Our mission is to not only provide the best in dance and performing arts education to our students, but to also guide them towards realizing their full potential and help them to become amazing, creative, and generous human beings.
Our faculty consists of highly trained, inspired artists whose main goals are to nurture and develop aspiring artists’ talent by being technically proficient and dynamic instructors. Our staff is helpful, friendly and resourceful and we aim to create a well-organized and family friendly environment providing excellent customer service.
At Thrive Dance Center our main focus is top notch dance instruction combined with leadership, unity and life skills that will truly last a lifetime.
-THRIVE
Ahjalia Hall
Director/Co-Owner
Ahjalia Hall is originally from San Jose, California and has been training in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical Contemporary and Hip Hop since age 2. As the daughter of a professional dancer, choreographer and studio owner, her passion for dance began at birth. When dancers grow up in a dance studio environment they are exposed to ALL of the different aspects of dance and dance education and choreography and teaching has always been in the forefront for Ahjalia.
Cousin to Alex Haley, author of the award winning book Roots and The Autobiography of Malcolm X, history, family and dedication to the arts has always been a priority. At age 16, she moved to Los Angeles to attend UCLA and pursue dance, choreography and dance instruction. At UCLA she was a member of the nationally ranked UCLA All-Star dance team and a regular in the World Arts and Cultures Program, where she studied all different styles of dance, from around the world. Ahjalia graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 with a degree in Sociology and a concentration in Education, which she uses daily in her work teaching developing and professional dancers.
Ahjalia’s versatility is endless as she has taught at over 100 different schools and studios throughout the United States. She worked for the United Spirit Association for 19 years where she traveled the country teaching Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary & Lyrical Master classes as well as University Dance Camps to thousands of Junior High, High School, College and Dance Studio students. With USA she was the Head Instructor for the Elite Dance Camps for local, national and international dance teams, a Master Teacher and a member of the Program Development Team. Ahjalia currently works actively judging regional, national and international dance competitions in Japan, Australia, Mexico, Costa Rica & Columbia. She is also a regular judge at the USASF Dance Worlds in Orlando Florida and the ICU Dance Championships (the current international governing body of dance). She has worked with and choreographed for nationally ranked dance teams throughout the United States, including UCLA’s dance & spirit team and Boise State Universities Mane Line Dancers. Ahjalia has participated as a dancer and instructor for the Los Angeles Avengers, Los Angeles Clippers Spirit and the San Francisco 49ers halftime shows and was also an instructor for the NFL Pro Bowl Half-Time Show with live performers “Lifehouse”.
Ahjalia is currently the co-owner of Thrive Dance Center a premier performing arts facility in Southern California where she trains over 500 dancers annually. Some of her dancers have most recently been seen performing in A Chorus Line at the Hollywood Bowl, in the Dorito’s Super Bowl Commercial with Lionel Richie and Chance the Rapper, in Sam Smith’s music video “How Do You Feel” and with Justin Bieber in Los Angeles on the Purpose Tour.
While performing will always be a hobby, it is definitely not in the forefront. Ahjalia’s true passion is teaching and watching her students learn and grown. With her contagious energetic personality and non stop attack on choreography her students are always pushed to grow their confidence and her classes are always unforgettable.
Ahjalia Hall is originally from San Jose, California and has been training in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical Contemporary and Hip Hop since age 2. As the daughter of a professional dancer, choreographer and studio owner, her passion for dance began at birth. When dancers grow up in a dance studio environment they are exposed to ALL of the different aspects of dance and dance education and choreography and teaching has always been in the forefront for Ahjalia.
Cousin to Alex Haley, author of the award winning book Roots and The Autobiography of Malcolm X, history, family and dedication to the arts has always been a priority. At age 16, she moved to Los Angeles to attend UCLA and pursue dance, choreography and dance instruction. At UCLA she was a member of the nationally ranked UCLA All-Star dance team and a regular in the World Arts and Cultures Program, where she studied all different styles of dance, from around the world. Ahjalia graduated from UCLA at the age of 20 with a degree in Sociology and a concentration in Education, which she uses daily in her work teaching developing and professional dancers.
Ahjalia’s versatility is endless as she has taught at over 100 different schools and studios throughout the United States. She worked for the United Spirit Association for 19 years where she traveled the country teaching Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary & Lyrical Master classes as well as University Dance Camps to thousands of Junior High, High School, College and Dance Studio students. With USA she was the Head Instructor for the Elite Dance Camps for local, national and international dance teams, a Master Teacher and a member of the Program Development Team. Ahjalia currently works actively judging regional, national and international dance competitions in Japan, Australia, Mexico, Costa Rica & Columbia. She is also a regular judge at the USASF Dance Worlds in Orlando Florida and the ICU Dance Championships (the current international governing body of dance). She has worked with and choreographed for nationally ranked dance teams throughout the United States, including UCLA’s dance & spirit team and Boise State Universities Mane Line Dancers. Ahjalia has participated as a dancer and instructor for the Los Angeles Avengers, Los Angeles Clippers Spirit and the San Francisco 49ers halftime shows and was also an instructor for the NFL Pro Bowl Half-Time Show with live performers “Lifehouse”.
Ahjalia is currently the co-owner of Thrive Dance Center a premier performing arts facility in Southern California where she trains over 500 dancers annually. Some of her dancers have most recently been seen performing in A Chorus Line at the Hollywood Bowl, in the Dorito’s Super Bowl Commercial with Lionel Richie and Chance the Rapper, in Sam Smith’s music video “How Do You Feel” and with Justin Bieber in Los Angeles on the Purpose Tour.
While performing will always be a hobby, it is definitely not in the forefront. Ahjalia’s true passion is teaching and watching her students learn and grown. With her contagious energetic personality and non stop attack on choreography her students are always pushed to grow their confidence and her classes are always unforgettable.
Jennifer Maples
Director/Co-Owner
Jennifer Maples works as a choreographer, teacher, composer, vocalist, dancer, and actress. She has studied dance on scholarship in both New York (Steps, Broadway Dance Center) and Los Angeles (EDGE, Tremaine). Jennifer is a master teacher nationally and her choreography has been recognized by numerous national dance competitions, (LADF, West Coast Dance Explosion, Tremaine, JUMP, MOVE) She has received rave reviews in the LA Weekly and BackstageWest/Dramalogue locally and was awarded the LA WEEKLY Theatre Award for BEST CHOREOGRAPHER 2008 for her work on the World Premier of Frank Zappa’s JOE’S GARAGE.
