MeeT THE STAFF
We are proud to have a staff that goes beyond teaching technique—they inspire, encourage, and help shape the next generation of dancers and leaders. Get to know the amazing team that makes our studio a place where dancers thrive.
The people who make our studio feel like home.
Michelle Soutier
Owner
Alyson Wright
Providence Director
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Jessica O'Keefe
Baxter Director
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Nicolette Albano
Instructor
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Beverly Badgett
Accounting Manager
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Pam Gallman
Office Assistant
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Taylor Gallman
Office Assistant
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Laura Glynn
Competition Admin
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Nicole Hardy
Instructor
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Abby Harmon
Instructor
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Hannah Harshman
Competition Team Co-Director
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Jamie Harvener
Competition Team Co-Director
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Rebekah Hepp
Baxter Assistant Director
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Tanzley Janik
Instructor
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Alexandra Kunis
Ballet Company Director
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Janelle Neal
Instructor
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Megan Raftery
Instructor
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Thommie Retter
Instructor
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Becca Retter
Instructor
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Alex Ryan
Office Assistant
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Jennifer Schumann
Office Assistant
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Hayden Shugart
Instructor
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Amber Smith
Marketing Director
Office Assistant
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Gina Smith
Operations Manager
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Natalie Soutier
Competition Asst Director
Digital Content Manager
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Helen Stengel
Office Assistant
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Judy Thompson
Instructor
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Shae Tuttle
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Christine Underwood
Providence Office Manager
Instructor
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Annie Ward
Instructor
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Baxter Office Manager
Paige Williams
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Kayla Zisa
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Office Assistant
Perf Company Asst Director
Sandy Johnston
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Office Assistant
Alice Rust
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Office Assistant
Sherrie Reed
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Office Assistant
Michelle is a native of North Carolina and a graduate of UNC Charlotte and has an extensive background in performing arts and education. Michelle has been recognized for outstanding achievements in dance.
Michelle is the Past President of Carolina Dance Masters and is a member of Dance Educators of America and Dance Masters of America. She is the Executive Administrator for the Dancer Against Cancer Board of Directors. She is the current Treasurer for Carolina Dance Masters, on the Board of Advisors for Carolina Breast Friends and on the Board of Directors for Carolina Breast Friends.
Michelle is the owner of Miller Street Dance Academy, which is home to more than 2,000 dancers. She has won many state and national awards for choreography.
She represented the Carolinas as Miss Dance of NC & SC in 1992 at the Miss Dance of America pageant and was Miss Dance Aquarius 1991. Michelle was selected as Director for 2006 through 2010 Teen Miss Dance of America Pageant.
Other honors include being named one of the 2011 Top 50 Influential Area Women by Mecklenburg Times, a 2005 Leading Link Ladies by Charlotte Radio Station 107.9, chosen as the winner of The Business Journal’s “40 Under 40″ Business Leaders, and a finalist for the 2006 and 2007 Channel 9 “Nine Who Care” award. Michelle was Miss UNCC 1991 and went on to compete for the title of Miss North Carolina 1991. In 2014, Michelle was one of the producers for the hit off-broadway show, ‘Pageant: The Musical,’ which was nominated for a 2015 Drama Desk Award. In May of 2024 she was a co-producer for the show “Beaches” that opened in Calgary Canada in May of 2024. Michelle was one of the 2024 Women to KNOW in North Carolina and was 2023 Member of the Year for Dance Masters of America.
In addition to teaching dance, Michelle maintains her commitment to community service. In 2015, she was inducted into Make-A-Wish Foundation’s ‘W.I.S.H. Society’ (Women Inspiring Strength and Hope) for her dedication to raising funds to grant the wishes of children battling life-threatening illnesses in the Charlotte area. In 2016, Michelle received the Humanitarian Award from African Christians Fellowship International (ACFI) for her continued support of ACFI’s work supporting Liberian orphans. Michelle currently serves as a National Ambassador for Dancers Against Cancer, an organization that provides financial assistance to dancers, dance teachers, and choreographers who have been diagnosed with cancer.
