Dance Express – A Commitment to Excellence

Cathy Downey

Catherine Downey has been in the dance world her whole life. She grew up as a competitive dancer, danced as a pro basketball team dancer, a professional ballerina as well as owning her own dance studio for 18 years. Her love for teaching has been the most rewarding part of her dance career expanding over 35 years of experience. She has taught at dance studios, ballet companies and colleges but what she is most excited about is to continue to foster passion, growth, and a love for dance in students for many years to come. When Cathy isn’t teaching, she is spending her time with her 4 children, granddaughter and husband.

“Kindness is one thing you can’t give away. It always comes back.” —George Skolsky

Dani Steffes

Hi, I’m Dani! I earned my BFA in graphic design with honors (summa cum laude) from Iowa State University, where I also explored my passion for dance. During my time at college, I held leadership positions in various dance groups. Additionally, I was actively involved in unique organizations like Grandma Mojo’s Improv Comedy and the Quidditch Club.

While pursuing my degree, I had the privilege of teaching dance and gymnastics to children through the City of Ames, and I assisted in teaching dance to adults at Mainstream Living. My dedication to dance earned me several prestigious awards, including the Anna R. Toman Dance Award, Charlotte Wilkinson Memorial Award, Iowa State Dance Performing Arts Scholarship, and the Tap ISU Leadership Award.

Since graduating, I’ve been teaching dance, tumbling, and cirque at DXP and applying my design skills as a UX/UI Designer at Fun.com. Originally from Iowa, I relocated to Mankato to pursue my dream of becoming a UX/UI Designer. Dance and tumbling have been lifelong passions of mine since the age of two, and I’m thrilled to continue sharing it with the talented kids at DXP. I genuinely enjoy teaching and building connections with these young dancers and tumblers!

Madison Odziemski

I grew up dancing since the age of seven at Fusion Dance in Red Wing, Minnesota, turning to competitive dance when I turned eleven. I received multiple title awards for my solos, as well as many scholarships. I have traveled to Iowa, Wisconsin, Missouri, and a multitude of places in Minnesota for further dance training and opportunities. This is my second year teaching at DXP, I work with children in grades first through fourth. I currently attend MNSU, Mankato as a sophomore, where I am majoring in social studies education, on track to become a psychology teacher.

WHAT IS DANCE CIRQUE?

🎪 Dance Cirque at Dance Express

Where Imagination Meets Acrobatics!

Step right up and experience the magic of Dance Cirque — a one-of-a-kind program that blends dance, aerial skills, and circus arts into a dynamic and unforgettable class experience. Students build strength, flexibility, confidence, and performance skills while having an absolute blast!

🎭 Dance Cirque (Ages 6 & Up)

Older students take their Cirque experience to the next level! Classes focus on aerial silks, acrobatics, and a variety of exciting circus skills, all taught with proper technique and safety in mind. Students develop strength, flexibility, and artistry as they learn to climb, spin, invert, and perform awe-inspiring tricks. Each class balances structured training with the thrill of performance — empowering students to shine both on the floor and in the air.

WHAT IS LITTLE MONKEYS ALL ABOUT?

Where Imagination Meets Acrobatics!

Step right up and experience the magic of Dance Cirque — a one-of-a-kind program that blends dance, aerial skills, and circus arts into a dynamic and unforgettable class experience. Students build strength, flexibility, confidence, and performance skills while having an absolute blast!

🐒 Little Monkeys (Ages 3–5)

Our Little Monkeys program introduces young movers to the world of Cirque in a playful, supportive environment. Through imaginative games and age-appropriate activities, dancers explore balance, coordination, and basic circus skills. These classes are designed to nurture creativity and build foundational movement skills in a safe and fun setting.

Joseph Svihel

Joseph Svihel
Instructor

Joseph Svihel, born and raised in Minnesota, began dancing at the age of 6 with Southwest School of Dance in Marshall, Minnesota – instructed by Charlotte Wendel. By the age of 12, he started taking classes at River Valley Dance Academy in Chaska, Minnesota. There he studied Ballet, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Jazz, and Modern under the guidance of Kirsten Iiams, Gena Caughey Buckley, Michael Matthew- Ferrell, David Pellinen, and Rachel Svihel. Joe graduated from the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point Class of 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance. He had the wonderful opportunity to perform at the American Dance Festival twice following his graduation. First, in 2019, for their showing of Footprints where he danced Esplanade by Paul Taylor (re-staged by Michael Trusnovec); and then again in 2022 for the premiere of Bender choreographed by George Staib. Joe has recently been accepted into graduate school at the University of Minnesota – Mankato as an MFA Candidate in Dance choreography and performance.

Karli Turner

Karli Turner
Instructor

Karli Turner graduated from Maple Grove Senior High where she was captain on their dance team. She has been a competitive dancer with ballet and pointe as her specialty since the age of 9 years old. She is a student at Minnesota State University Mankato and is a current member of their dance team. Karli has trained under the direction of Ballet Master Katie Johnson for many years and is excited to bring her ballet and technique training to the dancers at Dance Express.