She toured with the Broadway National company of CATS and has starred in many regional musical theatre productions including: Evita, Cabaret, Three Penny Opera, Tintypes and Anything Goes. She was the Performing Arts Director for the Children’s Museum of Los Angeles, and is the writer, creator and consultant to several county agencies on multi media educational assembly programs currently touring LA County schools. She was a session singer for Lakeshore Records. You can hear on several movie soundtracks and commercials. She was the lead singer in her own L. A. based rock band, Ma’s Furnace and she produced, directed and starred in her own rock opera, I Hate TV which played to sold out houses in Hollywood. Her choreography can also be seen on several up and coming gymnasts throughout the Southern California area.
Jennifer loves teaching and sharing her passion for dance and performing with all of her students. Thrive Dance Center is a dream come true for her and she is grateful for her dancer life!
Jennifer Maples works as a choreographer, teacher, composer, vocalist, dancer, and actress. She has studied dance on scholarship in both New York (Steps, Broadway Dance Center) and Los Angeles (EDGE, Tremaine). Jennifer is a master teacher nationally and her choreography has been recognized by numerous national dance competitions, (LADF, West Coast Dance Explosion, Tremaine, JUMP, MOVE) She has received rave reviews in the LA Weekly and BackstageWest/Dramalogue locally and was awarded the LA WEEKLY Theatre Award for BEST CHOREOGRAPHER 2008 for her work on the World Premier of Frank Zappa’s JOE’S GARAGE.
She toured with the Broadway National company of CATS and has starred in many regional musical theatre productions including: Evita, Cabaret, Three Penny Opera, Tintypes and Anything Goes. She was the Performing Arts Director for the Children’s Museum of Los Angeles, and is the writer, creator and consultant to several county agencies on multi media educational assembly programs currently touring LA County schools. She was a session singer for Lakeshore Records. You can hear on several movie soundtracks and commercials. She was the lead singer in her own L. A. based rock band, Ma’s Furnace and she produced, directed and starred in her own rock opera, I Hate TV which played to sold out houses in Hollywood. Her choreography can also be seen on several up and coming gymnasts throughout the Southern California area.
Jennifer loves teaching and sharing her passion for dance and performing with all of her students. Thrive Dance Center is a dream come true for her and she is grateful for her dancer life!
Angela Nelinger
General Studio Manager
Angela Nelinger was born and raised in Thousand Oaks and has been training in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Musical Theater and Tap since the young age of 9. Throughout high school, Angela participated in the Thousand Oaks High School dance program, performing in their various concerts, all while continuing her studio training full time and working at the front desk. Mentored by Ahjalia Hall, Angela learned the ins and outs of what it takes to run a studio, which awakened her interest in the management side of the business.
During college, Angela worked part time as the Manager at a local day care center, as well as worked part time at the front desk at Thrive Dance Center. She studied Child Development and Psychology where she later realized her heart and passion was with the studio. Angela graduated from Moorpark College with her Associates Degree in Social Behavioral Science. Still working full time at Thrive Dance Center, she worked her way to becoming the Studio Manager.
Working alongside 2 inspirational women, Ahjalia Hall and Jennifer Maples, Angela’s passion for dance and desire to have a positive impact on students has brought her to where she calls “home”. You’ll catch Angela in dance classes every once in a while but you will always see her smiling and friendly face at the front desk fielding any questions or concerns you may have. Her attention to detail, customer service and love for the students make her one of the most recognizable and comforting faces at Thrive.
Angela Nelinger was born and raised in Thousand Oaks and has been training in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Musical Theater and Tap since the young age of 9. Throughout high school, Angela participated in the Thousand Oaks High School dance program, performing in their various concerts, all while continuing her studio training full time and working at the front desk. Mentored by Ahjalia Hall, Angela learned the ins and outs of what it takes to run a studio, which awakened her interest in the management side of the business.
During college, Angela worked part time as the Manager at a local day care center, as well as worked part time at the front desk at Thrive Dance Center. She studied Child Development and Psychology where she later realized her heart and passion was with the studio. Angela graduated from Moorpark College with her Associates Degree in Social Behavioral Science. Still working full time at Thrive Dance Center, she worked her way to becoming the Studio Manager.
Working alongside 2 inspirational women, Ahjalia Hall and Jennifer Maples, Angela’s passion for dance and desire to have a positive impact on students has brought her to where she calls “home”. You’ll catch Angela in dance classes every once in a while but you will always see her smiling and friendly face at the front desk fielding any questions or concerns you may have. Her attention to detail, customer service and love for the students make her one of the most recognizable and comforting faces at Thrive.
Summer Perrin
Company Manager
Summer Perrin was born and raised in Newbury Park, California and began dancing at the age of 11. She was introduced to Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary and Modern and fell in love with dance and the hard work that goes into it. She participated in the Dance Program at her high school where she was a member of the Hip Hop Dance Team, She also discovered her love for choreography while creating pieces for their seasonal dance concerts. She started training at Thrive Dance Center in 2012, and during high school years she competed with Thrive’s Senior Hip Hop Company, which won various titles and awards at several Southern California dance competitions.
She is currently attending California State University, Channel Islands and is studying to get her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Business. Summer has a strong passion for dance and continues to train in all styles. She also takes great responsibility in working for Thrive Dance Center, prides herself on customer service and truly loves working at the front desk and being a part of the behind the scenes operations of running the studio.
Summer Perrin was born and raised in Newbury Park, California and began dancing at the age of 11. She was introduced to Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary and Modern and fell in love with dance and the hard work that goes into it. She participated in the Dance Program at her high school where she was a member of the Hip Hop Dance Team, She also discovered her love for choreography while creating pieces for their seasonal dance concerts. She started training at Thrive Dance Center in 2012, and during high school years she competed with Thrive’s Senior Hip Hop Company, which won various titles and awards at several Southern California dance competitions.
She is currently attending California State University, Channel Islands and is studying to get her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Business. Summer has a strong passion for dance and continues to train in all styles. She also takes great responsibility in working for Thrive Dance Center, prides herself on customer service and truly loves working at the front desk and being a part of the behind the scenes operations of running the studio.
Shana Williams
Facilities Manager
No stranger to performing or teaching, Shana is proud to be a part of Thrive Dance Center. Shana is glad to be working with children again since she has been working in the field of children's theatre since she was a child herself. She performed with the Children's Museum of Los Angeles in their Reader's Theatre Ensemble as well as taught in their Reading Edge program. Through this program Shana traveled to schools all over Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley to help children learn and appreciate the joys that creating, writing, and performing can bring. She believes that entertainment is a valuable tool to help anyone learn what they need to accomplish their goals. Shana is currently working in the field of comedy writing and performing with two sketch companies, TMI at Second City Hollywood, and Strait Jacket Society. She is currently working on short films, her one woman show, a series of webisodes, and was recently seen as on the big screen in the film Amelia’s 25th as Pinky. She is excited to share her passion with Thrive Community.