Michelle Soutier
Alyson is a native of North Carolina. She has been teaching for over 20 years and is proud to call Miller Street her home. Alyson loves to work with children of all ages and ability levels, from the youngest beginner to the most advanced teen and everything in between. In addition to years of training in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, musical theater, modern, lyrical, acting, and vocal performance, Alyson is certified to teach through Dance Masters of America and Acrobatic Arts. Alyson works to bring energy and excitement for learning to her classroom and hopes to instill a love of the arts into each and every student.
A Cum Laude graduate of UNC Charlotte with a degree in Marketing, Alyson was inducted into the Order of Omega Honor Society, National Society for Collegiate Scholars, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and Golden Key International Honor Society. In addition to scholastic achievements, during her competitive years, Alyson received countless state and national awards including Miss Dance of North Carolina in 2000, placing in the top ten nationally and receiving the highest score for tap a the Dance Masters of America National Convention. Alyson became a member of Carolina Dance Masters and Dance Masters of America in 2002. She served on the state board of directors from 2012-2016 and has served nationally as Co-Director of the Teen Miss Dance of America Pageant 2006 through 2010. Alyson has been recognized regionally and nationally for her choreography. In August of 2019 she was awarded the coveted Industry Dance Award for tap performance for her piece “Consequence of Sound.” This piece was selected out of thousands of entries nation wide. In addition to choreographing for her own students, Alyson has worked with students around the country, judging and teaching master classes.
Alyson Wright
A distinguished dance professional and educator with extensive performance experience and formal training in both dance and graphic design, Jessica O’Keefe currently serves as Director at Miller Street Dance Academy’s Baxter Village location, bringing a unique blend of artistic vision and leadership to dance education.
A Magna Cum Laude graduate from Appalachian State University, Jessica holds both a BA in Dance Studies and a BFA in Graphic Design. During her academic career, she demonstrated leadership as a National Honors Society Member, Art Department Ambassador, and Captain and Coach of the ASU Dance Team. Jessica also holds certifications in Acrobatic Arts Module One, Module Two, and Aerials & Back Handsprings.
Her professional journey at Miller Street Dance Academy began in 2010 as an instructor and choreographer for their award-winning Competition Team. She advanced to become the Performance Company Director at the Fort Mill location in Baxter Village in 2016, later co-directing the Pre-Professional Program in 2017. In 2018, Jessica accepted the role of Director for Miller Street’s Baxter Village location.
Throughout her career, Jessica has accumulated impressive performance credits, including appearances with Martha Connerton/Kinetic Works as a professional company member, Dance Chicago with Nick Pupillo, the American Dance Festival with Roger Belman, and the Hula Bowl in Maui. Her choreography has been featured in the North Carolina Dance Festival and Multiple Exposure in Raleigh, NC. She has performed principal roles including Cinderella, Dew Drop Fairy, and Lilac Fairy.
Her extensive training includes study at prestigious institutions such as Charlotte Ballet (formerly North Carolina Dance Theater), North Carolina School of the Arts, American Dance Festival, East Carolina University, The Academy of Dance and Fine Arts, Dance Davidson, and Appalachian State University. She has trained under notable instructors including Roger Belman, Karen Deese, Sadie Roberts, Emily Daughtridge, Patty Weeks, Tommi Galaska, and Nick Pupillo.
Jessica’s excellence in dance has been recognized with awards including “Top All American Dancer” and “Top Choreographer” from the National Dance Alliance, cementing her reputation as both a performer and choreographer.
Jessica O'Keefe
Nicolette is originally from Colchester, CT where she began her dance career at the age of 4. She danced at the Dance Academy of Colchester for 14 years and then went on to become a instructor there at the age of 17. She dedicated her practice to many different genres, however, Hip-Hop and Pom are her all-time favorites! During this time, she was also a member of her high school dance team, the Bacon Academy Dance Team and was a captain for 2 years.
She then moved to Charlotte, NC and went on to attend the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She was a member of UNC Charlotte’s dance team, the Gold Dusters from 2018-2021 where she performed at home football and basketball games and competed at UDA Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL each year. After graduating from UNCC with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, she is excited to continue her dance career at Miller Street Dance Academy!
