Classical Conservatory
The KJ Dance Classical Conservatory program is definitive architectural blueprint for pre-professional dancer development, aligning internal mastery with internationally recognized standards to prepare students for professional company placement and prestigious trainee programs.
The KJ Dance Classical Conservatory is an elite pre-professional ballet training program specifically designed for the dedicated homeschooled student. By utilizing a daytime schedule, we provide an environment that mirrors the intense training requirements and artistic rigor of international professional ballet academies.
Program Philosophy & Schedule Structure
To develop the "Complete Dancer," the Conservatory provides a multifaceted curriculum that supports and enhances classical ballet technique. Conservatory dancers will train Monday through Thursday with a primary focus in Ballet and Pointe with additional studies in Pilates, Stretch & Strength, Injury Prevention, Jazz, Contemporary, Modern, Tap, Ballroom and Hip Hop.
Comprehensive Curriculum
This progression matrix serves as the architectural blueprint for the dancer's development. By aligning our internal levels with internationally recognized standards, we ensure our grading is transparent, rigorous, and instantly translatable to guest master teachers, international competition judges, and elite summer intensive audition panels.
General Pedagogical Roadmap
If you have questions or would like to schedule a virtual consultation with KJ Dance Artistic Director Audrea Cowan and Classical Conservatory Ballet Director Alfonsina Treneman, please email kjdancedesigns@gmail.com. We would be delighted to discuss the program, answer your questions, and help determine if the Classical Conservatory is the right fit for your dancer.
Conservatory Questions & Consultations
For dancers with a serious interest in the program, we invite you to experience our training through one of our pre-launch trial classes. Advance RSVP is required by emailing kjdancedesigns@gmail.com
Prospective Dancer Trial Classes
MONDAYS
12:30 - 2:00 - Ballet with Alfonsina Treneman
2:00 - 3:00 - Pointe with Alfonsina Treneman
3:00 - 3:30 - Optional Variation rehearsal with Alfonsina Treneman
TUESDAYS
9:00 - 9:30 - Conditioning/Stretch/Floor Barre with Alfonsina Treneman
10:00 - 11:30 - Ballet with Alfonsina Treneman
11:30 - 12:30 - Pointe with Alfonsina Treneman
12:30 - Lunch
1:00 - 2:30 - Ballroom with Sue Benn (Weeks 1/3/5 Of The Month)
OR
1:00 - 2:30 - Strech & Strength with Vita Bachman (Weeks 2/4 of the Month)
2:30 - 3:30 - Optional Variation rehearsal with Alfonsina Treneman
WEDNESDAYS
10:00 - 12:00 - Contemporary/Improv/Phrase Work with Sarah Noland
12:30 - 2:00 - Ballet with Alfonsina Treneman
2:00 - 3:00 - Pointe with Alfonsina Treneman
3:00 - 3:30 - Optional Variation rehearsal with Alfonsina Treneman
THURSDAYS
10:00 - 12:00 - Ballet/Pointe with Peter Chursin
12:00 - Lunch
12:30 - 2:30 - Pilates/Stretch/Audition Skills/Jazz with Brooke Wendle
2:30 - 3:30 - Optional Variation rehearsal with Peter Chursin (Weeks 1/3/5 of the month)
OR
9:00 - 10:00 Optional Variations Rehearsal with Peter
10:00 - 12:00 Ballet/Pointe with Peter Chursin
12:00 Lunch
12:30 - 2:30 Jazz/Contemporary/Modern/Tap/Hip Hop Rotation with KJ Classical Conservatory Faculty (Weeks 2/4 of the month)
Prospective Dancer Trial Classes
Classical Conservatory Schedule
October 1st - May 27th
Classical Conservatory Faculty
Click on a Faculty Photo Above to display their faculty Bio!
Katey Weibring Finazzo is a dynamic and multi-talented actress, dancer, choreographer, and educator. Originally from Dallas, TX, she began her training at KJ Dance under the guidance of Kristy Ulmer Blakeslee, where her passion and talent for performing arts quickly took root. Katey later moved to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career, training and working with some of the most respected names in the industry, including Justin Giles, Jackie Sleight, Desiree Robbins, Mark Meismer, Doug Caldwell, and Keith Young.
Her professional performance career began with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, where she served as a soloist in the productions Rock on Broadway and Flashback. Katey’s stage experience also includes touring the U.S. with The Wiggles, dancing in Love Notes with Soul Escape, Thriller with Odyssey Dance Theatre, the Mary Kay Convention, and performing as a backup dancer in the LA and NYC Jingle Ball Rock Concerts. She has also been featured in numerous productions for Disney and national commercials for brands such as Old Navy, Big Lots, and Toshiba.