Emily Waldschmidt

Emily Waldschmidt
Instructor

I began dancing at age 2 and danced competitively at The Dance Factory in Forest Lake, MN for 12 years. I have been an assistant teacher and mentor for 5 years. I have trained in and taught all styles that are offered here at Dance Express. I am currently attending school in Mankato studying exercise science. As a teacher here at DXP, I have been amazed with the growth of all our dancers and cannot wait to see what this season brings! :)I started dance at the age of 3 at Hudson Dance Academy in Hudson, WI where I grew up. I danced there competitively for 6 years and trained in ballet, pointe, tap, hip hop, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, and modern dance. I was also on the Hudson High School Varsity dance team where we were Conference Champs, Regional Champs, and State Champs. I was also an All-State Finalist for my self-choreographed solo. I just finished my sophomore year of college at Mankato State University where I major in Marketing. I love teaching children of all ages and love sharing the love of dance with them all!

Katie Navara

Katie Navara
Instructor

I began dancing at age 2 and danced competitively at The Dance Factory in Forest Lake, MN for 12 years. I have been an assistant teacher and mentor for 5 years. I have trained in and taught all styles that are offered here at Dance Express. I am currently attending school in Mankato studying exercise science. As a teacher here at DXP, I have been amazed with the growth of all our dancers and cannot wait to see what this season brings! 🙂

Emma Forsyth

Emma Forsyth
Instructor

My name is Emma Forsyth and I’m so excited to share my love of dance with Dance Express. I am currently a student at Gustavus Adolphus College and plan to double major or minor in dance. I have been dancing for ten years, with the last eight years competitively. My favorite style of dance is musical theatre.

Karenna Ruley

Karenna Ruley
Instructor

- - - - Karenna Ruley has been dancing at Dance Express for 15 years. She has been an assistant for 7 years, and has moved up as an instructor. She is a dedicated, passionate teacher that holds her students growth and dance education to high standards. She also helps out in the office, and is an instructor for the birthday parties here at Dance Express. Karenna has also been a mentor for 5 years and a member of the National Honor Society, Dance Arts. She is currently in her senior year at Mankato East High School. In addition, she is a Senior at

Jaydan Kaehler

Jaydan Kaehler
Instructor

Maddie Stuart

Maddie Stuart
Instructor

- - E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Karenna Ruley

Karenna Ruley
Instructor

- E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Mykayla Rasmussen

Mykayla Rasmussen
Instructor

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Dani Eustice

Dani Eustice
Instructor

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Rhiannon Lasch

Rhiannon Lasch
Instructor

I began dancing at Dance Tech studios at the age of 3, then moved to Dance Factory in forest lake, MN, and finally finished my high school dance career at Northern Force Dance Company in Blaine MN. I have trained in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz and lyrical, contemporary, and more. While dancing in the studio I was on the Forest Lake Dance Team for 4 years. After high school, I then came to Mankato, where I was on the MSUDT for a year, competing at UDA nationals in both Pom and Jazz. After my year there I transferred to the University of Minnesota, where I was on the premiere dance team for 2 years which is the club team there, we competed at a smaller UDA competition in Minneapolis. While attending school at U of MN, I coached the Forest Lake dance team JV jazz and kick. I am now attending MSU, and double majoring in criminal justice and psychology.

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Molly Kay Stoltz

Molly Kay Stoltz
Instructor

- - - - Molly Kay Stoltz is a performing artist specializing in rhythmic dance forms and music/dance collaborations. She currently performs with Zorongo Flamenco Dance Theater under Susana DiPalma as a flamenco dancer, with Flying Foot Forum under Joe Chvala as a dancer/singer/actor, and with Kaleena Miller Dance under Kaleena Miller as a tap dancer. She has presented choreography at the Bryant Lake Bowl and the Off-Leash Area Art Box, was the first virtual Hinge Artist in Residence in Fergus Falls through Springboard for the Arts, and is currently a member of the Certamen Artist Development Program through Flamenco Vivo in NYC. A UMN summa BFA Dance graduate, she now teaches the tap program at her alma mater and to other youth and adult students in the Mankato area.
        
        E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Marissa Starkey

Marissa Starkey
Instructor

- - - - Marissa has been an instructor at Dance Express since 2018. She grew up in the studio dancing from the age of three up until she graduated in 2018. She is currently a Junior at the University of Minnesota, and a third year member of the U of M dance team. She loves all styles of dance, but her favorite style would have to be lyrical. Marissa is so grateful to be a part of the Dance Express fam. She loves teaching and sharing her passion for dance with her students!

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Jasmine Poupore

Jasmine Poupore
Instructor

- - - - Jasmine has been an instructor at Dance Express since 2019. She grew up in South Korea and Canada, moving to the United States at age 13 and training in the studio ever since. She graduated in 2019 and is currently living in Minneapolis studying as a second year at Mankato State University. She has always had a passion for choreography and loves all styles of dance but her favorite styles are contemporary and funk jazz. Jasmine is beyond grateful to be a part of the DXP FAM and always will be. She loves teaching, sharing the love of dance and most of all, being a positive supporter for all of the dancers!