In her free time, she enjoys traveling to new places, boxing, and cooking.
Nicolette Albano
Beverly has an extensive background in the performing arts and in education. She worked as a North Carolina high school special education teacher for many years and her experience in the performing arts ranges from baton to ballroom dance, tap, jazz and ballet! Beverly has been an important member of the Miller Street Dance Academy staff for over 20 years.
Beverly Badgett
Pam Gallman is a retired dance mom who’s daughter danced at Miller Street for 17 years recreationally and competitively. Pam credits the studio for being such a positive influence on her daughter Taylor, and wants to encourage as many people as she can to be a part of Miller Street. After her almost 40-year career in Technology Sales as an Account Manager, she is excited to be back at MSDA as an Office Assistant, doing something that makes her smile!
Pam Gallman
Taylor Gallman began dancing at Miller Street Dance Academy at 2 years old. She was on the competition team for 10+ years until she graduated and attended the University of South Carolina where she got her Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health. Since graduating high school, she has always come back to the studio to help with recitals, open houses, summer camps, and now works in the office. She has been in the mortgage industry for over 4 years and currently works as a Wholesale Account Executive, selling loan products to mortgage brokers. She has always had a passion for dance and jumped at the opportunity to return to the studio as an Office Assistant.
Taylor Gallman
Laura has been a part of Miller Street Dance Academy since it’s beginning, over 30 years ago, with her youngest being one of the original 21 students. Laura was in the corporate world for over 13 years, and then went into the retail world with “The Dance Bag” for 12 years. When not in the office, Laura enjoys travel and her five grandchildren.
Laura Glynn
Miss Nicole began dancing at age 3 and competing at age 8 as one of Miller Street’s original 20 students when the studio was first opened as “Enchanting Dancers.” Miss Nicole attended Clemson University from 2008 – 2012, where she was a member of the University’s dance team, the Clemson Rally Cats. Miss Nicole was lucky enough to be able to dance at each of Clemson’s football and basketball games while also traveling to compete with the Rally Cats each April in Daytona, Florida. After graduating Cum Laude with a degree in Elementary Education, Miss Nicole taught for 10 years in the public school system and is now home with her two young children while teaching dance at night. Miss Nicole loves being able to teach at the studio that shaped her into the woman she is today!
Nicole Hardy
Abby Harmon began dancing at just two years old and went on to train as a member of Miller Street’s competition team for 12 years. Throughout her training, she studied a wide range of styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, acrobatics, lyrical, contemporary, and modern. Abby continued her passion for dance at The University of South Carolina, where she was a proud member of the Carolina Girls Dance Team for four years. During her time on the team, she performed at home football games, men’s and women’s basketball games, traveled to bowl games, and represented the team at numerous appearances on and off campus. She also competed annually at the collegiate national competition in Daytona Beach, Florida, where the Carolina Girls earned the title of D1A Team Performance National Champions three times. In addition to her love for dance, Abby earned her degree in Early Childhood Education and is a first grade teacher at Springfield Elementary School. She loves being able to pass on her passion for dance to the next generation at the very studio that gave her so much!
Abby Harmon
Hannah Harshman was the founder and original owner of Dance 360 Orlando. While under Hannah’s direction, Dance 360 garnered several regional and national accolades including “Orlando’s Best Dance Studio”, “Orlando’s Most Loved Dance Studio”, and “National Studio of the Year” (2015-2018). A native of Lexington, KY, Hannah grew up under the direction of Diana Evans Pulliam and also trained at the School for the Creative and Performing Arts. After continuing her education at Point Park University and the University of Kentucky, Hannah began teaching and choreographing professionally. Her students have received numerous overall awards and titles at both the regional and national level. Hannah’s students have held titles for Dance Masters of Ohio, Dance Masters of Florida, Dance Masters of America, Kids Artistic Revue, Applause National Talent, Star Systems, Starpower, Rainbow National Talent, Believe National Talent, and Dance Educators of America. She has had former students also travel throughout the country as assistants for both The Pulse and Tremaine dance conventions, perform in national commercials for Disney and Universal, and work in numerous theatre productions across the country as well as on Broadway. Hannah’s highly sought after lyrical and contemporary choreography has received multiple national choreography awards throughout the past decade. She has also had the opportunity to work for the Miss America and Miss America’s Outstanding Teen Organizations where she has served as a judge, choreographer, and talent consultant. She is currently a member of Dance Masters of Florida where she has held the position of both First and Second Vice President. Hannah has judged for for Kids Artistic Revue, Rainbow National Talent, and Dance Masters of America and she continues to share her love and passion for dance by guest teaching and choreographing throughout the country. Hannah currently resides in Charlotte, NC with her husband (Brian) and three children (Sawyer, Shepherd, and Magnolia).