No stranger to performing or teaching, Shana is proud to be a part of Thrive Dance Center. Shana is glad to be working with children again since she has been working in the field of children's theatre since she was a child herself. She performed with the Children's Museum of Los Angeles in their Reader's Theatre Ensemble as well as taught in their Reading Edge program. Through this program Shana traveled to schools all over Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley to help children learn and appreciate the joys that creating, writing, and performing can bring. She believes that entertainment is a valuable tool to help anyone learn what they need to accomplish their goals. Shana is currently working in the field of comedy writing and performing with two sketch companies, TMI at Second City Hollywood, and Strait Jacket Society. She is currently working on short films, her one woman show, a series of webisodes, and was recently seen as on the big screen in the film Amelia’s 25th as Pinky. She is excited to share her passion with Thrive Community.
Jesse Clobes
Multi Media Manager
Jesse is happy to play a role in many operations at Thrive Dance Center as the Multimedia Manager. She began her time at the studio as a passionate dancer. She continued to be involved as she learned more about the studio operations.
She is currently working on her degrees in Marketing and Spanish at Brigham Young University where she holds positions in multiple clubs as a photographer, videographer, and graphic designer. She is passionate about dance and marketing which in turn allows her to effectively and powerfully convey our stories through multi-platform communications.
Jesse is happy to play a role in many operations at Thrive Dance Center as the Multimedia Manager. She began her time at the studio as a passionate dancer. She continued to be involved as she learned more about the studio operations.
She is currently working on her degrees in Marketing and Spanish at Brigham Young University where she holds positions in multiple clubs as a photographer, videographer, and graphic designer. She is passionate about dance and marketing which in turn allows her to effectively and powerfully convey our stories through multi-platform communications.
Caitlin Mead
Faculty
Caitlin Mead began her dance training at the age of two in the Conejo Valley and has trained and competed over the years at an advanced level in various styles of dance including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Modern, and Hip-Hop. Caitlin competed for several years at industry dance conventions and competitions and received numerous awards and scholarships for her solos, duets, and group performances. Caitlin has attended summer dance programs with American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, Peridance Capezio Center, and was invited by ABT to join their Junior Associate program. Caitlin was a Captain of the Westlake High School Dance Team and enjoyed performing at games as well as competing at USA and WCE dance competitions and industry dance conventions.
In 2021, Caitlin graduated Magna Cum Laude from Chapman University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and a minor in Entrepreneurship, receiving departmental honors. While at Chapman, Caitlin had the opportunity to work closely with faculty members including Alicia Guy, Jackie Sleight, Will Johnston, Wilson Mendieta, Steven Sofia, Jenny Backhaus, Larry Rosenberg, Liz Curtis, and Sean Greene. During her time at Chapman, she choreographed pieces for and performed in Works in Progress, Concert Intime, Mainstage Concert, and produced several dance in film projects. Caitlin was a four-year member of the Chapman Dance Alliance and performed in their annual shows from 2017 to 2021. Caitlin was also featured in the Broadway-style production Chapman Celebrates in 2018 and 2019. Caitlin has worked with outside artists such as Melinda Sullivan, Natalie Reid, Nicole Harlan, and Julie Magneville.
Caitlin is excited to be teaching at Thrive Dance Center and to be back in the Conejo Valley where her love for dance began. Caitlin’s teaching focuses on providing students with a strong technical foundation while also striving to share her love of creativity, expression, and passion for dance with others.
Caitlin Mead began her dance training at the age of two in the Conejo Valley and has trained and competed over the years at an advanced level in various styles of dance including Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Modern, and Hip-Hop. Caitlin competed for several years at industry dance conventions and competitions and received numerous awards and scholarships for her solos, duets, and group performances. Caitlin has attended summer dance programs with American Ballet Theatre, Boston Ballet, Peridance Capezio Center, and was invited by ABT to join their Junior Associate program. Caitlin was a Captain of the Westlake High School Dance Team and enjoyed performing at games as well as competing at USA and WCE dance competitions and industry dance conventions.
In 2021, Caitlin graduated Magna Cum Laude from Chapman University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and a minor in Entrepreneurship, receiving departmental honors. While at Chapman, Caitlin had the opportunity to work closely with faculty members including Alicia Guy, Jackie Sleight, Will Johnston, Wilson Mendieta, Steven Sofia, Jenny Backhaus, Larry Rosenberg, Liz Curtis, and Sean Greene. During her time at Chapman, she choreographed pieces for and performed in Works in Progress, Concert Intime, Mainstage Concert, and produced several dance in film projects. Caitlin was a four-year member of the Chapman Dance Alliance and performed in their annual shows from 2017 to 2021. Caitlin was also featured in the Broadway-style production Chapman Celebrates in 2018 and 2019. Caitlin has worked with outside artists such as Melinda Sullivan, Natalie Reid, Nicole Harlan, and Julie Magneville.
Caitlin is excited to be teaching at Thrive Dance Center and to be back in the Conejo Valley where her love for dance began. Caitlin’s teaching focuses on providing students with a strong technical foundation while also striving to share her love of creativity, expression, and passion for dance with others.
Ben Bigler
Faculty
Ben lives in Los Angeles working as a professional dancer/choreographer. He is currently on tour dancing for CHER on her “Here We Go Again” Tour. He was a regular character on HBO's “Westworld" and can be seen dancing on Hulu's “Love, Victor", NBC's "Brooklyn 99", ABC's “Speechless", Netflix’s “AJ and the Queen” “Lucifer” and “Dear White People”, VH1's "RuPaul's Drag Race", the 2019 Turbo Tax National Commercial, "The Talk" on CBS and more.
He has also performed on live TV such as the 2018 BET Awards with Meek Mill ft. Miguel, The Greatest Showman Live Commercial, NBC's "America's Got Talent" and ABC’s "Dancing With the Stars". He has performed in live theater for CHER at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, the 2019 Met Gala, for the Alfa Romeo Launch in Shanghai, China, for “Anais: A Dance Opera” in France and Morocco, the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Ball, and more. He has modeled for the premiere event of American Horror Story Season 8, RuPaul’s DragCon, LA Fashion Week, JOICO Hair Products, and more.
Ben currently travels with Hollywood Connection Dance Convention as faculty and teaches internationally because he truly loves being able to find potential in young artists, become inspired by them, and witness their growth.
