Imani Grosvenor
Music Faculty
igrosvenor@metropolitanarts.org
Imani Mchunu Grosvenor is a native of Harlem, New York City, and has enjoyed performing opera, musical theatre, and concert works in Europe and North America. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Michigan and currently serves as a Soprano Vocalist with the United States Army Pershing’s Own.
Notable stage performances include Mary (Highway1), Emmie (Albert Herring), Laetitia (The Old Maid & the Thief), Patience (Patience), Sarah (Ragtime), Rapunzel (Into the Woods), and the Little Red Riding Hood (Barab’s Little Red Riding Hood).
Imani taught voice at the Aurora School of Music in Ohio, piano with Our Own Thing Instructional Program at the University of Michigan, and worked with Future University of Michigan Youth Ensembles, leading college workshops for artistic middle school students.
As a certified yoga instructor, Imani helps yogis of all levels find a deeper connection to their bodies through breath and movement and utilizes similar techniques to help younger artists perform with a grounded, confident presence.
Each year, Metropolitan School of the Arts’ music students perform one Winter Recital & one Spring Recital. Our recitals offer low stress and high-quality performance opportunities for students as well as entertaining events that can be experienced with family.
Private Music Lesson recitals are the perfect venue for students to show family and friends the results of months of learning and practice. Our recitals are organized and designed to eliminate “stage fright” and help performers build self-esteem.
At our music recitals, students are exposed to new musical styles and instruments. The recitals give students motivation and encouragement to practice and build skills in their chosen musical genre.
All music recitals are held on site in our Black Box Theater.
2025-2026 Recital Dates
Winter: January 18, 2026 | Please check your emails for specific schedule information
Spring: May 17, 2026
Brianna Forster
Conditioning Faculty
bforster@metropolitanarts.org
Brianna is a doctor of physical therapy specializing in orthopedics. She loves working with teenagers and has a background in dance and acrobatics in addition to strength and conditioning. She enjoyed working with the MSA dancers last year and is so excited to be back this year treating one on one in physical therapy and leading the conditioning class to teach dancers healthy habits so they can have long careers with fewer injuries.
Credentials: Brianna Q. Forster, PT, DPT, OCS, CF-L1
Claire Percoco
Upper Jazz Department Director (Levels 5-10)
Co-Director of The Metropolitan Follies
Jazz Faculty
cpercoco@metropolitanarts.org
Claire Percoco has been part of Metropolitan School of the Arts (MSA) since 2000, first as a student under Founder Melissa Dobbs, performing in productions such as Santa’s Frosty Follies, The Nutcracker, and many Spring Productions. After years of pre-professional and collegiate dance experience, including serving as captain for both West Springfield High School and Radford University’s nationally ranked dance teams, Claire went on to perform professionally as a Washington Redskins Cheerleader on the NFL sidelines.
Returning to MSA in 2015, Claire has served as both an administrator and instructor, teaching jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, and hip-hop. Now the Department Director for Upper-Level Jazz, she draws on her background in education, curriculum development, and instructional design to create developmentally responsive and engaging learning experiences that support each dancer’s artistic and personal growth.
Claire earned her Master’s in Elementary Education and was recognized as Best New Teacher at her school, reflecting her passion for fostering creative, inclusive, and student-centered learning environments. She is excited to continue giving back to the MSA community that has shaped her journey as both an educator and artist.
Walter “Bobby” McCoy
Music Faculty
wmccoy@metropolitanarts.org
Walter “Bobby” McCoy (He/They) is a distinguished music director based in the Washington, D.C. metro area. A proud Nicaraguan-American, McCoy has made significant contributions to both regional and off-Broadway theater. Their journey began at a young age, starting as a piano accompanist for their high school chorus at 14. By 15, he was already working as a rehearsal pianist for local theaters.
McCoy‘s talent and dedication quickly garnered attention, leading to his first assistant music director position at Keegan Theatre’s “National Pastime” while still in high school. Over the years, they have built an impressive resume, including notable productions such as “In the Heights” (GALA Hispanic Theatre), “Legally Blonde” (Keegan Theatre), “Beauty and the Beast” (Olney Theatre) and Masterclass (Arizona Theatre Company. His work has earned him multiple Helen Hayes Award nominations and wins, recognizing his outstanding musical direction.
In addition to their theater work, McCoy serves as an adjunct professor of musical theatre at Howard University, where they continue to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians and theatre artists.
His approach to music direction is highly collaborative, ensuring that the story on stage is vividly brought to life through music. McCoy‘s contributions to the arts have made him a vital part of the D.C. theater community, and his work continues to resonate with audiences and critics alike.
OPEN ADULT JAZZ
This class is designed for those looking to learn or refresh the basics of jazz dance in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Come ready to move, groove, and have a great time!
Basic 1- Beginner Ballet
The Basic Beginner Ballet class is designed for the beginner adult dancer (or someone who hasn’t danced for a long time). The class focuses on developing awareness of turnout, alignment, port de bras, use of feet, and basic ballet vocabulary and technique. Class includes a full barre and center floor work designed for the beginner. Class needs are: a pair of soft ballet slippers, dance wear/activewear to sweat in, and a desire to learn how to dance.
Ballet 2 – Intermediate Beginner
This class is geared toward adult dancers who already have a foundation in beginner ballet technique and know the basics (five positions, primary barre, and center exercises). Students will continue to develop skills learned in Basic Ballet and move onto balances, pirouettes, petite and grand allegro, turns across the floor, and more advanced combinations. Dancers should have soft ballet slippers, dancewear, and a positive attitude!
Ballet 3 – Advanced Beginners
This class is perfect for the adult dancer who has reached a high proficiency in Ballet 2, or is a former professional/pre-professional dancer looking to maintain or improve their ballet technique. Students should be able to execute pirouettes en dehors, en dedans, in arabesque and attitude; tombe pas de bourrée glissade assemblées, tour jetés, saut de basques and other petit and grand allegro. Exercises will include repetitions on releve, doubles for fondus and ronde jambe en l’air, and beats for frappes and jetes, as well as more complicated center exercises.
Harriet “Renee” Campbell
Dance Faculty
rcampbell@metropolitanarts.org
Renee Campbell was raised in a family where music was part of everyone’s life – either as a hobby or a profession. When she began studying ballet in high school she realized that dance was her favorite way of making music, bringing body, mind and spirit to every movement. For university, she was accepted into the ballet program of the Jordan School of Music at Indiana University in Bloomington, IN. There she studied with world renown dancers and teachers, including Nicholas Beriosoff, Marina Svetlova, John Kriza, and Anna Paskevska. As a member of the IU Ballet Theater, Renee danced in Mr. Beriosoff’s productions of Firebird, Petrushka, Scenes de Ballet Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the Nutcracker. (Mr. Beriosoff had been an assistant to the ballet great, Mikhail Fokine, in the 1930’s chapter of the Ballets Russes. He held the rights to stage Fokine’s ballets and was known around the world for his productions of the classics and the Stravinsky ballets). While at the University Renee also performed with an independent semi-professional modern dance group, Windfall Dancers, which is still in existence today.
Male Dance Technique
This class is designed for boys and male-identifying dancers ages 9 and up. Classes will be held on Saturdays from 2:15–3:15 PM with Charlie Abel and special guest sessions by Roger Jeffrey. The class will focus on strong classical technique, strength, and fun elements of jazz and musical theater, while building camaraderie and teamwork. Eligibility: Ages 9+.
Session One: September 6 – October 11 (6 classes)
Tuition: $150 ($25/class) – discounted from regular tuition
Session Two: October 18 – December 20 (8 classes)
no class held Nov. 29 Thanksgiving
No class held Dec. 13 Nutcracker
Tuition: $200 ($25/class) – discounted from regular tuition
Session Three: January 10 – February 14 (6 classes)
Tuition: $150 ($25/class) – discounted from regular tuition
Session Four: February 21 – Spring Production (June 18-21)
Tuition: $375 ($130 production fee waived)
Costume Fee: $100
Ansley Seiffert
Dance Faculty
aseiffert@metropolitanarts.org
Ansley Seiffert could not be more delighted to be back in Alexandria, Virginia where she grew up. She first started training at the Washington School of Ballet under Septime
Webre. At age 11, she came to Metropolitan School of the Arts to expand upon her versatility and trained under Sara Hart, Jacqueline Doherty, Lesley Shearer, Roger Jeffrey and Melissa Dobbs. She is a 2020 graduate of The Academy at Metropolitan School of the Arts where she trained in dance, theater, and voice.
In 2024, she graduated cum laude and high distinction from Butler University with her BFA in Dance Performance and minor in Creative Media and Entertainment. As a member of Butler Ballet, she performed many notable roles in classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Cinderella, Giselle, and The Nutcracker. She also performed in a variety of soloist roles in contemporary works choreographed by David Ingram, Derek Reid, and Ramón Flowers including Atomikós, Swingin, and Noir et Blanc. She has performed in various Musical Theater Productions such as Pippin with Butler Theater. Ansley has also performed in Pictures at an Exhibition as a featured dancer for The Reach at the Kennedy Center with the National Symphony Orchestra choreographed by Hope Boykin. Directed and produced by Sydney Sutherland, she has recently starred in the short film “Release” as the lead dancer, which has been selected for the 2025 Indy Shorts International Film Festival and Victory International Film Festival!
Ansley received distinction certifications from the Royal Academy of Dance finishing with Advanced II and has trained at various summer programs including American Ballet Theater in NYC, The Donald Byrd Workshop, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Kennedy Center Dance Lab, Washington Ballet, and Water Street Dance Festival. She was previously a company dancer with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company’s DCDC2 for the 2024-2025 season performing notable works by Crystal Michelle Perkins, Kevin Ward, Shonna Hickman-Matlock, and Robert Pullido. Ansley has most recently joined Gin Dance Company under the direction of Shu-Chen Cuff for the 2025-2026 season!
While Ansley loves to perform, her passions to create and collaborate with other artists have led to new aspirations for teaching and choreographing. Ansley is so excited to come back to her MSA home to teach and share her expertise and passion for the arts!
Hip Hop
This class introduces the movement, style, and rhythms of Hip Hop dance in a supportive and energetic environment. Students develop coordination, musicality, and performance quality while learning combinations to current and classic tracks. Open to all levels of experience.
A fee of $42 per half hour lesson and $79 per one hour lesson, will be billed on the second of the month for the lessons to be received during that month.
Private Music Lesson Recital Fees:
Winter Private Music Lesson Recital: Sunday, January 17-18, 2026 – $15.00
Spring Private Music Lesson Recital: Sunday, May 17, 2026 – $15.00
Layklyn Landry
Office Administrator
llandry@metropolitanarts.org
Caroline Rocher Barnes
Dance Faculty
crocherbarnes@metropolitanarts.org
Caroline Rocher Barnes is an assistant professor of dance at Towson University. She trained at the Conservatoire de Montpellier in France, the Rudra Béjart Art School in
Switzerland, and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center in New York. In 1999, Mrs. Rocher Barnes joined The Dance Theatre of Harlem under Arthur Mitchell’s mentorship, was
promoted to Soloist in 2000, and then Principal Dancer the following year. Her professional career extends to the Bavarian State Ballet in Germany, the Lyon Opera Ballet in France, and
Alonzo King’s Lines Ballet in San Francisco. In 2001 Mrs. Rocher Barnes was named “25 to watch”; in Dance Magazine. She has taught at numerous dance institutions worldwide, such as the Alonzo King Lines Training and Summer Programs, the University of Oklahoma, the Bates Dance Festival, the J.F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington
School of Ballet, the Metropolitan School of the Arts, the University of Cincinnati, Conservatory Program, the Collage Dance Collective Summer Program, the George Mason
University, the Georgetown University, the LEAP Dance Academy in Cape Town South Africa, the Conservatoire Mozart and Conservatoire de Montpellier in France.
Mrs. Rocher Barnes is a current member of IABD, the International Association of Blacks in Dance, and of CORPS de Ballet international (Council of Organized Researchers in
Pedagogical Studies of Ballet).