Hannah Harshman
Jamie embarked on his dance journey at the age of ten, igniting a lifelong passion that has blossomed into an extraordinary career path, showcasing his talent, dedication, and artistry.
At the age of thirteen, Jamie’s talent for dance was recognized when he was admitted to the School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCAPA), in Lexington, Kentucky, as a Contemporary Dance major. His potential was further showcased at sixteen when he was chosen as one of only twenty-four dancers from across Kentucky to participate in the prestigious Governor’s School for the Arts summer program.
Throughout his formative years in middle and high school, Jamie’s commitment to excellence in dance was evident, earning him multiple regional titles under the Dance Masters of America organization. Notably, he was awarded the Grand National Champion title for his self-choreographed duet.
While Jamie’s foundation in dance was solidified during his university education, it was his foray into choreography that truly ignited his creative spirit. Since then, his choreographic prowess has garnered national acclaim within the competitive dance circuit. His choreography has consistently elevated performances to new heights, culminating in notable achievements such as crafting the winning routines for prestigious competitions including Master Dance of America and Teen Mr. Dance of America.
Notably, Jamie’s artistic contributions were recognized with the esteemed Sherry Gold Memorial award for best choreography, a testament to his innovative approach and creative vision.
Beyond his local roots in Kentucky, Jamie has shared his talent as a guest choreographer in prominent dance communities such as Charlotte, NC, Cincinnati, OH, Nashville, TN, and Orlando, FL.
Looking ahead, Jamie is committed to continually pushing the boundaries of dance and choreography. And while incredibly grateful for the opportunities he’s had thus far, he is excited to embrace those that lie ahead.
Jamie Harvener
Rebekah began dancing at the age of three from the instruction of Laura Smith. From there she transitioned to classical ballet and pointe training at York County Ballet. While at York County Ballet she became a member of the company where she had various roles in performances such as The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Alice in Wonderland, just to name a few. Rebekah also had the opportunity to participate in the STARTS program at Winthrop University for two summers. Rebekah was accepted into The Joffrey Dance Program and The University of South Carolina Dance Program where she learned from many talented artistic directors and choreographers. Rebekah also took multiple master classes with Ballet Companies such as Charlotte Ballet and The University of North Carolina School of the Arts. She has spent the last two years dancing at Miller Street where she has grown as a dancer and began assisting the instructors. Rebekah graduated with highest honors and she is currently working towards her Early Childhood Education Degree. She is thrilled to be working at Miller Street to share her love of dance with the talented dancers.
Rebekah Hepp
Miss Tanzley is passionate about dancing and teaching the art form to students of all ages. From youth, Tanzley knew she wanted to perform for others. She worked with groups such as Hutton-Miller and Provident Films before discovering her love for live performance. She has been an active cast member at Narroway Productions since the age of 11. There, she has worn many hats as a dancer, actress, soloist, and animal handler.
Miss Tanzley began her dance education right here at Miller Street. While ballet is her first love, she had the pleasure of joining MSDA’s Pre-Professional Program where she trained intensively in many other styles of dance, including tap, jazz, modern, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop and acrobatics.
Tanzley has been a dance educator since 2016. She believes that the lessons learned in dance classes stretch beyond performance and help students connect with others, gain confidence, and channel creativity. She feels overjoyed to help the next generation develop these skills at Miller Street!
