Photo by Kiesha Stephens

Jon Lehrer Dance Company (JLDC) began in 2007 in Buffalo, NY and has received critical acclaim nationally and internationally. Jon moved the company to his hometown of NYC in 2019, where they have become a vibrant addition to the city’s dance community. Under Jon Lehrer’s artistic direction, the company showcases his unique choreography and definitive style. His extensive background in both the modern and jazz dance idioms fosters choreography that is organic, athletic, artistic, entertaining, and often humorous, reflecting human experiences.

JLDC’s expressive style is based on three main elements of movement - Circularity, 3-Dimensionality, and Momentum - which combine to create a form that is best described as “Organically Athletic”. With creativity, athleticism, and the ability to make new and innovative modern and jazz dance accessible to all audiences, the company has made quite a name for themselves in the dance world. Striking the elusive balance between art and entertainment, JLDC showcases a dynamic, fun, and distinctive style which fuses jazz and modern dance, creating a true spectacle onstage which can be enjoyed by dance experts and novices alike.

JLDC tours extensively, receiving critical acclaim worldwide. Dance Magazine praised “the company took the house not so much by storm as by quantum physics,” and Galerie Ortenau in Offenburg, Germany declared, “Dynamic, Powerful, Elegant – brings an absolute passion for the dance.” From 2012-2016, JLDC had the honor of touring to Russia, sponsored by the US State Department in order to, as they said, “bring the best in American modern dance to the people of Russia.” These cultural diplomacy tours brought the company to Vladivostok, Anadyr, Perm, Yekaterinburg, Chukotka, and Berezniki. JLDC has been touring to Europe since 2014, most recently in march 2026. For their 2022 tour they premiered “Bernstein Celebration" - a full evening set to the music of Leonard Bernstein . JLDC was honored and privileged to be one of only a handful of dance companies worldwide given the rights to use Bernstein’s music. At home in NYC, JLDC is a three time recipient of the prestigious CUNY Dance Initiative Award (2022, 2023, and 2025).

Jon Lehrer Dance Company’s mission is to share and spread the joy of dance through performance, education, community engagement, and artistic collaboration. With choreographic works by Jon Lehrer, the company brings edge-of-your-seat excitement to audiences worldwide through a signature style of movement that is organic, athletic, artistic and accessible.

The creation and premiere of this work serves as the first step towards what will eventually be an evening length show to the music of Pat Metheny's magnificent album, The Way Up. The album in its entirety is an eighty minute masterpiece that compliments tap dance beautifully. Within this fifteen minute excerpt, the goal is to stretch how people see the dance: how it sounds, how it moves, how it looks, or how it feels. It is to expand the expectations of both the artists executing and the audiences witnessing the craft. All perceptions of the form should be and can be reinterpreted in the same way Metheny shapes how people think of both music generally and jazz specifically. From high energy rhythm to meditative movement and everything in between, the range of tap dance will be on full display.

Sydney Burtis, originally from Central Florida, is an international performer, choreographer, and educator based in NYC. In 2017, Sydney was recognized as one of “Tap’s Next Generation” in Dance Spirit Magazine, and was featured on the October 2018 cover. Some credits include, The Billy Elliot National Broadway Tour, SYTYCD, The YoungArts Gala at the MET, 54 Below, and Little Island. Sydney has performed with Dorrance Dance, Sarah Reich, Max Pollak, Lisa LaTouche, and Demi Remick at venues such as 92NY, NY City Center, Symphony Space, Judson’s Live, and more.

As a choreographer, Sydney is a 2025 A.C.E. Awards finalist, a 2025 DEC Choreographers Cup finalist, and has had the honor of presenting works throughout NYC at Choreographer’s Carnival, Battery Dance Fest, Steps Beyond Foundation, Arts On Site, and Rhythm in Motion. Her passion for storytelling through movement is the drive behind her tap company “Elements of Sound” which she founded in 2022.

Sydney is an inspiring teacher whose positive energy and love of tap dance overflows onto her students. She travels throughout the U.S. and abroad as a guest teacher and choreographer for numerous dance studios, tap festivals, and intensives. Sydney is on faculty at Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center, and is a guest teacher for Dance Masters of America, Joffrey Ballet School, Sarah Reich’s Tap Music Project, DanceMakers Convention and Competition, Adrenaline and Revive Dance Conventions, and Florida Dance Masters.

Sydney is a 2017 YoungArts Silver Award Winner, a 2018 Presidential Scholar in the Arts semi-finalist, co-founder of the Orlando Tap Festival and an alumnus of The Jacob’s Pillow Tap Program and Pace University NYC. She has been mentored by Michelle Dorrance, Sarah Reich, Anthony Morigerato, and Danny Wallace.

Abigail Cowan is a versatile dancer, choreographer, and educator with a BFA in Dance from Point Park University. Her performance career has led her to work with choreographers including Dacía James Lewis, Spencer Liff, Tyler Hanes, Otis Sallid, Maud Arnold, Luke Hawkins, and more. Notable stage credits include Tappin’ Thru Life starring Maurice Hines and the Manzari Brothers, Newsies at the Pittsburgh Playhouse, 92Y x Art Bath, and more. Abigail’s work extends into television and film, most recently assisting Dacía James Lewis on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, Netflix’s The Piano Lesson, and an upcoming Netflix feature slated for release next year. She additionally continues to teach and choreograph at studios across the country.