Beyond the stage, Katey is a passionate and dedicated educator. She has taught and choreographed at studios, workshops, and intensives across the U.S., as well as internationally in Canada and Costa Rica. Katey has proudly served as the Director of KJ Pulse’s Competitive Company, where she leads with vision, heart, and a deep commitment to excellence. Returning to KJ Dance—a place that shaped her as both an artist and a person—has been a full-circle moment in her journey. Her teaching philosophy blends high expectations with heartfelt mentorship, helping dancers grow not only in technique and performance, but also in confidence, character, and passion for the art form.
Katey currently resides in Frisco, TX with her husband, Cory, and their two children, Ryder and Phoebe—where spontaneous living room dance parties are a regular occurrence. Married since August 13, 2011, Katey also channels her creativity through photography, capturing the emotion and artistry of dance behind the lens. She feels deeply grateful to share her passion while shaping young dancers not only as artists, but as kind, confident, and resilient individuals.
Katey Finazzo – Teaching Philosophy
My mission as a dance educator is to inspire, encourage, and challenge dancers of all ages—helping each student grow into the strongest, most confident version of themselves both on and off the dance floor. I believe that every dancer’s journey is unique, and that growth doesn’t look the same for everyone. Whether it's a big breakthrough or a small step forward, every win is worth celebrating.
I strive to create a space where each student feels seen, supported, and valued, because I truly believe every dancer brings something magical to the room—there is only one of each of us in the world, and that is our greatest power.
KATEY WEIBRING FINAZZO
Sarah Noland began her dance journey in her hometown of Kansas City, Missouri, before relocating to Phoenix, Arizona, at age 13. There, she trained at Royal Dance Works, where she had the opportunity to perform under the direction of Mandy Moore in prestigious events such as the Capezio 125th Anniversary Celebration at New York City Center and Nigel Lythgoe’s Dizzy Feet Foundation Gala at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
Following high school, Sarah moved to Los Angeles to further her career, joining Royal Flux Dance Company and traveling across the country as an assistant to choreographer Jaci Royal at studios and universities. She also trained closely with Erica Sobol as part of The Gypsy Project, a seven-week immersive program known for its raw, emotional approach to contemporary dance.
After her time in L.A., Sarah returned to Arizona to work with Dana Metz’s contemporary company, Bread Dance, and begin cultivating her passion for teaching and choreographing. Most recently, she has worked extensively with Justin Giles and SoulEscape The Company since 2018, continuing to grow as both an artist and educator.
Since joining KJ Dance in Fall 2019, Sarah has been grateful to be part of such a warm, community-driven environment where she can inspire the next generation of dancers.
Teaching Philosophy
As a teacher and choreographer, I celebrate individuality in movement and create a safe, inclusive space where dances can grow together. My goal is to inspire each person to push their creative limits while honoring their unique voice, building trust and connection through shared exploration. I strive to empower each dancer to discover and express their truth, knowing that growth comes from both challenge and connection.
SARAH NOLAND
Cory Finn is a celebrated tap dancer, choreographer, and educator originally from Southern California. He had the privilege of training with and learning from some of the greatest legends in tap, including Gregory Hines, Henry LeTang, Sam Weber, Mark Mendonca, and his father, Freddie Finn. His performance credits include work with renowned tap companies and stage productions such as Rhapsody in Taps, Power Tap, and Men at Work.
Cory’s commercial work spans a variety of major brands, including Toyota, Dr. Pepper, Taco Bell, and Disney. As an educator, he has shared his expertise and passion for tap on national convention circuits such as LA Underground, LA Dance Magic, NUVO, Hollywood Vibe, Pacific Coast Dance Fest, and Dance Makers Inc., reaching thousands of dancers across the country.
Known for his dynamic choreography, infectious energy, and ability to make tap both accessible and exciting, Cory has earned a reputation as one of the most engaging and inspiring tap educators in the industry. His classes balance strong technical foundations with musicality, rhythm, and a genuine sense of fun—igniting a lifelong love of tap in his students.
Cory is thrilled to return for a new season with the KJ Dance faculty, where he continues to help shape and elevate the studio’s tap program. He looks forward to building lasting relationships with his students, challenging them to grow as artists, and creating a classroom environment where every dancer feels seen, motivated, and empowered. With each class, he aims to not only teach the art of tap but to celebrate the joy, history, and rhythm that make it so timeless. Cory is excited for a season full of progress, connection, and unforgettable moments on the dance floor.
Cory Finn – Teaching Philosophy
I strive to cultivate a joyful and supportive tap dance experience that inspires young dancers to discover their unique voice through rhythm and movement. My goal is to nurture personal growth, build self-confidence, and encourage creative expression—all within a welcoming environment where dancers are empowered to be themselves and celebrate their individuality.
