LINDSEY CORDER
POLLY TALLAS
AARON ULMER
KRISTY BLAKESLEE - OWNER & FOUNDER
AUDREA COWAN - artistic director
AARON ULMER - BUSINESS OPERATIONS & BILLING
LINDSEY CORDER - plano/Frisco OfficeS
POLLY TALLAS - FRISCO OFFICE
Administrative Faculty
FACULTY
Abigail Hardy
Courtney hart
CLAIRE WOLFORD
kaitlin kinsey
ALFONSINA TRENEMAN
madeleine morgan
ALYSON PENNINGTON
RACHEL Wilson
Hana alford
BRANDON JOHNSON
CORY FINN
PETER CHURSIN
BROOKE WENDLE
emily igoe
SARAH NOLAND
Katey finazzo
Audrea cowan
Kristy blakeslee
Sue Benn
Faith Lane
Kelsey Stroh
Kennedy Cowan
GRACE LEWIS
Kristy Ulmer Blakeslee is a third generation studio owner who fell in love with the performing arts from family members who were musicians, actors, and dancers. After attending Texas Tech University, Kristy began her first studio in Carthage, Texas in 1981. Kristy returned to Plano to teach dance and gymnastics for ten years at Tap N’ Toe with her mother Shirley Williams. In 1993, she started KJ Dance and began the amazing journey of making dreams come true for young dancers.
Kristy's formal training was steeped in the study of classical ballet, jazz, and tap. Over the past 50 years Kristy gained a broad foundation of training from many artists from all over the world. She had formal training under Gus Giordano, Frank Hatchett, Jackie Sleight, Joe Tremaine, Doug Caldwell and many more.
Over the past 33 years, Kristy has created beautifully staged KJ Concerts alongside her incredible faculty. Kristy has also choreographed musicals in the community for Pamela Hurt at Prestonwood Christian Academy. Kristy choreographed the following musicals: 42nd Street, Little Women, The Drowsy Chaperone, Into the Woods, and her favorite, Crazy for You. She has choreographed and staged the annual children's cancer fund luncheon and the Ms. Collin County and Mrs. International pageants. In the early days of the Plano Television Network, Kristy enjoyed creating choreography for the recycling campaign. Kristy choreographed the Biblical Arts musical theater adaptation of Via Delarosa at the center in Dallas. Kristy has been a guest judge for national competitions and other studio auditions.
Kristy's passion for the art of dance and her desire for mentoring young dancers is evidenced in all that happens at KJ Dance Studio. Kristy loves to train young dancers to be disciplined, to adhere to strong values, and to develop a selfless "others focused" mentality. “You cannot become a brilliant artist all alone, you must incorporate, learn from and share with others along your journey.” Most recently Kristy has had the great honor of celebrating the alumni of KJ by visiting many university dance program graduations and performances. Many of the KJ students are dancing professionally and teaching the art of dance to the next generation.
Kristy is married to Andy Blakeslee and is blessed with a large family of eight children, their spouses and ten grandchildren. Her family is her first priority and she enjoys sharing the enormous KJ family with her loved ones.
Kristy Blakeslee – Teaching Philosophy
As a dance educator of over 45 years, my mission has always been rooted in more than movement—it’s about shaping young hearts with grace, poise, and selflessness. I am deeply committed to providing a nurturing and disciplined environment where each student is not only trained as a dancer, but guided to become a kind, confident, and respectful human being.
I am honored to partner with parents, our incredible faculty, and esteemed guest educators and masters in raising students who carry themselves with quiet confidence, who lead with compassion, and who understand that true artistry comes from within. Through the language of dance, we aim to instill life lessons—humility in achievement, strength in vulnerability, and beauty in discipline.
KRISTY ULMER BLAKESLEE
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
As a proud educator at KJ Dance, my mission is to guide and inspire dancers through the powerful lens of movement, grounded in the core values of Character, Competence, and Compassion. I am committed to nurturing not only technical excellence and artistic growth, but also shaping kind, confident, and resilient individuals.
Through thoughtful instruction and intentional mentorship, I strive to create a safe and empowering space where dancers are encouraged to lead with integrity, pursue excellence with humility, and support one another with empathy. My goal is to help each student discover their fullest potential — as dancers, and as extraordinary human beings.