Tanzley Janik
Alexandra has enjoyed a remarkable career as a dancer, having graced the stages of Los Angeles Ballet for eight seasons and the New Chamber Ballet for two seasons. She had the privilege of performing leading roles in renowned works such as George Balanchine’s Jewels, Concerto Barocco, and Serenade, as well as classic productions like Giselle and La Sylphide.
Alexandra’s formative years were spent at the School of American Ballet, where she trained under the esteemed guidance of dance luminaries such as Kay Mazzo, Suki Schorer, and Susan Pilarre, developing her skills and laying the foundation for her dance artistry.
Driven by a passion for teaching, Alexandra has dedicated a significant portion of her career to sharing her expertise and nurturing young talents. She held the esteemed role of Director of the Children’s Division at Los Angeles Ballet, playing a pivotal role in shaping and inspiring the next generation of dancers.
In addition to her work on stage and in the studio, Alexandra made impactful contributions to the film industry. She served as trainer, coach, and on-set technique interpreter for the critically acclaimed film Black Swan, and also lent her choreographic expertise as a consultant for the feature film Oz: The Great and Powerful.
Academically, Alexandra graduated Summa Cum Laude from St. Mary’s College with a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts.
In the year 2020, Alexandra moved from the vibrant city of Los Angeles to the enchanting landscapes of Charlotte, accompanied by her husband and three children. She embarks upon this new chapter eagerly embracing the opportunities that lie ahead while remaining steadfast in her commitment to enriching the dance community with her profound expertise.
Alexandra Kunis
Janelle Neal has been teaching dance for over 10 years. She is classically trained in ballet and has studied at the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Alfred Ballet Academy, and La Roche College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance and Psychology. In college, she performed with the Buffalo City Ballet and danced in several ballets including Giselle, Swan Lake, Coppelia, and the Nutcracker, as well as many contemporary ballet pieces.
After moving to Charlotte, Janelle earned her teaching certificate in K-12 Dance Education at UNC Charlotte. Over the past seven years she has been teaching dance in the public school system at South Charlotte Middle School. Currently, Janelle is a stay-at-home mom with her two young sons Connor and Owen. She is excited to be on the staff at Miller Street Dance Academy and looks forward to a great year!
Janelle Neal
Megan is from Lake Charles, LA and has been dancing since the age of 2. She began her training with Glenda Moss, studying ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, lyrical, and contemporary for over 15 years. During her competitive years, Megan earned numerous scholarships and awards through Dance Masters of America, including several acrobatics scholarships from the Louisiana Association of Dance Masters. She attended St. Louis Catholic High School, where she was a four-year member of the St. Louis Sweethearts and served as captain her senior year.
Megan went on to study at Louisiana State University, where she performed with the LSU Dance Ensemble, participated in the physical theater club, and earned her B.S. in Kinesiology. After graduating, she moved to Charlotte, NC, where she began performing locally with Caroline Calouche & Co. and Nouveau Sud. She furthered her dance education through Dance Masters of America’s Teachers Training School, receiving an Associate’s Certificate in ballet, tap, and jazz. Megan is also a proud member of the Louisiana Association of Dance Masters.
She holds certifications in Acrobatic Arts Module One, Module Two, and Hoop Theory, and has a strong passion for acrobatics and safe training for dancers. In addition to her dance career, Megan recently graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine, combining her expertise in movement science with her lifelong dedication to the performing arts.