Mrs. Rocher Barnes holds a certification in the Gyrotonic® & Gyrokinesis® expansion systems, the FA® Functional Awareness method, and the Progressing Ballet Technique®. She is an ABT® Certified teacher who has completed the ABT® Teacher training intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 5.
Mrs. Rocher Barnes graduated Summa Cum Laude from Saint Mary’s College of California with a BA in Performing Arts. She holds an MFA in Dance from the University of
Maryland, College Park.
Chris Saunders
Dance Faculty
csaunders@metropolitanarts.org
Chris Saunders is a passionate and accomplished dance educator, choreographer, and performer with over 10 years of dedicated experience shaping dancers both on and off the stage.
Renowned for his dynamic energy, impeccable musicality, and heart-centered teaching style, Chris strives to create a classroom environment that seamlessly balances technical precision with creative exploration. He encourages dancers to not only develop their skills but also to cultivate artistry, confidence, and a deeper love for dance, inspiring his students to reach new heights both technically and artistically.
Chris received his B.F.A. in Dance & Performance from Shenandoah University, where he built a strong foundation in jazz, contemporary, and classical techniques. As a seasoned
performer, he has traveled extensively, sharing his craft with audiences across the United States and internationally. He currently dances with Motion X and Compañia Medusa, and spent several years performing with Holland America Cruise Lines, captivating audiences worldwide. These diverse performance experiences have enriched his understanding of storytelling, stage presence, and the cultural nuances of dance, all of which he integrates seamlessly into his teaching. Teaching all over the DMV area, Chris brings his expertise and infectious enthusiasm to a wide range of studios and workshops, making a lasting impact on dancers from diverse communities. His ability to connect with students from all backgrounds and skill levels highlights his commitment to expanding dance education beyond traditional boundaries.
Currently pursuing his MFA in Choreography at Jacksonville University, Chris continues to push the boundaries of his artistry while deepening his commitment to education. He regularly
leads master classes at various studios, offering dancers of all ages and skill levels invaluable insights drawn from his rich professional journey. His mentoring approach is rooted in fostering discipline, joy, and authenticity, empowering students to embrace their unique voices and to view dance as a powerful tool for personal expression. Chris’s expertise spans jazz and contemporary dance, allowing him to cultivate versatile, well-rounded dancers who thrive in both technique and creativity. His global performance background and extensive teaching experience give him a unique perspective that inspires students to grow beyond limits and to approach their craft with both passion and professionalism. Excited to rejoin the MSA family, Chris is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists by honoring dance traditions and inspiring innovation. Returning to a community that always felt like home, he continues to invest his time and energy into helping young dancers discover their path and voice in the lively world of dance.
Sam Ramatowski
Music Faculty
sramatowski@metropolitanarts.org
Dr. Sam Ramatowski is originally from Bowie, MD. He received his B.S. in Psychology from Stevenson University, M.S. in Counseling from Johns Hopkins University, and an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Drexel University. Sam first started his musical journey at the young age of 11 where he started playing guitar. His guitar journey didn’t last long as he realized his true calling was to play the bass guitar. While playing bass in his local music scene, Sam found himself always beating on the drums and knew his next calling. Sam enjoyed playing the drums during high school; however, he started to shift his focus from music to achieve his dream of playing college lacrosse. During college, Sam stopped playing music to focus on his academic and athletic endeavors. Once Sam graduated from JHU and moved to Northern VA to start his career in education, he found himself needing a new passion now that he wasn’t playing lacrosse every day. Sam decided to knock off the rust and start playing bass again. Since then, Sam has also taught himself how to play the ukulele and guitar. Sam is a self-taught musician who enjoys studying music theory, learning songs from all sorts of genres, and jamming with friends.
Jacob Bennett
Music Faculty
jbennett@metropolitanarts.org
Mr. Bennett has taught music in Virginia public schools since 2017. He earned his B.M. in Music Education (summa cum laude) at Virginia Commonwealth University, and his M.Ed. in Teaching English Language Learners from the University of Virginia. He holds Level II Kodaly certification and Level I Orff-Schulwerk certification. He currently teaches Elementary General Music in FCPS.
Marion Blasch
Fitness Faculty
studio@metropolitanarts.org
Marion teaches MetroBarre, a full body workout that involves smaller movement and light weights to enhance and strengthen core and stabilizer muscles. She also teaches yoga, which involves physical strength, stretching, and balance, to include mindfulness for centering, awareness, and relaxing. Marion believes in each person’s potential and strives to guide them to find their inner strength. She was a lead cyclist on the University of California Berkeley Women’s cycling team. In her hometown of San Diego, she taught spin aerobics in exclusive studios, and later, to the military at the Naval Base in Millington, TN. Marion holds an MBA from the University of Memphis and held a career in investment marketing. She is an avid swimmer and prior master’s coach. Marion is dedicated to her family and enjoys instructing barre and yoga. Outside the studio, Marion is a Social Media Manager and Workshop Manager. Marion is certified by Metropolitan School of the Arts, Yogafit, and YogaRenew – RYT500, YACEP. She strives to maintain a high level of fitness and nutritional health while inspiring others to do so as well!
2025-2026 Homeschool Tuition
$175.00/per student per month
$160.00/per student per month for 2 students
$145.00 per student per month for 3 or more students
Join us for our monthly restaurant nights, a beloved tradition that not only supports our school’s mission but also brings our community together. Enjoy a meal with friends and family while supporting the arts and fostering a sense of togetherness in our community.
Next Restaurant Night: We do not have a restaurant night scheduled at this time. Please check back again.
Step into the limelight with Metropolitan School of the Arts’ Spotlight classes – where students can refine their craft under the guidance of industry professionals from across the United States. These master classes offer a unique opportunity to receive specialized training in specific genres at MSA! Immerse yourself in a private setting with skilled teachers who bring a wealth of experience and expertise, providing invaluable insights and mentorship to help performers shine bright in their artistic journeys. Elevate skills, expand horizons, and take passions to the next level.
Caroline Nielson
Music Faculty
cnielson@metropolitanarts.org
A native of Dallas, Texas, Caroline Nielson is currently based in Washington, D.C., where she performs as an alto vocalist in the United States Army Chorus “Pershing’s Own.” In
2024, she completed the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Vocal Performance and Pedagogy at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, MA. Caroline also holds an MM in Voice Performance and Literature from the Eastman School of Music and a BM in Vocal Performance with a minor in German from Belmont University.
Caroline has sung numerous roles in operatic and musical theatre productions, having performed with Finger Lakes Opera, Syracuse Opera, Nashville Opera, Odyssey Opera, and
Opera in the Ozarks. Her theatrical roles include Foreign Singer – Postcard from Morocco, Diana – La Calisto (New England Conservatory), Bradamante – Alcina (Rochester Baroque Vocal Consort), Orlofsky (cover) – Die Fledermaus (Finger Lakes Opera), Meg Boyd – Damn Yankees, Grace Farrell – Annie (Rochester Association of the Performing Arts), Maurya – Riders to the Sea, Dorothée – Cendrillon, Abbess – Suor Angelica (Eastman), Nancy – Albert Herring, Mercédès – Carmen (Opera in the Ozarks), Dido – Dido and Aeneas, Cherubino – Le nozze di Figaro, Mother Marie – Dialogues of the Carmelites (Belmont), and ensemble in Pirates of Penzance (Nashville Opera) and Carmen (Syracuse Opera).
An avid performer of choral music, Caroline regularly performs with ensembles such as Washington Bach Consort, The Thirteen, Washington Concert Opera, and Washington Master Chorale. Caroline is also a dedicated pedagogue, having taught voice at the junior high, high school, collegiate, and adult avocational levels.
Paul Grosvenor
Music Faculty
pgrosvenor@metropolitanarts.org
Paul GL Grosvenor, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, joined the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2021 as a member of the chorus. In 2020, he was a featured soloist and chorus member in the Grammy-winning production of Porgy and Bess with the Metropolitan Opera. Paul made his operatic debut as Don Alfonso in Cosi fan tutte with the Opera Theatre of the Rockies. He then went on to perform in several operas including La bohème, Gianni Schicchi, Don Giovanni, and Ariadne auf Naxos. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Michigan.
BALLET INTENSIVE
An exhilarating in-depth ballet intensive for serious and dedicated dance students taught by MSA faculty and guest teachers. This program will empower and challenge students to improve their technical proficiency and execution of classical ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. Daily technique classes will be offered in ballet, pointe, classical repertoire, Pilates, partnering, and character dance.
Eligibility: 10+ yrs who have completed a Ballet 3+
Caroline Frankil-Warren
Ballet Faculty
cfrankilwarren@metropolitanarts.org
Ms. Warren began her studies on a Ford Foundation grant at the School of the Pennsylvania Ballet, going on to train with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Joffrey Ballet (the company) School. She studied with such notable teachers as Melissa Hayden, Elizabeth Carroll, Basil Thompson, David Moroni, and Zachary Solov. She performed as a Soloist with the Delta Ballet of New Orleans, New Orleans Opera and Tulane Summer Lyric Theater, and received a B.S. in Dance with Honors from Skidmore College. Ms. Warren served on the faculty of the prestigious New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA) and as an Artist-in-Residence for the Louisiana Commission on the Arts. Her choreographic experience includes a special internship with the Joffrey Ballet, and as Delta Ballet repetitrice for classical ballets including Swan Lake, Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Coppelia. She created ballets locally for the Fairfax Ballet, Ballet Nova, Festival Ballet of Virginia and Metropolitan Youth Ballet. Ms. Warren was on the faculty of BalletNova Center for Dance from 2002 – 2017, and was asked to be a guest teacher at the City Ballet of Wilmington (North Carolina) Summer Intensives 2022 and 2023. She studied ballet pedagogy at the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet’s Teacher Workshop, under Darla Hoover.
Ana Tomioshi
Tap Faculty
atomioshi@metropolitanarts.org
Ana is a Brazilian performing artist, choreographer, and educator based in Alexandria, VA. She is the Dance Captain for Music From the Sole, a New York City-based tap dance and live music company under the direction of Leonardo Sandoval and Gregory Richardson, praised by The New York Times as “an unforced crowd-pleaser, original and true to itself.” She has performed at renowned venues and festivals across the U.S. and internationally, including The Kennedy Center, The Joyce Theater, New York City Center, The Yard, São Paulo Municipal Theater, and Rock in Rio.
A Jacob’s Pillow alumna, Ana is also a passionate educator. She is on faculty at the Metropolitan School of the Arts and teaches throughout the Washington, D.C. area, sharing her love of dance with the next generation.
DANCE LAB
A pre-professional daily drop-in experience where dancers can further their education and immerse themselves in a world of artistic growth. With themed days focused on leaps and turns, flexibility, acro, choreography, dance team, and more, our expert teachers from NOVA and New York City will guide you through intensive sessions that challenge and inspire. Whether dropping in for a single day or bundling up for the week, this exciting summer offering provides a unique opportunity to refine skills, receive personalized feedback, and connect with like-minded dancers.
Eligibility: 9+ yrs who have completed a Level 2+
MUSIC THEATER WORKSHOP
The Music Theater Workshop at MSA offers students the opportunity to participate in an exciting, professional, and in-depth study of the world of musical theater. Mornings will begin with a rigorous dance and vocal group warm-up in order to prepare for a day spent in a professional setting rehearsing with industry professionals from Los Angeles, New York City, and Chicago. Days will be spent in rehearsals learning choreography, vocals, and theatrical excerpts from popular musicals. The week culminates with showcase performances for family and friends.
Eligibility: 9+ who have completed Jazz Level 1a+
Schedule & Pricing:
Fridays 9:30 am -10:30am
Current Session: January 10 – Friday, February 14
Next Session: February 21 – March 28, Registration will open soon
Cost: $138
Eligibility: 3-6 year olds | *must be 3 before September 30, 2024
Faculty: Colleen Buck
Don’t miss this opportunity to inspire your child’s love for dance and artistic expression.
