Denver, then moved to the mountains of Cotopaxi, Colorado in August of 2000. Unwillingly to leave the studio, she works from her home office with the staff and all the dance parents closely. She prides herself on keeping everyone informed and tries her best to work with each family on a personal level with their dance finances.
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