Megan Raftery
Thommie Retter loves the entertainment business and you will see it shine through in each of his classes at Miller Street Dance Academy. While living a 3 ½ year run on Broadway playing the role of Mr. Braithwaite in Billy Elliot The Musical, Thommie had the thrill of performing for more than 1.5 million enthusiastic theatregoers. With the curtain closed, Thommie has been able to return to his first love, teaching dance. He is director and choreographer for the NYC Tap Crew, a professional teen tap company in NYC. Recently, Thommie had the honor of preparing the one and only Tony Danza for his Broadway show Honeymoon in Vegas and continues to work with Tony on a regular basis. Also, in his arsenal of tap dance celebrities are Isabela Mercer (Dora) Dora The Explorer, Transformers: The Last Knight, Mila Kunis from That 70’s Show and Black Swan and Meg Donnelly star of Disney’s Zombies / ABC’s American Housewife, and Larry Saperstein (Big Red from High School Musical The Musical The Series. Thommie has had students in a variety of Broadway shows including; Anastasia, Annie, Beetlejuice, Billy Elliot, Dr Zhivago, Finding Neverland, Fun Home, Kinky Boots, Macbeth, Matilda, School of Rock, Caroline, Or Change, Trevor The Musical, Mrs. Doubtfire and The Music Man. Thommie also has students involved in the national tours of A Christmas Story, Annie, Beauty And The Beast, Billy Elliot, Kinky Boots, Pippin, The Lion King, The Sound of Music and White Christmas. With his production company, Retter Entertainment, Thommie has produced 13 The Musical and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Thommie is honored to join the faculty, staff and student body of MSDA and looks forward to meeting and working with you!
Thommie Retter
Becca Retter is a multi-talented dancer, teacher and choreographer. She is an expert at the Al Gilbert Tap Technique and the nation’s leader in pre-school material for your dance studio. She is known for creating the most usable, age-appropriate music and choreography for dance studios with her product Dance Advantage through MusicWorks Unlimited. Her products Dance Adventure and Dance Creation are the perfect solution for any preschool class combining technique and creative movement in a fun, imaginative way. Becca currently teaches for DanceMakers heading up their highly unique and popular convention preschool classes called Camp Dance since 2006. She has also had the pleasure of teaching for Dupree Dance Expos, Dance Masters of America (DMA), Dance Educators of America (DEA), SADM, CNADM, Dance Teacher Connection and Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Teacher Conference and Retreat Center.
Becca and her husband, Thommie, teach and produce Broadway workshops through their company, Retter Entertainment. She also co-directs their tap company the NYC Tap Crew. Becca is so excited to join the fabulous faculty at Miller Street Dance Academy! Previously she taught for Classical School of Ballet and Stars of Tomorrow in Long Island, NY. Becca also taught for Retter’s Academy of Dance in Los Angeles from 1995-2008 and was co-director of their Pre-School Department, known as The Starlet Academy. Becca has danced on MTV and internationally in Canada, Denmark, Guatemala and Russia. Her love and enthusiasm for dance make her a favorite among students and teachers and she always enjoys sharing her talents.
Becca Retter
Alex grew up at Miller Street Dance Academy. She joined the competition team at age 7 and spent every day dancing her way through school! After graduating high school she went on to college at UNCW where she joined dance team and was captain her junior and senior year. After graduating college and moving back to Charlotte with her husband and 2 boys she had the opportunity to help work in the office of the studio she holds so close to her heart! She’s happy she gets to be a part of a studio that means so much to her even if she’s not dancing anymore!
Alex Ryan
Jennifer is originally from Connecticut. She moved to the Carolinas with her family 25 years ago. She has 2 children and a granddaughter. Jennifer works in the Fort Mill School District as well as an Instructional Assistant. Her daughter danced for 13 years and she was excited when the opportunity to work at Miller Street came up and to be involved in the dance community again!
Jennifer Schumann
Hayden has been at Miller Street since the age of twelve when she left the competitive gymnastics world for dance. She joined the Performance Company Senior Team in 2019 and was a member until graduation in June 2024. Hayden has been trained in many styles of dance such as jazz, tap, acro, ballet, and lyrical. Lyrical and jazz have always been her favorites to perform as well as teach. Hayden has been an assistant at Miller Street for four years, and is excited to join the studio as a teacher. She is passionate about working with children and watching them learn and grow as dancers.
Hayden Shugart
From an early age, Amber started her training with Miller Street Dance Academy as one of Miss Michelle’s original students. In addition to taking classes and competing with the team, Amber also taught classes and assisted in the office.
After graduating, Amber went on to dance professional for the Charlotte Checkers Checkmates for several years. Throughout her dance career, Amber served as a judge and tabulator for regional and national competitions and taught master classes up and down the east coast. For the last 10 years, Amber has helped studio owners across the world manage their business easier through technology.
