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WELCOME TO IGNITE
IGNITE Dance & Yoga offers movement classes to all ages and abilities. IGNITE is the premiere studio in Snoqualmie Valley and Carnation, offering the highest level of dance and yoga education in the most supportive and positive environment
SUMMER CAMPS REGISTRATION
NOW OPEN
YOU ARE INVITED
TO IGNITE'S COMPETITIVE TEAM SHOWCASE
INFERNO 2026
Join us for an unforgettable celebration of talent, dedication, and passion at IGNITE’s Competitive Team Showcase: Inferno 2026.
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, our Competitive Dance Team will take the stage for two high-energy performances at the beautiful Mount Si High School Performing Arts Center (PAC) in Snoqualmie.
This annual showcase highlights the hard work, artistry, and growth of our dancers as they prepare for competition season.
Each performance will feature dynamic choreography, powerful stage presence, and the spirit of community that defines IGNITE Dance & Yoga.
TICKET SALES
Online Ticket Sales Open: February 26th at 12:00 PM
Early Bird Special (Feb 26 – March 5):
$21 + tax + online ticketing fee
Regular Ticket Sales (March 6 – March 27):
$23 + tax + online ticketing fee
Tickets at the Door (March 28):
$26 + tax + online ticketing fee
Location:
Mount Si High School Performing Arts Center (PAC)
8651 Meadowbrook Way SE
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
DVDs of both shows will be available for purchase.
Come support our dancers, celebrate their dedication, and experience the energy of Inferno 2026.
We can’t wait to see you there.
WITH ACTING COACH VALERIE GOULD
Master Class for Young Actors
MASTER CLASS
Two Part Master Class for Young Actors ( Ages 9+)
Learn Industry Essentials and On Camera Audition Techniques.
Support your child’s acting journey with expert guidance from LA acting coach Valerie Gould, bringing over 25 years of experience working with young performers.
EVENT DETAILS:
Friday, May 8th
6:00-7:30 PM
Parents please accompany young dancers (Friday only)
$30
Saturday, May 9th
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
$65
Full Weekend: $75
OUR LOCATIONS
Welcome to our studios located in the heart of North Bend and Carnation, WA.
NORTH BEND
472 East North Bend Way
North Bend, WA 98045
(425) 292-9880
info@ignitedanceandyoga.com
WE OFFER
With an emphasis on community, we promote artistry and athleticism to foster individual growth through recreational dance and yoga classes for movers of all ages.
RECREATIONAL DANCE
Recreational Dance in Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, and/or Hip-Hop routines.
IGNITE COMPETITION TEAM
Compete in regional dance competitions in Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, and/or Hip-Hop routines.
ADULT YOGA & DANCE
Adult Vinyasa, Yin, Gentle Yoga, YogaStrong, Barre Fusion and Dance classes.
COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS - SPARK & KID'S NIGHT OUT
An Early Childhood Enrichment Program for Ages 2.5 - 6.
DANCE CAMP
Dance Camps offer an exciting experience for young dancers ages 3 -5 and 6 - 11! Join us for dancing, singing, acting, arts & crafts, memory book creations and more.
SPACE RENTAL
IGNITE’S 5 spacious studios are available for hourly and daily rental.
UPCOMING EVENTS
We host Dance Family Days, Yoga Events & Workshops and much more throughout the year.
PRIVATE DANCE & YOGA LESSON.
For Youth and Adults.
Visit your local studio to learn more about what we offer!
WALKING GROUPS
A safe, active, and screen-free
way to spend the afternoon!
Our studio provides supervised walking groups from North Bend Elementary School to IGNITE Dance & Yoga North Bend from Monday to Friday and from Carnation Elementary School to IGNITE Dance & Yoga Carnation every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. This gives parents the freedom of extra time and gives your child a chance to participate in a dynamic dance eduction after school.
OUR DANCERS
IGNITE Dance & Yoga was to become a place that people of all ages and all abilities could thrive, feeling supported and challenged in a safe and loving environment.
MEET OUR TEAM
At IGNITE we are family. Our instructors are highly experienced in their respective fields coming from a range of backgrounds and provide vast knowledge in the areas they teach. We are thrilled to have such a talented staff mentoring our students.
KATIE BLACK
Owner & Director
With 23 years of teaching experience, and ten years working as a professional dancer, Katie’s career in dance has taken her all over the world. In 2010, local families urged Katie to open her own studio locally, and put down roots. With tremendous support of the Snoqualmie Valley community, friends, and family, IGNITE opened and is now celebrating its 13th season! Katie is ecstatic to be partnering with Co-Director and long time friend Brittany Mains in opening IGNITE Dance Carnation in March of 2023!