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Shelby Voight

Shelby Voight
Instructor

- - - - Shelby Voight Shelby has been a tumbling instructor at Dance Express since 2018. She is currently a second-year graduate student at Minnesota State University, Mankato where she is pursuing a career in speech-language pathology. She previously worked at Mankato Area Gymnastics School (MAGS) for 3 years teaching classes, coaching four competitive teams, and doing private lessons. She has continued to research drills, techniques, and ways to spot in order to help dancers continue to reach their tumbling goals. Whether your dancer has tumbled before or not, she can’t wait to work with them and see what this season brings!
        
        E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Allie Wilson

Allie Wilson
Instructor

- E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Natasha Friedges

Natasha Friedges
Instructor

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Peter Snyder

Peter Snyder
Instructor

Peter Snyder Peter Snyder quote – “One can never perfect ballet. There is always something to do better.” Peter had been dancing for 11 years when he joined the Dance Express faculty. He started in 2009 at Dance Express. Since then, he has gone on to dance across the country. For most of his time dancing Annmarie Drake was his director. He has had training in many forms of dance including Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, and Ballet. He has competed in YAGP three times with classical variations. He now dances at Ballet Royale Minnesota under Rick Vogt, and he is very excited to teach.

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Annmarie Carlson Drake

Annemarie Carlson Drake
Instructor

Annmarie trained in Chicago with Ed Parish and Larry Long and at the legendary Stone-Camryn School of Ballet, followed by study in NYC (Finis Jung, David Howard, Maggie Black), London (Anna Northcote) and Paris (Raymond Franchetti, Gilbert Mayer). She has a BFA from Butler University with a dance major, music and theatre minors. After dancing briefly with Ruth Page’s Chicago Ballet, like many of her contemporaries she turned to Europe for a career, dancing in the German opera companies of Oldenburg, Osnabrück, Hagen, and Kiel .

Annmarie taught in leading dance academies in Frankfurt, Germany and Graz, Austria. In Minneapolis, she was on the faculty of the professional division of Northwest Ballet and Minnesota Dance Theatre.
In 1986, she was one of a dozen dancers/choreographers/teachers chosen by the Citizens’ Exchange Council to visit the then Soviet Union, meeting with professional counterparts in Moscow and Leningrad (St. Petersburg). As a choreographer, Ms. Drake is known for her reinterpretation of the classics, and use of multimedia. Her choreography has been presented at the Theater Kiel, Walker Art Center, and the Minnesota Dance Festival at the Fitzgerald Theater in St. Paul. E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Megan Hanly

Megan Hanly
Instructor

Megan grew up dancing in Mankato and graduated from MSU with a Bachelor’s Degree in French and English. Her plan was to teach high school until she realized teaching dance was her true passion. She taught dance for 5 years before taking a break to be home with her kids, but now she couldn’t be happier to be back in the studio. She has experience teaching all ages from toddler to adult in all styles at the recreational and competitive level. Her favorite thing in the world is sharing her passion for dance with her students and watching their own passion develop and grow.

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Madison Klein

Madison Klein
Instructor

Dance Express is so excited to welcome “Miss Madison” to our teaching staff! Madison comes with a variety of experiences, including being current captain of the Minnesota State Mankato Dance Team. She trained at Bridget’s Dance Conservatory (Austin, MN) for many years where she currently choreographs and teaches. She is a welcomed home town favorite instructor. Madison is versed in all styles dance, with Contemporary and Jazz being her strongest. She is anxious to work with the talented DXP dancers.

Nick Wayne

Nick Wayne
Music Director

Nick Wayne is a 2002 graduate of Bethany Lutheran College, where he majored in Music. In May 2004 he earned his Master of Music Degree in Vocal Performance from Minnesota State Mankato, and has taught as an adjunct faculty at Minnesota State Mankato, Gustavus Adolphus College and Bethany Lutheran College. In addition, he served as Musical Director for MSU’s Mainstage productions of Man of La Mancha, Urinetown and Beauty and the Beast plus Highland Summer Theatre

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Kallie Miller

Kallie Miller
Instructor

Kallie specializes in many styles including: jazz, ballet, pointe, contemporary, lyrical, hip hop, high kick, and pom. Her training includes River Valley Dance Academy in Chaska, MN and The Dance Warehouse in Chanhassen, MN. She is a former captain of the Chanhassen High School Dance Team and presently a 3rd year of coaching the JV team. Kallie is a 4th year member of the National Champs, Maverick Dance Team, has served as a captain for 3 years. Kallie is very energetic and has a true passion for dance.

Megan Fuerstenberg

Megan Fuerstenberg
Instructor

Megan Fuerstenberg has been an instructor at Dance Express since 2018. She grew up dancing in Savage, Minnesota and has been dancing for 7 years. She was on the competition team of her studio for five years and was an assistant teacher for three years. She has studied many styles of dance including contemporary, lyrical, jazz, tap, hip hop, musical theater and ballet. She currently attends MSU and plans on majoring in K-12 dance education and minoring in marketing. Dance has been a huge part of her life and she loves to share her passion of dance with others

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

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Wiggle Wednesday (18 months & up) FREE class for 18 months and up! Listen to a Story and WIGGLE OUT! First Wednesday of Each Month (September to May): 10:00-10:30 am. Click here to register for a FREE class.