This unique combination of dance expertise and business experience now serves her well as Marketing Director of Miller Street Dance Academy. Leveraging her marketing experience, Amber understands both the artistic and business sides of supporting a succesful studio.
She can be found helping out in the office, assisting at studio events, supporting our digital content manager, and finding new opportunities to share Miller Street Dance Academy with the local community.
Amber Smith
Gina brings over 30 years of experience and dedication to Miller Street Dance Academy. A proud graduate of Montreat College, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and graduated Magna Cum Laude. As Operations Manager, Gina plays a key role in ensuring the studio runs smoothly and efficiently, supporting both staff and students with excellence and care.
Fun Fact: Gina is a devoted Carolina Panthers fan and loves to travel whenever she gets the chance!
Gina Smith
Natalie Soutier is a dynamic and versatile performer, celebrated for her work as a dancer, singer,and actress. She began dancing at the age of two and quickly rose to prominence, earning numerous state and national titles. Among her most distinguished honors are the titles of Miss Dance of America, Teen Miss Dance of America, and Petite Miss Dance of America.
Natalie has toured nationally and internationally, sharing her expertise as both a master teacher and judge, and captivating audiences worldwide as a performer. Her recent credits include the International Tour of West Side Story in the role of Graziella, as well as two tours with Adrienne Canterna Martinez’s acclaimed show, Rock the Ballet.
At just 12 years old, Natalie recorded her first songs for a collection of dance CDs that remain available today. She has continued to shine on both stage and screen, showcasing her powerful voice and commanding presence.
Natalie holds a BA in Musical Theatre from The University of Alabama and has trained extensively in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, contemporary, modern, musical theatre, partnering, vocal performance, and acting. Her dedication and artistry have earned her national recognition not only as a performer but also as a choreographer and educator. Natalie is also a member of Carolina Dance Masters as well as Dance Masters of America.
Natalie Soutier
A native of Connecticut; Helen has spent the last 34 years in Charlotte, NC, building a successful career in real estate and mortgage. Her passion helping clients navigate their real estate and finance journeys was an-easy transition to Miller Street in 2022. She feels honored to be part of the Miller Street Family, serving as Miss Michelle’s Personal Assistant and helping our dancers and parents in the front office. She looks forward to continuing to provide exceptional support and service to our treasured students and their families.
Helen Stengel
Judy Thompson was the creative director and owner of The Dance Academy of Colchester, in the state of Connecticut, where she was born and raised. As a child, she studied dance under the tutelage of Lynn Grossi at her academy based in Vernon, CT. She was later accepted into the Vaganova Classical Ballet Pedagogy certification program at The Hartford Ballet where she studied under ballet master Enid Lynn and Martha Graham master, Peggy Lyman. She went on to receive a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in dance from the University of Connecticut. Miss Judy has danced in various productions including, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “The Nutcracker,” and “A Chorus Line.” In her role as artistic director, she has also choreographed countless dance pieces in many dance genres, including ballet, jazz, modern, lyrical, and contemporary. She has been recognized by the city of Hartford, CT for helping to bring ballet to the Hartford Public School System. She is also an experienced Pilates instructor and loves to teach ballet-fitness to adults. She is currently studying for her certification in Energy Healing Modalities, Mindfulness, and Meditation.
In 2018, she moved to the Raleigh, NC area with her two daughters, Nicolette and Quinn. In Raleigh, she began working with special education students in the Wake County Public School System and found it to be one of the most rewarding and inspiring experiences of her life. In July 2023, she moved to the beautiful city of Charlotte and is excited to be teaching at Miller Street Dance Academy!
Judy Thompson
Shae grew up in Fort Mill, SC, where she still lives today with her husband and three children. She began her college journey at Spartanburg Methodist College, where she cheered for the Pioneers, before transferring to the University of South Carolina (Go Gamecocks!). With her love of music and dance, it’s no surprise that she has found her home at Miller Street Dance Academy!