Wyatt Oswald is a New York based artist represented by MSA Agency. Beginning his career at a very young age, Wyatt has danced his way into the Broadway National Tour of A Christmas Story for three consecutive years, performing as multiple characters and performed the tap specialty solo for the productions. His training to date has led him to New York City, where he is continuing his passion and participating in various shows and projects with SHINSA THE COLLECTIVE (Directed by Bo Park). Most recently, Wyatt was invited to attend The School at Jacob’s Pillow-Tap Dance Performance Ensemble, receiving a well-rounded education that honors the tradition while encouraging innovation, training under artist Derick. K Grant, Dormeshia, Heather Cornell, Dominique Kelley, Lisa La Touche, Nicholas Van Young, Sam Weber, and Josette Wiggan. Beyond his dancing, Wyatt has become an award-winning choreographer, teaching at dance studios across the United States sharing his passion for the art form.

Jessee Leigh Robinson is a New York City-based dancer from Los Angeles, CA. She is an alumna of The School at Jacob’s Pillow Tap Dance Program and Creating In Jazz Program. Jessee is also an alumna of Dance Lab New York for their 2024, 2025 Tap Dance Lab Cycle. Some of Jessee’s recent performance credits include: “ZAZ” at New York City Center and Dance Africa Dallas at the Moody Performance Hall with Sole defined, “Swing Out Loud” at 92NY with Lisa LaTouche, “Joys and Pathways of Tap” at the National Jazz Museum in Harlem with Lisa LaTouche, “Jubilation” at Paris Jazz Roots with Gaby Cook, “A NYC JOINT” at Steps in Concert with Christina Carminucci. Jessee is an international choreographer, who has recently enjoyed the opportunity to present her work at 54 Below, Future Dance Festival, 92NY, Alvin Ailey, Choreographers Carnival NYC, Paris Jazz roots, Arts on Site, Dixon Place, 3 Dollar Bill, and Silo Dance Festival. She has recently been a part of pre-production for NYCC Encores! Wonderful Town choreographed by Ayodele Casel and Jelly’s Last Jam choreographed by Dormeshia. She has also been a part of pre-production for Anything Goes at the MUNY choreographed by Jared Grimes. She has also loved the opportunity to perform works by Demi Remick, Joseph Webb, Dominique Kelley, Leo Manzari, John Manzari, and Christina Carminucci.

Jared Alexander, a Hudson Valley native, is a New York City-based tap artist and multimedia-curiosity-inspired creative. A 2019 alum from Pace University’s Commercial Dance BFA program, Jared’s artistic view connects life experiences and an obsession of music to various dance genres, forming his unique tap dance style. Alexander, a 2021 DLNY CONNECT choreographer & 2025 Ensemble alum has presented his own work at ArtBath (2023 & 2025), Dojo Pomodoro (2025) Asbury Park Dance Festival (2024), Hamptons Dance Project (2024 & 2025), PACE University’s Fall For Dance & DancesPace (2021 & 2025), Asbury Book Cooperative “After Dark” (2023 & 2024), collaborated with Naomi Funaki for Bryant Park’s Picnic Summer Series (2024), and Tomoe “Beasty” Carr at City Center for Artists at the Center (2023). Sound design participation within Yale Dance Project (2026), Ryan Johnson’s ZAZ (2025), and Ayodele Casel’s The Remix (2025). Alexander has worked with Ayodele Casel and Torya Beard on various projects, including The Remix (2025) at the Joyce Theater, Rooted an All Arts Documentary (2024), Artists at the Center at City Center (2023), Fall For Dance (2021), Rooted Tour (2023-2024), Chasing Magic (2022-2024), Dance Against Cancer (2023 & 2025), the MET Gala (2022), the Fords Gala (2022), and a Warner Bros. project in Bordeaux, France, in collaboration with Yoann Bourgeois (2022). Jared has worked with Caleb Teicher in Bzzz (2019-2025) shown at the Joyce Theater, Spoleto Festival, Lincoln Center Out of doors series, and Jacobs Pillow. He has participated in performing along Max Pollak Group at Little Island’s Summer Dance Series (2022) and 92NY Uptown Dance Festival (2025). Jared is also an Adjunct Professor at Marymount Manhattan College and PACE University for teaching Tap within their Dance Programs, and is credited as a Dancer in Maggie Gyllenhaal’s The Bride Warner Bros. Film (2026).

Born out of a love for pure movement, East by North Dance Theatre was formed under the idea that simple or compounding thought can be expressed through vivid movement. Founded and directed by Sarah Nachbauer and Jon Eden, East by North represents the unrestricted and improvisational spirit that they feel symbolizes a new wave of modern theatrical dance.