Brennon Madrid
Artistic Director

Meet the new ARTISTIC DIRECTOR! Brennon Madrid is a native Coloradoan where he trained under the direction of Lyndzi Barnes at the critically acclaimed “Summit Danceworks” in Colorado Springs. He is a graduate of “KU” (University of Kansas) earning a degree in dance. Brennon has had the privilege of working with Thodos Dance Chicago, Lindsay Hawkins from MADCO in St. Louis, LaneCoArts, Justin Giles from Soulescape and most recently a full-time dancer/performer with Regina Klenjoski Company.

Pom Class (Grade K-6)

Students will learn team building skills along with Fun Pom style dancing and cheers. Develop self-confidence, meet new friends, and have fun! This class performs 1 dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (1 hr./week)

Dancing Kids Hip Hop (Grade 3-6)

Dancin Kids Hip Hop (Grade 3-6) : For the dancer who can’t get enough hip hop! This is a 30-minute class that explores the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. Each class perform 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Jazz (Grade K-2)

Dancin Kids Jazz (Grade K-2) : Jazz. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 jazz dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Ballet (Grade 3-6)

Dancin Kids Ballet (Grade 3-6) : This is an introductory class containing fun and basic movements of ballet. Ballet basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. This class introduces young dancers to the beginning steps of ballet skills. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back. 30 min class: $36/month, 1 hour: $47/month (35% discount). Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Tap (Grade K-2)

Dancin Kids Tap (Grade K-2) : Tap. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 tap dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back. Greater discount for additional classes!

Marissa Starkey

Paige Tomasko

Paige Tomasko
Instructor

Paige Tomasko has been a dance instructor at Dance Express since Spring 2018. She trained for 15 years at NRG Dance Center/Kincade Dance Industries, and was a dance mentor for three years while at the studio. Paige has trained in jazz, tap, ballet, pointe, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, and hip hop. She grew up in Maple Grove, Minnesota and was on the Maple Grove Dance Team (MGDT) for 5 years. She was captain her senior year, and won two state championships in jazz while with the team. She is a senior at Minnesota State University Mankato and is on the Maverick dance team for the 2018-2019 season. Paige loves to dance and loves helping others discover and express their own passion for dance.

Danielle Goetz

Danielle Goetz
Instructor

Danielle has been dancing for as long as she can remember, enjoying all styles. She grew up dancing in Saint Cloud, MN with Company North Crest where she trained in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, modern, and hip hop. Danielle was also on a dance team for three years for a semi-pro football team, the Granite City Renegades. She attended college at Mankato State University, Mankato where she received a talent grant for her dancing, and was able to continue her training in modern, improv, ballet, tap, jazz, partnering, and Afro-Cuban. Danielle graduated with honors and a BS in Dance, along with Health and Physical Education. For the last four years she was an instructor and choreographer at Sharri’s School of Dance in Waseca, MN where her main concentrations were with hip hop and competitive dance. Danielle has a daughter named Adeline, and teaches Health and Physical Education for the WEM school district in Morristown, MN for grades 5-8.

Adult Tap

A fun and engaging tap class for adults of all experience and ages. If you’ve ever thought tapping would be fun, this is your chance to try!

Adult Hip Hop

A great way for adults to break a sweat and bust a move. You’ll love this high energy class that torches away calories!

Hippity Hop (Ages 4-5)

This class will explore the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. Each Hip Hop Extra class will perform 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Tiny Tappers, Tippy Toes & Broadway Babies classes to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Guitar (Age 7 & up)

Guitar (Age 7 & up): This class focuses on learning simple chords and songs in a short time. Students must have a guitar for the class and for practicing. We recommend purchasing a guitar, since buying a beginner-level guitar is nearly the same cost as renting. (30 min./week, Classes are held at Music Express at 110 W Dukes St)

Voice (Age 7 & up)

Voice (Age 7 & up): Basic vocal techniques are taught in a fun and comfortable environment. (30 min./week, Classes are held at Music Express at 110 W Dukes St)

Piano (Age 7 & up)

Piano (Age 7 & up): Basic piano skills are taught in a fun and comfortable environment. Piano (Keyboards) will be provided for the class. (30 min./week, Classes are held at Music Express at 110 W Dukes St)

Music Fun Time Level 2 (Ages 4-7)

Music Fun Time Level 2 (Ages 4-7): Come explore the world of music fun time. All students are introduced to Piano, Guitar, Percussion, Violin, Bells, Kazoos, Flutophone and Recorders. Your child works on music theory with fun materials, artistic music crafts, performances, and homework and learns fundamentals of music theory for the magical math and science connection. We’ll teach children to read music in the same manners they are taught letters, numbers, colors, shapes, etc. (30 min./week, Classes are held at Music Express at 110 W Dukes St)

Music Fun For Preschool (18 months - 5 years old)

Music Fun Time for Preschool (18 months – 5 years old) : Come explore the world of music fun time. All students are introduced to Piano, Guitar, Percussion, Violin, Bells, Kazoos, Flutophone and Recorders. Your child works on music theory with fun materials, artistic music crafts, performances, and homework and learns fundamentals of music theory for the magical math and science connection. We teach children to read music in the same manners they are taught letters, numbers, colors, shapes, etc. (30 min./week, Classes are held at Music Express at 110 W Dukes St)

Couples Classes (Adult & Teens)

Couples Classes (Adult & Teens) : Adult & Teens! This class is a perfect excuse to get out of the house and have some fun! Grab a friend, spouse, or neighbor to learn classic Ballroom dance. You’ll be the star attraction at your next wedding dance or event.