Katie’s passion for dance grew from her gymnastics background, into training in all styles of dance, voice, and acting, also sparking her interest in yoga, in which she became certified through 8 Limbs Yoga Center and Yoga Alliance. Her professional work highlights include dancer and aerialist for Holland America - Dance Captain and Company Manager, Assistant Choreographer to Patti Columbo and John Charron, Assistant Casting Director - Stiletto Entertainment, dancer with Lionel Richie at the Wynn Hotel opening in Las Vegas, dancer and vocalist in “42nd Street”, dancer and gymnast with Doucette Entertainment, National Dance Competition Adjudicator, and Master Class Instructor/Choreographer. Katie has been recognized nationally for her choreography through the Industry Dance Awards and national competitions, as well as local acknowledgement for excellence in teaching. She is also proud to be serving as a board member for the Washington State Dance Studio Owners Coalition.
Katie is grateful for her incredible IGNITE staff and families that she has gotten to know as her own over the last 13 years, and IGNITE couldn’t exist without! She is thrilled to be sharing her passion for dance and life with her two daughters and husband, whose support she is forever grateful. Katie hopes to continue inspiring passion and strength for all students to follow their dreams, and make a positive difference!
With 23 years of teaching experience, and ten years working as a professional dancer, Katie’s career in dance has taken her all over the world. In 2010, local families urged Katie to open her own studio locally, and put down roots. With tremendous support of the Snoqualmie Valley community, friends, and family, IGNITE opened and is now celebrating its 13th season! Katie is ecstatic to be partnering with Co-Director and long time friend Brittany Mains in opening IGNITE Dance Carnation in March of 2023!
Katie’s passion for dance grew from her gymnastics background, into training in all styles of dance, voice, and acting, also sparking her interest in yoga, in which she became certified through 8 Limbs Yoga Center and Yoga Alliance. Her professional work highlights include dancer and aerialist for Holland America - Dance Captain and Company Manager, Assistant Choreographer to Patti Columbo and John Charron, Assistant Casting Director - Stiletto Entertainment, dancer with Lionel Richie at the Wynn Hotel opening in Las Vegas, dancer and vocalist in “42nd Street”, dancer and gymnast with Doucette Entertainment, National Dance Competition Adjudicator, and Master Class Instructor/Choreographer. Katie has been recognized nationally for her choreography through the Industry Dance Awards and national competitions, as well as local acknowledgement for excellence in teaching. She is also proud to be serving as a board member for the Washington State Dance Studio Owners Coalition.
Katie is grateful for her incredible IGNITE staff and families that she has gotten to know as her own over the last 13 years, and IGNITE couldn’t exist without! She is thrilled to be sharing her passion for dance and life with her two daughters and husband, whose support she is forever grateful. Katie hopes to continue inspiring passion and strength for all students to follow their dreams, and make a positive difference!
LISA WIESS
Administrative Specialist & Team Liaison
PAMELA ALLEN
Assistant Director of IGNITE Competition Teams
Pamela Allen is a Pacific Northwest native and accomplished dancer, teacher and choreographer. Pamela has a lengthy career of teaching that includes titles such as Artistic Director of Synergy Performing Company, Owner/Director of Turning Pointe Dance Academy, serving as the director of the Tri-Cities Dance Association, choreographer/instructor for Universal Dance Association, department head for the ballet, tap, and jazz departments, guest choreographer for the Academy of Children’s Theater, The Tri-Cities Juneteenth Pageant and many more. Pamela has also been a guest speaker across the Pacific Northwest and West Coast on dance choreography, technique, and dance program development. Pamela is one of the original Co-Founders of Beat BangerZ founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon. As a co-founder and member of Beat BangerZ, Pamela has choreographed and performed internationally, sharing her passion for the percussive art form of tap. In 2015 Pamela co-founded the non profit organization, Portland Tap Alliance. This organization supported and funded the rebirth of the legendary Portland Tap Dance Festival and partnered with other artistic based non profit organizations to promote the arts. Pamela continues working to create opportunities to expose the communities of the Pacific Northwest to the tap art form and support talented artists who continue to do the same. Pamela is known for giving fun, inspirational and technique building classes.
