Introducing Tammy Thiel: Founder, Director, and Visionary of Dance Education

Tammy Thiel stands as an integral and highly respected figure at Dancin On Broadway, not only as a distinguished Instructor and Choreographer but also as its esteemed Founder. Since establishing Dancin On Broadway in 1984, Tammy has cultivated a profound expertise across diverse dance styles and teaching methodologies, laying the bedrock for what has become a cherished community institution.

Her journey at Dancin On Broadway is deeply rooted in the studio's rich history, a history she personally forged. Tammy has consistently demonstrated an exceptional ability to inspire and challenge dancers of all ages and skill levels, fostering an environment where technical precision meets artistic expression. Her choreographic works are consistently lauded for their innovation, emotional depth, and ability to highlight the unique strengths of her students.

Beyond her artistic contributions, Tammy possesses a strong business mind, which has been instrumental in the sustained success and growth of Dancin On Broadway for over four decades. Her strategic vision and astute management have ensured the studio's longevity and its continuous ability to provide unparalleled dance education.

Tammy is also deeply committed to the community she serves. Her leadership extends beyond the studio walls, as she actively seeks opportunities for Dancin On Broadway to contribute positively to local initiatives and events. Her collaborative spirit and unwavering commitment to nurturing talent have made her an invaluable mentor to countless aspiring dancers.

Tammy's philosophy emphasizes not only the mastery of dance technique but also the development of discipline, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts. Her visionary leadership and profound contributions have significantly shaped the artistic landscape of Dancin On Broadway, cementing her reputation as a leading educator, choreographer, and community pillar within the dance world.

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Meet Debbie Thiel: A Pillar of Dance Education

Debbie Thiel is a distinguished figure in the dance world, holding the esteemed titles of Director, Choreographer, and Instructor. Her enduring dedication to Dancin On Broadway began in 1984, where she first honed her skills assisting classes. By the following year, her choreographic talents were evident, leading to her official teaching role in 1986. Today, Debbie imparts her extensive knowledge across all ages and levels of dance, demonstrating her profound versatility. While tap was her signature as a young dancer, her adult career is passionately dedicated to teaching foundational technique.

Debbie's impressive credentials include her tenure as a member of the original "Broadway's Best" from 1984-1987. She is also a proud member of Dance Educators of America (DEA), a testament to her professional standing. Her expertise is highly sought after, as she regularly serves as a respected judge for both regional and national dance competitions, in addition to city and national talent pageants.

Beyond her professional endeavors, this mother of three boys has even graced commercials for the Mall of America. Debbie's commitment to her craft is unwavering; she annually travels to dance epicenters like Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and New York to continually advance her dance education. A true visionary, Debbie meticulously selects an impressive roster of guest teachers each year to inspire Dancin On Broadway's students. This illustrious list includes renowned names such as Barry Lather, Matthew Prescott, Matt Stephanina, Colt Prattes, Kyle Preiser, Amanda Preiser, Tiffany Maher, Angelina Mullins, Marni Raab, Chris Hale, and Calen Kurka, among many others.

With over five decades of comprehensive dance training, Debbie possesses a unique blend of attributes: the passion to ignite the love of dance in our youngest students, the patience to guide our dancers who are "young at heart," and the unwavering dedication to elevate every dancer in between. Her unparalleled experience and commitment truly make her an invaluable asset to the Dancin On Broadway community.

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Laurie Mears: A Legacy of Dance and Inspiration at Dancin On Broadway

Laurie Mears is a profoundly influential and cherished Instructor and Choreographer at Dancin On Broadway. Her dedication to the studio spans an incredible 40 years, making her an integral part of its very fabric since nearly its inception. With 43 years of dance training overall, her journey is a testament to unwavering passion, commitment, and a lifelong devotion to the art form.

Laurie's immersion in dance began at a very young age, starting in recreational classes and quickly advancing to a competitive performing line. As a student, she honed her skills across various dance styles, competing and attending conventions in Minnesota, Nevada, Texas, California, and Florida. Her natural affinity for performance shone through in both group and solo dances, setting the stage for her future as an educator.

Her teaching career at Dancin On Broadway officially began while in high school 1995. This was following years of assisting her teachers in junior high. This early start reflects her innate talent for instruction and her profound connection with students. As a teacher and choreographer, Laurie has amassed an impressive array of outstanding achievements. The annual Dancin On Broadway recitals, in particular, are a highlight, where she witnesses the inspiring progression of her students each year.