For more than a decade, Jon and Sarah have toured and performed as soloists all around the world. They have performed in over 15 different countries, across 4 continents and in some of the world’s most prestigious theaters. Jon and Sarah have also acted as creative assistants with multiple companies on numerous world premieres as well as artistically contributing to corporate events and projects for MOMIX, Catapult Entertainment, Moving On, Katharine Helen Fisher Dance Company, Kohler, Mercedes-Benz, Wynn Casinos, Pirelli, Cannon, Cialis, Target, Columbus Day Parade NYC, Girl Scouts of America, Mayflower, Marriott, MAC Cosmetics, Bose, Lancôme, and Aveda just to name a few. Jon and Sarah also appeared on Season 8 of America’s Got Talent with the shadow company Catapult Entertainment, making it al the way to the finals. They have appeared in music videos for the artists MGMT and ARK, as well on TV shows for HBO, Showtime, CBS, STARZ and the History Channel. Together they have taught at the Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts, Terpsichore Dance Center, and have conducted master classes throughout the United States. They are Creative Consultants for acclaimed photographer Robert Whitman as well as with Cardinal Theatricals under the direction of Andrew Rasmussen.

Their on stage work has been reviewed as “A highly intimate display of body control”, “Elegant”, Mystical”, and “The perfect blend of fluid movement and stillness.” The company is based in New York City. Eastbynorthdance.org @eastbynorthdance East by North Dance Theatre

Adjunct Instructor at NYU, Accompanist for the Paul Taylor Dance Co. Doug Varone Dance Co. Tisch School of Dance and Marymount College. Commissioned by Susan Dodge to write music for The Amelia Island Dance Festival 2021, Commissioned to write music for Joffrey Ballet's Winter White Show.

Mal's written music has been performed by Modern Dancers as well as Mid East Dancers. He has toured Europe with Spiritual Folk/World Music band Epiphany Project in support of their CD "Epiphany Project Live in Germany".

Toured Finland and the U.S With World Music band Mad Juana WATCH. Played at the Montreal Jazz Festival with Mid East Jazz band Taksim.

Guest Teacher at Fairleigh Dickinson University. Teaching a Class on World Music and Rhythms Teaches drums/percussion privately.

Kilowatt Dance Theater is a jazz dance company based in New York City. Since its inception in 2014, they have created works that specialize in the early roots of jazz dance such as swing, lindy hop, shag, charleston, and blues. These early styles of jazz are uniquely woven in with more contemporary dance techniques of today. The blend of movement along with the powerfully expressive themes they generate, creates a truly original experience for the audience. The electric energy and intensity of the dancers has been described in Broadway World as "masterful partnering with 'aw shucks' ease". Over the years, Kilowatt Dance Theater has performed for such notable programs as Jacob's Pillow's Inside Out Series, Battery Dance Festival, Lincoln Center's Summer For the City, Rochester Fringe Festival, Amelia Island Dance Festival, Gold Coast Dance Festival, and Jazz Choreography Enterprises.

Photo by Scot J Wittman

The Anubhava Dance Company is a Bharatanatyam-based ensemble recognized for its rigorous artistry, conceptual ambition, and distinctive ability to bridge traditional movement paradigms with modern inquiry. Founded and directed by Shriya Srinivasan and Joshua George, the company has been lauded as "a company to watch," with a "distinctive approach [that] continues to expand the horizons of what Indian classical dance can achieve" (Narthaki).

Anubhava debuted at the 2015 Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival, the largest international Indian classical music and dance festival outside India, receiving critical acclaim. Since then, the company has toured nationally, engaging audiences through performances, educational initiatives, and benefit events that advocate for access to and sustainability within the Indian classical arts ecosystem. Building on their training as classical musicians and instrumentalists, directors Shriya and Joshua build original scores, concepts, and choreography. Their most recent work, Explorations, was lauded for transforming Bharatanatyam into "a captivating journey through the depths of human behavior," seamlessly intertwining classical vocabulary with themes drawn from science, mental health, and multicultural literature.

In 2025, Srinivasan and George curated the Intersections Conference at MIT and Harvard, bringing together artists, scholars, and dancers to critically examine the evolution of Indian classical arts. In collaboration with the Harvard BIONICS Lab, the company also created an Immersive Haptics Platform enabling audiences to physically experience rhythmic footwork through tactile feedback, featured on PBS NOVA's Building Stuff series. Anubhava's work has been presented and supported by the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, MIT Media Lab, Harvard ArtLab, The Boston Foundation, and others. The company continues to champion Indian classical dance as a living, evolving art form, one that is intellectually rigorous, emotionally resonant, and deeply relevant within contemporary cultural and academic discourse.

For more information, visit anubhavadance.org

Sofía Forero is a New York City–based Colombian dancer, choreographer, and educator dedicated to exploring human connection, culture, and storytelling through movement. Trained at the Joffrey Ballet School and a graduate with Honors from The Ailey School, she currently serves as a Senior Dance Artist with Pajarillo Pinta’o, Tumbaga Dance Company, Ajkun Ballet Theater, and Accent Dance NYC. Her performance career includes works by Merce Cunningham, Paul Taylor, Alvin Ailey, Rena Butler, Earl Mosley, and Darrel Moultrie.

As a choreographer, Sofía is the Co-Founder of Mosaïque Dance Theater, an interdisciplinary company established with Nicolas Fiery. The company’s inaugural production, Mosaïque, premiered in 2024 at Théâtre Antoine Watteau in Paris, blending dance, music, and visual art to explore the complexity of the human condition. Her choreographic body of work—previously developed through the platform of The Heraclitus Project—has been commissioned by the American Swiss Ballet Company, New York Foundation for the Arts (NYFA), Works on Water, AVA Gallery, Spoke the Hub, Arts On Site, among others, and presented at venues such as Sony Music Hall, Dixon Place, and the Davenport Theater.

