Staff

Meet Jenny, a seasoned professional with a passion for teaching and dancing that spans over two decades. With over 35 years of dance experience, she has immersed herself in the world of movement and artistry. Throughout her journey, Jenny has honed her skills under the guidance of numerous talented instructors, both locally and internationally renowned masters such as Debbie Dee, Doug Caldwell, Mandy Moore, Mia Michaels, and Anthony Morigerato. 

Jenny's theatrical flair has led her to be part of some extraordinary productions, including performances in iconic shows like "Oklahoma," "Fiddler on the Roof," "Grease," and her standout role as Peggy Sawyer in "42nd Street."

Her impressive career extends beyond the theater, with remarkable achievements in various entertainment avenues. As a singer and dancer at Walt Disney World, she enchanted audiences with her captivating performances. She also showcased her dynamic talents as a cheer-dancer for a semiprofessional basketball team based in Fort Wayne. Jenny's versatility as an artist even brought her into the world of television, where she made appearances on the renowned show "Yo! MTV Raps" and danced in Michael Quatro's music video for "Strut."

Jenny's captivating presence and talent have landed her roles in commercials for prestigious companies such as Centennial Wireless, the NBC network, and the Fort Wayne semiprofessional basketball team, further solidifying her position as an accomplished performer.

As an educator, Jenny's contributions have been invaluable. With a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Indiana University, she combines her passion for teaching with her profound knowledge of dance. Since 2009, she has owned and operated her successful studio, providing a nurturing environment for aspiring dancers to flourish and discover their potential.

Jenny's expertise as a choreographer has not gone unnoticed. She has lent her creative vision to numerous show choirs, musicals, and pageants, earning acclaim and admiration for her innovative and captivating routines.

Her commitment to excellence has been evident in the remarkable success of her dancers, who have consistently received numerous national and regional awards and titles at various competitions. The accolades include highest scoring studio, best costume, excellence in choreography, and best concept, with many of her students achieving the coveted title of national champions.

Recognized for her expertise and reputation in the dance community, Jenny is currently serving as a judge for several nationally known competitions, sharing her knowledge and insights to inspire the next generation of dancers.

Jenny's journey has been one of dedication, hard work, and passion, making her an influential figure in the world of dance and education. Her commitment to nurturing talent and fostering artistic growth continues to shape the lives of aspiring dancers, leaving a lasting impact on the art form she holds dear.

 Hello! I'm Ana LeQuia, and dance is my true passion and calling in life. For over a decade, I've been a dedicated dance educator at TDS (The Dance Studio), where I've had the honor of serving as a recreational teacher for 11 years and a competition teacher for 3 years.

My dance journey began at the tender age of 3 when I took my first steps at Patricia Kruse Dance School. For a remarkable 15 years, dance has been an integral part of my life, shaping me into the dancer and teacher I am today. While I explored ballet and tap during my early years, it was the world of jazz that captivated my heart and became my primary focus.

Throughout my dance education, I had the privilege of being mentored by remarkable instructors such as Jenny Dunn, Lynette Farrington, and Patricia Krus. Their guidance and expertise played a significant role in shaping my dance abilities and instilling a strong foundation for my future teaching career.

I take great pride in being a certified level 1-6 acro teacher, and my expertise extends to various dance styles, including hip hop, dance 101, rhythm and movement, and jazz. To ensure I provide the best experience for my students, I actively participate in dance conventions each year for the past 8 years. These conventions not only help me grow as a dancer but also allow me to learn alongside my students, fostering a vibrant and evolving dance community.

As a testament to my dedication and choreographic talent, my hip hop groups have earned prestigious regional championship titles. I have also received recognition and awards for excellence in choreography, and my dancers have achieved national finalist status, showcasing the incredible talent and hard work of my students.

Beyond my life in dance, Garrett has been my beloved hometown since I was just a year old. I cherish the memories of my formative years attending St. Joseph Catholic School from kindergarten to 6th grade and graduating from Garrett High School in 2007. During my school years, I actively participated in various extracurricular activities, including Cheerleading (7th grade to 11th grade), Show Choir (3 years), Marching Band Guard (2 years), and Cross Country (1 year).

In 2011, I joyfully married my husband, Shane, and together we are blessed with four beautiful children. Our three daughters, Adrianne, Emma, and Haisley, have followed in my footsteps, embarking on their dance journeys at TDS at the age of 3. Adrianne has blossomed in tap, acro, and hip hop, while Emma showcases her grace in ballet and hip hop as a valued member of the competition team.

Dance has enriched my life in countless ways, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my passion with my students, guiding them to become not only talented dancers but also confident individuals. I'm excited about the future of dance and look forward to nurturing the love for this art form in the hearts of many more young talents.