Private Classes

Private Lessons (Grade K-12 & Adult) : A private lesson allows us to work one-on-with you to achieve your goals at your own pace and with the privacy that some prefer. Private lessons can be scheduled through our private lesson scheduling link. (30 min./lesson)

Open Studio (Grade 1-12)

Open Studio (Grade 1-12) : Open studio is self-led dance practice time to practice you have learned and you have wanted to try. Explore all the process of self-led dance movement. Come to the open studio and enjoy dancing fun time with your friends and other dancers. This class does not include any instruction or supervision, so dancers need to be old and skillful enough to practice dances and not allowed to do something in an unsafe manner. (2 hr/week, $5/each)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12) : Explore all the process of spontaneously creating movement. This class helps dancers boost confidence, encourage self-discovery, improve musicality, aid performance recovery and inspire choreography from incorporating improvisation into practice. (30 min./week)

Accelerated Tap (ages 9+) : This accelerated class will move at an intermediate pace and level. It will incorporate Tap Technique, skills and moves. The class will get to learn combinations and choreography in the styles of Tap. They will perform 1 Tap routine in the recital. This class is great for recreational dancers that are ready to take their dancing to the next level. You can have 0+ years of dance experience to start our accelerated rec program!

Accelerated Rec Jazz/Lyrical (ages 9+) : This accelerated class will move at an intermediate pace and level. It will incorporate Jazz and Lyrical Technique, skills and work on flexibility. The class will get to learn combinations and choreography in the styles of Jazz and Lyrical. They will perform 2 routines in the recital, one Jazz routine and one Lyrical routine. This class is great for any recreational dancers that are ready to take their dancing to the next level. You can have 0+ years of dance experience to start our accelerated rec program!

Dancin Teens Lyrical (Grade 7-12)

Dancin Teens Lyrical (Grade 7-12) : This class is designed for dancers looking to expand their dance knowledge. Dancers learn the tools of connecting their movement and emotions to music. Each lyrical class performs 1 routine in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Teens Tap, Jazz & Hip Hop to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Accelerated Hip-Hop (ages 9+): This class will focus on rhythm through hip-hop choreography and combinations along with working on beginner to intermediate hip-hop tricks and choreography. They will perform 1 Hip-Hop routine in the recital. Learn the coolest moves and skills to share with your friends and family. This class is great for recreational dancers that are ready to take their dancing to the next level. You can have 0+ years of dance experience to start our accelerated rec program!

Open Studio (Grade 1-12)

Open Studio (Grade 1-12) : Open studio is self-led dance practice time to practice you have learned and you have wanted to try. Explore all the process of self-led dance movement. Come to the open studio and enjoy dancing fun time with your friends and other dancers. This class does not include any instruction or supervision, so dancers need to be old and skillful enough to practice dances and not allowed to do something in an unsafe manner. (2 hr/week, $5/each)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12) : Explore all the process of spontaneously creating movement. This class helps dancers boost confidence, encourage self-discovery, improve musicality, aid performance recovery and inspire choreography from incorporating improvisation into practice. (30 min./week)

Gymnastic for Dance (Grade K-6)

Gymnastic for Dance (Grade K-6) : This class is for dancers to learn the proper techniques and skills used for tumbling. The class works on, but is not limited to, cartwheels, walkovers, handsprings, and aerials. Since this is not a performance based class, the instructor can use the entire class to help perfect tumbling skills. (60 min./week)

Musical Theater (Grade K-6)

Musical Theater (Grade K-6) : Come and explore the world of theater from a dancer’s perspective. Sing, Dance to your favorite musicals. Each Musical Theater class performs 1 dance in the spring recital with the addition of the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Boys Hip Hop (Grade K-3)

Boys Hip Hop (Grade K-3) : Dance isn’t just for girls! The class includes hip-hop, break dancing, and more. Learn new moves and some cool tricks to impress all of your friends. Recital performances are optional and there is no required registration fee. Each Hip Hop/Break Dancing class performs 1 dance in the spring recital with the addition of the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Lyrical 5th-6th Gr.

Dancin Kids Lyrical 5th-6th Gr. (Grade 5-6) : This class is designed for dancers looking to expand their dance knowledge. Dancers learn the tools of connecting their movement and emotions to music. Each lyrical class performs 1 routine in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Hip Hop 5th-6th Gr.

Dancin Kids Hip Hop 5th-6th Gr. (Grade 5-6) : For the dancer who can’t get enough hip hop! This class that explores the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. each class performs 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Jazz 5th-6th Gr.

Dancin Kids Jazz 5th-6th Gr. (Grade 5-6) : Jazz. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids Jazz classes perform 1 jazz dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Tap 5th-6th Gr.

Dancin Kids Tap 5th-6th Gr. (Grade 5-6) : Tap. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 tap dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Lyrical (Grade 3-6)

Dancin Kids Lyrical (Grade 3-6) : This class is designed for dancers looking to expand their dance knowledge. Dancers learn the tools of connecting their movement and emotions to music. Each lyrical class performs 1 routine in the spring recital.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Hip Hop to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Hip Hop 3rd-4th Gr.