Shae Tuttle
Christine Underwood began dancing at age 2 and was a member of Miller Street’s competition team for 13 years where she trained in tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop, acrobatics, lyrical, and contemporary. In 2019, Christine won the title of Miss Dance of North Carolina, placed in the top ten at Miss Dance of America, and won the highest-scoring tap routine award. She attended The University of Alabama where she studied psychology and criminal justice and was a member of The University of Alabama’s Hockey Dance Team and the group Dance Alabama! In the summer of 2023, she danced professionally for the United States Football League where she danced for the Birmingham Stallions and the New Orleans Breakers. She is excited to return to Miller Street to teach dance!
Christine Underwood
Annie Ward has been training in dance for over 20 years and teaching dance for 6 years. She is trained in Jazz, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop and Ballet. Annie is originally from West Chester, Pennsylvania and has had to privilege to perform and compete across the tri-state area. Annie assisted her first dance class at age 12 and started teaching right after graduating high school. She attended Penn State University and graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts Broadcast Journalism and Theatre. After graduating Annie combined her love of dance with her passion for photography and has worked with local companies and studios to capture dancers movement both onstage and in studio.
Annie has continued her dance training into adulthood by performing with Formerly & Tomorrow dance collective (Medieval Tragedy) and West Chester University Alumni Dance Chapter (Happiness is and Music in Motion). She has trained with Lydia Ciafonne (Formerly&Tomorrow) and Christie Valdiserri and is continuing her training in Charlotte.
Annie is thrilled to join the talented staff and Miller Street Dance Academy!
Annie Ward
When Paige had the opportunity for an office position at Miller Street, she jumped at the chance to be a part of the studio. As a child, she began dancing at the age of 3 taking ballet, jazz and tap. She took a few years off, then returned in her early teens and really enjoyed the experience. Although she stopped attending classes, she never stopped enjoying dance and still loves to watch all the performances.
Paige Williams
Kayla started dancing at the age of 4. She danced at the Performing Arts Academy in New Jersey and was part of their competitive team. She trained in ballet, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, acro, hip hop, and tap. She was always proud to learn from one of the principal ballerinas of The Bolshoi Ballet, Yuliya Akopyan. She is grateful to have had the experience to work with some remarkable choreographers and teachers. Some of her best memories were competing at the United States Tournament of Dance, Kids for Kids Dance Competition, American Dance Awards, Starbound and JUMP. Kayla has performed and choreographed for various dance teams. She continued her training and enjoyed dance classes at High Point University. Kayla recently graduated with a degree in strategic communications with minors in marketing and sales. She will be working for Tom James selling custom clothing. Kayla is excited to share her passion for dance at Miller Street Dance Academy!
Kayla Zisa
As a native North Carolinian, Sandy spent 30 years working in banking and finance in Charlotte. With a degree in Social Work/Sociology from UNCC, Sandy was looking for a new challenge after retirement. As mom to two grown children and two young granddaughters, Miller Street was a perfect fit for her. She is excited to work for Miller Street because it is her happy place!
Sandy Johnston
Alice has dedicated her entire adult life to the Fitness, Wellness, and Nutrition industry. As a Certified Fitness and Wellness Coach and Nutritional Ambassador for a global whole-food company, she is passionate about helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
While continuing her full-time coaching career, Alice joined our team after her daughter participated in Miller Street’s Dance program. Inspired by the program and its values, she was eager to be part of a community that nurtures and empowers young dancers. Alice deeply connects with our mission and finds joy in supporting the next generation as they grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential. She aligns with our mission and enjoys watching the next generation of dancers reach their full potential!
Alice Rust
Sherrie is from Charlottesville, VA, and has called Charlotte home—on and off—since 1985. She first met Michelle when her daughter danced for Enchanting Dancers at the Miller Street location in Pineville, and she loved helping with the recitals. Sherrie has always had a passion for children and spent years teaching preschool before moving into a career with an international logistics firm.
After retiring, Sherrie was invited this past June to watch a neighbor’s granddaughter’s recital—without realizing it was at Miller Street. The moment she met Natalie at the door, it felt like home. After the performance, she reached out to Michelle to see how she could get involved.
Sherrie is truly excited for the opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life!