Laurie's choreographic prowess has garnered numerous top awards for her captivating routines, including recognized pieces like "Shoulder to Shoulder", "MJ", "Drum Battle," "Hurricane 2000", "Beautiful Goodbye", "Iris", "To Love You More", "Face", "River" and many more. She possesses a remarkable ability to connect with students of all levels, from beginners to advanced, skillfully molding them into talented young dancers. Her guidance has led her students to win prestigious choreography awards, high-point awards, entertainment awards, scholarships, and even titles for standout performances such as "Say Something", "Ready or Not", "Worthy", "Bound to You", "Irrelevant", "It's Too Darn Hot" ,"I Lived", "Lost Without You", "Burnin' Up", "Vast & Limitless" ,and "You should see me in a crown"

A true testament to her impact, Laurie's own daughter, Addisyn, is an amazing dancer who was taught by Laurie herself, and is a top National Dance Award winner. This personal success story further underscores Laurie's exceptional teaching abilities. Furthermore, Laurie's students have gone on to achieve significant professional success, becoming Viking Cheerleaders, Timberwolves dancers, and even performing as dancers on Broadway and in Los Angeles.

Beyond the studio, Laurie plays a vital role in connecting Dancin On Broadway with the wider community. She has expertly directed thousands of dancers in numerous parades, including those in Maple Grove, Osseo, Brooklyn Park, and Rogers. Her students have graced talent shows at their schools, the Anoka Fair, the Minnesota State Fair, and Otsego Days, as well as participating in events like the Elk River "Baby I'm a Star" show and Rogers dance team show. Laurie's efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning awards for parade units and contributing to Dancin' on Broadway being recognized as the #1 Dance studio in Maple Grove.

Laurie Mears is truly an exceptional instructor who consistently goes the extra mile for all her students, leaving an indelible mark on their artistic development and personal growth

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Introducing Michelle Lucas: A Cornerstone of Dance Education with Professional Pedigree

Michelle Lucas brings a wealth of experience and a vibrant passion for dance to her role as an Instructor and Choreographer at Dancin On Broadway. Her journey in dance education at this esteemed studio is extensive, beginning over two decades ago. Michelle first started assisting classes in 1993, diligently learning the craft of instruction, before confidently stepping into her own classroom to teach in 1999. This deep-rooted commitment to nurturing talent has made her a dynamic educator dedicated to shaping the next generation of dancers.

Beyond her dedicated teaching career, Michelle herself possesses an impressive performance background. During her active dancing years, she demonstrated a truly elite level of skill, reaching the final four dancers in a highly competitive, multi-city audition for Janet Jackson's world tour—a remarkable feat given only two dancers were ultimately selected. This professional experience underscores her profound understanding of the demands and artistry of high-level performance.Michelle's extensive background in dance encompasses a wide range of styles, cultivated through years of rigorous training and performance. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes strong technical foundations, artistic expression, and fostering a deep love for movement. She excels at creating engaging and inspiring classroom environments where students feel encouraged to explore their potential and grow as artists.

As a choreographer, Michelle is known for her innovative and captivating routines that highlight both the individual strengths of her dancers and the collective artistry of a group. Her work not only entertains but also challenges students to push their boundaries and connect with the emotional depth of their performances.A true testament to her enduring impact, Michelle's former students have gone on to achieve remarkable success, gracing stages on Broadway, appearing in commercials and music videos, and joining elite teams such as the Viking Cheerleaders and Timberwolves Dancers, among many other impressive accomplishments.

Michelle is committed to ongoing professional development, constantly seeking out new techniques and trends in the dance world to enrich her teaching and choreography. Her dedication to her craft and her students makes her an invaluable asset, inspiring confidence and discipline in every dancer she guides. Michelle's passion is evident in every class, fostering a supportive and exciting atmosphere where dancers can truly thrive.

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Introducing Tianna Wills: Bringing Great Energy and Fun to Dancin On Broadway!

Tianna Wills is an invaluable part of the Dancin On Broadway family, inspiring her students to achieve their personal best and continue the studio's amazing legacy with a whole lot of fun and flair! ×

Abigail Clark: Inspiring the Next Generation with Passion and Purpose

Abigail Clark is a shining example of the talent nurtured at Dancin On Broadway, where her extensive dance journey began. As a proud alumna of the studio, Abigail received comprehensive training and competed across a diverse range of styles, including Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Musical Theater, Lyrical/Contemporary, and Hip Hop. Her dedication and exceptional skill were recognized early on, leading her to become a 2021 Joffrey NYC Summer program scholarship recipient, a testament to her promising talent.