Dancin Kids Hip Hop 3rd-4th Gr. (Grade 3-4) : For the dancer who can’t get enough hip hop! This class explores the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. each class perform 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Jazz (Grade 3-6)

Dancin Kids Jazz (Grade 3-6) : Jazz. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 jazz dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Tap 3rd-4th Gr.

Dancin Kids Tap 3rd-4th Gr. (Grade 3-4) : Tap. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 tap dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Open Studio (Grade 1-12)

Open Studio (Grade 1-12) : Open studio is self-led dance practice time to practice you have learned and you have wanted to try. Explore all the process of self-led dance movement. Come to the open studio and enjoy dancing fun time with your friends and other dancers. This class does not include any instruction or supervision, so dancers need to be old and skillful enough to practice dances and not allowed to do something in an unsafe manner. (2 hr/week)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12)

Improv Class (Grade 1-12) : Explore all the process of spontaneously creating movement. This class helps dancers boost confidence, encourage self-discovery, improve musicality, aid performance recovery and inspire choreography from incorporating improvisation into practice. (30 min./week)

Gymnastic for Dance (Grade K-6)

Gymnastic for Dance (Grade K-6) : This class is for dancers to learn the proper techniques and skills used for tumbling. The class works on, but is not limited to, cartwheels, walkovers, handsprings, and aerials. Since this is not a performance based class, the instructor can use the entire class to help perfect tumbling skills. (60 min./week)

Musical Theater (Grade K-6)

Musical Theater (Grade K-6) : Come and explore the world of theater from a dancer’s perspective. Sing, Dance to your favorite musicals. Each Musical Theater class perform 1 dance in the spring recital with the addition of the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Boys Hip Hop (Grade K & Up)

Boys Hip Hop (Grade K-3) : Dance isn’t just for girls! The class includes hip-hop, break dancing, and more. Learn new moves and some cool tricks to impress all of your friends. Recital performances are optional and there is no required registration fee. Each Hip Hop/Break Dancing class performs 1 dance in the spring recital with the addition of the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Man-in-Motion (Ages 4-8)

Man-in-Motion (Ages 4-8) : Beginning level “combination class” of Tap and Jazz for boys only. No experience required. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Lyrical (Grade 1-2)

Dancin Kids Lyrical (Grade 1-2) : This class is designed for dancers looking to expand their dance knowledge. Dancers learn the tools of connecting their movement and emotions to music. Each lyrical class performs 1 routine in the spring recital.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Hip Hop to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Hip Hop (Grade K-2)

Dancin Kids Hip Hop (Grade K-2) : For the dancer who can’t get enough hip hop! This is a 30-minute class that explores the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. Each class perform 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Hip Hop Kindergarten

Dancin Kids Hip Hop Kindergarten: For the dancer who can’t get enough hip hop! This is a 30-minute class that explores the world of hip hop using street inspired steps and music. Each class perform 1 hip hop routine in the spring recital.

Dancin Kids Jazz

Dancin Kids Jazz Kindergarten-2nd Gr. (Grade K-2) : Jazz. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 jazz dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance.

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back. 30 min class: $36/month, 1 hour: $47/month (35% discount). Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Tap (Grade 3-6)

Dancin Kids Tap (Grade 3-6) : Tap. Basic skills include the DXP curriculum, learning correct vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Dancing Kids classes perform 1 tap dance in the spring recital as well as the group finale dance. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Ballet (Grade K-2)

Dancin Kids Ballet (Grade K-2) : This is an introductory class containing fun and basic movements of ballet. Ballet basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. This class introduces young dancers to the beginning steps of ballet skills. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Dancin Kids Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop & Lyrical to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Dancin Kids Kindergarten (Grade K)

Dancin Kids Kindergarten (Grade K) : Jazz. Basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including dance vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. The class performs one jazz dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Dancin Kids Kindergarten (Grade K)

Dancin Kids Kindergarten (Grade K) : Tap. Basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including dance vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. The class performs one tap dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Birthday Parties

🎉 Themed Birthday Parties at DXP! 🎉

Get ready for DXP to throw the best birthday bash ever for your child! 🥳
The studio will be open 25 minutes before your scheduled party so you can set up any extra décor or goodies. Then, sit back and let us handle the rest — pizza, pop, cake, and ice cream are all included! 🍕🥤🍰🍦

What’s not included?
You’re welcome to bring little goody bags or party favors for your guests if you’d like!

🎈 Party Packages:

Available Saturdays or Sundays
2-hour parties
$250 for up to 10 children
$15 for each additional child
Birthday child is FREE 🎁

Your party includes set up, clean up, and everything in between: exclusive use of our party room, delicious treats, and your choice of fun themes to make your child’s day truly unforgettable ✨

Is there any way we can add a button for Parties? I’ve attached a button. If we need to we could eliminate the dance cirque button, as long as we have the links during the classes down below.

Private Lessons

You are signing up for a private lesson! A private lesson allows us to work one-on-one with you on your goals at your own pace, with the privacy that some prefer.

Please only sign up for 1- 30min private per week (total) unless discussed with instructor. Click here to register.