CORY FINN
Brooke Wendle is a former Radio City Rockette who has over 20 years of experience choreographing and creative producing television, Broadway, and live events for the most exciting and recognized global brands such as Dancing with the Stars, America’s Got Talent, American Idol, Cirque Du Soleil, Franco Dragone, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Adam Lambert, Atlantis The Royal Dubai, Disney, Condé Nast, MTV Video Music Awards, American Music Awards, ETrade, Super Bowl Halftime Show XXXIV, Paramount+, HBO, Netflix, Wicked the Musical,* and the NBA.
Brooke received a Broadway World regional award for best choreography for her work in Casa Manana’s “Bloody Bloody Andrew Jackson” and a Stage Scene LA outstanding choreography nomination for her work in “Come Get Maggie” at the Matrix Theater in Los Angeles. Brooke works as a guest teacher and judge for NUVO dance convention and just finished choreographing Tanner Usrey’s music video “If You Call Me Again” starring KJ faculty member Peter Chursin.
Brooke Wendle – Teaching Philosophy
Each artist has a special set of skills that no one else possesses. I am committed to help each student highlight and cultivate their unique abilities.
BROOKE WENDLE
Maria Alfonsina Treneman is a highly accomplished ballet dancer and esteemed educator with a distinguished international career spanning several decades.
Born in Argentina, Ms. Treneman commenced her ballet training at the prestigious Instituto de Danzas Jairo Benitez. At the age of seventeen, her exceptional talent led to an invitation to further her studies in Brazil at the renowned Escola de Dancas Maria Olenewa. During her time there, she received comprehensive training under the tutelage of celebrated figures including Dennis Gray, Sergio Lobato, Jorge Teixeira, Luis Carlos Nogueira, Emilio Martins, Tatiana Helene Leskova, and Maria Angelica Fiorani.
Ms. Treneman subsequently embarked on a notable career as a professional dancer, performing with esteemed companies such as the Companhia de Ballet da Cidade de Niterói and the Companhia Brasileira de Ballet, among others.
Complementing her performing career, Ms. Treneman has been a dedicated ballet teacher since 1996, sharing her extensive knowledge and passion with aspiring dancers. Her teaching tenure includes positions at the Petite Dance Escola de Ballet in Brazil, Tuzer Dance Center in Richardson, Texas, and the Texas Ballet Theater School. From 2019 to 2023, she served as a valued member of the Master Faculty team for the esteemed Joffrey Ballet School, and since 2023, she has also been part of KJ Dance.
In addition to her resident teaching engagements, Ms. Treneman is highly sought after as an international Guest Ballet Master, conducting workshops and masterclasses across the globe in the UK, Italy, Portugal, Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Brazil. This year marks a significant new chapter as she completes her second year as a distinguished Master Teacher with the Dallas Black Ballet Company.
Ms. Treneman's profound dedication to ballet, both as a performer and an educator, continues to inspire and shape the next generation of dancers worldwide.
Teaching Philosophy
My mission is to ignite a lifelong passion for dance and to guide every young dancer on a truly transformative journey. I believe deeply in nurturing not just exceptional artists, but also remarkably confident, resilient, and brilliantly well-rounded individuals. It is my unwavering dedication to create an environment where boundless potential is discovered and celebrated in every single child.
My mission is to ignite a lifelong passion for dance and to guide every young dancer on a truly transformative journey. I believe deeply in nurturing not just exceptional artists, but also remarkably confident, resilient, and brilliantly well-rounded individuals. It is my unwavering dedication to create an environment where boundless potential is discovered and celebrated in every single child.
I achieve this profound commitment by:
Building an unshakeable foundation in classical ballet technique: I meticulously instill precision, unwavering discipline, and a profound understanding of movement, fostering both physical mastery and the most authentic, breathtaking artistic expression.
Embracing groundbreaking teaching with innovative tools: I passionately integrate cutting-edge strategies and contemporary technology, elevating engagement, personalizing every learning experience, and ensuring my methods resonate powerfully with the aspirations of today's students.
Cultivating a powerful spirit of teamwork and an inspiring community: I intentionally foster an atmosphere of profound mutual respect, unwavering support, and vibrant collaboration, empowering dancers to understand that together, they can achieve extraordinary shared goals.
Partnering seamlessly and deeply with families: I establish open, consistent, and heartfelt communication with parents, recognizing their absolutely vital role as cherished collaborators in nurturing their child's innate passion, remarkable progress, and holistic well-being.