Currently, Abigail continues to hone her artistry as a pre-professional contemporary dancer with the Minneapolis-based company, Crash Dance Productions. This ongoing training keeps her at the forefront of the dance world, constantly expanding her technique and artistic voice.

With a deep personal connection to the art form, Abigail is now committed to sharing her expertise and love for dance as an instructor. She firmly believes: “I have a deep passion for dancing, and my mission as an instructor is to instill that same passion with my dancers. It is the driving force that makes our dreams possible, and helps us grow into the best dancers and humans that we can be.”

Abigail's journey from a dedicated student at Dancin On Broadway to a pre-professional dancer and inspiring instructor embodies the transformative power of dance. Her commitment to fostering both artistic growth and personal development makes her a truly valuable mentor for aspiring dancers.

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Abby Guilford

Instructor/choreographer

Bio to come.

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Carol Farren

Instructor

Carol started dancing at the age of 7 at Dancin on Broadway in 1984 (Our first year being open!). She continued to dance here until she finished high school 11 years later. Carol became an assistant at age 14 and decided that she wanted a career working with children.

Carol attended college at Saint Mary’s University in Winona, MN, where she graduated with a B.A. in Elementary Education. While in college, Carol took as many dance classes as she could at Saint Mary’s and at the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. Carol taught pre-ballet classes at MCA for 2 years. She also performed in the MCA Dance Repertory Company’s spring show for 4 years, including the Firebird Ballet. Carol took master classes from James Sewell of the James Sewell Ballet Company and Bryant Young, who choreographed and played Snuffleupagus on Sesame Street.

Carol currently works for the Anoka-Hennepin School District as a Program Coordinator for the Adventures Plus School Age Childcare program. Working with children has always been her passion weather in the classroom, in the dance studio, or in play.

Carol will be working with our Recreational Classes this season.

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Jill Johnson

Instructor

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Julia Jones

Instructor/Choreographer

Julia started dancing at the young age of 2 ½ and hasn’t stopped since! She grew up at Dancin on Broadway dancing in the performing lines and small groups as well asperforming solos where she won many top honors and scholarships at the regional and national level.

She also was an assistant dance instructor to the directors of DOB, Tammy and Debbie. During this time Julia spent a lot of time traveling to conventions around the country to learn and train with many top choreographers such as Mia Michaels, Dee Caspary, Joe Tremaine, Gus Giordano and Frank Hatchett.

After High School, Julia attended the University of Minnesota where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance. This is where her ballet training really developed under the tutelage of Minnesota greats Lise Houlton, Bonnie Mathis and Lirena Branitski. Julia was also introduced to the world of modern and contemporary dance and soon realized this was her passion. Julia got the opportunity to perform classic pieces of choreography from Paul Taylor to Jose Limon. She also worked with many local choreographers such as Paula Mann, Shawn McConneloug and nationally recognized companies like Shapiro and Smith Dance (Danial Shapiro and Joanie Smith) and TU Dance with artistic directors Toni Pierce-Sands and Uri Sands.

After college Julia couldn’t wait to start teaching and choreographing for her alma mater, DOB. Julia prides herself on making great connections not only with her students but also with their parents as well. Her main emphasis as a teacher/choreographer is to showcase her dancer’s abilities and strengths while still stressing a strong focus on ballet technique. Her dancers have received numerous top honors along with many special awards such as showmanship, technique and choreography, including regional and national titles winners at competitions like Starpower, Hall of Fame, Showstoppers, Starquest and Legacy.

While being versatile in many styles of dance, her favorite dances to choreograph and teach are ballet, lyrical and contemporary. She also has a major soft spot for musical theater. Julia’s love for dance shines through in every class she teaches while keeping her classroom fun, but focused. She loves watching the growing process of all her students. The sense of accomplishment is very rewarding and what makes her strive to be better year after year. Julia says her greatest accomplishment would be her AMAZING family while watching her beautiful son grow each day!

Julia works with our recreational classes, performing lines, Xtreme team, Companies and soloists.

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Nicole Alden

Instructor

Nicole grew up in Maple Grove and started dancing at the age of 3 with Cheri Bell’s Studio of Dance, later moving to the Dance Shoppe performing lines as well as the Osseo Danceline. She competed in many regional and national competitions, and was also chosen to perform at Super Bowl XXVI.After graduating from Osseo Senior High, Nicole attended the College of Saint Benedict & Saint John’s University, graduating with a BA in Management. During that time she was on the St. Ben’s Dance team, and helped with founding the team in 1993. She also taught for Just for Kix Dance Teams. After college she coached the Maple Grove Dance Team.