Pamela’s passion for the visual arts has opened a path for expanding her knowledge in Yoga. As a student of yoga for over 20 years, she began her practice with Bikram yoga for the first 10 years then went on to study a variety of yoga teachings. In 2018 through YogaBody Yoga Teachers College, Pamela became a certified Yoga Trapeze instructor which is the leading inversion and suspension trainer world wide. Pamela is continuing her yoga certification with a special focus on Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Iyangar, hot Yoga and gravity yoga. Pamela has donated much of her time and choreography to other nonprofit organizations in the community furthering the exposure of dance and yoga education of the youth.
Pamela Allen is a Pacific Northwest native and accomplished dancer, teacher and choreographer. Pamela has a lengthy career of teaching that includes titles such as Artistic Director of Synergy Performing Company, Owner/Director of Turning Pointe Dance Academy, serving as the director of the Tri-Cities Dance Association, choreographer/instructor for Universal Dance Association, department head for the ballet, tap, and jazz departments, guest choreographer for the Academy of Children’s Theater, The Tri-Cities Juneteenth Pageant and many more. Pamela has also been a guest speaker across the Pacific Northwest and West Coast on dance choreography, technique, and dance program development. Pamela is one of the original Co-Founders of Beat BangerZ founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon. As a co-founder and member of Beat BangerZ, Pamela has choreographed and performed internationally, sharing her passion for the percussive art form of tap. In 2015 Pamela co-founded the non profit organization, Portland Tap Alliance. This organization supported and funded the rebirth of the legendary Portland Tap Dance Festival and partnered with other artistic based non profit organizations to promote the arts. Pamela continues working to create opportunities to expose the communities of the Pacific Northwest to the tap art form and support talented artists who continue to do the same. Pamela is known for giving fun, inspirational and technique building classes.
Pamela’s passion for the visual arts has opened a path for expanding her knowledge in Yoga. As a student of yoga for over 20 years, she began her practice with Bikram yoga for the first 10 years then went on to study a variety of yoga teachings. In 2018 through YogaBody Yoga Teachers College, Pamela became a certified Yoga Trapeze instructor which is the leading inversion and suspension trainer world wide. Pamela is continuing her yoga certification with a special focus on Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Iyangar, hot Yoga and gravity yoga. Pamela has donated much of her time and choreography to other nonprofit organizations in the community furthering the exposure of dance and yoga education of the youth.
HEIDI DICKINSON
Administrative Specialist & Team Liaison
JESSICA BARTEL
Dance Instructor
Jessica found her love for dance throughout her 8 years of competitive cheer. At age 15, she found herself searching for something more. When IGNITE opened, Jessica’s knowledge of dance was focused only on Hip Hop. With the help and influence of her instructors, that knowledge expanded to all different styles of dance. She has competed in many styles, including Hip Hop, Jazz, Lyrical, and Contemporary. Jessica is currently sharing with others her love and passion for dance by teaching all different ages of Hip Hop. She is also the manager, and a choreographer for the IGNITE competition team. She loves being involved with the kid’s growth, and feels incredibly lucky to be a part of the IGNITE family.
Jessica found her love for dance throughout her 8 years of competitive cheer. At age 15, she found herself searching for something more. When IGNITE opened, Jessica’s knowledge of dance was focused only on Hip Hop. With the help and influence of her instructors, that knowledge expanded to all different styles of dance. She has competed in many styles, including Hip Hop, Jazz, Lyrical, and Contemporary. Jessica is currently sharing with others her love and passion for dance by teaching all different ages of Hip Hop. She is also the manager, and a choreographer for the IGNITE competition team. She loves being involved with the kid’s growth, and feels incredibly lucky to be a part of the IGNITE family.
JESSICA TURCIOUS
Dance Instructor
Jessica Turcios, originally from Edgewood, Washington, started dancing at the age of three. She later became a teacher, choreographer, and performer who trained in various styles. After much hard work and dedication, under the guidance of Deborah Hays, Jessica was awarded the lead role in the ballet, Cinderella. Jessica studied dance at Loyola Marymount University under the direction of choreographers Rosalynde LeBlanc Loo, Telka Kostek, Mark Tomasic, Denise Leitner, Jason Myhre, and Paige Porter. She has also had the privilege of working closely with and performing works by Lillian Barbeito, Co-Artistic Director of the LA based company BODYTRAFFIC. Jessica graduated LMU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance and a Minor in Business. After graduating she had the opportunity to teach and perform at several studios in Folsom, California. She is now newly certified in Progressing Ballet Technique and is currently teaching back in her home state of Washington.