Together, through this comprehensive, dynamic, and genuinely collaborative approach, I am dedicated to sparking an indelible love for dance and empowering each child to step forward with unshakeable confidence, boundless creativity, and the essential life skills to excel magnificently, both within the studio and far beyond its walls.
alfonsina treneman
Peter Chursin was seen on Broadway in Bob Fosse's Dancin' where he received a Chita Rivera Award nomination for his performance. Other Broadway credits include Wicked, King Kong, On The Town, and the West Side Story revival directed by Arthur Laurents. He can be seen in the upcoming film, Kiss of the Spider Woman starring Jennifer Lopez and has appeared in numerous television shows including Fosse/Verdon on FX, Halston, Flesh & Bone, and Dancing with the Stars to name a few favorites.
He has had the pleasure of performing with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Twyla Tharp Dance, and Barak Ballet. Most recently, Peter performed in the music video "If You Call Me Again" by Tanner Usrey choreographed by KJ faculty Brooke Wendle due to be released this July. Peter is currently on faculty as the ballet instructor for Intrigue and will be a musical theater guest instructor for CLI's 2025 summer intensive.
Teaching Philosophy
My work in the dance studio is to help each child discover their love for the art of dance and to become their own biggest advocates. By creating a space for them to take risks without judgement, they can prove to themselves that they are limitless.
Peter CHURSIN
Sue Benn was born in Utah and grew up training in a variety of styles, including jazz, ballet, and pom. Her professional career began at age 16, when she won Miss Drill Team Utah, going on to win Miss Drill Team USA International in 1983. Soon after, she toured nationally as a backup dancer for Donny and Marie Osmond before joining the University of Utah Aggiettes, where she performed for two years.
In 1987, Benn became a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader, bringing her to Dallas, Texas, which she has called home ever since. During her three years with the DCC, she was part of the prestigious Show Group, touring the globe on USO and DOD tours to places including Korea, Bahrain, Honduras, and Panama. She also served two years as a group leader before shifting her focus to family life, raising three children with her husband.
In 2020, Benn embraced the “second act” of her dance career and began training in International Latin Dance at Dance With Me studios under the guidance of world-class professionals such as Val Chmerkovskiy, Yulia Zagoruychenko, and Ferdinando Iannaccone. Competing in Pro-Am with her partner Ricardo Freire, she has earned numerous first-place titles, including at the WDO Pro-Am Latin International, the South American Open Latin Championship, and the American Open Dance Championships. Now in her fifth year as a competitor, Benn is eager to share her passion and experience with the next generation of dancers.
Sue Benn
Vita Bachman is the owner and head coach of Stretching Beyond Limits, a cross-training program designed to address flexibility, strength training, and the development of the physical abilities needed for aesthetic dance based movement. She works with dancers, gymnasts, figure skaters, and performers of various disciplines, taking into account the nuances of each discipline as well as each student’s individual goals. Vita’s focus is not only on effectiveness, but also on the safety, health and physical longevity of each student.
Originally from Kiev, Ukraine, Vita trained and competed in rhythmic gymnastics nationally and internationally and achieved the Candidate to Master of Sports level. She was trained by Natalia Kiselyova, a Ukrainian National Team coach. In 1996 after retiring from rhythmic, she decided to pursue a degree in Business Administration from the International Christian University in Kiev, Ukraine, all the while continuing her involvement in rhythmic gymnastics as a coach.
After moving to the United States in 2000 to pursue her MBA from the University of Tennessee, Vita stayed involved in the sport and produced numerous state and regional champions. In 2005, she was elected the USA Gymnastics' Rhythmic Regional Director and served in this capacity for seven years.
Vita is committed to continuing her own education through workshops, online and in-person courses, as well as personal research on safe and effective practices for cross-training athletes and dancers. She has completed her background check and been Safety Certified through USA Gymnastics. Vita is married to Bill Bachman, a world-renowned percussion instructor and they have three young children. Her two daughters are involved in rhythmic and dance.
Vita Bachman
We are honored to announce that Thelma Flores will be serving KJ Dance as our Ballet Career Development Advisor for our Classical Conservatory dancers.
Thelma Flores holds a Master in Pedagogy, Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts with a major in Ballet and a Minor in Education from the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon (U.A.N.L.) in Monterrey, Mexico. Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, Flores began her Pre professional trainee at a young age. She had the opportunity to train in various programs such as: “Escuela Nacional de Ballet” La Havana Cuba, “Scuola Professionale Italiana de la Danza (SPID)”, La Scala, Milan Italy . Flores training is based in both the Cuban style, as well as the Royal Ballet, Royal Academy of Dance where she is certified in Vocation Graded Exams. She was part of the Scenic Art Company from UANL, where she performed in various roles. She has worked with artists such as Maestro Fernando Alonso, Egon Bischoff, Ingeborg Heuser, Elsa Recagno, Anna Maria Prina and many more. Former Faculty of Texas Ballet Theater. Thelma Flores iserved as the Artistic Director of Joffrey Ballet School Texas Trainee Program and International Director of Joffrey Ballet School.