Ben lives in Los Angeles working as a professional dancer/choreographer. He is currently on tour dancing for CHER on her “Here We Go Again” Tour. He was a regular character on HBO's “Westworld" and can be seen dancing on Hulu's “Love, Victor", NBC's "Brooklyn 99", ABC's “Speechless", Netflix’s “AJ and the Queen” “Lucifer” and “Dear White People”, VH1's "RuPaul's Drag Race", the 2019 Turbo Tax National Commercial, "The Talk" on CBS and more.
He has also performed on live TV such as the 2018 BET Awards with Meek Mill ft. Miguel, The Greatest Showman Live Commercial, NBC's "America's Got Talent" and ABC’s "Dancing With the Stars". He has performed in live theater for CHER at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas, the 2019 Met Gala, for the Alfa Romeo Launch in Shanghai, China, for “Anais: A Dance Opera” in France and Morocco, the U.S. Presidential Inaugural Ball, and more. He has modeled for the premiere event of American Horror Story Season 8, RuPaul’s DragCon, LA Fashion Week, JOICO Hair Products, and more.
Ben currently travels with Hollywood Connection Dance Convention as faculty and teaches internationally because he truly loves being able to find potential in young artists, become inspired by them, and witness their growth.
Charli Michele
Faculty
Charli, originally from the bay, has been dancing since the age of 4. She trained at Debbie Allen Dance Academy learning different styles, however Charli has excelled in tap and hip hop. She has been teaching since the age of 16 and is currently the head hip hop coach at Calabasas High School. Since graduating from CHAMPS high school in 2012 she has been a part of multiple dance productions and music videos as well as gotten her certificate to teach preschool and kindergarten with an emphasis in special needs. Currently Charli can be seen in commercials such as Old Navy and Total Wireless. She is a representative for the Plus Size dance and modeling community and loves to share her passion for dance with training dancers!
Charli, originally from the bay, has been dancing since the age of 4. She trained at Debbie Allen Dance Academy learning different styles, however Charli has excelled in tap and hip hop. She has been teaching since the age of 16 and is currently the head hip hop coach at Calabasas High School. Since graduating from CHAMPS high school in 2012 she has been a part of multiple dance productions and music videos as well as gotten her certificate to teach preschool and kindergarten with an emphasis in special needs. Currently Charli can be seen in commercials such as Old Navy and Total Wireless. She is a representative for the Plus Size dance and modeling community and loves to share her passion for dance with training dancers!
Dominic Rayman
Faculty
Dominic is originally from North Hollywood, California. He grew up dancing and trained extensively in both Utah and California. After graduating from High School he started his professional career at the Abby Lee Dance Company in Los Angeles, California where he worked closely with Abby Lee learning how to educate and assist young dancers. He has worked with Dance Moms, Todrick Hall, Radikal Records, RIP Youth and more. Dominic is a certified Acrobatic Arts instructor, a choreographer and also specializes in teaching contemporary, improvisation, jazz and technique classes. He will always continue to train in dance and acrobatic arts however his greatest asset is pouring his knowledge and experience into the next generation of dancers who share the same passion.
Dominic is originally from North Hollywood, California. He grew up dancing and trained extensively in both Utah and California. After graduating from High School he started his professional career at the Abby Lee Dance Company in Los Angeles, California where he worked closely with Abby Lee learning how to educate and assist young dancers. He has worked with Dance Moms, Todrick Hall, Radikal Records, RIP Youth and more. Dominic is a certified Acrobatic Arts instructor, a choreographer and also specializes in teaching contemporary, improvisation, jazz and technique classes. He will always continue to train in dance and acrobatic arts however his greatest asset is pouring his knowledge and experience into the next generation of dancers who share the same passion.
Holly Barile
Faculty
Holly Barile began her dance training at the age of 3 at Dancenter North in Libertyville IL and continued her training at the Dance Academy of Libertyville. Her training is well rounded having trained in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, and Modern and also studied for three years on scholarship at the Milwaukee Ballet Pre-Professional Summer Program. She spent 7 years performing with the Terpsichore Dance Ensemble in various choreographic works and full-length ballets. At the age of 11 she received a scholarship to the Chicago Human Rhythm Project and performed with the Especially Tap Company. Upon graduation Holly continued her training at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts and Lou Conte Dance Studio in Chicago, IL. She also began performing as a guest artist throughout the Chicagoland area. Upon moving to Los Angeles she has danced with California Contemporary Ballet and is a member of Hart Pulse Dance Company.
Holly’s love of teaching began as a teen when she started as a teacher assistant and substitute. She began teaching full time and found a passion for sharing her knowledge and the joy of dance to her students. Before moving to Los Angeles she received the honor of being voted as one of Chicago’s top dance teachers. Her goal is to give the students of Thrive the kind of wonderful training and love for performing that she received as a young dancer.
Holly Barile began her dance training at the age of 3 at Dancenter North in Libertyville IL and continued her training at the Dance Academy of Libertyville. Her training is well rounded having trained in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, and Modern and also studied for three years on scholarship at the Milwaukee Ballet Pre-Professional Summer Program. She spent 7 years performing with the Terpsichore Dance Ensemble in various choreographic works and full-length ballets. At the age of 11 she received a scholarship to the Chicago Human Rhythm Project and performed with the Especially Tap Company. Upon graduation Holly continued her training at the Ruth Page Center for the Arts and Lou Conte Dance Studio in Chicago, IL. She also began performing as a guest artist throughout the Chicagoland area. Upon moving to Los Angeles she has danced with California Contemporary Ballet and is a member of Hart Pulse Dance Company.
Holly’s love of teaching began as a teen when she started as a teacher assistant and substitute. She began teaching full time and found a passion for sharing her knowledge and the joy of dance to her students. Before moving to Los Angeles she received the honor of being voted as one of Chicago’s top dance teachers. Her goal is to give the students of Thrive the kind of wonderful training and love for performing that she received as a young dancer.
Alexa Diaz
Faculty
Alexa began dancing at the age of 10 near her home in Southern California. Although she started recreationally, she soon realized she couldn’t get enough of it. She was hooked. Through competitions and conventions, she won multiple awards and worked with numerous choreographers including: Tiffany Burton, Cheryl Baxter, Mallauri Esquibel, Tina Diamato, Mark Meismer, and Shane Sparks. She was apart of Shane Sparks’ Hip hop crew, “Floor Rockers” and performed at many events under his direction. She danced in movies including “Sunday School Musical” and “School Gyrls”. She has also performed in many charity functions such as Kids for Kids, Day of the Child and Dizzyfeet. She is presently a member of Joelle Martinec’s SoleVita Dance Company, performing in various venues, from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles to Costa Rica. Alexa can also be seen in a featured role as the Magic Carpet in Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular.