Darcey Geissler
Jazz Faculty
dgeissler@metropolitanarts.org
Darcey Geissler grew up dancing in Fredericksburg, Virginia. She also trained with the Bolshoi in Moscow, Russia and the Governor’s School of Virginia. She has a BA in theatre from the College of William & Mary, where she performed in productions such as 42nd Street, Chicago, Damn Yankees, and many others. After college, she had the opportunity to perform professionally as a singer/dancer at Hershey Park and the Riverside Theatre. After teaching theatre at a magnet school, Darcey went on to law school, and continues to practice law. The highlight of her week is teaching dance and giving everyone the opportunity to express themselves through dance.
The Ballet Conservatory Program | Invitation Only
The Conservatory Program is designed for ballet students who possess the technical ability and work ethic to achieve a high level of study, execution, and performance in classical ballet. Students take the Conservatory ballet classes in addition to their two weekly ballet classes. The aim of the Conservatory Ballet program is to provide a comprehensive education in classical ballet studies to prepare students for a potential career in dance. The program’s technical framework is based on the Vocational syllabus of the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). Conservatory students are expected to participate in an annual RAD Examination session held in early spring. MSA students regularly achieve remarkable results in these examinations and MSA ranks in the top 20% of RAD schools worldwide.
Advanced conservatory students augment this training with additional open classes based on the Vaganova method. There are five levels in the program: A through E. Participation in the Conservatory Program is by invitation only and minimum class requirements must be met.
The Royal Academy of Dance is an internationally recognized organization that provides a certification program in classical ballet. With more than 15,000 members spread across 82 countries, the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the largest and most influential dance education and training organizations in the world (www.royalacademyofdance.org). Highly-trained and certified registered teachers administer a curriculum in dance that is approved by the United Kingdom Department of Education, which follows UK national standards for arts education. The assessment process allows students and educators alike to know exactly what skills have been attained and where further study is required. The Royal Academy of Dance employs a Board of Examiners: internationally renowned teachers who use the RAD syllabus in their own teaching. Lesley Shearer, the Director of the Ballet Program at MSA, is a member of the RAD Board of Examiners. A certificate is awarded to successful candidates, providing proof that they have attained an international standard in classical dance appropriate to their age. The certificate is a highly prized addendum to college applications as it demonstrates that the student has been diligently committed to working towards a high standard of achievement in the arts, in addition to their school activities.
FLY INTENSIVE
A commercial dance intensive that will push students to reach their maximum potential. FLY dancers participate in an intensive study of contemporary, hip hop, jazz, and tap master classes geared toward improving technical proficiency and building performance skills. Days will be spent in rehearsals with industry professionals based out of Los Angeles, New York City, and the DC Metro area, learning choreography for an end of the week showcase for families and friends!
The completely revamped Fly Intensive will return in Summer 2026
Melanie Jerome
Jazz and Hip Hop Faculty
mjerome@metropolitanarts.org
Melanie Jerome was born and raised in Eldersburg, Maryland. She began dancing at the age of 3 at her hometown studio, where she studied all styles of dance and competed with the company until she graduated from high school. Melanie attended the Baltimore School for the Arts, where she received intense ballet and modern training every day. After graduating from BSA, she received a dance scholarship to George Mason University, where she earned her BFA in Dance, graduating with “Outstanding Achievement in the Major.”
Melanie graduated in the “glorious” year of 2020, which she actually considers a blessing in disguise. She took the opportunity to spontaneously audition for the Tennessee Titans Cheerleading Team and was fortunate to join for the 2021-2022 season. Becoming an NFL Cheerleader was a dream come true for her and has opened many unexpected doors, including choreographing for DUKE’s Dance Team, The Dancing Devils.
Melanie is now happy to be back in the DMV, teaching, choreographing, and, of course, smiling with so many young dancers. She can’t wait for what’s next!
Raven Sellers
Acro and Dance Faculty
rsellers@metropolitanarts.org
Ryleigh Jackson
Tap and Jazz Faculty
rjackson@metropolitanarts.org
Ryleigh Jackson was born and raised in Germantown, Maryland. Beginning her dance journey at the age of 3, she started her competitive dance path at 8, showcasing her commitment and talent from a young age. At 16, she transitioned into teaching, furthering her influence in the dance community. In 2022, Ryleigh earned the title of Miss Maryland’s Outstanding Teen (Miss America Organization), which gave her an opportunity to promote her social impact initiative, TAP: Teen Anxiety Pals. Through TAP, she utilized social media to share positive coping strategies while introducing beginner tap dance skills to young audiences.
This past year, Ryleigh had the opportunity to work with Savage Dance Company’s youngest competitors, where she choreographed a tap piece that consistently placed in the top three at dance competitions at both the local and national levels. With a profound passion for nurturing young dancers, Ryleigh is very excited about expanding her teaching career and creating a supportive, creative, and productive environment for her students!
Jacqueline Doherty
Metropolitan Youth Ballet Artistic Director
Artistic Director of The Nutcracker
Ballet Faculty
jdoherty@metropolitanarts.org
Jacqueline Doherty began her professional career with The Israel Ballet, performing in classics such as Sleeping Beauty, Romeo and Juliet, and Coppélia, along with George Balanchine’s Four Temperaments and Symphony in C. Throughout her career, Jacqueline toured extensively across Europe with The Israel Ballet, Cwmni Ballet Gwent, Classical Production, and Opera North, and participated in numerous charitable events and galas in the UK.
In 2000, Jacqueline moved to America and embarked on her teaching career. Over the last 20+ years, she has been a pivotal figure at the Metropolitan School of the Arts, where she founded the Metropolitan Youth Ballet (MYB). Starting as a small company of seven, MYB has grown to stage an annual spring ballet and compete in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP). Under her direction, MYB has achieved top placements at YAGP, both for Jacqueline’s choreography and for her students’ performances. Jacqueline has staged numerous classical works with MYB, including La Fille Mal Gardée, Coppélia, Sleeping Beauty, and Cinderella, along with original works like Snow White and Beauty and the Beast. Since 2010, she has also directed The Nutcracker at MSA, developing it into a cherished holiday favorite. Additionally, Jacqueline developed the original dance program for company and musical theater dancers at MSA Academy, which she chaired until 2020.
Jacqueline’s greatest joy comes from seeing her students develop and discover their passion for ballet. Her commitment to the art extends beyond instruction, as she actively collaborates with other teachers, choreographers, and the community to provide a comprehensive and enriching experience for all dancers at MSA.
DANCE
A diverse and dynamic dance curriculum that encompasses a variety of different styles of dance. Each class begins with a proper physical warm-up before delving into engaging combinations. From jazz to soft shoe tap, ballet to musical theater, our dance instructors are dedicated to teaching students the techniques and artistry behind each style.
ACTING
Our acting curriculum focuses on developing students as versatile and confident actors. Through a variety of voice and movement exercises, improvisation games, and scripts, students will learn the fundamentals of acting for the stage. Our goal is to nurture actors’ passions and encourage them to grow in their stage presence, ensemble skills, and acting technique.
Elycia Woodham
Music Faculty
ewoodham@metropolitanarts.org
Chelsea Shocknesse
Lower Jazz and Tap Department Director (Levels 1-4)
Co-Director of The Metropolitan Follies
Jazz & Tap Faculty
cshocknesse@metropolitanarts.org
Chelsea “Ms. Chelsea” Marcelin Shocknesse has been a part of the MSA (formerly MFAC) family since she first moved to Virginia at the age of 16. After moving to Virginia, she started as a student at MSA in 2009, where she participated in Frosty Follies, the 2009 spring production Annie (Ms. Hannigan), and the 2010 production of Beauty and the Beast (Mrs. Potts).
Though her time as a student at MSA was short, she was thrilled to return in 2015 as a faculty member. She is now the Director of Tap and Jazz at MSA for levels 1-4 and loves teaching both tap and jazz, keeping dance a large part of her life. She is also a co-director for The Metropolitan Follies: A Holiday Revue, which is a true joy during the holidays. She is extremely passionate about both dance and dance education!
Chelsea graduated from the University of Virginia with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education in 2015. She currently also works in education in the elementary school setting in Northern Virginia. Outside of dance she loves the beach, traveling, and being social with friends!
Irene Tsai
Music Faculty
itsai@metropolitanarts.org
Breanna Swetland
Administrative Assistant and Special Projects Manager
Early Childhood Faculty
bswetland@metropolitanarts.org
Breanna Swetland began working at MSA (then MFAC) in 2005. She teaches a variety of Early Childhood classes as well as works administratively. She holds a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies (Dance and English) from Berry College and a MA in English from George Mason. Breanna taught English at Northern Virginia Community College where she piloted a new Developmental English program and presented at an international conference in South Africa before deciding to follow her passion for the performing arts.
Kirsten Noetzel
Acting Department Director
Metropolitan iMprov Artistic Director
Acting Faculty
knoetzel@metropolitanarts.org
Kirsten works regionally as a Director and Teaching Artist and has been on MSA’s faculty since 2013. She serves as the Studio Acting Director and Artistic Director of MetroiMprov. Regionally, Kirsten has directed for The Theatre Lab (Romeo and Juliet, As You Like It, The Magic Hour), Imagination Stage (Unlabeled, The Pencil is Mightier, O Wonder, Aladdin), Montgomery College (The BURN), The Hub Theatre (Emerging Writers Festival), and Metropolitan School of the Arts (The Odyssey, Mirror Mirror, 4 AM, Peter Pan, The Tempest, Legend of Sleepy Hollow); as well as Assistant Directed for The Hub Theatre (Peekaboo, The BURN). She also serves on the faculty of Ford’s Theatre, Imagination Stage, The Theatre Lab, and Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts. Kirsten has been invited to speak about educational theater at conferences sponsored by DC Collaborative, Imagination Stage, and The Kennedy Center. Kirsten received her Master’s in Theatre from the University of Houston School of Theatre and is a proud member of the Voice and Speech Trainers Association (VASTA). She is passionate about helping actors find their unique artistic voice and creating an environment of ensemble, trust, curiosity, and excellence.
Jarrett Nicolay
Music Faculty
jnicolay@metropolitanarts.org
Jarrett is a Founding / Current Member of Washington DC Bands Virginia Coalition / Astra Via / My New Mixtape. He is also the owner of Mixtape Studios in Alexandria, VA. Jarrett has had music featured in recent films such as “Blue Ruin” and the Sundance award winning “I Don’t Feel at Home in this World Anymore”.
New song “Paid Too Much” out now!
https://mynewmxtape1.bandcamp.com/track/paid-too-much
www.mynewmixtape.com
Mixtape Studios llc
Matt Nall
Facilities Manager
Music Theatre & Music Faculty
mnall@metropolitanarts.org
Matt Nall is originally from Dallas, Texas. He received his Bachelor of Music from Texas Tech University and his Masters of Arts from New York University. In New York, he was a professional actor and appeared regionally as Gaston in Beauty in the Beast, Curly in Oklahoma, and Christmas Present in A Christmas Carol as well as others. In 2006, Matt accepted the position as Baritone Vocalist in the United States Army Chorus. Since then, he has performed all over the country and for various dignitaries and ambassadors, as well as every living President. Matt has been the Music Director for MSA for more than 15 years.
Juan Carlos Mendez
Music Faculty
jmendez@metropolitanarts.org
Guitar, piano, and percussion instructor Juan Carlos Méndez appreciates all kinds of music but has developed a particular passion for the indigenous music of his home country, Guatemala, and jazz. In Guatemala, he studied at the Jesús Castillo Music Conservatory and with Byron Campo at the School of Polirítmos. In the U.S., he had the opportunity to continue his studies, working with various renowned musicians, among whom Berry Harris stands out. Studying with Barry in New York City has been a fundamental part of his music, philosophy, and jazz journey. His areas of expertise include music education, composition, and music production.
As a music performer, Juan has had diverse experiences that have shaped him into the musician he is today. In 2020, Juan Carlos recorded his first solo album at Divine Order Studios, produced by Allyn Johnson (piano), with the participation of Herman Burney (double bass) and Kelton Norris (drums).