AUDREA COWAN
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
Emily began her dance training at age 11 In Durham, NC under the direction of Lindsay Tilley. She left home to study ballet at the Virginia School of the Arts, guided by Petrus Bosman and Tyrone Brooks. She continued her training at The University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC, where she graduated high school under the direction of Ethan Stiefel and Alex Ewing.
Her education and performance pursuits extended across a spectrum of esteemed institutions, including the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Atlanta Ballet, Carolina Ballet, Charlotte Ballet, Lines Ballet, The School of American Ballet, Ballet Austin, American Ballet Theater, and Miami City Ballet, each contributing significantly to her artistic development.
Throughout her career, Emily has had the privilege of performing works created by legendary choreographers such as George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Agnes de Mille, Alonzo King, Patricia McBride, Melissa Hayden, Edward Villella, Paul Mejia, Robert Lindgren, David Howard, and Katie Puder, to name but a few. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC, where she trained under the guidance of Galina Panova and Timour Bourtasenkov, participating in every main stage production and enriching her performance portfolio.
Emily relocated to Austin, Texas, where she not only performed but also imparted her knowledge and passion as a teacher at Ballet Austin. Her journey continued to Dallas, where she danced with Avant Chamber Ballet for four successful seasons, leaving an indelible mark on the company.
Following a career-ending injury, Emily redirected her passion for dance and performing toward teaching, joining KJ in 2012. Through her dedication and expertise, she inspires the next generation of dancers, fostering an environment rich in creativity and passion for the art form. Her journey serves as a testament to resilience and a lifelong commitment to the transformative power of dance.
Emily has crafted numerous award-winning pieces, while also mentoring students who have ascended to prestigious institutions such as Juilliard, USC Kaufman, Chapman University, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Point Park University, Pace University, The Bridge Movement, George Mason University, European School of Ballet, New York University and many others. Several of her students have gone on to establish themselves in esteemed companies, including Ballet Jazz of Montreal, Gauthier Dance Company, Nashville Ballet, and Gibney Company.
Teaching Philosophy
I strive to inspire and nurture young artists through the beauty and discipline of ballet, fostering a supportive environment where each student builds confidence, embraces creativity, and develops a lifelong passion for dance. I push to empower my students, instilling in them self-worth and resilience, as they learn not only the art of movement but also valuable life skills through dedication and collaboration.
EMILY IGOE
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
Hana Black grew up dancing competitively in local DFW studios and training in high school on KJ’s PULSE company. She was an assistant for 10 years with Dupree Dance Convention, where she assisted renowned master teachers such as Thayne Jasperson, Ellenore Scott, Jon Rua, Kobi Rozenfeld, Terrill Mitchell, and more.
She graduated with honors in 2020 with a BFA in Dance Performance, BBA in Business Management, and a minor in Musical Theater from Southern Methodist University, where she performed modern, jazz, and contemporary works from notable choreographers such as Robert Battle, Moncell Durden, Mark Burrell, Christopher Dolder, and Brandi Coleman. During her time at SMU, Hana received the Outstanding Achievement in Dance award, a faculty-nominated honor given to one graduating senior from the dance program at SMU.
Some notable venues Hana has performed in for various concerts and events include Alice Tully Hall NY, The Music Center LA, The Joyce Theater NY, AT&T Stadium, and American Airlines Center. Recent performance credits include being a company member of Zion Dance Project for the 2020–2021 season, originating the sole featured dancer role in the new musical “Boy on Billboard,” dancing in various events with Kharashim Dance Company, and performing the role of Sugarplum/Ensemble in Casa Mañana’s “Twas The Night Before Christmas” the musical.
Hana has been a regular teacher/choreographer at KJ Dance and a master teacher/choreographer for various studios and programs in Texas, including master-teaching for Joffrey Ballet Trainee Program and directing the dance/drill teams at Grapevine Faith Christian School for 3 years. Hana is thrilled to continue teaching at KJ Dance, hoping to share with others her love for dance that was nurtured in these same studios.
Teaching Philosophy
Hana strives to share her love for dance with the next generation by empowering students to grow into the best version of themselves both on and off the stage, nurturing their character, skill, confidence, and passion.
HANA ALFORD
Alyson Pennington is originally from Dallas, Texas and graduated from Sam Houston State University with a BFA in Dance. She trained at Dance Industry Performing Arts Center training in Ballet, Contemporary, Tap, Jazz, and Hip Hop, while also competing with their performing company.