Currently, Alexa is pursuing her B.A. in Child Development at CSUN in addition to performing, teaching dance and choreographing for children of all ages. She loves being able to share her passion with others and looks forward to teaching the hungry dancers of Thrive Dance Center.
Alexa began dancing at the age of 10 near her home in Southern California. Although she started recreationally, she soon realized she couldn’t get enough of it. She was hooked. Through competitions and conventions, she won multiple awards and worked with numerous choreographers including: Tiffany Burton, Cheryl Baxter, Mallauri Esquibel, Tina Diamato, Mark Meismer, and Shane Sparks. She was apart of Shane Sparks’ Hip hop crew, “Floor Rockers” and performed at many events under his direction. She danced in movies including “Sunday School Musical” and “School Gyrls”. She has also performed in many charity functions such as Kids for Kids, Day of the Child and Dizzyfeet. She is presently a member of Joelle Martinec’s SoleVita Dance Company, performing in various venues, from the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles to Costa Rica. Alexa can also be seen in a featured role as the Magic Carpet in Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular.
Currently, Alexa is pursuing her B.A. in Child Development at CSUN in addition to performing, teaching dance and choreographing for children of all ages. She loves being able to share her passion with others and looks forward to teaching the hungry dancers of Thrive Dance Center.
Alyssa Clark
Faculty
Alyssa Clark has been a lover of dance since the young age of 3 when she took her first ballet class. At age 7, she began taking jazz, hip hop, and tap and realized that dance would be a huge part of her for the rest of her life. She continued dancing and competing in all styles of dance, winning many awards at regional dance competitions. At age 18, Alyssa decided to focus on teaching. She began teaching jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, and hip-hop and continues to teach all levels and all ages throughout Ventura County. Alyssa has won many awards for her choreography in lyrical, jazz, and hip-hop. She also shares her love of teaching at several studios throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Alyssa studied at Moorpark College where she received her AA in dance. She was chosen to present 6 of her own pieces for their Faculty Dance Concerts and continues to guest choreograph and perform in their concerts. Alyssa was also chosen as a finalist for the Richard Carpenter Scholarship Competition 2 years in a row where she won $1500 for her choreography and performance.
Alyssa continues her dance education as much as she can and continues to learn and work with dance industries hottest choreographers. Alyssa also studies with Ben Allen, Mark Meismer, Joaquin Escamilla, and many other teachers in order to keep growing as a dance educator. She has also assisted Master Classes with Joaquin Escamilla. Alyssa continues to guest perform in various shows such as "POP! A Michael Jackson Tribute", "Miss Ventura County Pageant" as the opening number and guest performance two years in a row, and many others! She is thrilled at any chance she has to perform or present her choreography on stage. Alyssa is thrilled to join the Thrive team and share her passion of dance with her students.
Alyssa Clark has been a lover of dance since the young age of 3 when she took her first ballet class. At age 7, she began taking jazz, hip hop, and tap and realized that dance would be a huge part of her for the rest of her life. She continued dancing and competing in all styles of dance, winning many awards at regional dance competitions. At age 18, Alyssa decided to focus on teaching. She began teaching jazz, ballet, tap, lyrical, and hip-hop and continues to teach all levels and all ages throughout Ventura County. Alyssa has won many awards for her choreography in lyrical, jazz, and hip-hop. She also shares her love of teaching at several studios throughout Los Angeles and Ventura County. Alyssa studied at Moorpark College where she received her AA in dance. She was chosen to present 6 of her own pieces for their Faculty Dance Concerts and continues to guest choreograph and perform in their concerts. Alyssa was also chosen as a finalist for the Richard Carpenter Scholarship Competition 2 years in a row where she won $1500 for her choreography and performance.
Alyssa continues her dance education as much as she can and continues to learn and work with dance industries hottest choreographers. Alyssa also studies with Ben Allen, Mark Meismer, Joaquin Escamilla, and many other teachers in order to keep growing as a dance educator. She has also assisted Master Classes with Joaquin Escamilla. Alyssa continues to guest perform in various shows such as "POP! A Michael Jackson Tribute", "Miss Ventura County Pageant" as the opening number and guest performance two years in a row, and many others! She is thrilled at any chance she has to perform or present her choreography on stage. Alyssa is thrilled to join the Thrive team and share her passion of dance with her students.
Savannah Hooks
Faculty
Savannah Hooks has been dancing since the age of 3 and is classically trained in the Cecchetti Ballet System. She loves all styles of dance and continues to train in many styles including lyrical, contemporary, jazz, ballet, modern, and hip hop. For the past five years, she has been a dancer in the company Unity Dance Ensemble, founded by Tessandra Chavez, a choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance and on the PULSE faculty. She has also been a member of the newly established hip-hop crew, High Profile, which resides in Las Vegas.
She is currently a student at CSUN majoring in math for Secondary Education and can proudly admit she went to Calculus Camp in high school. She is also a certified Pure Barre Instructor and has been a dance instructor for the United Spirit Association for the past 3 years. She has assisted and/or trained under many great dance artists such as Tessandra Chavez, Liz Imperio, KJ Gonzales, Jaffar Smith, Khasan Brailsford, Joe Loera, Dee Caspary, Keone Madrid, and many more. She can be seen as a dancer in Josh Strickland’s music video for his single “Report to the Floor” which debuted on the TV show Holly’s World. More recently she has been an assistant for a variety of choreographers on Abbey Lee’s Ultimate Dance Competition. Taking it back to high school, Savannah was captain of her dance team for 2 years and took 2nd place at the U.S.A. solos champion Finals. She loves teaching and inspiring others through dance and plans on doing just that for the rest of her life.
Savannah Hooks has been dancing since the age of 3 and is classically trained in the Cecchetti Ballet System. She loves all styles of dance and continues to train in many styles including lyrical, contemporary, jazz, ballet, modern, and hip hop. For the past five years, she has been a dancer in the company Unity Dance Ensemble, founded by Tessandra Chavez, a choreographer on So You Think You Can Dance and on the PULSE faculty. She has also been a member of the newly established hip-hop crew, High Profile, which resides in Las Vegas.