Beyond the stage, Sofía is a prominent leader and advocate in the international arts ecosystem. She serves as the Community Director at Arts On Site NYC and is a Member of the International Dance Council (CID) UNESCO. Her research into movement as a primary tool for cultural and systemic change led to the publication of her book, Una Danza Para El Cambio Social (2025), developed through her work with underserved communities in Colombia. She has shared her expertise as a guest lecturer for global organizations, including Snapchat Inc. in Silicon Valley and DDB Worldwide.

A recipient of the Ford Foundation DWR Fund and the Rauschenberg Dancer Grant, Sofía is also a certified GYROTONIC® Trainer and Zena Rommett Floor-Barre® Teacher. Whether through her teaching artistry at Ballet Hispánico or her international commissions, she continues to create work that fosters connection, inspires change, and celebrates the richness of the human experience.

Established in 1978 by Michael and Laurie Byrd, The Florida Ballet is a non-profit organization celebrating forty years of dance in the Jacksonville community. Its mission is to enrich and inspire the cultural landscape of the community through the education and art of classical ballet. Numerous initiatives are utilized to advance the organization’s mission, as well as, support the promotion of dance.

The Florida Ballet’s Conservatory and Training programs provide dance education to students ages 3 through adult, beginner through pre-professional. Community outreach programs, such as after-school enrichment opportunities, in-school performances and demonstrations, serve individuals of all ages and abilities. Additionally, the organization presents over 40 classical and contemporary performances annually bringing the magic of dance to thousands in the Jacksonville area and beyond.

Photo by Katherine Richardson

Founded in 2012 and located in Jacksonville, Florida, Jacksonville Dance Theatre (JDT) is a contemporary modern dance company dedicated to creating and promoting excellence in the field of professional dance on local and national stages. JDT is committed to creative innovation and exchange through choreographic projects, concert dance performance, movement intervention outreach, and dance education.

Led by Artistic Director Rebecca R. Levy and Interim Executive Director Kat Richardson, the company has produced 13 robust home seasons and toured or appeared in festivals throughout the country. JDT sees the power of the human body as a canvas for art, education, storytelling, performance, entertainment, and wellness. With a diverse group of company members, JDT continuously evolves its style to create compelling, cohesive performances that engage a wide range of audiences.

For more information, visit: jacksonvilledancetheatre.org.

Carlos began studying creative arts in Jacksonville, Florida, at LaVilla School of the Arts, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts, multiple dance studios, and Jacksonville University. He trained with the perspective of learning dance as a technique, art, and sport. The production art of stage, theater, and entertainment was evenly integrated into his education. Carlos' discipline movement training began as a martial artist studying Taekwondo and he is a 2nd Degree Black Belt.

Carlos' performance career involves experience in dance concert, live show, theater, commercial, and television industries. Some of his credits include: FOX’s So You Think You Can Dance (TV), iLuminate’s Artists of Light (Off-Broadway), Spider-Man: Turn Off The Dark performance at Gypsy Of The Year for Broadway Cares (Broadway), Walt Disney World (Theme Park), Universal Studios (Theme Park), Rasta Thomas’ Bad Boys of Dance (Tour), Jacksonville Symphony’s First Coast Nutcracker (Show).

In the beginning of Carlos' career, he recognized his passion and talent as a dance teacher, instructor, lecturer, coach, and overall educator. Carlos has had incredible opportunities to share his knowledge and talents at Steps On Broadway and Broadway Dance Center in New York City, hundreds of dance studios, schools, colleges, universities, and dance events, and his own institutionalized programs: Dancelook Apprentice Program and Dancelook Intensive.

Carlos is a creative lead with his companies Dancelook and For Your Entertainment Productions. He constantly practices artistic & creative roles in producing, directing, and choreographing productions, events, and programs anywhere from ideation to implementation for in-house projects, clients, and employers.

Marisa (Dolan) Garland is a professional dancer, creative director, and educator from Jacksonville, Florida. She pursued BFAs in Dance and Graphic Design from Jacksonville University and continued her professional training in New York City at Broadway Dance Center, Steps on Broadway, and Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet.

Her performance highlights include Broadway Cares Gypsy of the Year with the Broadway cast of Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, Walt Disney World’s Actors’ Equity production of Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, Universal Orlando Resort’s Marilyn Monroe and the Diamond Bellas (Opening Cast), as well as appearances on Good Morning America, Hard Rock Live, and more.

Passionate about education, Marisa has traveled nationwide teaching, choreographing, and mentoring dancers at studios, schools, colleges, and dance events. She is the co-creator and Artistic Director of the Dancelook Apprentice Program and The Dancelook Intensive.

Marisa is the co-director of Dancelook and For Your Entertainment Productions alongside her husband, Carlos Garland. With a background spanning dance, acting, media production, and visual design, Marisa seamlessly integrates performance and production across all of her creative work.