 Meet Geina Sefton: A Passionate Dancer, Devoted Mother, and Talented Cosmetologist

Geina Sefton is a multi-talented individual hailing from Garrett and currently residing in Woodburn. Her life has been filled with artistic pursuits, family joys, and a commitment to nurturing her children's love for dance. Let's take a closer look at the remarkable journey of Geina Sefton.

Early Years and Dance Training: Geina's love for dance began at the tender age of 4, and from that moment, there was no looking back. For 8 memorable years, she immersed herself in the world of dance under the expert guidance of Patricia Kruse. The disciplines of ballet, tap, and jazz were her forte, honed diligently over the years. Under the mentorship of Jenny Dunn and Lynette Farrington, she blossomed into a skilled and graceful dancer.

Education and Professional Aspirations: Geina's dedication extended beyond dance; she completed her education at GKB schools, proudly graduating in 2008. In her junior and senior years of high school, she embarked on a journey into the world of cosmetology. Her passion for enhancing beauty and creativity culminated in obtaining her cosmetology license in the same year of graduation.

Marriage and Motherhood: In 2018, Geina found her life partner in Brad, and they joyously exchanged vows, beginning a new chapter together. The couple's love and devotion led them to embrace parenthood with open arms. They are blessed with three beautiful children: Jacey, Gracie, and Everett. Each child is a source of immense pride and joy in their lives.

The TDS Family and Dance Mom/Teacher Life: Geina's connection with the dance community continued to flourish, and she found herself embraced by the TDS family. For the past nine years, she has been an integral part of this close-knit community, where her passion for dance has taken on new dimensions. In the evenings, Geina embraces the role of a devoted dance mom and teacher, supporting her children and others in their pursuit of artistic excellence.

Jacey: A Budding Tap Dancer: The eldest of Geina's children, Jacey, has inherited her mother's love for tap dance. With Geina's support and encouragement, Jacey has been excelling in this rhythmic art form, expressing herself through each tap of her feet.

Gracie: A Talented Competitor: Geina's middle child, Gracie, has found her forte in lyrical, ballet, and acro. Under her mother's guidance, Gracie has become a formidable competitor, embracing the beauty and grace of these dance styles.

Everett: Embracing the Dance Journey: The youngest of the Sefton family, Everett, embarked on his dance journey with acro, showcasing a passion for movement and music that has captivated everyone around him. Despite facing the challenges of autism, Everett's love for dancing knows no bounds, bringing joy to all who witness his performances.

A Life Enriched by Music and Dance: Beyond her role as a dance mom and teacher, Geina's days are filled with in-home daycare, providing nurturing care and support to young children. Her profound appreciation for music and dance has enriched both her personal and professional life, touching the hearts of those around her.

Geina Sefton is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and love. Her journey as a dancer, mother, and teacher continues to inspire those who have the privilege of knowing her, leaving an indelible mark on the world of dance and beyond.

 Meet Ava O'Connor, an inspiring young woman on a mission to make a difference in the lives of future generations. As a junior at Purdue Fort Wayne, studying middle school education, Ava's passion for teaching and her dedication to her community shine through in every aspect of her life.

Hailing from the charming town of Garrett, Indiana, Ava has always been a high achiever. Graduating from Garrett High School with flying colors, she ranked among the top 15 students in her class, setting the bar high for her academic pursuits.

However, academics weren't the only thing that defined Ava's life. Dance has been an integral part of her journey, as she gracefully glided through a remarkable 15-year dance career. From jazz and ballet to contemporary and tap, Ava explored various styles, but it was tap dancing that held a special place in her heart. Her passion for dance extended into the competitive realm, where she honed her skills and showcased her talent for six years, culminating in a memorable finale at TDS.

But Ava's accomplishments didn't end with dance. She embraced leadership roles and community involvement with unwavering enthusiasm. As Miss Garrett 2021, Ava exemplified grace, poise, and dedication, becoming an inspiring role model for others. Her leadership abilities also shone as she took on the responsibility of FFA President during her senior year of high school.

Ava's commitment to giving back to the community was evident through her involvement in National Honor Society, Sources of Strength, and Student Council. Her philanthropic spirit led her to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and Riley Hospital, demonstrating her deep compassion for those in need.

Academically, Ava was recognized for her excellence with prestigious scholarships. The Next Generation Hoosier's Scholarship recognized her potential as an outstanding future educator, while the Daughters of the American Revolution Award honored her for her contributions to the state of Indiana.

Now, as she embarks on her second year of teaching at TDS, Ava's excitement is palpable. Armed with a passion for education and a dedication to nurturing young minds, she is eager to shape the lives of her students positively.

With her unwavering determination, compassion, and diverse experiences, Ava O'Connor is truly a beacon of hope for the future. As she continues her journey in the field of education, there's no doubt that she will leave an indelible mark on the lives of those she touches, empowering them to reach new heights and chase their dreams.