She is currently a student at CSUN majoring in math for Secondary Education and can proudly admit she went to Calculus Camp in high school. She is also a certified Pure Barre Instructor and has been a dance instructor for the United Spirit Association for the past 3 years. She has assisted and/or trained under many great dance artists such as Tessandra Chavez, Liz Imperio, KJ Gonzales, Jaffar Smith, Khasan Brailsford, Joe Loera, Dee Caspary, Keone Madrid, and many more. She can be seen as a dancer in Josh Strickland’s music video for his single “Report to the Floor” which debuted on the TV show Holly’s World. More recently she has been an assistant for a variety of choreographers on Abbey Lee’s Ultimate Dance Competition. Taking it back to high school, Savannah was captain of her dance team for 2 years and took 2nd place at the U.S.A. solos champion Finals. She loves teaching and inspiring others through dance and plans on doing just that for the rest of her life.
Katt Griffith
Faculty
Katt was born and raised in Simi Valley. At the age of 3, she started dancing in Ballet and Tap with Patsy Swayze. Then she discovered Irish Dancing and fell in love! She competed in Irish Dance for 14 years and has accomplished high titles and a tour in South America with the company Celtic Fusion under the direction of Liam Harney. At the age of 8, she started back up with ballet, tap and jazz under the teaching of Marla Bingham. From there she has studied with the Joffrey School of Ballet in New York and has studied under famous choreographers such as Mandy Moore, Nichelle Bane, Mia Michaels, Malaya and many more at The Edge Performing Arts Center. She started teaching at the age of 15 and hasn't looked back since. She loves teaching and showing the love of dance to all of her students!
Katt was born and raised in Simi Valley. At the age of 3, she started dancing in Ballet and Tap with Patsy Swayze. Then she discovered Irish Dancing and fell in love! She competed in Irish Dance for 14 years and has accomplished high titles and a tour in South America with the company Celtic Fusion under the direction of Liam Harney. At the age of 8, she started back up with ballet, tap and jazz under the teaching of Marla Bingham. From there she has studied with the Joffrey School of Ballet in New York and has studied under famous choreographers such as Mandy Moore, Nichelle Bane, Mia Michaels, Malaya and many more at The Edge Performing Arts Center. She started teaching at the age of 15 and hasn't looked back since. She loves teaching and showing the love of dance to all of her students!
Lilian Hardy
Faculty
Lili began dancing at the age of 2 in Missoula, Montana. When she saw her first Broadway show (Phantom of the Opera), she looked at her mom and said, “That’s what I’m going to do.” And since then, she hasn’t stopped. She did a few local productions at the community theater and joined her studio's performance company which would put on shows and also compete at dance competitions. At the age of 15, Lili moved to New York City to pursue her career in musical theater where she trained with professionals in the industry, and the Children Teen Program at Broadway Dance Center. After leaving NYC, Lili joined Team Tremaine where she traveled the country with Tremaine Dance Convention & Competition where she assisted the instructors during class, worked at competitions and and performed in the faculty show at the end of each convention. Upon graduating high school, Lili moved to Los Angeles to start dancing professionally and has continued to develop her teaching career by teaching weekly classes and choreographing award winning routines for multiple studios.
Lili has been teaching for 8 years and has grown a deep passion for the students she works with. She is excited to build deep connections with her students and to share her passion for the arts with the next generation of performers at Thrive.
Lili began dancing at the age of 2 in Missoula, Montana. When she saw her first Broadway show (Phantom of the Opera), she looked at her mom and said, “That’s what I’m going to do.” And since then, she hasn’t stopped. She did a few local productions at the community theater and joined her studio's performance company which would put on shows and also compete at dance competitions. At the age of 15, Lili moved to New York City to pursue her career in musical theater where she trained with professionals in the industry, and the Children Teen Program at Broadway Dance Center. After leaving NYC, Lili joined Team Tremaine where she traveled the country with Tremaine Dance Convention & Competition where she assisted the instructors during class, worked at competitions and and performed in the faculty show at the end of each convention. Upon graduating high school, Lili moved to Los Angeles to start dancing professionally and has continued to develop her teaching career by teaching weekly classes and choreographing award winning routines for multiple studios.
Lili has been teaching for 8 years and has grown a deep passion for the students she works with. She is excited to build deep connections with her students and to share her passion for the arts with the next generation of performers at Thrive.
Pavel Tabutov
Faculty
Pavel Tabutov fell in love with ballet upon his first demi plié and began training at the Academy of Ballet and Arts in Chicago. Later, he received extensive Jazz and Contemporary training at Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Center and Visceral Dance Center. He went on to perform with Chicago Dance Crash utilizing his acrobatic experience he gained as an ALL STAR cheerleader with ICE Athletics.
As a choreographer, Pavel was awarded Best Choreography Award from Hall of Fame for several of his works. Later, he began to work with U.S.A. Olympic Rhythmic Gymnastics National team teaching them different styles of dance to advance their choreography and movement skills.
Pavel Tabutov fell in love with ballet upon his first demi plié and began training at the Academy of Ballet and Arts in Chicago. Later, he received extensive Jazz and Contemporary training at Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Center and Visceral Dance Center. He went on to perform with Chicago Dance Crash utilizing his acrobatic experience he gained as an ALL STAR cheerleader with ICE Athletics.
As a choreographer, Pavel was awarded Best Choreography Award from Hall of Fame for several of his works. Later, he began to work with U.S.A. Olympic Rhythmic Gymnastics National team teaching them different styles of dance to advance their choreography and movement skills.
Nikki Bulman
Faculty
Nikki Bulman is a dancer, photographer and choreographer. She started dancing at the age of eight years old and immediately fell in love. She is trained in all types of styles such as Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Modern. She has won several scholarships at Tremaine, Co Dance, NYCDA, NUVO and Hollywood Connection. Her scholarships have allowed her to study at the Broadway Dance Center in New York and the Millennium Dance Studio in LA. She has assisted numerous dance conventions including Hollywood Dance Connection where she is also the photographer.
Although Nikki loves to dance, her true passion is in choreography and teaching.
She has been teaching for 12 years and has choreographed and taught in Washington State, Utah and California.
She specializes in teaching Hip Hop, Contemporary and Jazz but loves
to teach Tap, Lyrical, Modern, Ballet as well. Her choreography has been recognized all over the country and has received many “Highest Overall” and “Judges Choice” awards at various competitions.
Nikki is so excited to start teaching for Thrive Dance Center. She loves getting to know her students on a personal level and help them grow as dancers. She inspires her students with her impeccable technique and energy!
Nikki Bulman is a dancer, photographer and choreographer. She started dancing at the age of eight years old and immediately fell in love. She is trained in all types of styles such as Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Modern. She has won several scholarships at Tremaine, Co Dance, NYCDA, NUVO and Hollywood Connection. Her scholarships have allowed her to study at the Broadway Dance Center in New York and the Millennium Dance Studio in LA. She has assisted numerous dance conventions including Hollywood Dance Connection where she is also the photographer.