Rosie Matthews
Teen Director
Ballet, Contemporary, & Jazz Faculty
rmatthews@metropolitanarts.org
Since moving back to the area in 2019, Rosie has taught ballet, contemporary, jazz, and early childhood classes for the studio, and occasionally yoga for the adult program. She is an alumnus of MSA (formerly MFAC) and has been involved with the organization, either as a student or teacher, since 2007. Rosie has a BFA in Commercial Dance with a concentration in Dance Pedagogy from Pace University in NYC. She has danced, choreographed, and assisted on projects, including TV shows Rise and Dickinson, as well as music videos for artists Diana DeGarmo and Grammy winner Sarah Small. Rosie is thrilled to be back at MSA, sharing her love of dance with the next generation.
Lucia Lanave
Music Faculty
llanave@metropolitanarts.org
Lucia LaNave has music directed and played piano for many of the top theaters in DC, including the Kennedy Center, Constellation Theatre Company, Nextstop Theatre Company, Creative Cauldron, and GALA Hispanic Theater. Recent credits include: The Hello Girls, Urinetown (Music Director, The Theatre Lab); Lucky Stiff (Music Director, Nextstop Theatre Company); The Christmas Angel (Music Director, Creative Cauldron); Little Shop of Horrors (Assistant Music Director, Constellation Theatre Company); and Inside My Head (Music Director, The REACH at the Kennedy Center).
She has had the pleasure of working with Broadway talents, including accompanying Lisa Howard (25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee) in concert. She also teaches voice and piano for both the Metropolitan Studio of the Arts and Blue Feather Music, and accompanies for the musical theatre program at American University. Additionally, she is a judge for the Virginia High School League (VHSL) One-Act Theatre Competition.
Nick King
Assistant to the Facilities Manager
Administrative Assistant
nking@metropolitanarts.org
Nick King and his tap dancing daughter, Roxanne arrived at Metropolitan Fine Arts Center the fall before the Spring production of Tarzan, and the rest is history
Roger C. Jeffrey
Ballet Faculty
Roger C. Jeffrey was born and raised in New York City, where he began his training at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center in Jamaica, Queens. A graduate of Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and the Performing Arts, he received his B.F.A. from The Juilliard School under the direction of Benjamin Harkarvy. Mr. Jeffrey has performed with the companies of Bernice Johnson, Kevin Iega Jeff, Obediah Wright, Earl Mosley, Zvi Gotheiner, Twyla Tharp, Lar Lubovitch, Metropolitan Opera Ballet, and with Mikhail Baryshnikov’s White Oak Dance Project. He has also worked with Dudley Williams, Eleo Pomare, Otis Sallid, Debbie Allen, Danny Tidwell, Ayodele Casel, D’bi. Young, Rasta Thomas, Sean Curran, Doug Varone, Richard Move, and Mark Dendy.
Mr. Jeffrey is a New York-based freelance choreographer and director. Inspired by his mentor Kevin Iega Jeff, he began to explore his artistic potential as both an instructor and choreographer at the Bernice Johnson Cultural Arts Center, Edge School of the Arts, South Shore Dance Alliance, The Ailey School, The Joffrey School, The Joffrey Concert Group, The Juilliard School, Peridance Center, American Ballet Theatre/Make a Ballet Program, Studio Harmonic, Elisa King and Dancers, CityDance Ensemble, Camille Brown and Dancers, Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance, Dario Varcaro Dance Project, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance, Verb Ballets, Collage Dance Collective, Philadanco!, BalletX, New York Hip-Hop Festival, Ballet Arabesque, and La Companyia, to name a few.
Mr. Jeffrey has choreographed and/or directed various theatrical productions, including Death of the Diva (featuring Amanda Seales), The Emancipation of Ms. Lovely (featuring Ngozi Paul), Blood Claat (featuring D’bi. Young), Gemini Rising, and Da Kink in My Hair (featuring Angie Stone, Melanie Fiona, and Terri Vaughn), to name a few. He is also the artistic consultant for Rasta Thomas and associate artistic director of Dawn Branch Works.
In 1997, Mr. Jeffrey founded Subtle Changes, Inc., a nonprofit artist collective committed to the presentation, development, and exposure of the arts. The company has presented work at Lincoln Center Out-of-Doors, Central Park SummerStage Harlem, E-Moves/Aaron Davis Hall, Judson Church, P.S. 122, DanceNow Festival, Theatre of the Riverside Church, JoyceSoho, Back Yard Dance Project, Bric, and Jacob’s Pillow Inside/Out, among others.
Jennifer Hopkins
Adult Dance & Fitness
jhopkins@metropolitanarts.org
After many years working in New York, Jennifer is happy to call the DC theater community her home. There, she has been fortunate to work with several companies, including Folger Shakespeare, Constellation, Rorschach, Taffety Punk, Longacre Lea, and Keegan. In addition to performing, she has been an educator both in the U.S. and abroad, teaching Shakespeare and Musical Theatre courses in England and France.
Her direction and choreography credits include six summers with Festival 56 in Illinois, where she has choreographed Cabaret, The Full Monty, Gypsy, The Addams Family, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Mary Poppins. She also directed their productions of As You Like It, The Drowsy Chaperone, Sweet Charity, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Othello. At Providence College in Rhode Island, she has choreographed The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Bat Boy, and Something Rotten.
She holds a BFA in Musical Theatre from Webster Conservatory and an MFA in Classical Acting from George Washington University and Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Academy for Classical Acting.
Colleen Hayes
Jazz Faculty
chayes@metropolitanarts.org
Colleen Hayes has spent the majority of her career as a performer and teacher in New York City and is originally from the DMV area. She performed in the first national tour of Catch Me If You Can, Crazy for You at The REV, The Producers, and Cinderella at the Fulton Opera House. DC-area performances include the world premiere of Sheryl Crow’s Diner, the Helen Hayes Award-winning Cabaret, the HH-nominated West Side Story, and Crazy for You at Signature Theatre. She also appeared in the Helen Hayes Award-winning A Chorus Line and How to Succeed… at Olney Theatre Center. TV and voiceover credits include Roaring 20s for DC Lotto, and Butterbean’s Café, Corn and Peg, Paw Patrol, and Dora the Explorer for Nickelodeon’s digital app.
In addition to performing, Colleen spends the spring semester as a member of the adjunct faculty at George Mason University, teaching Intermediate Broadway Jazz. She also teaches dance and fitness to children and adults locally and along the East Coast at high schools, dance conventions, and universities. She loves working with students at all stages of their careers to bridge the gap from education to professional work. Colleen holds a degree in Theatre and Dance with a Musical Theatre concentration from James Madison University. She is represented by CESD and is a member of Actors’ Equity Association.
Aimee Gervacio
Acting, Jazz & Music Theatre Faculty
agervacio@metropolitanarts.org
Aimee has been teaching musical theater and acting at MSA since 2018, bringing over 20 years of training in dance and experience in musical theater. She is a proud Virginia Tech alumna with a B.A. in English (2010) and completed her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction at GMU in 2022. After more than 11 years of working as a technical writer and business analyst, Aimee transitioned to teaching full-time as a secondary English teacher for FCPS. She continues to be passionate about dance and musical theater and is dedicated to working with students to encourage and support their artistic talents and aspirations.
Emily Farr
Contemporary & Jazz Faculty
efarr@metropolitanarts.org
Emily currently teaches two disciplines of dance at the Metropolitan School of the Arts, including jazz and contemporary. She has choreographed dances for large ensembles and pre-professional companies at MSA, as well as solos for students seeking to gain admission to performing arts programs at prestigious colleges and universities. Emily is an alumna of MSA (formerly MFAC). She received her BFA in Dance from the University of the Arts in 2017. Emily was awarded the Promising Young Artist Scholarship for all four years and the Elizabeth Ann Pulaski Scholarship as a rising senior, which is awarded to only one student per year. She has performed professionally in Northern Virginia and Philadelphia and continues to hone her craft. Emily feels very fortunate to share her passion with young aspiring artists and works to be a positive influence on the overall growth and development of her students.
Shu-Chen Cuff
Ballet Faculty
scuff@metropolitanarts.org
Shu-Chen Cuff, Founder/Artistic Director of Gin Dance Company, was born in Kaohsiung, Taiwan where she established a well-rounded background in dance with training in Ballet, Modern, Chinese Opera movements, and various Chinese folk dances. In 1994, she immigrated to United States to continue her training and pursue her dance journey in U.S. In 1998, Shu-Chen received a B.F.A. from the University of Florida’s New World School of the Arts. Following college, she performed numerous classical and contemporary works while dancing with Miami Ballet and Nevada Ballet Theater. After relocating to the Washington, DC in 2002, Shu-Chen worked with Dana Tai Soon Burgess & Company and has left her footprints around the world, touring to Asia, Latin and Central America, and Europe. Shu-Chen also has been a guest performer and choreographer with BalletNova Center for Dance, Metropolitan School of the Arts and Skye Ballet Center. Shu-Chen has a great passion to pass on her knowledge, experience, and her love of dance to young aspiring dancers. In this regard, she has taught at Ashburn Academy of Dance and Russell School of Ballet, and has been a guest instructor at numerous dance schools throughout Taiwan.
Kendall Cherry
Hip Hop Faculty
kcherry@metropolitanarts.org
Kendall Cherry, known professionally as Coach Cherry, is a professional choreographer, movement coach, and creative director whose work can be seen in music videos, television, film, and on tours at your local arena. Cherry has helped develop artists like DaniLeigh, Bantu, Dr. Chaii, Reggie Becton, and Soaky Siren, while still working with world-renowned artists such as DaBaby, Chris Brown, Rico Nasty, Dreezy, Nasty C, G-Eazy, and Asian Doll. Her most recent work can be seen in the new Samsung commercial for the release of their cell phone, the Z Flip 3.
Cherry’s choreography for “BOP on Broadway” by DaBaby, “Levi High” by DaniLeigh ft. DaBaby, and “Easy” by DaniLeigh ft. Chris Brown have earned her Soul Train Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, BET Awards, and VMA nominations. Aside from music videos and commercials, Cherry has also choreographed for world tours, festivals, and even late-night TV show performances. Her well-rounded training from a young age has allowed Cherry to adapt to various sets and performances. She has contributed to the creative direction of DaniLeigh’s “Be Yourself” tour and understands the importance of lighting and stage design.
Silvia Burstein Hendi
Ballet Faculty
sbursteinhendi@metropolitanarts.org
Silvia Burstein-Hendi was born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina. She concurrently trained at two separate dance schools and obtained two professional dance diplomas. The first diploma was a Dance Teacher degree from the National School of Dance, and the second was a Professional Dancer diploma from the Institute of the Teatro Colón. In 1986, Silvia immigrated to Canada, where she danced and taught professionally in Montreal at the Ballet Classique de Montréal and in Ottawa at Le Groupe Dance Lab, among many other institutions.
After moving to the United States in 1999, she continued to dance, perform, and teach while being a full-time mom and raising a family. She loves being a mom, a dancer, and a dance teacher! As a dancer, she still enjoys training and the experience of performing in front of an audience—perhaps even more now as an adult! As a teacher, with nearly 40 years of experience, she enjoys continually educating herself, taking numerous classes and workshops, and exploring new pedagogies to teach the next generation of dancers and artists.
Colleen Buck
Summer Mini Camp Director
Early Childhood Faculty
cbuck@metropolitanarts.org
Colleen Buck is a native of the Washington, DC area and enjoyed dancing in local musical theater productions as a teenager. As a student at Boston University, she had the opportunity to begin formal dance training, studying tap, ballet, and jazz. After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Colleen worked as a technical writer for a northern Virginia engineering firm and continued her education at the University of Maryland, where she received a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering. An engineer and technical writer by day, she was always a dancer at heart, teaching aerobics and taking dance classes in the evening. With the birth of her son in 2002, Colleen opted for a career change, embracing her passion for teaching dance to young children. Since then she has pursued a true vocation, bringing the joy of dance and movement to her students, while still trying to grow as a dancer by taking classes weekly. Her philosophy was best summed up in a letter from one of her young dancers, “Thank you for teaching me to love dance.”