 Introducing Baylee Werkheiser: A Talented Dancer with a Passion for Teaching and Nursing

Baylee Werkheiser is a vibrant and talented individual, poised to embark on an exciting new chapter as a dance teacher at TDS. Her lifelong love for dance began at Patricia Kruse when she was merely three years old, and her journey has led her to TDS, where she now prepares to share her expertise and passion with the next generation of dancers.

Dance Journey and Specializations: Throughout her dance career, Baylee has embraced various styles, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the art form. However, her primary focuses have been tap and hip-hop, where her skills have flourished and left a lasting impression. Her dedication to dance culminated in a place on the prestigious TDS competition team, where she honed her craft and achieved great success, even securing a national win during her senior year.

An Adventurous Spirit: Exploring Cheerleading: Baylee's adventurous nature led her to explore different avenues of physical expression. In high school, she embraced the world of cheerleading for a year, bringing her energy and enthusiasm to the sidelines, while also excelling in her dance endeavors.

Academic Pursuits and Aspirations: Education has always been a priority for Baylee, and in 2022, she proudly graduated from Garrett High School. Following her passion for caring for others, she is now embarking on her sophomore year at Ivy Tech, where she is pursuing a degree in nursing. Baylee's commitment to helping others and making a positive impact on people's lives extends beyond the dance floor and into the healthcare field.

The Exciting New Chapter at TDS: As she begins her journey as a dance teacher at TDS, Baylee is eager to inspire and nurture the potential of young dancers, just as her dance teachers once did for her. With a winning combination of talent, experience, and a warm heart, she aims to create a supportive and empowering learning environment for her students.

The Future Holds Promise: Baylee Werkheiser's story is one of determination, talent, and the pursuit of diverse passions. As she moves forward with her dance teaching career and nursing studies, she embodies the essence of a driven and caring individual, destined to make a positive impact both on the dance stage and in the healthcare profession.

 Annabelle Schlatter - Embracing the Rhythm of Life

Born and raised in the charming town of Wauseon, Ohio, Annabelle Schlatter has been dancing to the beat of her own drum since she was a young girl. Her journey as a dancer began in the fourth grade at the renowned Stars Unlimited Dance and Baton Studio, now known as The Dance Complex. Under the skilled guidance of Amanda Hunter and Laurie Smith, Annabelle delved into the world of dance, exploring tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, and lyrical styles with passion and dedication.

Throughout her years at Stars Unlimited, Annabelle's talent and commitment were recognized, and she became a vital member of the Superstars Dance Company, the studio's competition team. From 2007 to 2011, she and her teammates embarked on exhilarating dance journeys, attending DanceMakers Inc competitions. The team consistently impressed at regionals and Nationals, claiming high ranks and victories in their category. Seeking continuous growth, they also attended conventions such as Showstoppers and Co. Dance, learning from seasoned professionals and experienced dance educators. Annabelle's thirst for knowledge led her to take masterclasses from esteemed dancers Tommy Alexander and Keith Clifton, honing her jazz and tap skills.

During her high school years, Annabelle's passion for the performing arts extended beyond dance, as she became an integral part of the show choir under the mentorship of Deb Schnitke and Jessica Aeschilman. Her creative spirit shone as she assisted in choreographing routines, and the choir's talents were showcased at competitions in vibrant cities like Nashville, Chicago, and New York City, where they achieved commendable results in their category. Alongside her involvement in show choir, Annabelle also spread her wings in the realm of musical theatre, displaying her acting, singing, and dancing prowess in acclaimed productions like "The Sound of Music," "Les Miserables," and "Once On This Island," even lending her choreographic skills to enhance the performances.

Following her high school graduation, Annabelle pursued higher education at Trine University, where she embarked on a journey in communication. Immersed in the vibrant college culture, she became a member of the esteemed High Voltage Dance Team, led by the talented Shea Sims. Sporting impressive jazz and hip hop routines, the team made its mark on the competitive stage, securing top positions at CanAm Nationals in 2016 and impressing the judges at USA Camp in Los Angeles.

In 2017, Annabelle's academic journey culminated in the attainment of a Bachelor of Art in communication from Trine University. But her adventure had just begun, as life took an exciting turn with the arrival of her daughter, Presleigh, in 2018. Seeing the sparkle in Presleigh's eyes, Annabelle knew she had a budding dancer in her midst. Thus, Presleigh's dance career commenced in 2021, with a focus on ballet in Angola, IN. In 2022, the family moved to Fort Wayne, where Presleigh joined TDS. Under the nurturing environment of staff at TDS, Presleigh is flourishing and has now taken her first steps into the world of ballet, tap and fusion.