Man-in-Motion

Man-in-Motion (Ages 4-8) : Beginning level “combination class” of Tap and Jazz for boys only. No experience required. (30 min./week)

Broadway Babies

Broadway Babies (Ages 3-5) : Discover your little dancer’s love of musical theater. Dancers sing, dance, and act using popular show tunes. All Broadway Babies classes perform one dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Tippy Toes, Tiny Tappers, & Hippity Hop classes to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Tippy Toes

Tippy Toes (Ages 4-5): Ballet. Basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including ballet vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. Tippy Toes classes perform one ballet dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Tiny Tappers, Hippity Hop & Broadway Babies classes to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back.Greater discount for additional classes!

Tiny Tappers

Tiny Tappers (Ages 4-5) : Tap. Basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including dance vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. All Tiny Tappers classes perform one tap dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Typically, Dancers add Tippy Toes, Hippity Hop & Broadway Babies classes to their class schedule. These classes are conveniently scheduled back to back. Greater discount for additional classes!

Tutus & Bowties

Ballet. Basic skills from our DXP curriculum are introduced including proper ballet vocabulary, stretches, and fundamentals. Tutus & Bowties classes perform one ballet dance and the group finale in our spring recital. (30 min./week)

Baby Take a Bow

Baby Take a Bow (Ages 2-3) : Creative movement! Dancers learn basic stretching, gross motor skills (i.e.: skipping, jumping, hopping) as well as exploring your child’s own creative expression through music and props. For unsure little ones, parents are encouraged to stay until child feels comfortable.

Baby Take a Bow classes have the OPTION to be included in the spring recital. (30 min./week)

Dance with Me

Dance with Me! (18 months & up) : Come explore the world of song and dance with this interactive parent (care giver) /toddler class. Dancers learn basic stretching, gross motor skills (i.e.: skipping, jumping, hopping) as well as exploring your child’s own creative expression through music and props. Older siblings are welcome to join the fun at no additional charge. (30 min./week)

Alanna Smith

Alanna Smith
Instructor

Alanna has been an instructor at Dance Express since 2017. She grew up dancing in Bloomington, Minnesota and has been dancing for 15 years. She was on the competition team at her studio for 3 years and was an assistant teacher for 3 years! She has studied many styles of dance including tap, ballet, pointe, jazz, lyrical, kick, and contemporary. She is currently getting a degree in dance and in marketing at MSU. She has a passion for learning, dancing, and teaching and loves sharing it with her students!

E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Olivia Weisbecker

Olivia Weisbecker
Instructor

Olivia is the Competition Team Director here at Dance Express. She is a talented choreographer who has won many choreography awards at National Competitions. She specializes in Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Hip Hop. Dance has always been her passion. She started teaching her senior year of High School, while also being a dancer herself here at the studio. Olivia thoroughly enjoys being a part of our DXP family, and prides herself on pushing our dancers to their greatest potential. Dancing has helped shape her as a human being, as well as an artist, and she is motivated by teaching students the artistic beauty of dance and the lifelong lessons that come with it.

Email: Olivia@DanceExpressMankato.com

Kaylee Diefenderfer

Kaylee Diefenderfer
Instructor

Kaylee Diefenderfer has been a dance instructor at Dance Express since 2017. Kaylee danced at Dance Express for 15 years, became an alumni, and then became a teacher. From a young age Kaylee had a passion for dance. Through being an assistant teacher in high school, and working numerous camps she fell in love with teaching. She maintains a positive classroom atmosphere and encourages students to do there best. In high school she was in National Honor Society, National Honor Society of the Dance Arts, and graduated high school as Salutatorian of her class. Most recently, she has been on the Deans List at Minnesota State University, Mankato. Kaylee has trained in numerous styles, although she has a special spot in her heart for tap!

Emily Navara

Emily Navara
Instructor

Emily Navara has been a dance instructor at Dance Express since 2016. Emily could not be more in love with her job and who she get to share it with! She has been dancing for 17 years, was an assistant teacher for 6 years. She was trained in jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, musical theater, hip-hop, pom, and kick. She grew up in Forest Lake, MN where she danced at a competitive studio called The Dance Factory and was apart of the Forest Lake Dance Team for 4 years. She danced for the dance team here at MSU for 2 years where she received a national championship title in 2016.
E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Kristin Elsbernd

Kristin Elsbernd
Instructor

Kristin Elsbernd has graduated from Minnesota State University, Mankato. She has received her Exercise Science Major and Dance Minor and soon will be heading off to get her master’s degree. She previously studied dance at Woodbury Dance Center and competed with them for 9 years. Kristin was also Captain of Senior Company for her team. She loves to take workshops to expand her dance knowledge.

Dana Duberry

Dana Duberry
Instructor

Dana Duberry has been a dance instructor at Dance Express since 2015. She trained at Dance Express for 15 years prior to her teaching career. From assisting over four years, helping Donna in the office, and working multiple camps throughout the summer she has gained expertise and a passion for teaching. During high school, she was a captain for her Dance Team at Mankato West High School. In addition, she was on the National Honor Society for two years and has been listed on the Deans List at Minnesota State University Mankato. Dana is very enthusiastic about her teaching and loves making everyone feel welcomed.
E-mail: Info@DanceExpressMankato.com

Nicole Busch

Nicole Busch
Recreational Program Director

Nicole Busch (Mueller) has been a dance instructor at Dance Express since 2011 and has grown up dancing at the studio since age 3. Along with teaching, she oversees our recital based classes and coordinates many of our summer camps. Nicole graduated with honors from MSU Mankato with a bachelor’s degree in Art. She is also a graphic designer for Tailwind Group in Mankato and loves being able to share both her love for dance and graphic design with Dance Express.