Howard Breitbart
Music Faculty
hbreitbart@metropolitanarts.org
Howard Breitbart (musical director, arranger, pianist) is a native of Miami, FL. Howard received his music degree in piano performance from The University of Maryland in College Park. He has become an in-demand musician for many theaters and productions throughout the DC area. He toured with the political satire troupe “The Capitol Steps” for 27 years. He is now performing with a new group, “The Reflecting Fools”. Howard accompanied vocalist/actor Norm Lewis at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theatre and vocalist Susan Derry at Feinstein’s 54 Below in NYC. Howard’s favorite shows that he has musically directed include Closer Than Ever at Metro Stage, Alexandria, VA, Carolyn Or Change at Studio Theatre, Washington, DC; Broadway Christmas Carol at Metro Stage, Christmas Carol at Ford’s Theatre, Broadway Holiday at Classic Theatre Of Maryland, Most Happy Fellow at Palm Beach Dramaworks, Palm Beach, FL. and numerous cabarets at Signature Theatre, Arlington, VA. Recently, Howard accompanied productions of Beauty & The Beast at Stone Ridge School, Bethesda, MD and Into The Woods at Fairfax High School.
Private Lessons
A six-week session for guitar, piano, drums, voice, and more. Private one-time coachings available upon request.
Summer Musical
Experience the magic of Summer Stock in the DMV by auditioning for MSA’s Summer Musical, a performance created in less than two weeks! Join talented performers from the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area for the opportunity to work with industry professionals and gain valuable experience in putting on a full musical production. Immerse yourself in a summer of music, dance, and theater like never before!
Information regarding the 2026 Summer Musical will be available in early 2026.
Yoga
The yoga program at Metropolitan School of the Arts is a space created for the holistic development of body, mind, and soul. We offer quality yoga instruction through the practice of Vinyasa Yoga for beginner and advanced students alike. Vinyasa Yoga is a breath-synchronized practice where the yoga poses flow from one to another in conjunction with the breath. MSA’s yoga classes ignite energy and diffuse stress, cultivate strength and flexibility, and encourage peace in ways that are accessible for beginners and advanced students alike.
MUSIC
A comprehensive music curriculum that aims to inspire and nurture young musicians in a group vocal setting. Our instructors will guide students through the fundamentals of music theory and sight singing. Group vocal instruction will explore a variety of genres and musical styles, while focusing on the importance of proper vocal technique in choral singing.
Vic Adebusola
Hip Hop Director
vadebusola@metropolitanarts.org
Victor Adebusola serves as the Commercial Dance Director for MSA, leading the organization’s after school hip hop and contemporary dance programs. Vic originally joined MSA in 2018 as a hip hop faculty member in the commercial dance program. Vic has danced, taught, and choreographed for several studios, schools, and organizations in the DC-metropolitan area. He graduated from the University of Maryland and is currently pursuing an arts management degree at George Mason University. Vic also served as an adjunct instructor in George Mason University’s dance department. He was the artistic director of Culture Shock Dance Troupe, captain of Capital Funk DC, and established Project VictorAde, which debuted in 2017. Vic has performed and taught in Los Angeles, San Diego, Ottawa, Canada, and New York through these opportunities. He continues to spread his knowledge and love for dance to all communities and people who share his passion and strives to bring awareness of the talent of the DMV-dance community to broader audiences.
Naomi Hill
Contemporary Director
Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, & Jazz Faculty
nhill@metropolitanarts.org
Naomi began dancing at Metropolitan School of the Arts when she was 5 years old, training in a variety of styles including jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, and contemporary. She performed annually in MSA’s Spring Production, The Nutcracker, and as a company member with iMpulse. After graduating high school, she attended Chapman University in California where she continued her dance training. Naomi is currently a company artist with Motion X Dance DC, a local contemporary dance company directed by Stephanie Dorrycott. She joined the MSA faculty in 2022 and serves as the Contemporary Director. Naomi is honored to be a small part of her students’ dance journeys and enjoys celebrating their achievements both in and out of the studio.
MetroBarre
MetroBarre is a one-hour full body workout that fuses the elements of ballet and Pilates-inspired movement, sports conditioning exercises, and yoga for a truly unique and fun fitness experience. The exercises are low impact in nature but feature high intensity intervals of strength training followed by deep recovery stretching. MetroBarre will evenly sculpt and transform the entire body, resulting in a beautifully toned physique. No previous dance, Pilates or yoga experience is required. The benefits of MetroBarre include: sculpted physique, stronger core, increased cardiovascular health, improved flexibility, strength and endurance, and increased mental acuity.
HOLIDAY GIVING CAMPAIGN
Join us in spreading holiday cheer and supporting the arts! Our annual end-of-year giving campaign runs from Giving Tuesday through New Year’s Eve. Funds raised help support upgrades to our facilities, elevated performances, and scholarship opportunities. Your contribution will ensure that MSA can continue to bring our renowned arts education to even more young performers.
Surprise a loved one with an experience that will have a great impact on their life. A performing arts or fitness gift will help the recipient get active, make new friends, feel more confident, have fun, and learn a skill they’ll enjoy for a lifetime. Your gift card can cover a recital fee, costume fee, private lessons for a year, an adult dance session, and more! To purchase a gift card, click HERE!
SPRING 2ACTION
MSA is proud to participate in Alexandria’s annual day of giving on April 9, 2025. Spring 2ACTion is one extraordinary day to celebrate our collective spirit of giving to support the organizations that make Alexandria a vibrant place for everyone.
WEEKLY CLASSES
Youth summer dance classes for all ages allow students to continue to work on technique and advance their skills. Registration options include a six-week early childhood program, intermediate drop-in classes, pre-professional company drop-in classes, and workshop series.
MSA CAMP: full day camps for 8-12 year olds.
These energetic camps will be a sure hit this summer! MSA Camp is an all-encompassing, full-day camp designed for beginning and returning students ages 8-12. Camp days are filled with fun and skill-building classes in theater, dance and vocal technique, visual art, theater production, choreography, and of course, rehearsals. The experience culminates in a showcase on the final day of camp where family and friends will marvel at what their campers have been able to accomplish in one short week!
MINI-CAMPS: half day camps for 4-7 year olds.
Create magical summer moments! Our mini-camps are half day camps designed exclusively for our youngest budding dancers, actors, and singers. These camps are great to enjoy with your family, friends, and siblings! Each day, children will participate in fun and educational activities including dancing, singing, craft making, story time, and more! Every session includes unique themed activities guaranteed to create a wonderful summer experience.
Alumni Project
The Alumni Project is a celebration of artistic excellence at Metropolitan School of the Arts! An unforgettable evening of dance, music, and theater with graduates of MSA as we mark 25 years! Join us for a night filled with spectacular performances, heartwarming reunions, and an opportunity to support the future of our school.
Thank you to those who attended and supported the 2024 Alumni Project!
TAP 1
Tap dance uses the sound of the tap shoes hitting the floor as a percussive instrument. Tap dance sharpens reflexes and improves memory skills and coordination. Our Adult Tap 1 classes will work toward establishing fundamental tap movements, vocabulary, and basic rhythms and steps that progress into fun and lively dance combinations.
TAP 2
Building on the foundation from Adult Tap 1, students continue their tap dancing journey in Adult Tap 2 as they enhance vocabulary, musicality, rhythmic creativity, and knowledge of tap dance history. This class focuses on building technique and applying skills in combinations each week, works on timing and precision, all while dancing to a variety of musical genres. Extra benefits include memory skills, dexterity, balance, and grooving to great music!
TAP 3
In Adult Tap 3, students harness tap dance skills and apply them in class as they continue to build speed and precision in executing steps and making music. This class works on technique, complex rhythms, advanced steps, and enhancing other skills such as choreography application and improvisation.
Cardio Dance
Cardio Dance combines fun music with a vibrant atmosphere to help crush fitness goals! This class features a dynamic warm-up to get the body moving, followed by lightweight and bodyweight strength exercises to build endurance and tone muscles. Then, learn exhilarating cardio dance routines that keep the heart pumping and spirits high. Class finishes off with stretching and flexibility exercises to cool down and enhance overall mobility. Our supportive environment welcomes everyone from seasoned dancers to the novice looking to have fun while getting fit! Come dance, sweat, and smile to a healthier you!
Core Conditioning / Pilates
This Core Conditioning/Pilates class focuses on training the mid-body muscles along with deep stretches for the entire body. Participants will take their activities to the next level with a deep core connection. This class is great for all movers, especially runners, athletes, and dancers. Some experience is helpful, but not required.
Linda Tai
Music Faculty
ltai@metropolitanarts.org
Tai began her music studies at a young age and pursued formal training in vocal performance, earning her bachelor’s degree. After graduating, she moved to El Salvador under ICDF cooperation as a music volunteer, where she founded and directed the first choir at the University of Don Bosco, expanding music education programs for the community. She also served as the pianist for the El Salvador National Choir, collaborating with renowned local and international musicians across Latin America.
In 2020, Tai joined the University José Matias Delgado as a piano faculty member, contributing to its first certified music education program and teaching future musicians. Currently, Tai is pursuing a Master of Music in Collaborative Piano at the University of Houston under Timothy Hester. She is passionate about teaching, enjoys working with students of all ages, and is dedicated to creating a joyful and supportive learning environment. Additionally, Tai is a foodie and enjoys exploring the natural beauty of Virginia.
Allie Strehle
Jazz & Tap Faculty
astrehle@metropolitanarts.org
Allie grew up in Minnesota, where she trained for 15 years in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, and hip hop. She danced at Summit Dance Shoppe, competing in national dance competitions and conventions. She was also a member of the Keane Sense of Rhythm Youth Tap Ensemble for 10 years. Allie has attended tap festivals around the country since the age of 8, including the Twin Cities Tap Festival, Chicago Human Rhythm Project, DC Tap Festival, Tap2You, and Rhythm In Fusion Festival, where she has taken classes from world-renowned teachers. In 2013, she was invited to dance at the Juba Tap Show at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., under the choreography of Michelle Dorrance.
She began teaching tap and jazz in 2015 at various studios in Minnesota and continued to teach from 2015 to 2019 in Texas. Allie began teaching at MSA in 2021 and is thrilled to be part of the MSA family! Allie graduated from Texas Christian University in 2019 with a B.S. in Political Science and from the University of Virginia in 2021 with a Master of Public Policy. She currently works for the federal government as a Presidential Management Fellow.
Tracey Stephens
Music Faculty
tstephens@metropolitanarts.org
Tracey Stephens is an AEA/SAG-AFTRA professional musician/actor from Washington, D.C. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Towson University in Music Education, with a concentration in voice and piano. She began playing piano at the age of 9 and was vocally trained by Peabody Conservatory alumni in Baltimore, MD. Tracey has 30 years of performing experience in opera, dinner theater, theatre for young audiences, wedding bands, cruise ships, national tours, regional theater, off-Broadway, and TV/film.
In addition to being a singer, she has 20 years of acting training from various studios in NYC and has studied improv at The Groundlings school in LA. She was a 20-year member of The Capitol Steps, a political comedy troupe, performing close to 2,000 shows nationwide, including five off-Broadway runs in NYC, and ending with her last role as Elizabeth Warren on the ABC7 Chicago talk show Windy City Live.
Tracey has served as the artistic and music director for many musical productions, including a deaf musical at Gallaudet University, where she directed the hearing/signing interpreters. On-camera, she has appeared in many feature films, a TV pilot called Sunflower Care, a Lifetime movie titled The Wrong Life Coach, and a co-star role on the TV series TED. She is also currently filming a new deaf movie, Flash Before the Bang, where she portrays the school ASL interpreter.
In addition, she has written a TV pilot and stage musical titled Always a First Lady, a “drama-dy” about her life as a female political impersonator, which was accepted into the NY Theater Festival.
Charles Renato
Metropolitan Youth Tap Ensemble Artistic Director
Upper Tap Department Director (Levels 5-10)
Social Media & Branding Manager
Tap Faculty
crenato@metropolitanarts.org
Charles Renato was born and raised in São Paulo, Brazil. He began tap dancing at the age of 6 in São José dos Campos. At 14, he began teaching tap dance, which led to him winning awards all over Brazil. He has won awards for Best Dancer at the Joinville Dance Festival and the TV Globo challenge show (2009 & 2010).