Jessica Turcios, originally from Edgewood, Washington, started dancing at the age of three. She later became a teacher, choreographer, and performer who trained in various styles. After much hard work and dedication, under the guidance of Deborah Hays, Jessica was awarded the lead role in the ballet, Cinderella. Jessica studied dance at Loyola Marymount University under the direction of choreographers Rosalynde LeBlanc Loo, Telka Kostek, Mark Tomasic, Denise Leitner, Jason Myhre, and Paige Porter. She has also had the privilege of working closely with and performing works by Lillian Barbeito, Co-Artistic Director of the LA based company BODYTRAFFIC. Jessica graduated LMU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance and a Minor in Business. After graduating she had the opportunity to teach and perform at several studios in Folsom, California. She is now newly certified in Progressing Ballet Technique and is currently teaching back in her home state of Washington.
PARKER WIESS
Dance Instructor
Parker Wiess started dancing at the age of 6. He carried on his training at IGNITE up until he graduated, training in jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop and tap.
Parker is currently a teacher and choreographer at Ignite and booked a role as a dancer in the ‘This is Halloween’ show at the Triple Door in Seattle. He also has big plans to move to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career while he follows his dreams as a Pro Assistant at Hollywood Connection.
Parker Wiess started dancing at the age of 6. He carried on his training at IGNITE up until he graduated, training in jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop and tap.
Parker is currently a teacher and choreographer at Ignite and booked a role as a dancer in the ‘This is Halloween’ show at the Triple Door in Seattle. He also has big plans to move to Los Angeles to pursue a professional dance career while he follows his dreams as a Pro Assistant at Hollywood Connection.
JULIE WENDLETON
Front Desk
ANNE GRANDERSON
Front Desk
KELLY LORANGER
Tumbling Coach
Born and raised in Preston/Issaquah. For a Christmas gift when I was 6 years old, I was given gymnastics lessons and dance lessons from my grandma. After 1 month of doing both, I was told to chose between the two, so I chose gymnastics. I was a competitive gymnast for 12 years. Assistant gymnastics coach at Issaquah High for 7 years. Currently in the middle of year 9 at Mount Si high school as the head gymnastics coach. My husband and I moved out into North Bend 10 years ago. We have 3 kids, Jacoby (8), Paxton (5), Alani (3). I'm excited to be back helping out the Acro program at Ignite once again!
Born and raised in Preston/Issaquah. For a Christmas gift when I was 6 years old, I was given gymnastics lessons and dance lessons from my grandma. After 1 month of doing both, I was told to chose between the two, so I chose gymnastics. I was a competitive gymnast for 12 years. Assistant gymnastics coach at Issaquah High for 7 years. Currently in the middle of year 9 at Mount Si high school as the head gymnastics coach. My husband and I moved out into North Bend 10 years ago. We have 3 kids, Jacoby (8), Paxton (5), Alani (3). I'm excited to be back helping out the Acro program at Ignite once again!
HEATHER IRELAND
Tumbling Coach
Growing up in a small town, I developed a love for movement early, training in ballet, jazz, and hip hop while also excelling as a competitive ice skater, gymnast, and cheerleader. I cheered for the University of Washington and the Seahawks, gaining a wealth of experience in performance and athleticism. Currently, I teach in the Snoqualmie School District and am a proud mom of three girls who dance at our studio. I wholeheartedly believe in our studio’s vision and am passionate about helping your kiddos grow, thrive, and shine as athletes and humans!
Growing up in a small town, I developed a love for movement early, training in ballet, jazz, and hip hop while also excelling as a competitive ice skater, gymnast, and cheerleader. I cheered for the University of Washington and the Seahawks, gaining a wealth of experience in performance and athleticism. Currently, I teach in the Snoqualmie School District and am a proud mom of three girls who dance at our studio. I wholeheartedly believe in our studio’s vision and am passionate about helping your kiddos grow, thrive, and shine as athletes and humans!