Nicole is married to Todd and they have two girls, Ashley & Ella. Nicole and her girls all are a part of our competition teams here at Dancin’ on Broadway. Since her family does not want anyone to be left out, both Todd and her brother, Bobby, dance in the Father/Daughter class.“I am excited to be able to share my knowledge, joy, and enthusiasm of dance with others”Nicole will be working with our Recreational Classes this year.

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Becca Burnham

Instructor

Becca began dancing at Dancin on Broadway, at the age of 5, in 1999. She enjoyed dancing in recreational classes for her first few years, and after encouragement from her recreational teacher, she decided to join DOB’s performing lines. Throughout her time at DOB, she studied many styles of dance including ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, and (her all-time favorite) tap. After 13 years dancing at the studio, she went on to dance throughout her four years of college, as well.

Becca attended Gustavus Adolphus College in St. Peter, MN where she graduated in 2016 with a B.A. in Elementary Education. She received a dance scholarship at Gustavus which led her to study modern dance, in addition to her education degree. Through the theater and dance department, Becca was invited to join the Gustavus Dance Company and performed alongside her fellow company members in multiple dance concerts.

After college, Becca taught as a classroom teacher and helped a fellow Gustavus alumni by teaching and choreographing a tap class at Sondance Studio. After a busy first year post-college, she decided to step away from dance to focus on her teaching career. She spent her first seven years teaching 1st grade in the Orono Public School District. During this time, Becca continued her schooling and earned a M.A. in Elementary Education from the American College of Education. In 2023, Becca transitioned to teaching 2nd grade at Global Academy in New Brighton, MN. In the same year, she also decided to mesh her two passions, teaching and dance, by returning to DOB, this time, as a teacher.

Becca now continues to share her joy for teaching and learning at both Global Academy and Dancin on Broadway. She will be working with our Recreational Classes this season.

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Kylie Higby

Instructor

Kylie has been a part of the Dancin On Broadway family since she was two years old. Initially hesitant and reluctant to leave her mom’s side, she began in recreational classes, often sitting in class crying until her dance teachers coaxed her in. Her journey took a turn when she joined the competition lines, a decision she’s incredibly grateful for.

Over the years, Kylie has trained in various dance styles, including ballet, tap, hip-hop, lyrical, and contemporary. Her favorite styles are Jazz and Musical Theater. Kylie was also part of the Xtreme Team in its second year. She has had the privilege of taking master classes from renowned choreographers like Matt Steffanina, Ricci Milan, Tiffany Maher, Barry Youngblood, Barry Lather among many others.

Kylie's dance career has taken her to numerous states for competitions. She competed in her first nationals in 2012 at Wisconsin Dells, winning first place at the showdown with Company X. This success continued with competitions in Sandusky, Ohio, Virginia Beach, and multiple times at Wisconsin Dells. At the age of 13, Kylie won her first-ever title at the Ovation Dance Competition, being crowned Ms. Ovation and securing a first-place overall score for her solo, Broadway Baby.

Outside of the dance studio, Kylie enjoys playing with her dogs and spending time by the lake. She is passionate about learning new dance skills and techniques. By day, she is a licensed cosmetologist at Christopher J Salon, and by night, she shares her love of dance as an instructor.

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Meet Our Wonderful Instructor, Elizabeth!

Elizabeth's journey with dance began way back in 1992 when she joined the competitive line at Dancin' on Broadway. Growing up, she immersed herself in various dance styles, from the grace of ballet and lyrical to the energetic rhythms of jazz and, her absolute favorite, tap! She also spent countless hours at the studio, happily assisting younger dancers of all ages, nurturing her innate passion for teaching. Her dedication even took her to national competitions in exciting places like Las Vegas, Dallas, and Daytona. After high school, Elizabeth ventured into the corporate world, gaining valuable experience along the way.

But as fate would have it, dance came calling again in the most heartwarming way. After welcoming her two amazing children, she knew there was only one place for her daughter to experience the joy of dance: Dancin' on Broadway! It wasn't long before Elizabeth herself found her way back to the studio, rejoining the young adults' class and rediscovering her own love for movement. When the opportunity arose to step back into the classroom as a teacher, she embraced it with open arms.

Elizabeth brings a truly special touch to her classes. Her warm and compassionate nature is a gift when working with our youngest dancers, creating a patient and inviting atmosphere where every child feels welcome. She expertly guides her students through proper techniques and terminology, all while ensuring they have an absolute blast in her fun-filled classroom.

We're so thrilled that Elizabeth will be sharing her passion and expertise with our recreational classes!

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