In 2008, Charles joined the cast of Sinatra Blue Eyes the musical in Lisbon, Portugal. Renato was also a member of the “KS Tap Company,” which is responsible for bringing together highly sought-after teachers from all over Brazil to perform.
Mr. Renato’s international career has taken him to perform and teach in Croatia, Ukraine, Italy, Greece, the UK, the Netherlands, Mexico, Canada, Belgium, Ireland, Chile, and Argentina. He was also invited to produce and create a section at one of the most prestigious events in Brazil, Carnaval. Since then, he has been nominated for Best Choreographer at the Desterro Festival and Festidança in Brazil, which led to him teaching in the U.S.
Since moving to NYC, Mr. Renato has been working with Apt 33, directed by Chloe Arnold, and performed with Michelle Dorrance and Dorrance Dance. Renato has also been directing the tap program at Metropolitan School of the Arts in Virginia. He also directed Apt 33’s new video, I’m Not Afraid, choreographed by Chloe Arnold. He is part of the faculty at Broadway Dance Center and Steps On Broadway. Currently, Charles is an Artist in Residence at the American Tap Dance Foundation.
Lesley Shearer
Ballet Department Director (Conservatory/RAD)
Ballet Faculty
lshearer@metropolitanarts.org
Born in Scotland, Lesley trained at the London College of Dance and Drama and the Royal Academy of Dance, London. She also holds a Master’s in Teaching (Dance) from the University of Surrey, majoring in Educational Leadership and Collaborative Learning, and a B.Phil (Hons) from Durham University in Ballet and Contextual Studies, with a focus on child development and pedagogy.
Lesley has taught ballet all around the world. She spent 20 years in Dubai, UAE, where she was the Owner and Artistic Director of one of the largest dance schools in the country. She has lectured in pedagogy at Dance for All in Edinburgh, UK, and has also held an adjunct professorial role as Teaching Supervisor for the Bachelor of Dance Education degree at the Royal Academy and the University of Surrey.
Appointed to the Board of Tutors of the Royal Academy of Dance in 1998 and the Board of Examiners in 2002, Lesley travels the world teaching and assessing ballet students and teachers. She became Director of the Ballet program at MSA in 2008 and Director of the Conservatory Program in 2009. She is committed to developing all the programs at MSA to make it the school of choice for serious ballet students in the metropolitan Washington, DC area.
Annie Russ
Jazz and Fitness Faculty
aruss@metropolitanarts.org
Annie is a native of Chicago, where she began her training in dance, acting, fitness, and vocal performance. She moved to New York after high school to attend the SUNY Purchase Conservatory and furthered her training in New York City, where she resided and worked for over 10 years. She has been a performing member of multiple New York-based dance companies, as well as a part of the teaching faculty at New York’s premier dance studio, STEPS on Broadway. Her professional performing experience includes national tours, on- and off-Broadway productions, regional and international shows. She remains a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association, the Screen Actors Guild, and the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists.
In addition to performing, Annie was the associate choreographer for multiple New York concerts, musicals, and cruise ships. She directed and choreographed several Disney Junior shows while serving as Artistic Director for Theatre LJCC in Birmingham, and was an adjunct professor in the dance and theatre department at Samford University.
Her love for fitness started at a young age and peaked while living in New York, when she got pulled into the Pilates and barre circuit between performing jobs. She obtained her Pilates certification through Power Pilates in New York City, began her barre work with Physique 57, and earned her fitness certification through ACE. With over 20 years of experience, she finds joy in sharing her love of dance and the knowledge she has gained from years in the industry.
After being away from MSA for 4 years, Annie is thrilled to be back in the studio again, balancing dance and fitness with being a wife and mom to the most wonderful humans.
Aiyana Pringle
Music Faculty
apringle@metropolitanarts.org
Hi, everyone! I’m Aiyana, and I recently completed my Bachelor of Music in Performance from Virginia Commonwealth University. I am currently a violinist with the Piedmont Symphony, and I enjoy learning and performing new music with my duo partner. Some of my interests include pedagogy, score study, writing, and working with young people.
I work with students of all ages and levels, and I find that incorporating activities and off-the-instrument practice is important. My teaching methods are individualized, which allows students to learn at their own pace and gives them the opportunity to try new things while discovering what works best for them. I believe that providing a patient yet stimulating environment helps students work more efficiently and enjoy the music-learning process even more.
Julie Navarrette
Musical Theatre and Music Faculty
jnavarrette@metropolitanarts.org
Julie has been teaching private voice and piano lessons at MSA since 2006. She also assists Ms. Sara and Ms. Aimee with music for Musical Theater 1-4 classes. Julie began teaching voice and piano at the Linda Young Music Studio while in college. After graduating from the University of North Alabama, she taught in the private music lesson program at The Potomac School in McLean, Virginia. She has also taught Kindermusik and Music Together for children. Julie has served in many different roles at MSA, including working for the Metropolitan Performing Arts Theater, teaching the Junior Music class for the Homeschool Program, and serving as the piano teacher for the Academy.
Michelle Michaels
Tap Faculty
mmichaels@metropolitanarts.org
Michelle Michaels is a tap dancer with over 25 years of experience who has been a part of the DMV-area tap community since 1999. Tap dance continues to be her outlet for fun, creativity, and making music outside the office. Michelle’s teaching credits include beginner through advanced levels at various performing arts and dance education schools in the DC, MD, and VA area. She continues to be both a performer and a student.
She has performed with several DMV-area tap groups throughout her career, and currently, you can catch her with Sundays on Tap, an adult tap company based in Northern Virginia. She also continues to expand her knowledge in tap technique, history, music theory, and composition, passing it on to her own students. Though she studied most under Heidi Schultz, Michelle has pursued opportunities and intensives with Dianne Walker, Heather Cornell, Hillary-Marie, and several other master tappers.
Michelle’s performance credits include the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, the Kennedy Center Concert Hall with the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) Pops, and Lincoln Center with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, she has performed in various local forums, including TAPS Alive!, the DC Tap Festival, the Annual Holiday SpecTAPular, Small Plates, Glen Echo Carousel Day, and One Love Manassas.
Michelle is a graduate of American University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Economics.
Valerie McNamara
Billings & HR Director
vmcnamara@metropolitanarts.org
Valerie’s journey with MSA began in 2000 when her daughter started dance classes, and Valerie became a parent volunteer. Building sets and props, as well as serving as stage manager for Follies, Nutcracker, and Spring Productions, were among her volunteer activities. After retiring from her full-time job in 2009, Valerie was hired onto the MSA Administrative Team. She is so grateful to be working for such a fabulous organization.
Keenan McCarter
Music Faculty
kmccarter@metropolitanarts.org
Birmingham, Alabama native Keenan McCarter received his Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance from Alabama State University and a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale. His most notable operatic roles include Dandini from La Cenerentola, Papageno from Die Zauberflöte, Sharpless from Madama Butterfly, and the role of Homecoming Soldier in The Falling and the Rising.
Sergeant First Class McCarter has traveled the nation with The U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus and currently sings in The U.S. Army Chorus in Washington, D.C. His most recent performances include Shout Sister Shout at Ford’s Theatre and The Color Purple, Ragtime, and Hair at Signature Theatre.
Melanie Latrash
Adult Dance and Fitness Director
Fitness Faculty
mlatrash@metropolitanarts.org
Melanie is the Director of the MSA Adult Fitness and Dance Program and has been sharing her love of movement for over three decades. Her interest in fitness began while attending the University of West Florida in Pensacola, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Marketing with a minor in Exercise Science in 1987. She earned her national certifications in Group Fitness Instruction in 1986 and Personal Training in 1998 through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America. Additionally, she earned her Registered Teacher Training Certification (RYT, 200 hours) through Yogafit International and has been teaching yoga since 1999.
She married Naval Aviator Fred Latrash in May 1992 and, as a military spouse, has had the opportunity to teach in many locations throughout the United States, including Florida, California, Maryland, Rhode Island, and Virginia. Melanie and Fred have three grown children: Brianna, Andrew, and Annie Laurie.
Throughout her career, Melanie has managed and directed many health and wellness programs across the country, but her greatest accomplishment to date has been growing the MSA Adult Fitness and Dance Program since 2002. She initially offered one yoga class a week, and the program now offers 20 classes a week, including Yoga, Barre, Pilates, Core Conditioning, Ballet, and Tap, with 10 incredible instructors on staff!
When she’s not teaching and inspiring people to work out, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, cooking, entertaining, and traveling the world!
Kim Jones
Production Manager
production@metropolitanarts.org
Kim started her MSA experience as a parent volunteer when her two daughters began dancing in 2008. Since that time, she has supported the MSA family in many roles, including as a barre/yoga instructor, chaperone, volunteer for backstage and front-of-house jobs, and Assistant Production Manager for three years. She continues to serve as MSA’s Production Manager, a position she has held since 2018.
Nicole Greene – Cramer
Ballet Faculty
ngreenecramer@metropolitanarts.org
Originally from Stormville, NY, Nicole Greene-Cramer holds a BFA in Dance from the Conservatory of Dance at SUNY Purchase. Nicole danced professionally with Ballet Austin II and Ventana Ballet in Austin, TX. Her passion for educating dancers began when she was offered a teaching position at the Ballet Austin Academy in 2016. Since then, Nicole has taught at local dance schools in Texas, New York, and Vermont, as well as at summer programs for Ballet Austin, The Washington School of Ballet, and Burklyn Ballet Theatre. Currently, Nicole is completing a master’s degree in Dance Science at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance in London, England. Her research focuses on the biomechanics of the lower body during dance movements. Her goal is to teach students of all ages how to use their bodies safely and expansively in ballet class so that this beautiful art form can continue to be performed while keeping dancers physically and mentally healthy. She is excited to be joining the MSA community and looks forward to a wonderful year ahead!
Heather Gifford
Homeschool Director
Assistant Production Manager
Music Faculty
hgifford@metropolitanarts.org
Heather began working at MSA in 2013 as part of the voice faculty and served as the Academy’s music department chair from 2019 to 2024. She is excited to take on the role of Homeschool Director and Assistant Production Manager. Heather holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Industry, with a Vocal Performance concentration, from James Madison University. Professionally, she has performed with Keegan Theater DC in Chicago (Annie/Velma u/s), LTA in Legally Blonde (Brooke Wyndham), and Holland America Cruise Line as a lead singer. She has also performed at Harrah’s Las Vegas in Legends in Concert and at Tropicana Atlantic City in Havana After Dark. In entertainment and event management, Heather has worked at Venetian/Palazzo and Planet Hollywood Resorts in Las Vegas, as well as at the Gaylord National Convention Center in National Harbor, MD. As a music director, she has worked with ACCT on Seussical the Musical, Guys and Dolls, and Legally Blonde. Heather is honored to share her love for the performing arts and to encourage the next generation of performers.
Liz Fegley
Jazz Faculty
lfegley@metropolitanarts.org
Liz Fegley is the Artistic Director and Dance Educator for Woodbridge Senior High School’s dance program in Woodbridge, Virginia. Liz has trained, performed, and taught dance all over the United States. In Colorado Springs, she performed and taught for Ormao Dance Company under the direction of Jan Johnson. With Ormao, she danced as both a soloist and ensemble member, performing works by artists such as Cirque du Soleil’s Billy Chang and MoraPorVida’s Jacob Mora. Liz was a head instructor and judge on the Universal Dance Association’s staff. Through her travels, Liz has trained and performed with an array of dance artists, including Tommi Galaska, Patti Weeks, Roger Belman, Joseph Carow, Galina Panova, Derek Brown, and Ziva Cohen. Liz holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance with a jazz dance concentration from East Carolina University. She also earned her Master of Teaching from The Evergreen State College, with endorsements in K-12 Dance and Theatre. Liz was on faculty as a jazz dance teacher when MSA was still called “Metropolitan Fine Arts Center” in 2007, but she left to support her husband’s military career. Liz could not be more thrilled to be back on staff at Metropolitan School of the Arts!