Rhythm Theory Tap Ensemble is a Florida-based professional tap ensemble. The choreography we perform is created the same way a composer would write a symphony, emphasizing different parts for each instrument working together to create one composition. The methods we use to compose, rehearse and perform come from concepts and processes in Music Theory, which gave us the idea for the name Rhythm Theory. We have performed at several choreography and dance showcases all over Florida, including the Dunedin Tap Festival and Fusion Fest in Orlando, FL. We also have many dance films and choreography videos on multiple viewing platforms that have reached audiences all over the world.

Married in 2020, John and Julia Boyd discovered a shared passion for movement, acrobatics, dance, and acroyoga that would become the foundation of both their artistic partnership and their business, AcroFit.

As performers, coaches, choreographers, and movement educators, they continue to inspire people of all ages through their creative approach to fitness and partner movement. Their work blends dance, hand balancing, acrobatics, and trust-based partnering into a unique performance style that celebrates connection and collaboration.

As our finale, Acro Yoga reminds us that while cultures and traditions may differ, movement has the power to bring people together.

Dance as trust, partnership, and human connection.

Island Aerial Danceworks offers an outstanding Aerial Arts Program to adults and children located on beautiful Amelia Island. A native to Amelia Island, Marah Lovequist-Cooper, began her aerial journey a decade ago and has participated and performed in numerous live events and productions locally. As the proud owner of Island Aerial Danceworks, Marah is honored to return for the Amelia Island Dance Festival expressing her talent in the sling and silks.

James L. Boyd III, an artist mastering choreography, pedagogy, performance, directorial and executive accomplishments, born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. He continues to entertain the world with knowledge of multiple dance methods and professional styles of dance. James Boyd, is a Douglas Anderson School of the Arts graduate and received his B.F.A from SUNY Purchase College in dance and choreography. While attending school, Mr. Boyd performed works by dance giants such as, Merce Cunningham, Bill T. Jones, George Balanchine, and Paul Taylor. Since graduation he’s shared the stage and performed with Elton John, Lady Gaga, Mary J. Blige, and Bruce Springsteen. Which led to performing around the world, as a principle artist in the technical dance company Bad Boys of Dance and Bad Boys of Ballet, which established privileges to share moments onstage with iconic dance artists, Misty Copeland, Joseph Gatti, Isaac Hernandez, Eric Underwood and Rasta Thomas. Mr. Boyd made guest appearances with Bad Boys of Dance on the hit dance show, “So You Think You Can Dance” and two television appearances as a semi-finalist on the competitive show, “America’s Got Talent.”

James Boyd obtained his M.F.A degree, in choreography, from Jacksonville University and has an intermediary perspective on the dance industry and share’s objective and subjective reason in dance to all people. Mr. Boyd is a former adjunct professor of dance for Jacksonville University and Alabama State University while currently a full-time faculty member, Lecturer of dance, for the Troy University Department of Theatre and Dance. As a leading choreographer and educator, James is honored to be resident choreographer for the professional ballet company, United Ballet Theatre led by international star and Artistic Director, Joseph Gatti. Mr. Boyd recently created a main stage contemporary ballet on United Ballet Theatre called, Quintessence, then a classical work titled, Carousel, which premiered at the Doctor Phillips Center in Orlando, Florida as an opening celebration for a new theatre, Steinmetz Hall. Next, James is choreographing an unique solo work premiering in Italy with United Ballet Theatre’s ‘Athlete of Art,’ Dominique Guerra. Then an original work choreographed and set on San Francisco Ballet’s, Katherine Barkman.

Regarding research, James Boyd is a Certified Movement Assessment Professional (CMAP) and curiously explores our Universe and Cosmos with a choreographic perspective and identifies complex movement by making connections of opposite energies: entities and methods found in Science and Dance. Mr. Boyd is known for his intermediary approach in the dance industry and sought after by movement experts curious about artistic approaches and amplification. James is an expert handling objective and subjective insight on qualitative movement and injury prevention and this approach is supported by leading scientists and anatomical specialists, to name one, such as: Dr. Lesley Parrish, PT, DPT, FAAOMPT. Together they’ve created a leading injury prevention and movement awareness program called, Dance

Movement Analysis. All research supported by Faulkner University, Troy University, and technology company, ETRAK Technologies. James Boyd, as a producer and director, produced his first dance concert for Northeast Florida in 2012 titled, “Rasta Thomas’ Rock the Ballet.” Since then, Mr. Boyd crafted, created and collaborated with Troy University to direct and produce three dance concerts titled, Vibe, Illusions and Momentum. Mr. Boyd artistically directed fifty-five artists minimum per concert along with industry leading choreographers such as, Gregory Dolbashian (DASH Ensemble), Brynt Beitman, Lloyd Culbreath (Fosse Fellow), James Kinney (Fosse Fellow), Take Ueyama (Take Dance Company), Kelsey Metz (Conservatory of Dance), Chalvar Monteiro (Alvin Ailey), Jamal White (Body Traffic), Dance Look LLC (Media Company), Michael McBride (Alvin Ailey), and Katie Breland (Artist). Mr. Boyd will be the new Assistant Artistic Director for the DAP Festival, annually, during summer months located in, Pietrasanta, Italy.