Alyson has attended summer intensives such as The Joffrey Ballet School, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. She has been fortunate enough to perform at festivals including Wanderlust Dance Festival, Austin Dance Festival, and American College Dance Associations’ regional and national festivals, as well as performing professionally with NobleMotion Dance.
Over the years Alyson has performed works by Chelsea Ainsworth, Gregory Dolbashian, Kiley Dolaway, Roderick George, Fransisco Graciano, Jess Hendricks, Matt Luck, Travis Lake, Andy Noble, Jessica Smith, Micaela Taylor, Chelsea Thedinga, and many more. Alyson is excited to continue training, performing, and teaching. She will be teaching at KJ Dance in the fall and is very excited for this next part of her dance journey.
Teaching Philosophy
As a dance educator, my mission is to inspire, empower, and nurture students through the art of movement. I am committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, discipline, confidence, and authenticity through a deep respect for the art form. I strive to guide each student toward personal growth, technical excellence, and create a meaningful connection with each dancer.
ALYSON PENNINGTON
Courtney Hart (Allen, TX) first began her dance training at Allen Conservatory of Dance under the direction of Stefanie M. Best. She continued her training with several different Texas based studios over the course of 10 years. During this time, Courtney had the privilege of working with many renowned choreographers including Shannon Gillen, Jess Hendricks, Matt Luck, Justin Giles, and Al Blackstone.
In 2017, Courtney was accepted into Point Park University's Conservatory of the Performing Arts, where she furthered her dance training while pursuing a minor in business management. In addition to Point Park University's faculty, Courtney has studied with 8and1 Dance Company, New Dialect, SoulEscape the Company, and The Pillow Projects.
In 2020, Courtney was able to create her own choreographed work for Point Park’s Student Choreography Show, where she discovered her newfound interest for choreography and editing music. After receiving her BFA in dance and minor in business management from Point Park, she became a company artist with Nova Linea Contemporary Dance in Milwaukee, WI, where she danced professionally and got the opportunity to experiment with both her voice and dancing for 2 years. She also taught and choreographed at various studios in the area, sharing all that she has learned with the youth.
She just recently released her EP, "The Host", on music streaming platforms in October of 2023. In March of 2024, Courtney took a trip to NYC where she was able to work with choreographer and director Chelsea Thedinga on her first music video, as well as accompany a class for her at Steps On Broadway.
Currently, Courtney resides in Plano, Texas where she teaches dance at KJ Dance and Ambition Dance Productions. She is also a company member and musician with Soulescape, a project based contemporary dance company run by Justin Giles. Courtney hopes to continue creating unique collaborations between music and movement, and connecting people through all different forms of art.
Teaching Philosophy
My mission as a teacher, choreographer, and musician is to create a space where dancers feel free to explore, grow, and express themselves without the pressure to fit a mold. I want to break away from artistic stereotypes and show that dance is more than a performance art. I share my love for both music and movement in different settings to help build deeper connections with the world around me and inspire others to embrace their own artistry.
My hope is that dancers feel supported, seen, and empowered to find their unique voice and creative path.
courtney hart
Kaitlin Kinsey is from Dallas, Texas, and has 22 years of dance training in ballet, jazz, contemporary, modern, and hip-hop. In her pre-professional years, she trained in Dallas under the direction of Camille Billelo and performed works by Andrew Winghart, Dana Foglia, and Jenna Johnson. She has performed at the Dallas Cowboys Halftime Show both in 2010 and 2011, and danced in Wanderlust Dance Project’s concert in 2016 and 2018, under the direction of Addison Holmes, in works by Giovanni Allen, Brian Stevens, and Chad Vaught.
She went on to graduate from Sam Houston State University with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance in May of 2019. She performed in various concerts with the dance department during her college career, in works by Jennifer Pontius, Joshua Manculich, and Jared Doster.
She is currently teaching and choreographing in Dallas and is so excited to be dancing in her seventh season as a company dancer with Zion Dance Project, under the direction of Vincent and Abigail Hardy. Dancing with this company has been life changing, as she has seen her passion for both dancing with excellence and passion for the Lord fuse together in such a special way, that has made her aware of just how present He is, all the time, everywhere. She has been marked as a person and artist forever and is so excited to continue this journey.