Samantha DeMocker
Acting, Early Childhood, Jazz, Music Theatre, & Tap Faculty
sdemocker@metropolitanarts.org
Miss Sam has been part of the MSA (MFAC) family since 2005, in many different roles. From 2005 to 2011, she was a student and TA; from 2011 to 2014, she was a summer instructor, and she excitedly returned to the faculty in the fall of 2019. During her time as a student, she was a member of iMpulse, performed in Santa’s Frosty Follies, The Nutcracker, and other annual productions. Following graduation, Miss Sam attended Louisiana State University, earning her BA in Theater with a concentration in performance (2015). Her credits include Pitch Perfect, Pitch Perfect 2, NCIS: New Orleans, Fantastic Four, Popeyes commercials, and various professional dance and theatrical engagements. In 2020, she earned her MS in Exercise Science, Fitness, and Health Promotion from George Mason University and happily runs her own fitness company, Strongest You. Miss Sam is thrilled to still be part of the MSA family and share in the joy of dance.
Jessica Braxton
Ballet Faculty
jbraxton@metropolitanarts.org
Jessica began her dance training as a young student in Richland, Washington, where she studied ballet under Debra Pearse Rogo. After moving to Northern Virginia, she continued her training at the Virginia Ballet Company and School under Tatiana Rousseau and Oleg Tupine. Selected to attend the Governor’s School for the Arts in Richmond, she had the privilege of meeting and learning from Lorraine Graves. A graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), Jessica went on to study science, earning bachelor’s degrees with honors in Biology and Chemistry from Goucher College in Towson, Maryland.
She also continued her studies in ballet, jazz, dance science, and dance history at Goucher, attending master classes and performing in pieces set by guest teachers and choreographers from professional companies such as the Stuttgart Ballet and New York City Ballet. Jessica has been teaching ballet at Metropolitan since 2001 and was mentored early on in dance pedagogy by her oldest brother, David Andrew Carr, a former principal dancer with the Kansas City Ballet and guest artist for The George Balanchine Foundation.
In her devotion to ballet, she returned to her roots in 2004 and also taught ballet at the Virginia Ballet Company for several years. Her passion for teaching was unlocked through experiences working with the Johns Hopkins University (JHU) Center for Talented Youth (CTY) summer programs. Jessica holds a Montessori teaching certificate from the Northeast Montessori Institute (NMI) and taught at the primary level at the Montessori School of Northern Virginia (MSNV) in Annandale for several years while continuing to teach ballet.
Both of Jessica’s children are long-time MSA students, enjoying a variety of learning and performance opportunities across the ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, and hip-hop programs. She is deeply grateful for the gift of sharing her passion for ballet with both your children and her own, in such a supportive community dedicated to the quality of education and to nurturing caring, responsible, and resilient individuals. She is also grateful for the continued mentorship and support of the MSA Ballet Department, as well as the professional development opportunities provided by the MSA directors, which allow her to continue learning and growing in her teaching.
David Arce
Nutshell Assistant Director
Ballet Faculty
darce@metropolitanarts.org
David Arce, former dancer with San Francisco Ballet (CA) for 13 seasons, Artistic Director of Juline Regional Youth Ballet (CA) for ten seasons, Assistant Artistic Director of Mid-Columbia Ballet (WA) for two seasons, and recently the Trainee Program Director at Ballet Idaho. Born in San Diego, California, he began his ballet training at Ballet Yuma (AZ) with Jon Cristofori and Kathleen Sinclair. His list of accomplishments with the San Francisco Ballet include principal and soloist roles in Balanchine, Robbins, Forsythe, MacMillan, Martins, Morris, de Mille, Petit, Ratmansky, Caniparoli, Tomasson, Kudelka, Welch, Wheeldon, Adam, Possokhov, York, and Lubovich. Additionally, he has performed throughout the world with San Francisco Ballet and independently at many galas, festivals, and international ballet competitions in Asia and Europe. Mr. Arce has taught master classes, coached, and choreographed domestically and abroad, including Japan, China, Malaysia, Arizona, Idaho, Ole Miss in Mississippi, Washington Ballet in D.C., BYU in Utah, New York, throughout California, and numerous RDA/P and Ballet Alliance festivals. Mr. Arce was a staff writer for Dance Studio Life, contributing Ballet Technique Tips monthly to the magazine for five years.
Spring Production Ballet Performance Director
Ballet Faculty
cabel@metropolitanarts.org
Charlie Abel has been performing in ballet, opera, musical, and dramatic theater for more than three decades. A former high-school wrestler and semi-pro baseball player, Charlie fell in love with ballet in his home state of Louisiana where he performed with the Louisiana Ballet. Since then, Mr. Abel has performed with the Yugoslav National Ballet, New Jersey Ballet, and the Baltimore Ballet. Locally Charlie has appeared at Ford’s Theater, Folger Theater, The Kennedy Center, and in three Helen Hayes nominated productions at The Keegan Theatre in Washington, DC. Mr. Abel has taught classical and theater dance at Dance Institute of Washington, Mid-Atlantic Center for the Performing Arts, Ballet Royale Institute of Maryland, and Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts. Currently Charlie is teaching at Metropolitan School of the Arts and for the last fifteen years at University of Maryland in Baltimore County.
JUMP
One of the largest dance conventions in the world, touring to 27 US cities and 3 international cities. This fun weekend (Friday-Sunday) is jam-packed with all things DANCE! Each event includes top-rate workshops in numerous styles of dance, a closing show, scholarship presentations and faculty performances!
2024-2025 Dates:
January 3-5, 2025, Baltimore MD
Jump Interest Meeting: September 28, 2024 |Time TBD
2025 Summer Policies will be available in February 2025.
The Metropolitan Youth Ballet will perform in their annual Spring Ballet in April.
Company Auditions take place in August prior to the beginning of the school year.
The Metropolitan Musical Theatre Company will perform in August.
Company Auditions take place in March.
MYTE will perform in The Company Project in March.
Company Auditions take place in August prior to the beginning of the school year.
Impulse will perform in The Company Project in March.
Company Auditions take place in August prior to the beginning of the school year.
MSA will attend a YAGP Competition in the winter each school year. Dates and Locations will change.
Please email Jacqueline Doherty at jdoherty@metropolitanarts.org for more information.
Dance Teachers:
Are you a passionate dancer with teaching experience? Do you have a knack for working with children and a deep love for the performing arts? If so, we are looking for talented individuals like you to join our team at Metropolitan School of the Arts.
With 20+ years of expertise, we offer a diverse range of dance genres, including ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip-hop, music theater and acro. We are seeking teachers with expertise in one or more of these dance styles for our 2023-2024 season.
Responsibilities:
– Provide engaging and interactive dance classes to students of various age groups and skill levels.
– Develop and implement lesson plans that focus on building technique, fostering creativity, and nurturing self-confidence.
– Create a positive and inclusive learning environment where students can thrive and express themselves through dance.
– Conduct periodic evaluations to monitor student progress and provide constructive feedback for improvement.
– Collaborate with other dance teachers and staff to plan and organize recitals, performances, and showcases.
– Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in the dance industry to ensure a well-rounded and current dance curriculum.
– Collaborate with department directors to communicate with parents and guardians to address any concerns and provide updates on their child’s progress.
Requirements:
– Minimum of two years of experience as a dance teacher
– Strong dance background and technical proficiency in the chosen dance style(s).
– Ability to work effectively with children of all ages and skill levels.
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
– Experience in the performing arts is preferred.
– Familiarity with nonprofit organizations and their mission-driven work is a plus.
If you are a passionate and experienced dance teacher who believes in the power of art to empower and educate young minds, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can continue to nurture the next generation of talented dancers and cultivate an appreciation for the performing arts. Apply now to be a part of our team at Metropolitan School of the Arts and make a difference in the lives of our students.
Please email resumes to: sarahart@metropolitanarts.org
SPRING PRODUCTION ENSEMBLE
AUDITION REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
AUDITIONS will be held January 6-7, 2024
Registration Deadline is January 1st
Any submissions received after 8:00pm on Monday, January 1st will be charged a $10 late fee.
WHAT IS SPRING PRODUCTION ENSEMBLE?
The Ensemble is a highly motivated, dedicated, and talented group of students who will perform as the main characters and ensemble groups in ALL SIX SHOWS of the Spring Production. If you are looking for more performance opportunities, please give it a try! The Ensemble consists of group dancers and main characters who propel our storyline forward and tie all of our class dance performances together. Participation in Metropolitan School of the Arts Spring Production Ensemble is by audition only.
ELIGIBILITY
Dance Ensemble (age 9+ by Sept. 30, 2023 | Academy Levels 1+, After-School Dance Levels 2+, Intermediate Teen Jazz and Tap+)
Main Character (age 9+ by Sept. 30, 2023)
Delinquent Accounts
TO READ MORE ABOUT UTOPIA, CLICK HERE.
TO FIND AUDITION MATERIALS, CLICK HERE.
TO REGISTER FOR AUDITIONS, CLICK HERE.
Contact our Production Manager, Kim Jones, if you have any questions production@metropolitanarts.org
2023-2024 Homeschool Schedule
Lauren Sterlacci
Office Administrator
Registration/Communications
lsterlacci@metropolitanarts.org
Tom Pederson
Gap Year Director
Recruitment
tpederson@metropolitanarts.org
Thomas Pedersen, Director Gap Year/Post Grad program at the Academy, has pursued a finely integrated career as a singer, conductor, producer and teacher and has been seen in Mame, Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, Hello Dolly, Oklahoma, Carousel, The Pirates of Penzance, and She Loves Me with numerous stock, regional, and national companies. In 1982, he made his operatic debut with the Michigan Opera Theater, and in a ten-year span sang with the Detroit Symphony, Toledo Symphony, Toledo Opera, The June Opera Festival and The Santa Fe Chamber Music Festival. He has been a soloist with conductors Maurice Abravanel, Leonard Bernstein, Antal Dorati and Robert Shaw. As Artistic Director of Theatre Ten Ten, New York’s oldest off-Broadway theatre, he produced and music directed over 20 shows, and has been Music Director at the Long Beach Civic Light Opera, The Library Theater in Warren, Pennsylvania, and the University of Michigan Opera Theater. He has been praised by Bruce Feld of the Los Angeles Times for his “zesty and innovative conducting” for Man of La Mancha and the Washington Post for his “expert and stylishly conducted” performances of The Music Man. Mr Pedresen has been Musical Supervisor/ Conductor for such stars as Barbara Eden, Shari Lewis, Gary Sandy, David Canary, John McCook, Rebecca Luker, Jana Robbins , Mel Tills and Pam Tillis. Most recently he has been on the creative teams for Kleptocracy, Jubilee and Newsies at Arena Stage. Last fall Mr. Pedersen was Conductor for the Alliance for New Music-Theatre of Vanek Unleashed in the Dupont Underground. He recently retired as Head of the Music Theatre Division at The Catholic University of America, and is the Director of Music at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in Kensington, Maryland.
Anne-Elisabeth MacKnight
Fitness Faculty
studio@metropolitanarts.org
Anne-Elisabeth MacKnight is a fitness enthusiast who loves sharing routines and health tips with those around her. Originally from Alexandria, Anne-Elisabeth works as a full-time middle school teacher at a local elementary school. She is a certified group fitness instructor, specifically focusing on barre, pilates, and circuit-training based classes, as well as a recently certified health coach. When she’s not working out she loves spending time with her family, walking her fur baby, and baking. Anne-Elisabeth’s goal is to make fitness fun and accessible for everyone and she loves serving her community through MSA classes.
Wendy Levy
Academy Academic Director
wlevy@metropolitanarts.org
A native of the Washington Metro area, Wendy Levy is the Academic Director with 7 years of experience at The Academy. With a Master’s Degree in Educational Technology from George Washington University and over 10 years experience working with young people, helping students to gain understanding and reach mastery is a priority and a passion. Building relationships with students to better meet individual needs and using all the tools available are of paramount importance and central to her instructional philosophy.