Although Nikki loves to dance, her true passion is in choreography and teaching.
She has been teaching for 12 years and has choreographed and taught in Washington State, Utah and California.
She specializes in teaching Hip Hop, Contemporary and Jazz but loves
to teach Tap, Lyrical, Modern, Ballet as well. Her choreography has been recognized all over the country and has received many “Highest Overall” and “Judges Choice” awards at various competitions.
Nikki is so excited to start teaching for Thrive Dance Center. She loves getting to know her students on a personal level and help them grow as dancers. She inspires her students with her impeccable technique and energy!
Caitlin Heflin
Faculty
Caitlin is a native of Nashville, Tennessee, where she grew up studying under Tina Trinkler. She attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas where she had the opportunity to perform works by Joost Vrouenraets and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, as well as performing works by Martha Graham in conjunction with the Graham Company. Studying at the Nutmeg Conservatory and San Francisco Conservatory of Dance in the summers to round out her dance education, she is a versatile dancer with a strong background in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, and Tap. She graduated magna cum laude with a BFA in Dance Performance and a BA in Economics, and moved to Chicago, Illinois to pursue her professional career with Thodos Dance Chicago. Since relocating to Los Angeles, she has worked with Cherice and Charissa Barton, Christian Denice, Vincent Paterson, Chard Gonzalez Dance Theatre, Louise Reichlin & Dancers, Jana Taylor + Dancers, and is a company member with Seda Aybay’s Kybele Dance Theater.
Though she taught throughout college on the side, it was in Chicago that she truly she embarked on her teaching career with Dance Academy of Libertyville, and at various other studios all over the Chicagoland area. She has continued her teaching career here in California, where she hopes to share her overwhelming love for dance technique and artistry with her students here at Thrive.
Caitlin is a native of Nashville, Tennessee, where she grew up studying under Tina Trinkler. She attended Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas where she had the opportunity to perform works by Joost Vrouenraets and Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, as well as performing works by Martha Graham in conjunction with the Graham Company. Studying at the Nutmeg Conservatory and San Francisco Conservatory of Dance in the summers to round out her dance education, she is a versatile dancer with a strong background in Ballet, Modern, Jazz, and Tap. She graduated magna cum laude with a BFA in Dance Performance and a BA in Economics, and moved to Chicago, Illinois to pursue her professional career with Thodos Dance Chicago. Since relocating to Los Angeles, she has worked with Cherice and Charissa Barton, Christian Denice, Vincent Paterson, Chard Gonzalez Dance Theatre, Louise Reichlin & Dancers, Jana Taylor + Dancers, and is a company member with Seda Aybay’s Kybele Dance Theater.
Though she taught throughout college on the side, it was in Chicago that she truly she embarked on her teaching career with Dance Academy of Libertyville, and at various other studios all over the Chicagoland area. She has continued her teaching career here in California, where she hopes to share her overwhelming love for dance technique and artistry with her students here at Thrive.
Ricky Medina
Faculty
While he started as a multi-sport athlete, Ricky Medina began dancing in his junior year high of high school. By his senior year, he ran his own co-ed hip-hop dance team, choreographed for competitions, and also taught as a dance instructor. After he graduated high school, he was accepted as a Dance major at UCLA.
At UCLA, Ricky was a part of a premier UCLA Hip-hop dance team ACA Hip-hop, where he performed and competed for a variety of events including UCLA’s Spring Sing show. He also performed with Versa-style: Next Generation, a Hip-hop dance company composed of young adults in Los Angeles. Near the end of his time at UCLA he worked for the Los Angeles Clippers as a dancer, entertainer, and trampoline acro-dunker. With the Clippers he had the pleasure of performing for numerous celebrity guest artists such as Kid Ink, Silento, Montell Jordan, Rae Srummed, DJ Quick, Warren G, and Sugarhill Gang.
Ricky graduated from UCLA with a BA in dance and a minor in Visual and Performing Arts Education. Ricky is currently in pursuit of getting his teaching credentials to teach dance at the high-school level. As a Thrive alumni himself, Ricky is truly passionate about teaching the youth about the history and culture of Hip-hop, and he is overwhelmingly excited to share his knowledge with students here.
While he started as a multi-sport athlete, Ricky Medina began dancing in his junior year high of high school. By his senior year, he ran his own co-ed hip-hop dance team, choreographed for competitions, and also taught as a dance instructor. After he graduated high school, he was accepted as a Dance major at UCLA.
At UCLA, Ricky was a part of a premier UCLA Hip-hop dance team ACA Hip-hop, where he performed and competed for a variety of events including UCLA’s Spring Sing show. He also performed with Versa-style: Next Generation, a Hip-hop dance company composed of young adults in Los Angeles. Near the end of his time at UCLA he worked for the Los Angeles Clippers as a dancer, entertainer, and trampoline acro-dunker. With the Clippers he had the pleasure of performing for numerous celebrity guest artists such as Kid Ink, Silento, Montell Jordan, Rae Srummed, DJ Quick, Warren G, and Sugarhill Gang.
Ricky graduated from UCLA with a BA in dance and a minor in Visual and Performing Arts Education. Ricky is currently in pursuit of getting his teaching credentials to teach dance at the high-school level. As a Thrive alumni himself, Ricky is truly passionate about teaching the youth about the history and culture of Hip-hop, and he is overwhelmingly excited to share his knowledge with students here.
Shannon Martinous
Faculty
Shannon hails from the small town of Joplin, Missouri! Moving to LA was never a part of the original plan but once she got here, she discovered the weather, the people, and her amazing husband-who she married twice! (Long story)
Shannon has a Bachelors in Voice Performance and a Theatre Minor from MSSU and a Masters Degree in Musical Theatre from the Boston Conservatory. She has been a part of several recordings and stagings of new musical works in and around the Los Angeles area. Recent projects include original musical Thanksgiving in Ithica performed in the Hollywood Fringe Festival, Songs for a New World as Woman #2, the short film The Vigil, and the web series Reverse Polarity.
Along with acting, Shannon teaches musical theatre classes as well as private voice and piano lessons to students of all ages.
She is a dog lover (specifically, her Golden Retriever pup, Indy!), looking up AirBnB’s around the world, and watching any and all British period dramas.