Furthermore, James is a national and international faculty member for inspiring dance entities such as, Manhattan Dance Project, on faculty for Dance Educators of America, annual faculty member for Ballet Fest as Dance Fest Productions and a board member for the Alabama Dance Council. A high-ticket remote setter and closer for the networking company, Vashti Talent and Services, a Remote Closer trained by Closers iO, a creative executive for the media production company, Dance Look LLC., and an established Keynote Speaker as a Certified Movement Assessment Professional (CMAP)

Three Hearts Dance, originally founded in 2013, works to create storytelling experiences with optimism, artistry, and love. Our artistry is based on life experience- the steps of our journey that have shaped who we have become. Through our collective artistry, we hope to inspire audiences to move beyond where they have been and aim toward a bold life of freedom.

Three Hearts Dance is a contemporary dance company located in Northeast Florida. Creating dance films & producing live performance events on a per project basis allows THD to feature dancers from all ages, walks of life & experience levels. Three Hearts Dance is more passionate than ever to ensure that every experience they create is one that is unique for every Featured Artist, dancer, collaborator, & audience member.

Andrea Mason is an aerial performer, coach, and choreographer based in Jacksonville, Florida. Her first career was as a corporate attorney; after shifting her focus to the movement arts, she is now a certified and experienced instructor of aerial arts and yoga at several studios and private clubs in the Jacksonville area. She continues to expand her training at Florida State College at Jacksonville and has helped establish the FSCJ danceWORKS Aerial Dance Ensemble. In 2025, Andrea performed as an aerialist in Jacksonville Dance Theatre’s world premiere of Circo del Pantano, as well as at the 2025 Amelia Island Dance Festival, both under the direction of Rebecca Levy.

Her choreographic work uses aerial movement to convey emotional weight, shifting the viewer’s gaze and reframing expectations.

Joy Echols is a dance artist based in Jacksonville, Florida. In 2025, she graduated from Middle Tennessee State University where she earned a BS in Dance and a BS in Allied Health Science. While there, Joy performed as a part of the MTSU Dance Theatre in a variety of faculty works including those by Jade Treadwell and Jee Ahn, as well as guest works by Emily Cargill and Kia Smith. She also had opportunities to present her own choreography at regional conferences and fully produced concerts. Joy just completed her first season with Emily Cargill and Dancers and teaches dance at a local studio.

Meaghan Novoa s a Colombian-American Contemporary Dance Choreographer based in Atlanta, GA. Their work serves as a fierce intersection of heritage and identity, weaving the complex threads of their Colombian and Jewish roots with the urgency of their queer and neurodivergent lived experiences.

Meaghan has been awarded artist residencies with Dance Canvas, Atlanta Contemporary, Decatur School of Ballet, The High Museum’s Dance Lab and more. Their practice has been supported by grants from organizations such as A&E Atlanta, South Arts, Idea Capital, and the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, which recently honored them with the 2024–2025 Emerging Artist Award.

Meaghan’s recent highlights include premiering an evening-length work at Synchronicity Theatre (Stripped Bare Arts Incubator Initiative) and co-directing a bold durational piece at SITE 2025 with Madison Nunes at The Goat Farm Arts Center. Currently an Artist-in-Residence at City Dance & Music, Meaghan continues to push the boundaries of the body’s storytelling potential, centering marginalized narratives with relentless passion.

Learn more about Meaghan and their work:

www.novoadances / Instagram - @novoadances

Sarava Dawson is a dancer, choreographer, and dance instructor residing in Jacksonville, Florida. Sarava has extensive training in a variety of dance genres and is certified in PBT and Acrobatic Arts. She is passionate about dance and enjoys expanding her knowledge and experience through training and performance. She was a member of the professional dance company Selah Dance Ministries and is now the Production Manager for Three Hearts Dance. Sarava enjoys collaborating with dance instructors and dancers who enjoy sharing their love of dance as well as performing at various community events and festivals. As a choreographer, dance instructor, and competitive dance coach, Sarava instills in her students the importance of expressive and impactful movement and artistry to inspire others through meaningful dance.

“When Tomorrow Starts Without Me” focuses on the emotions associated with death. The feelings of loss range from regret and hurt to eventually finding solace in the memories of our loved ones.

Allyson Sledge is a Texas-based freelance dancer and choreographer. A native of Austin, Texas, Allyson trained at Shirley McPhail School of Dance under the direction of Edwina Worley, Jennifer Tcharikova, and Teresa Pearce. Furthering her dance education, Allyson attended Texas Christian University, where she recently earned her BFA in Modern Dance. During her time at TCU, Allyson trained with renowned guest artists, including Jamila Glass, Nycole Ray, Gina Patterson, and KT Nelson. She has performed as a guest artist at Dallas Black Dance Theatre: Encore! Concert Rising Excellence in 2024, as well as representing TCU at the American College Dance Association in 2022 and 2023. Allyson began choreographing at the age of 13, and several of her works have been presented with the Silver Spurs Dance Team, the Rouse Royals, in music videos, and as part of the TCU Brown Bag Series. Allyson’s most recent works, Constantly Improving, Lifeline, and To Be Born, a Colored Girl, have been showcased at the DanceTCU Concert series, with To Be Born, a Colored Girl making its NYC debut as part of Chutzpah Dance’s Unshaken in 2025. Allyson is currently teaching at Dance Discovery/Avery Ranch Dance & Music and performing with ImPULSE Dance Project and Delve Dance Collective.