Alicia Landry
Office Administrator
alandry@metropolitanarts.org
Roxanne King
dynaMYTE Artistic Director
Tap Faculty
rking@metropolitanarts.org
Roxanne “Roxy” King is a tap dancer, teacher, student and tap company director based in Washington D.C. Roxy was a dance student at Metropolitan School of the Arts, where she also taught tap. She is a member of the first graduating class of the MSA Academy. Roxy is currently the Artistic Director of DynaMYTE, the junior company of Metropolitan Youth Tap Ensemble (MYTE). As a member of MYTE she had the opportunity to travel the country taking classes and performing at tap festivals. With the company Roxy has taught in Brazil at Tap In Rio, and The Tap Show festivals. Just this year she also taught master classes at the 9th annual D.C Tap Festival. As a student Roxy has just completed her freshman year at Montgomery College in Rockville Maryland. Just this past summer Roxy had the amazing opportunity to attend the 2017 Jacob’s Pillow Tap Program run by Michelle Dorrance, and Dormeshia Sumbry-Edwards along with 24 other participants.
Meredith Jones
Ballet Faculty
mjones@metropolitanarts.org
Meredith received her early training from Sandra Balestracci at Eastern Virginia School for the Performing Arts in Williamsburg, VA. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet at the University of Utah. While a student, Meredith performed with Carolina Ballet as well as performing nationally and internationally at collegiate conventions and competitions. Meredith holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in Dance from the University of Arizona. She has performed in classical repertoire along with works by George Balanchine, Nacho Duato, Jessica Lang, Darrell Grand Moultrie, Alexei Ratmansky, and Christopher Wheeldon. She is a DanceAbility certified instructor and has performed with DanceAbility International in Lisbon, Portugal. She volunteers with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute leading lecture series on various subjects like dance history, sociology, diversity and accessibility in the community. Along with teaching at MSA, Meredith is a Pilates instructor and coaches competitive ice dancers in the Junior and Senior International Grand Prix ice dance circuit.
Louise Hislop
Operations & Administration Director
lhislop@metropolitanarts.org
John Henderson
Music Faculty
jhenderson@metropolitanarts.org
John Henderson is an organist, pianist, and composer based in the DMV. His background includes sacred music, musical theatre, chamber music, and art song. His compositions have been performed at venues including the Washington International Piano Series, the International Double Reed Society Convention, the Kennedy Center’s Page to Stage Festival, and Pope Francis’s Meeting with the Bishops of the United States at St. Matthew’s Cathedral. He currently serves as organist and music director at Saint Bernadette Catholic Church in Silver Spring, MD, and as staff pianist for the musical theatre division of the Catholic University of America’s Benjamin T. Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art.
Rosie Hartwell
Tap Faculty
rhartwell@metropolitanarts.org
Rosie Hartwell has been tap dancing since she was five years old and received her first lesson at MSA! As a child, she appeared in many of MSA’s spring productions and holiday shows. In college, she led the University of Virginia’s Tap Dance Club as President, teaching classes and dance routines for performances. Currently, Rosie is a student in adult tap classes at MSA and is excited to enter the other side of the classroom as a teacher.
Paul GL Grosvenor
Music Faculty
pgrosvenor@metropolitanarts.org
Paul GL Grosvenor, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, joined the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” in 2021 as a member of the chorus. In 2020, he was a featured soloist and chorus member in the Grammy-winning production of Porgy and Bess with the Metropolitan Opera. Paul made his operatic debut as Don Alfonso in Cosi fan tutte with the Opera Theatre of the Rockies. He then went on to perform in several operas including La bohème, Gianni Schicchi, Don Giovanni, and Ariadne auf Naxos. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Michigan.
Brianna Forster
Conditioning Faculty
bforster@metropolitanarts.org
Brianna is a doctor of physical therapy specializing in orthopedics. She loves working with teenagers and has a background in dance and acrobatics in addition to strength and conditioning. She enjoyed working with the MSA dancers last year and is so excited to be back this year treating one on one in physical therapy and leading the conditioning class to teach dancers healthy habits so they can have long careers with fewer injuries.
Credentials: Brianna Q. Forster, PT, DPT, OCS, CF-L1
Marissa Dyer
Music Faculty
mdyer@metropolitanarts.org
Soprano Marissa Dyer is an enthusiastic teacher dedicated to building community and connection through music education and performance. Marissa’s studio is an imaginative space for students to explore their unique artistry and musical craft. She loves working with people of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds, supporting every student in achieving their goals. Marissa is a firm believer in student led learning and that every student deserves lessons crafted to their needs, interests, and personalities. A diverse singer, Marissa performs a variety of styles including opera, oratorio, musical theater, jazz, and choral works. Favorite past roles include Barbarina in Boston Opera Collaborative’s Marriage of Figaro, Monica from The Medium with Old Town Actors Studio, and Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls with Idaho State Opera Theater. Marissa holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice Performance from Idaho State University and a Master of Opera from the Longy School of Music of Bard College. When she isn’t busy teaching and singing, Marissa enjoys cooking, crafting, walking her pup Quincy and snuggling her cat Oliver.
Carrie Dodson
Music Administrative Assistant, Office Administrator
Warehouse Set & Props Manager
cdodson@metropolitanarts.org
Carrie is a retired Air Force Officer and has 16 years of dance experience and taught dance through high school and college. She started volunteering in set and props at MSA shortly after her daughter started dancing there and is currently the Set and Prop Director. Carrie recently accepted a position on the Administrative Team.
Cameron Brooks
Early Childhood Director
Spring Production Associate Director
Early Childhood Faculty
cbrooks@metropolitanarts.org
A Metropolitan School of the Arts studio alum, Cameron Cardillo Brooks began teaching Early Childhood dance at MSA in 2012. Today, she is the Director of the Early Childhood Dance Department, the Assistant Artistic Director for studio productions, and teaches the classes in which she grew up assisting! Cameron graduated with a Business Degree from George Mason University (and a minor in Events Management). After graduating, she pursued a career in Learning Consulting for the Federal Government. She has since found challenging and rewarding work leading Operations Management for a small business. Teaching dance has always been a priority for Cameron and she’s been fortunate to find opportunities that balance and support both of her careers. In her free time, Cameron finds ways to keep active and creative. You will find Cameron dropping into Monday Jazz, Wednesday Yoga, and sketching set, prop, and costume designs (on graph paper, of course!). Not only is she crafty, you can also find her using power tools to tackle home improvement projects. Since 2004, MSA has been a second home for her. Cameron is so grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community – the family – in which she grew up.
Kasey Borden
Administrative Assistant to the Executive Director
kborden@metropolitanarts.org
Kasey began volunteering with MSA in 2002 when her daughters started taking beginner dance classes. She volunteered in many areas through the years and eventually was hired as Production Manager and held that job for many years. Kasey is now part-time as a member of the MSA Administrative Team.
Madeleine Lucchetti
Contemporary Faculty
mlucchetti@metropolitanarts.org
Madeleine Lucchetti is native to the Northern Virginia area and pursued her dance education at BalletNova Center for Dance (then Arlington Center for Dance) from preschool through high school. She has trained under several current MSA faculty members, as well as through programs at American Ballet Theatre, American Repertory Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet and Washington Ballet. She attended Butler University as a Dance Performance major, where she performed in classical and modern repertoire alike including full-length ballets like Swan Lake, Giselle, and The Sleeping Beauty. In addition, Madeleine studied contemporary and modern movement abroad through Dance Italia’s international summer program. After graduating in 2019, Madeleine began full-time work in the D.C. area as a writer and editor within public relations and communications. Simultaneously, she began to train in Latin dance styles including bachata, bolero, and rumba under the direction of Uttara Vaidya. In 2023, she performed in D.C.’s Atlas Intersections Festival as a dancer with Therese Gahl & Company. Madeleine is thrilled to be teaming up with MSA to share her love of dance with young students!
Sara Hart
Executive Director
After-School Music Theatre Director
Impulse Artistic Director Co-Executive Director
Musical Theatre, Jazz, & Tap Faculty
Sara graduated from New York University with a Bachelors in Music and continued her career in NYC for several years. She is a proud member of Actors Equity and last performed at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, CT, where she was the assistant director as well as a member of the ensemble in High Button Shoes. Other regional performing credits include: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (assistant director, dance captain, Martha) at Goodspeed, The Wizard of Oz (assistant dir., dance capt., and Ensemble at North Carolina Theatre, and Mame (Ensemble) at Northshore Music Theatre. Sara has also built a career as a regional director/choreographer. Credits include How to Succeed in Business w/o Really Trying (assistant director) at Goodspeed, Ain’t Misbehavin’ (assistant dir./choreographer) at Dallas Theatre Center and Cape Playhouse, Pirates of Penzance and Barber of Seville and Carousel (assistant dir./chor.) at Virginia Opera, and Off Broadway’s Great American Trailerpark Musical workshop (assistant chor.) in NYC. Sara served as assistant choreographer for Ringley Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s Greatest Show on Earth in 2006. She has many years of experience teaching all styles of dance in Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Virginia, and New York, and returned to her alma mater to teach and choreograph mainstage productions (110 in the Shade and The Merry Widow). Sara is the Co-Executive Director at Metropolitan School of the Arts where she has directed and choreographed the following shows: Wizard of Oz, Annie, Beauty & the Beast, Grease, Hook, Mirror Mirror, Footloose, Toy Story, Alice in Wonderland, Enchanted, Wonka, Wreck It!, The Metropolitan World Tour, and The Royal Revue. She has been the Artistic Director for iMpulse jazz company, MSA’s non-profit youth pre-professional jazz company based in Northern Virginia since 2008. Her students have been accepted to some of the top performing arts schools in the U.S. to include: Boston Conservatory, Chapman University, Elon, Pace University, Point Park University, New York University, Roosevelt Univesity, Shenandoah Conservatory, University of Michigan, & more. Many students are now performing on Broadway, traveling with National Tours, and training with top companies. She is proud to be a part of the MSA community!
COMPANY DROP IN CLASSES are for advanced students with interest in the pre-professional track.
PRE-PROFESSIONAL INTENSIVES are for ages 9+ with previous dance experience.
https://metropolitanarts.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022-2023-Homeschool-Policies.pdf
Metropolitan School of the Arts
RENTAL FEES
| HOURLY STUDIO RENTAL
(NON PERFORMANCE) |
Size | Sq Ft | Regular Rate | Non-Profit Rate* | Non-MSA Student Rate | MSA Student/
Alumni Rate** |
Description of Space |
| Studio 1 | 47×34 | 1598 | $60 | $50 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Floor, Stage Step Vinyl, Mirrors & Sound System |
| Studio 2 | 42×34 | 1428 | $60 | $50 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Floor, Harlequin Vinyl, Mirrors, Sound System & black curtains |
| Studio 3 | 29×24 | 696 | $45 | $40 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Wooden Floor, Mirrors, & Sound System |
| Studio 4 | 29×20 | 580 | $45 | $40 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Floor, Stage Step Vinyl, Mirrors & Sound System |
| Studio 5 | 48×25 | 1200 | $50 | $45 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Floor, Stage Step Vinyl, Mirrors, Sound System, & Piano |
| Studio 6 | 23×16 | 368 | $45 | $40 | $25 | $20 | Sprung Floor, Stage Step Vinyl, Mirrors & Sound System |
| Studio 7 | 36×21 | 756 | $45 | $40 | $25 | $20 | Sprung floor, Stage Step Vinyl, Mirrors & Sound System |
| Studio 8 | $45 | $40 | $25 | $20 | Sprung floor, Vinyl, Mirrors & Wireless Speakers |
| HOURLY MUSIC ROOM RENTAL
(NON PERFORMANCE) |
Sq Ft | Regular Rate | Non-Profit Rate* | Non-MSA Student Rate | MSA Student/
Alumni Rate** |
| Music Room 1 | 72 | $25 | $20 | $15 | $10 |
| Music Room 2 | 72 | $25 | $20 | $15 | $10 |
| Music Room 3 | 72 | $25 | $20 | $15 | $10 |
| Music Room 4 | 72 | $25 | $20 | $15 | $10 |
| BLACK BOX RENTAL | ||||||
| Performance (min 4 hour block) | 42×34 | 1428 | $170 | $140 | $110 | $100 |
| Tech Rehearsal (with lights) | 42×34 | 1428 | $90 | $75 | $60 | $50 |
| Hourly Rehearsal (no tech) | 42×34 | 1428 | $70 | $60 | $50 | $40 |