Teaching Philosophy
My mission as a dance teacher is that every kiddo leaves my class feeling more confident in who they are created to be, know they are so very loved, and feel more equipped in their skill of dance.
kaitlin kinsey
Claire Wolford is a Lincoln, Nebraska native. She spent four years cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and is a current Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader all-star. In her time as a cheerleader, she was a leader, traveled to South Korea to perform for the USO, and performed with artists like Dolly Parton, Jonas Brothers, Luke Combs, Queen and Kane Brown. She was featured on Netflix’s America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders as well as CMT’s DCC Making The Team.
Prior to cheering, Claire competed and won Bronze 2x with the Arizona State University Dance Team at the Universal Dance Association National Competition and danced for the University of Nebraska Scarlets. She is a dance teacher at KJ Dance in north Texas, pilates instructor, and the host of her own podcast, Sweet As Honey. Claire has an incredible passion for teaching and building up the next generation of professional dancers!
Teaching Philosophy
My mission as a dance educator is to help develop dancers as a whole person, becoming rooted in character, passion and confidence in who they are and their ability. My goal is to foster the joy and growth that happens in the studio.
claire wolford
Madeleine grew up in Austin, Texas, where she trained and performed with Rise Dance Company under the direction of Quinton Weathers. Her passion for dance took her to the Conservatory of Dance at Purchase College in New York, where she performed works by renowned choreographers including Larry Keigwin, Kevin Wynn, Merce Cunningham, and Sue Bernhard. She graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BFA in Dance Performance and a minor in Arts Management.
Following graduation, she began her professional career in New York City, freelancing with contemporary companies such as LaneCoArts, Smashworks Dance, Drye/Marinaro Dance Company, and Patmon Dance Project. Her performance experience includes prestigious venues like New York Live Arts, Bryant Park, Triskelion Arts, and Lincoln Center.
Eager to return to her Texas roots, Madeleine joined Ad Deum Dance Company in Houston before relocating to Dallas to apprentice and perform with Bruce Wood Dance Project. In the summer of 2021, she joined Zion Dance Project, where she danced professionally for three seasons and contributed to the growth of the company’s training and residency programs.
Now in her fifth year teaching at KJ Dance, Madeleine is honored to pour into the next generation of artists. She is deeply grateful to be part of the KJ Dance family and couldn’t imagine a more fulfilling place to share her love of dance. One of her favorite parts of teaching is watching students grow not only into strong technicians and expressive artists but also into kind, compassionate, and creative humans.
Teaching Philosophy
Madeleine’s mission at KJ Dance is to nurture each student’s growth not only as a dancer, but as a kind, patient, and encouraging teammate. She is passionate about helping dancers develop focus, collaboration, and excellence—building strong, flexible, and technically refined artists. Above all, Madeleine strives to create a joyful, creative, and safe environment where every student feels free to express themselves fully and confidently.
madeleine morgan
Abigail Hardy is a professional dancer, choreographer, and director with a career spanning performance, education, and arts leadership. Since 2021, she has been a member of the faculty at KJ Dance, instructing students ages 2–18 in ballet, tap, jazz, and contemporary styles. From 2016 to 2021, she served as the Director of the Ballet Program at Epicenter for the Arts, where she developed curriculum and mentored students.
Abigail is the Co-Founder and Director of Zion Dance Project, a Dallas-based professional dance company established in 2017 alongside her husband, Vincent Hardy. Under their leadership, Zion Dance Project has grown into an international platform for professional dancers, offering year-round training and producing original works that illuminate the art of dance.
Her performance career includes touring and performances with Zion Dance Project, international touring with Bal Mahada Dance Company, including appearances at the Busan International Dance Festival in South Korea and the Alabama Dance Festival. She has also performed as a freelance artist with Chadash Contemporary Dance Movement since 2016, and has worked as a guest choreographer and performer both nationally and internationally.
Abigail’s training includes a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from Belhaven University, where she graduated with honors and received awards for artistic achievement and outstanding service. Her technical foundation was established at The Conservatory of Dance and Performing Arts. She has studied under master teachers and choreographers from Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Houston Ballet, José Limón, Milwaukee Ballet, Dance Company Mooe, Nederlands Dans Theater, and The Royal Ballet. With a deep commitment to cultivating excellence and purpose in the next generation of dancers, Abigail continues to pour into students and professionals alike through performance, mentorship, and arts education.