Celebrating 10 years of business in 2026, Ballroom On Amelia specializes in social dance instruction for weddings, community events, and overall health benefits. We focus on community involvement, personal wellness, and keeping the vibrant tradition of social dance alive for all of life's gatherings. We are proud participants and supporters of the Amelia Island Dance Festival!

The Florida Ballet Trainee Programoffers talented students, ages 17-22, a well rounded curriculum designed to prepare them for the next steps in their dance career. The two-year program is designed for high school graduates and is an extension of The Florida Ballet’s Conservatory and Pre-Professional programs serving as a bridge between the School and the Company. Trainees will have performance opportunities working alongside The Florida Ballet’s Company dancers.

"Based out of Jacksonville, Florida, the Dancelook Apprentice Program (DAP) is an innovative performing arts program created by Carlos & Marisa Garland that instructs dedicated dance students (ages 11 - 19) who aspire to become professional artists. Several times throughout the year, this selected group of young dancers from around the U.S. get together to participate in this program for unique and challenging opportunities, experiences, and education that will enhance their technique, artistry, and professionalism. In this program, the apprentices become more inspired to pursue their talents, become more self-intuitive, gain confidence, elevate their dance & artistic skill level, and learn vital information in preparation for the professional industry. You’ll notice DAP’s acclaimed creative projects through Dancelook’s highly artistic and entertaining video productions featuring the Apprentices. To learn more about DAP, visit Dancelookllc.com."

The Island Tappers have been proud performers with the Amelia Island Dance Festival since 2020, delighting audiences with their energy, musicality, and love of tap dance. Over the years, they have showcased a variety of tap styles and memorable pieces, including Hello, Dolly!, Almost Like Being in Love, the classic Shim Sham, and Friend Like Me from Aladdin. Their performances celebrate the joy, rhythm, and timeless appeal of tap dance while bringing enthusiasm and entertainment to audiences of all ages.

Founded in 1998 by Naomi Vail, Flamenco de la Costa is Jacksonville's first and longest-running Flamenco dance company. Inspired by her training with Flamenco Olé in Philadelphia and later under the direction of Julia Lopez, Naomi established the company to share the passion and artistry of Spanish Flamenco with Northeast Florida audiences.

Over the years, the company has hosted internationally recognized Flamenco artists and performed throughout the region, including appearances at the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, Casa Monica, the Spanish Wine Festival, and alongside the legendary Gipsy Kings.

Flamenco combines intricate footwork, expressive movement, and powerful musicality to tell stories of joy, sorrow, resilience, and passion.

Meghan and LuSynda have shared a deep bond through dance for many years, both as devoted students and as “dance sisters.” Their journey began with training in Middle Eastern Raqs Sharqi, commonly known as belly dance, which included folkloric regional styles, structured choreography, and solo improvisation.

Over a decade ago, they discovered Fat Chance Belly Dance’s American Tribal Style® (ATS®) and were captivated by its unique blend of group improvisation, shared dance vocabulary, and striking costuming. This format, developed by Carolena Nericcio and her troupe, allows dancers to communicate non-verbally through movement, creating spontaneous yet synchronized performances.

The roots of tribal belly dance trace back to Jamila Salimpour, who pioneered a fusion of folkloric dances and costume traditions from the Middle East, North Africa, India (such as the Banjara of Rajasthan), and Spain. The ATS method builds on this legacy, offering a structured yet improvisational approach that allows dancers from across the globe to seamlessly collaborate—regardless of language, background, or experience level.

Today, Fat Chance Belly Dance® Style (FCBD® Style) is a global phenomenon, with communities of dancers flourishing on every continent.

Enjoy the magic of this universal dance language!

Island Aerial Danceworks offers an outstanding Aerial Arts Program to adults and children located on beautiful Amelia Island. A native to Amelia Island, Marah Lovequist-Cooper, began her aerial journey a decade ago and has participated and performed in numerous live events and productions locally. As the proud owner of Island Aerial Danceworks, Marah is honored to return for the Amelia Island Dance Festival expressing her talent in the sling and silks.

Born on the West Coast as the daughter of a Navy Service Officer and a fire-eating performer, Leilani Leo was immersed in the performing arts from an early age. Growing up on the East Coast, she began performing Polynesian dance with her mother's group, Kona Revue, embracing a cultural tradition that would become a lifelong passion.

Known throughout Jacksonville's arts community for her creative work as a dancer, visual artist, photographer, and costume designer, Leilani brings a unique artistic perspective to everything she creates. Through her love of movement, storytelling, and cultural expression, she continues to inspire audiences while honoring the traditions that first sparked her artistic journey.

Noise Complaint presents a unique performance show that combines choreographed tap dance with improv acting and elaborate costuming to bring the audience into a rhythmic storytelling experience. We put together full-length concerts of tap dances that are all woven together through storytelling by famed and infamous characters from all corners of pop culture. Each show we perform is a unique and exciting experience the audience will not soon forget!

Olivia began dancing at the age of three, and her passion for dance has continued to grow each year. At eight, she joined the Florida Ballet Training Center, and by twelve, she was accepted into the Conservatory program. At fifteen, she was promoted to Trainee.

