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Welcome to The Studio of Dance and Arts

About Our Studio

Our Approach

The Studio of Dance and Arts is a non-profit dance studio that is dedicated to nurturing creativity and talent in the hiline community. We believe in providing a supportive and inclusive environment where students can learn and grow as dancers. Our approach focuses on not only teaching dance techniques but also fostering a love for the art of dance.

Board of Directors

The Studio of Dance and Arts is an organization fueled by a volunteer Board of Directors. The Board volunteers their time and talents to ensure The Studio runs as seamlessly as possible.

Christina Lickfold - President; Operations Committee Chair

Lee Ann Malley - Vice President; Fundraising and Grants Committee Chair

Katie Vukasin - Secretary

Lexis Dockter - Treasurer; Finance Committee Chair

Kelly Duckett - Trustee; Marketing Chair

Tim Nixdorf - Trustee

Krystyn Wickham - Trustee; Competition and Workshop Chair

Hayley Yost - Trustee; Costumes Committee Chair

2025/2026 DANCE INSTRUCTORS

Danielle Alex

Meet our esteemed Miss Dani, returning to teach kids through the entire spectrum - from tots through advanced. With decades of experience, she has dedicated her life to nurturing talent and inspiring countless dancers to pursue their passions. Her commitment to excellence and encouraging approach have not only shaped remarkable performers but also fostered a vibrant dance community. She continues to share her wisdom and love for dance, leaving a lasting impact on all who have the privilege of learning from her.

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Brittany Ceynar

Join us in welcoming Brittany back for another epic season of Jazz! Brittany has been dancing competitively since grade six, later training through high school as a dance academy student, Pom Squad member, and beyond. With a passion for technique and fast-paced settings, she loves guiding dancers to reach their fullest potential and watching their growth from the first class to the final performance.

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Hannah Lickfold

Hi, I’m Hannah! I’m excited to be returning this season to teach Musical Theater and Intermediate Contemporary. I started my dance journey at five and began competing seriously at age nine, and I’ve been completely hooked ever since! Along the way, dance has taught me the power of passion, commitment, and creativity—values I love passing on to my students.

My competitive career has given me so many incredible memories, from trips to Nationals and winning a Thunderstruck Regional Title, to being invited to compete with my own choreography internationally. I’ve also been honored with numerous special judges’ awards and was recognized as the Vickie Sheer Ambassador for the Sheer Elite Competition. But the real reward in my work is seeing students grow. I love developing unique and imaginative choreography and, most importantly, giving every dancer the confidence to pursue their goals, both inside and outside the studio.

Beyond the studio, I love finding new music, exploring new places, and spending time with my family. A fun fact about me: I have a rescue dog named Peanut who is basically my best friend!

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Ceirra McBride

We’re excited to have Ceirra joining us again from Utah for another season of ballet and tap! With many years of dance experience, she has a passion for creating unique, expressive choreography that connects both dancers and audiences.

In her classes, Ceirra emphasizes building a strong foundation in a fun, welcoming environment, making dance both enjoyable and inspiring for every student.

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Famelah Spinler

We are thrilled to welcome back Famelah for her second season with our studio! Originally from the Philippines, she is a multi-talented artist whose passions extend far beyond the dance floor. From teaching drums to planning events, she brings creativity and energy to everything she does.

Most importantly, Famelah is an exceptional dance instructor with a gift for inspiring students to push their limits and grow as performers. This season, she’ll be teaching Hip Hop and Advanced Contemporary, sharing her talent, artistry, and passion with our dancers once again.

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Alexa Squires

Hi, I’m Alexa! I am so excited to be returning to teach Tap this season, and I'll be connecting with all our dancers virtually from my home studio in Missoula! I've been a part of the studio family since I was two years old and even had the honor of being a student of Miss Dani's—so I truly grew up here!

 

My competitive career began at age five, and I quickly became no stranger to the winner's circle, often bringing home trophies bigger than I was! I've won numerous awards at competition, and like Hannah, I was invited to compete internationally. I was also honored to be named a Vickie Sheer Ambassador for the Sheer Elite Competition. While I've studied all types of dance, tap holds a very special place in my heart, and it's where my true passion lies. I’m currently pursuing my degree in Missoula, and teaching tap virtually allows me to share my skills with a new generation of dancers, no matter the distance!

I’m thrilled to continue sharing my love for tap with all of your loved ones this season. I can't wait to see what amazing things our tappers accomplish this year!

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2025/2026 TUMBLING INSTRUCTORS

Olivia Bischoff

After taking time away to focus on her career, we’re excited to welcome Olivia back to the studio as a coach for our most advanced tumblers! With years of experience in tumbling, competitive cheer, and coaching, she has a special gift for helping tumblers push through mental blocks and self-doubt. Her supportive and motivating approach helps students feel capable and confident as they work toward their goals.

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Kristawna Eekhoff

Hi, I’m Kristawna! I am a dedicated tumbling coach with years of experience, blending a rich background in dance and competitive cheerleading. Having participated in both high school cheer and competitive teams, my 4th year of coaching brings a wealth of knowledge and skill to the studio, fostering a positive and encouraging environment for young athletes.

When not at the studio, I work part-time at Grace & Grit, a proud parent of four, and I am an avid reader! I understand the importance of balance and commitment, both in parenting and coaching. I continuously seek inspiration and knowledge to enhance coaching techniques and nurture the growth of each athlete.

With a passion for helping others achieve their goals, I strive to instill confidence, discipline, and a love for tumbling in every student.

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Lauren Miller

Hi, I’m Lauren! My background in high school cheer gave me a love for tumbling, taught me discipline, dedication and teamwork—values I now pass on as a tumbling coach. My goal is to help kids build both skill and self-confidence in a supportive environment, making sure they feel celebrated every step of the way.

Beyond the gym, I love being a mom, fostering dogs, doing nails, and traveling with my sister. A fun fact about me: my dad always said if I could catch a bunny, I could keep it - it took me 28 years, but I finally did! Coaching lets me combine my love for kids and my passion for tumbling, and I’m so excited to share that with every student.

I’m excited to share this opportunity with your loved ones in creating a positive, fun, and encouraging environment where kids feel inspired to grow their skills and confidence. Watching young athletes achieve something they didn’t think was possible is the most rewarding part of what I do.

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