Teaching Philosophy
As a dance educator, I believe in cultivating not only technical excellence but also integrity, creativity, and confidence within every dancer I teach. My approach is rooted in the belief that dance is a powerful form of communication—one that shapes the individual just as much as it moves the audience.
I aim to foster a training environment where students are challenged, inspired, and supported, both as artists and as individuals. My teaching is shaped by years of professional performance, choreography, and directorship—particularly through my work with Zion Dance Project. I bring these experiences into the studio to create classes that are both disciplined and encouraging, offering students the tools they need to set and achieve new goals.
I am deeply passionate about investing in the next generation—celebrating milestones both big and small, and encouraging growth not just in a dancer’s technical ability, but in their confidence, work ethic, and overall character. Whether preparing students for advanced training or guiding them toward personal achievement, my goal is to leave them stronger, more resilient, and inspired to continue pursuing their potential.
Abigail Hardy
Born and raised in Plano, Rachel has been a member of the KJ family since she was 3 years old. After growing up at the studio, she attended Texas Tech University and was a three year member of the Pom Squad dance team. Rachel led her team to their first National Championship in school history during her senior year.
After college, she moved back home to Dallas to pursue her dreams of becoming a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. She cheered on the sidelines for 4 seasons and then did 2 additional seasons as an All-Star cheerleader. She has been training KJ’s youngest dancers since 2017 and is so excited to be leading the Junior DCC program this year!
Teaching Philosophy
It’s my goal as a dance educator to provide a safe environment for students to learn, grow, and continue to feel the joy in their passion for dance!
RACHEL Wilson
My name is Brandon Johnson. I have 20 years experience, J.O. certified to coach compulsory-optional/elite gymnastics, and have worked for WOGA and World Champions Centre (Home of Olympian Simone Biles). Throughout my career, I have gained skills to plan practice, asses development and ability, enhance performance in practice and competition.
Teaching Philosophy
I absolutely love what I do, getting to meet and build relationships with some really wonderful people, training the athlete as if they were my own kid, in addition to collaborating, learning, and growing professionally. I am goal-oriented to perfect skills enabling move up ability, and teach the importance of teamwork through team building assignments. Being able to have some part in the athletes development is really at the heart of why I coach.
BRANDON JOHnson
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
Faith was born and raised in Pennsauken, New Jersey, where she discovered her love for dance watching the worship team at her church. At 12, she began training at Halliday Dance under Tony Rhodes, whose holistic approach inspired her to pursue dance beyond high school.
At 16, she was accepted as a summer intensive trainee and second company member at Philadanco!, marking the start of her formal training in codified techniques. Faith earned her B.F.A. in modern dance from Point Park University in 2023, performing works by Jason McDole, Rennie Harris, Kiki Lucas, Pearlann Porter, Marc Spaulding, and Martha Nichols.
She recently completed her second season as a second company member with Zion Dance Project in Dallas, TX. Faith is grateful to her family, friends, and alma mater for their support and looks forward with excitement and trust in what God has planned for her future.
Teaching Philosophy
My mission is to mentor artists in creating work that nourishes the body, stirs the soul, and awakens the spirit. I strive to guide dancers to draw from their deepest wells, using movement to explore life’s hardest questions and reveal hidden truths. Through this journey, I envision artists rising to shape the dance world with purpose and passion far greater than themselves.
Faith Lane
Kelsey Stroh was born and raised in Frisco, Texas, and is currently a senior at Reedy High School. She has been dancing since the age of three and fell in love with the art early on. After training at another studio, Kelsey joined the KJ family in 2015 as part of the very first Petite Company. Over the past 12 years at KJ, she has dedicated countless hours to dance training, competing, and attending intensives to grow as both a performer and artist. Kelsey will graduate in May 2026 and plans to attend a four-year university, where she intends to continue her dance journey while double-majoring in Dance and Psychology. For the past two years, she has had the privilege of assisting classes and is thrilled to be stepping into a new role this year—teaching her own classes and working one-on-one with dancers to inspire and help them grow. She looks forward to sharing her passion for dance and helping young dancers build confidence, skill, and a love for movement.