Olivia thrives in the program’s rigorous training environment and values the many performance opportunities it provides. She has also expanded her training through summer intensives at Florida Ballet, as well as with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Orlando Ballet, and Joffrey Ballet.

Cohen Medrano was born in Jacksonville, Florida, in 2009 and is entering his junior year at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts. This past year marked his first full season training with First Coast Ballet Theatre. The Amelia Island Dance Festival performance will feature the first group work he has choreographed, marking an exciting milestone in his artistic journey as an emerging choreographer.

Shannon Zieris a pre‑professional dancer who has been training since the age of two. She currently trains at Oceanway School of Dance and Performing Arts and is a part of the incoming freshman class of 2030 to Douglas Anderson School of the Arts where she will be studying Dance.

Shannon studies multiple styles and continues to develop as a versatile, expressive, and technically strong young artist. Shannon has had the opportunity to learn from industry-leading choreographers and educators, including Rachael Markarian, Todd Flannigan, Matthew Schaffer, Michelle Loucadoux, Tracie Stanfield, JJ Rabone, Rustin Matthew, Ava Flav, Malluri Esquibel, Katie Sneed, Lacey Schwimmer, Robert Duvall, Eric Campros, Faith Norton,Ty Morrison, Carlos Garland, Reagan McDaniel, Erica Cristafulli, Kendra Daly, Tara Foxworth and more, through conventions, workshops, and specialty intensives. These experiences have shaped her musicality, performance quality, and dedication to her craft.

In addition to her dance training, Shannon has grown as a performer through musical theatre. She has appeared in two productions, playing Miss Hannigan in Annie and Tweedle Dum in Alice in Wonderland. These roles strengthened her stage presence, character work, and storytelling—skills she brings into every dance performance. Shannon has had 3 years of training in the Cinematic Arts Department at Lavilla School of the Arts, where she has developed a deep appreciation for filmmaking, visual storytelling, and the creative process behind the camera. This cross‑disciplinary experience has expanded her artistic perspective and enriched her performance style. Known for her strong work ethic, quick choreography retention, and ability to connect emotionally with an audience, Shannon continues to push herself technically and artistically with every class, rehearsal, and performance.

Jewell Claxton is a 17-year-old high school senior with a passion for both education and aerial arts. As she prepares to begin college, she plans to pursue a degree in Elementary Education with the goal of becoming a teacher who inspires confidence and a lifelong love of learning in every child.

Jewell's passion for teaching is deeply personal. As someone with dyslexia, she understands the challenges of learning differently and is grateful for the educators who believed in her and helped her succeed. Their encouragement has inspired her to provide the same support and compassion to future students.

In addition to her academic goals, Jewell is an aerialist working toward becoming an aerial silks instructor. Aerial arts have taught her perseverance, resilience, and the power of artistic expression. Whether in the classroom or in the air, Jewell is dedicated to helping others overcome challenges, discover their strengths, and reach their full potential.

Miller Hutson, a passionate dancer since age three, has been training for ten years and is a proud member of the Starlettes at A Chance to Dance in Yulee, Florida. Her love for improvisation and storytelling through movement shines in her self-choreographed solo, “Sittin in the Morning Sun.” In 2024, she earned accolades for her contemporary solo, "Come with Me," and secured top scores for her duet “Le Jazz Hot” at the Inspire Dance Competition. Millie excels in jazz, ballet, tap, hip hop, musical theatre, and contemporary styles.

Millie Hutson and Callie Lee are passionate young dancers who share a love for storytelling through movement. Together, they created this piece to reflect their personal dance journeys and the meaningful connection they have built through years of training. As opportunities to perform together are rare, this work holds special significance for both artists. Through their choreography, Millie and Callie hope to touch the hearts of their audience, inviting them to step away from everyday life and experience the refuge, connection, and joy that dance provides.

Ava Martus and Mila Deguiera are dancers at Royal Amelia Dance Academy, where they have trained together for more than four years. During that time, they have been members of both the Radettes and Fusion Company, performing at the Amelia Island Dance Festival, community events, and dance competitions throughout Florida and Georgia. Over the past two years, they have received numerous accolades, including judges' awards recognizing their storytelling, while growing not only as dancers but also as teammates and friends.

Their choreography is deeply personal, inspired by the importance of holding onto the people who help carry us through life's most difficult moments. As teenagers, Ava and Mila understand the value of strong support systems, safe spaces, and meaningful connections. They are passionate advocates for teen mental health and hope this work reminds audiences that no one has to face life's challenges alone.

This piece marks the first work they have choreographed entirely on their own, making this opportunity especially meaningful as they begin their journey as emerging choreographers.

Amelia Bigelow is a passionate emerging choreographer dedicated to creating meaningful works that tell compelling stories through movement. She choreographed her first group piece, The Square Root of Negative 1, in eighth grade, exploring the experiences of women in STEM fields. Since then, Amelia has continued to develop her choreographic voice, creating the opening production numbers for the Miss Sandalwood Pageant during the 2024–2025 and 2025–2026 seasons. Her original solo choreography has earned multiple special awards and top placements at dance competitions. Amelia looks forward to continuing to grow as an artist and sharing her work with audiences.