E-mail: Nicole@DanceExpressMankato.com

Jessica Alstad

Jessica Alstad
Ballet Director

Jessica Alstad Ballet Director Jessica Alstad has been teaching graded ballet and pointe classes more than a decade. She began her training at Southwest School of Dance, Marshall, MN. During her high school career, she competed at the regional and national level for Dance Olympus and Statewide Dance Competitions in ballet, jazz, tap, musical theater, lyrical, and modern dance. She received several elite titles in solos, duets and small groups at Dance Olympus Nationals. Highlight performances included coveted roles as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Clara in the school’s annual Nutcracker production, which she performed alongside professional company members of Minnesota Dance Theatre, Duluth. While on a Dance Management scholarship to Oklahoma City University, she completed a two-year tenure and performed with the OCU Spirit Dance Company and Liturgical Dance Company, under the artistic direction of Jo Rowan. Coursework for her dance minor was completed at Minnesota State University, Mankato where she performed with MSU’s Theatre and Dance Department in their bi-annual student showcase. Currently, Jessica continues her dance education at Zenon Dance Company, as well as performs, choreographs, and teaches at Fine Arts School of Ballet, Mankato. Her choreography has been performed at the historic Fitzgerald Theatre in St. Paul and displayed in productions of the Nutcracker, Miracle on 34th Street The Ballet and multiple community-based stage shows. Jessica believes ballet is the root of all dance genres and strives to instill in her students the importance of controlled technique, strong dance vocabulary, and appreciation for classical artistry.

E-mail: Jessica@danceexpressmankato.com

Donna Panzer

Donna Panzer
Office Manager

For over 25 years Donna has managed the DXP office. She is the “glue” that holds Dance Express together. She is always calm, cool and collected and seems to always have the answer to every question. Parents love her and the students adore her. Donna has one daughter, Sara. She has danced with DXP starting at the age of 4 and continued through her graduation performance & senior solo. Donna is a founding board member of Dancing with the Mankato Stars. She is passionate about giving back to the community and making Mankato an all around better place to live!

E-mail: Donna@ManceExpressMankato.com

Jennifer James

Jennifer James
Artistic Director – Competitive Line Instructor

Jennifer is the Artistic Director for Dance Express and was born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD where she trained and taught at Main Stage Ballet and Dance Academy. In high school, she was a part of her schools Dance Team and outside of school and studio dance, she competed in dance and cheer on an All Star Competitive team. Along with dance, she was involved in sports such as basketball and track & field. Jennifer received her B.S. in Dance and Sports Medicine from Minnesota State University-Mankato in 2011 and while there she danced for 4 years on the MSU Dance Team, as well as performed and choreographed for several of the Dance Departments concerts. Jennifer has been a company member of Breaking Boundaries Dance, Threads Dance Project, has worked with The Ordway on their production of “Cinderella,” and currently dances with Borealis Dance. Jennifer has won First overalls and Choreography awards at Masquerade Dance Competition, Triple S Dance Competition, Majestic Dance Competition, Legacy Dance Championship, and Midwest Starz National Competition. She feels so fortunate to have the opportunity to teach, inspire, and continue to develop such amazing dancers.

E-mail: Jen@danceexpressmankato.com

Mitzi Roberts

Mitzi Roberts
Director

Mitzi Roberts is Owner/Director of Dance Express and is a native to Mankato, Minnesota. She has been a dance educator for over 30 years. She is a member of the Professional Dance Teachers Association and is certified through Dance Educators of America (Western Kentucky University, Bowling Green) She is proud and honored to a member of the “More Than Just Great Dancing” affiliation. Her field of expertise is Tap and also specializes in preschool dance but enjoys teaching all styles and ages. Her students have won numerous awards at both the regional and national level. She has enjoyed choreographing for the local high school musicals including Mankato West, Mankato East, and Mankato Loyola. In 2012 she founded “Dancing with the Mankato Stars” which is a celebrity fundraiser, raising over $650,000 for the American Red Cross and continues to be an active producer and board member. In 2015 she founded the “Angels of Breast Cancer” which is a non-profit group committed to providing emotional and financial support to women and men going through treatments of breast cancer. Mitzi is a cancer survivor and is determined to use this minor set back as a way to educate and give back to the community. She is also a busy Mother of 2. She feels blessed to have so many wonderful people in her life that help to make Dance Express such a leader in the dance community.

Mitzi is available for consult for questions or concerns about your child’s dance education.
E-mail: Mitzi@DanceExpressMankato.com

Exciting Things are Happening at Dance Express!

Download Our Studio Info Kit and Class Schedule

Download Our Studio Info Kit and Class Schedule

WHAT WE BELIEVE

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Happy Parents and Dancers

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