Kelsey Stroh
Kennedy Cowan was born and raised in Frisco, Texas, and is currently a senior at Frisco High School where she serves as Varsity cheer captain. She has been dancing since the age of two and fell in love with the art early on. Kennedy has been at KJ her entire life and over the past 18 years at KJ, she has dedicated countless hours to dance training, competing, and attending intensives to grow as both a performer and artist. Kennedy will graduate in May 2026 and plans to attend a four-year university, where she intends to try out for the school’s pom team. For the past two years, she has had the privilege of assisting classes and is thrilled to be stepping into a new role this year—teaching her own classes and working one-on-one with dancers to inspire and help them grow. She looks forward to sharing her passion for dance and to guiding young dancers as they build confidence, develop their skills, and discover their own love for movement.
Kennedy Cowan
Grace Lewis began her dance training at the age of three and grew up attending competitions and conventions, where she received numerous accolades. She trained in jazz, ballet, tap, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop. During her junior year of high school, Grace had the opportunity to travel with Adrenaline Dance Convention, assisting several industry professionals. She also began assisting and teaching classes at her home studio at the age of fifteen.
In 2022, Grace graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and a minor in Language and Literacy from Chapman University in Orange, California. While at Chapman, she trained under Ido Tadmor, Julianne O’Brien Pedersen, Liz Curtis, Wilson Mendieta, and Will Johnston, and performed in multiple onstage concerts and site-specific works.
After graduating, Grace worked as a nanny and dance instructor at Nostalgia Dance Center in Fishers, Indiana. During her three years on staff, she taught students of all ages and levels, choreographed solos and group pieces for the competition team, and served as director of the teen company during her final year. Grace was married in July and recently relocated to Plano. She is excited to bring her love for dance and passion for teaching to KJ.
Teaching Philosophy
I was fortunate to grow up with dance teachers who truly believed in me, and that experience shaped the educator I strive to be today. My goal is to be that source of encouragement and support for my students - someone who helps them feel seen, valued, and confident.
Beyond learning dance, I want my students to feel safe being fully themselves in my class, free from judgment or comparison. I strive to create an environment where dancers feel proud of their progress and inspired to continue growing. I hope every student leaves my class knowing they learned something new and feeling motivated to become the strongest version of themselves, both in and out of the studio.
Grace Lewis
Aaron Ulmer officially joined KJ in 2018, but the studio has always been close to his heart since his mom, Kristy Blakeslee, founded the studio in 1993. A proud UT Dallas graduate, Aaron balances life at the studio with his favorite roles as husband to Heather and dad to Hayley (7), Hunter (5), and Addison (3). At home, their English cream golden retriever, Summer, keeps everyone entertained. When he’s not with family or at KJ, you’ll probably find Aaron cheering on his favorite Dallas sports teams or staying active in the gym or outside.
Aaron Ulmer
Lindsey Corder grew up in West Texas and is a proud graduate of Texas Tech University. She began her career in education in Frisco ISD, where she taught 1st and 4th grade before serving as an instructional coach. In 2007, Lindsey moved to the Dallas area and has since made a lasting impact in both her professional and personal communities.
Now in her 8th year at KJ, Lindsey is deeply passionate about supporting young dancers and their families. She is married to Adam Corder, and together they have two wonderful children—Collyns (11), who dances competitively at KJ, and Crew (8). The Corders live in Prosper, where they enjoy being active in their community and cheering on their kids in all they do.
Mission & Vision
My mission and vision for KJ DANCE is to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the studio by providing exceptional administrative support, fostering a welcoming and organized environment for students, families, and staff, and upholding the studio’s commitment to creativity, discipline, and community. I strive to streamline processes, enhance communication, and support the artistic vision of the studio, allowing instructors and dancers to focus fully on growth and expression.
Lindsey Corder
Polly Tallas was born, raised, and grew up dancing in Dallas. She was an educator for 37 years, retiring with Plano ISD in 2012. She is starting her 9th year with KJ Dance!
Mission & Philosophy
As the first person they see, my goal is to ensure that everyone who enters the doors at KJ Frisco feels welcome and wanted. Careful listening and communication are the keys to building a strong community of trust. I also want to keep the studio organized and clean for the teachers as well as our families. My hope is that all who join our studio truly feel they are a valuable part of our KJ family.