ALISA NISHANOVA
Ballet Teacher
Education
Ballet West Scotland: BA (Hons) in Professional Dance (Classical Focus)
Northern Ballet School: Classical Focus
International Ballet Academy: Professional Division Program
Work Experience
Company Class Teacher & Rehearsal Director (2023–2024): Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine
Summer Intensive Guest Instructor (Summer 2023): International Ballet Academy, Bellevue
Ballet, Pointe, & Repertoire Instructor (2020–2021): Accolades Movement Project, Bellevue
Guest Teacher (2020): London Ballet Classes, London
Ballet Instructor (2016–2017): Dance Premier, Issaquah
Private Ballet Coach (2016–Present)
Skills
Trilingual: English, Russian, and Armenian
Expertise in classical ballet
Individualized student engagement and rapport-building
Creating a disciplined, positive class environment
Detail-oriented with a focus on improvement
Education
Ballet West Scotland: BA (Hons) in Professional Dance (Classical Focus)
Northern Ballet School: Classical Focus
International Ballet Academy: Professional Division Program
Work Experience
Company Class Teacher & Rehearsal Director (2023–2024): Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine
Summer Intensive Guest Instructor (Summer 2023): International Ballet Academy, Bellevue
Ballet, Pointe, & Repertoire Instructor (2020–2021): Accolades Movement Project, Bellevue
Guest Teacher (2020): London Ballet Classes, London
Ballet Instructor (2016–2017): Dance Premier, Issaquah
Private Ballet Coach (2016–Present)
Skills
Trilingual: English, Russian, and Armenian
Expertise in classical ballet
Individualized student engagement and rapport-building
Creating a disciplined, positive class environment
Detail-oriented with a focus on improvement
MICHAELA CROWN
Ballet Teacher
Doctorate of Physical Therapy - Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals Bachelors of Science in Applied Human Biology with a minor in Exercise Science - Seattle Pacific University
Grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington
Trained in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, contemporary, lyrical since age 4.
She is a certified ballet instructor through Cecchetti USA.
She has trained under ballet masters from Richmond Ballet and San Francisco Ballet,
Trained with many Cecchetti Fellowship instructors.
Choreographed for various local theater and studio productions in Washington
Choreographed for the dancers at Seattle Pacific University.
Has a passion for movement and especially Ballet that she loves to share with her students
Dedicated to quality instruction and furthering students’ technique and love for dance while preventing injury.
Her motto is: "Don't wish for it, work for it"
Doctorate of Physical Therapy - Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals Bachelors of Science in Applied Human Biology with a minor in Exercise Science - Seattle Pacific University
Grew up in Gig Harbor, Washington
Trained in ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, contemporary, lyrical since age 4.
She is a certified ballet instructor through Cecchetti USA.
She has trained under ballet masters from Richmond Ballet and San Francisco Ballet,
Trained with many Cecchetti Fellowship instructors.
Choreographed for various local theater and studio productions in Washington
Choreographed for the dancers at Seattle Pacific University.
Has a passion for movement and especially Ballet that she loves to share with her students
Dedicated to quality instruction and furthering students’ technique and love for dance while preventing injury.
Her motto is: "Don't wish for it, work for it"
IAN HOWE
Dance Teacher
Ian Howe was inspired to start tap dancing at age 5 when he watched Savion Glover perform on Sesame Street. He started training at a small studio in Woodinville, later moving to what would become his dance home for almost 18 years, Backstage Dance Studio owned by Marty Roberts. Ian became Owner + Artistic Director of Pacific West Performing Arts, serving two locations in both Snohomish & Lake Stevens in 2018. Ian currently works for various competitions as Director, Emcee, Judge and Teacher. He Co-Owns The Power of 3, a traveling dance training intensive. Ian is very excited to work with all the amazing kids this year at Ignite!
Ian Howe was inspired to start tap dancing at age 5 when he watched Savion Glover perform on Sesame Street. He started training at a small studio in Woodinville, later moving to what would become his dance home for almost 18 years, Backstage Dance Studio owned by Marty Roberts. Ian became Owner + Artistic Director of Pacific West Performing Arts, serving two locations in both Snohomish & Lake Stevens in 2018. Ian currently works for various competitions as Director, Emcee, Judge and Teacher. He Co-Owns The Power of 3, a traveling dance training intensive. Ian is very excited to work with all the amazing kids this year at Ignite!
MACKENZY ISAACSON
Dance Teacher
Mackenzy has been dancing since she was two years old and has trained at numerous schools in the area including Dance Premier, The Connection, Westlake, MK Ballet, Deborah Hadley's School and Pacific Northwest Ballet. Mackenzy's training consists of ballet, pointe, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, hip hop and Horton technique. Mackenzy was a part of a hip hop crew, RNG, which won 1st in the USA and 6th in the world at the Hip Hop Internationals Competition in Vegas in 2009 and was on Americas Got Talent in 2010. She also won 3rd place in contemporary at Youth America Grand Prix in 2011 and has trained at Movement Invention Project in New York City, Alonzo King Lines Ballet in San Francisco, Hubbard Street Dance Company in Chicago, Long Beach Ballet in Long Beach, Peridance Capezio Center in New York City as well as dance classes at the University of Washington. Mackenzy has toured and performed in seven cities in China and most recently performed in New York City with Peridance Capezio Center Certificate Program. She has years of experience teaching contemporary, jazz, lyrical, ballet and pointe and years of experience choreographing and rehearsing competition dances. In 2018 Mackenzy earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Neurobiology from the University of Washington.