Shannon hails from the small town of Joplin, Missouri! Moving to LA was never a part of the original plan but once she got here, she discovered the weather, the people, and her amazing husband-who she married twice! (Long story)
Shannon has a Bachelors in Voice Performance and a Theatre Minor from MSSU and a Masters Degree in Musical Theatre from the Boston Conservatory. She has been a part of several recordings and stagings of new musical works in and around the Los Angeles area. Recent projects include original musical Thanksgiving in Ithica performed in the Hollywood Fringe Festival, Songs for a New World as Woman #2, the short film The Vigil, and the web series Reverse Polarity.
Along with acting, Shannon teaches musical theatre classes as well as private voice and piano lessons to students of all ages.
She is a dog lover (specifically, her Golden Retriever pup, Indy!), looking up AirBnB’s around the world, and watching any and all British period dramas.
Lyndon Apostol
Faculty
Lyndon moved to the United States from the Philippines at 10 years old. He debuted in Les Miserables (Legles)/High Street Arts Center, and Cabaret (Hans)/Camarillo Skyway Playhouse; was featured in West Side Story (Chino/ensemble)/Conejo Players Theatre/5-Star Theatricals, A Funny Thing... Forum (Miles), Mary Poppins (Neleus), and Mama Mia (Pepper)/High Street Arts Center; starred in the Samahang Pilipino and Korean Cultural Nights at UCLA ‘s Royce Hall 2017 and 2018; and, guest-starred in The Nutcracker (Rat King) and Camelot Ballet (Countryman)/Pacific Festival Ballet. As an advocate for raising cultural diversity and awareness in the entertainment world, he is honored to have been part of the Los Angeles Off-Broadway production Comfort Women: A New Musical (Minsik Lee). In the future, he hopes to bring life to the untold triumphs and tragedies that are culturally and historically rooted in the Asian-American experience. In the present, his main mission is to guide and encourage students of all ages to further their study and passion for the art of motion.
Lyndon moved to the United States from the Philippines at 10 years old. He debuted in Les Miserables (Legles)/High Street Arts Center, and Cabaret (Hans)/Camarillo Skyway Playhouse; was featured in West Side Story (Chino/ensemble)/Conejo Players Theatre/5-Star Theatricals, A Funny Thing... Forum (Miles), Mary Poppins (Neleus), and Mama Mia (Pepper)/High Street Arts Center; starred in the Samahang Pilipino and Korean Cultural Nights at UCLA ‘s Royce Hall 2017 and 2018; and, guest-starred in The Nutcracker (Rat King) and Camelot Ballet (Countryman)/Pacific Festival Ballet. As an advocate for raising cultural diversity and awareness in the entertainment world, he is honored to have been part of the Los Angeles Off-Broadway production Comfort Women: A New Musical (Minsik Lee). In the future, he hopes to bring life to the untold triumphs and tragedies that are culturally and historically rooted in the Asian-American experience. In the present, his main mission is to guide and encourage students of all ages to further their study and passion for the art of motion.
Madeleine Fluxman
Faculty
Madeleine (Maddi) Fluxman has had a passion for dance and performance and has been training in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern and Musical Theatre for over 15 years. Maddi is currently finishing her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at California State University, Northridge, as well as working towards receiving her PsyD. At CSUN, Maddi is a leading member of the University’s dance team as well as an active board member. She began training under Ahjalia Hall and Jennifer Maples over 10 years ago, and has trained at Thrive Dance Center since it’s inception in 2010. She was also a competitive group dancer and award winning soloists for many years.
Maddi found her love for choreographing and teaching at a young age when she began choreographing for her middle school’s dance team. As a professional dancer, Maddi has continued to grow her love for teaching and choreography and has taught at multiple schools throughout Los Angeles staging choreography for young dancers, teens and adults alike. Maddi also has an extensive musical theater background having trained for over 15 years in the Musical Theater genre and recently was the head choreographer for a production of “High School Musical”.
Maddi is thrilled to be teaching at Thrive Dance Center and can’t wait to share the gift of dance in the same place that it was given to her.
Madeleine (Maddi) Fluxman has had a passion for dance and performance and has been training in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern and Musical Theatre for over 15 years. Maddi is currently finishing her bachelor’s degree in Psychology at California State University, Northridge, as well as working towards receiving her PsyD. At CSUN, Maddi is a leading member of the University’s dance team as well as an active board member. She began training under Ahjalia Hall and Jennifer Maples over 10 years ago, and has trained at Thrive Dance Center since it’s inception in 2010. She was also a competitive group dancer and award winning soloists for many years.
Maddi found her love for choreographing and teaching at a young age when she began choreographing for her middle school’s dance team. As a professional dancer, Maddi has continued to grow her love for teaching and choreography and has taught at multiple schools throughout Los Angeles staging choreography for young dancers, teens and adults alike. Maddi also has an extensive musical theater background having trained for over 15 years in the Musical Theater genre and recently was the head choreographer for a production of “High School Musical”.
Maddi is thrilled to be teaching at Thrive Dance Center and can’t wait to share the gift of dance in the same place that it was given to her.
Isaiah Southall
Faculty
Dance was always a hobby for Isaiah until he decided to pursue dance professionally in college. In college his focus was on taking academic classes during the day, working out in the afternoons and training in dance in the evenings. His weekends were spent working in restaurants to earn money for his dance training. His teachers and choreographers not only instilled strong dance work ethic & technique but also instilled life skills & training that went beyond dance. He applied the information learned from his mentors to college classes, relationships, dance and work life. Having received transformative mentorship from incredible teachers he realized that he too wanted to be able to give back and help to train the next generation of young dancers.
In addition to teaching, Isaiah signed with MSA Dance Agency which officially welcomed him into the world of professional dance. His powerful performance quality and incredible work ethic made it possible for him to appear in several commercials and music videos.
As a teacher Isaiah challenges and trains his students to develop confidence in their movement, to dance with strength and power and to develop a true passion for dance.
Dance was always a hobby for Isaiah until he decided to pursue dance professionally in college. In college his focus was on taking academic classes during the day, working out in the afternoons and training in dance in the evenings. His weekends were spent working in restaurants to earn money for his dance training. His teachers and choreographers not only instilled strong dance work ethic & technique but also instilled life skills & training that went beyond dance. He applied the information learned from his mentors to college classes, relationships, dance and work life. Having received transformative mentorship from incredible teachers he realized that he too wanted to be able to give back and help to train the next generation of young dancers.
In addition to teaching, Isaiah signed with MSA Dance Agency which officially welcomed him into the world of professional dance. His powerful performance quality and incredible work ethic made it possible for him to appear in several commercials and music videos.
As a teacher Isaiah challenges and trains his students to develop confidence in their movement, to dance with strength and power and to develop a true passion for dance.