Mackenzy has been dancing since she was two years old and has trained at numerous schools in the area including Dance Premier, The Connection, Westlake, MK Ballet, Deborah Hadley's School and Pacific Northwest Ballet. Mackenzy's training consists of ballet, pointe, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, hip hop and Horton technique. Mackenzy was a part of a hip hop crew, RNG, which won 1st in the USA and 6th in the world at the Hip Hop Internationals Competition in Vegas in 2009 and was on Americas Got Talent in 2010. She also won 3rd place in contemporary at Youth America Grand Prix in 2011 and has trained at Movement Invention Project in New York City, Alonzo King Lines Ballet in San Francisco, Hubbard Street Dance Company in Chicago, Long Beach Ballet in Long Beach, Peridance Capezio Center in New York City as well as dance classes at the University of Washington. Mackenzy has toured and performed in seven cities in China and most recently performed in New York City with Peridance Capezio Center Certificate Program. She has years of experience teaching contemporary, jazz, lyrical, ballet and pointe and years of experience choreographing and rehearsing competition dances. In 2018 Mackenzy earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Neurobiology from the University of Washington.
EMILY JAROSZ
Dance Teacher
Emily Jean Jarosz, a native Ohioan, began her dance training at Dance Dimensions by Jen Naso studying under Jen Naso Marinis, Kathie Nejman, Dana Soroczak, and Dee Hillier. Upon high school graduation, Jarosz decided to further her dance education at Kent State University training under Joan Meggitt, Barbara Allegra Verlezza, Kim Karpanty, Jeffrey Marc Rockland and Gregory King.
In 2016, Jarosz had the opportunity to study abroad in Bangkok, Thailand as a founding member of the “East Meets West” program with Kent State University and Suan Sundaha Rajabhat University. That same year she debuted her choreography at The Movement Project’s “New Works” concert in Cleveland, Ohio. A year later Jarosz joined the Kent Dance Ensemble performing works by L. Taylor Ashton, Silvana Cardell, Catherine Meredith, Jess Pretty, and Ronald K. Brown. While with the ensemble, she had the honor of performing at the Playhouse Square's 17th annual Dance Showcase in Cleveland, Ohio and at the American College Dance Association's National College Festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
After her tenure at Kent State University, Jarosz relocated to Seattle, Washington to educate the next generation of dance artists with Allegro Performing Arts Academy and Gotta Dance. Since moving across the country, Jarosz has choreographed for KentHOPE’s 2018 and 2019 annual Gala as well as co-choreographed for Auburn Mountainview's High School production of "Head Over Heels". She has also become a certified instructor in Progressing Ballet Technique, attended Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Teacher Conference, worked as the Social Media Director for Allegro Performing Arts Academy, and co-direct Allegro's Precision/PURE Dance Company. In late 2020, Jarosz worked with Moonbug Entertainment and was featured on Blippi's "Move and Dance With Blippi" video on YouTube. Jarosz currently resides in Ruston, Washington as a resident teacher & choreographer at Allegro Performing Arts Academy and Ignite Dance & Yoga. She is excited for the upcoming year as she reignites her passion for choreography and continues to immerse herself more in the Seattle dance community.
Emily Jean Jarosz, a native Ohioan, began her dance training at Dance Dimensions by Jen Naso studying under Jen Naso Marinis, Kathie Nejman, Dana Soroczak, and Dee Hillier. Upon high school graduation, Jarosz decided to further her dance education at Kent State University training under Joan Meggitt, Barbara Allegra Verlezza, Kim Karpanty, Jeffrey Marc Rockland and Gregory King.
In 2016, Jarosz had the opportunity to study abroad in Bangkok, Thailand as a founding member of the “East Meets West” program with Kent State University and Suan Sundaha Rajabhat University. That same year she debuted her choreography at The Movement Project’s “New Works” concert in Cleveland, Ohio. A year later Jarosz joined the Kent Dance Ensemble performing works by L. Taylor Ashton, Silvana Cardell, Catherine Meredith, Jess Pretty, and Ronald K. Brown. While with the ensemble, she had the honor of performing at the Playhouse Square's 17th annual Dance Showcase in Cleveland, Ohio and at the American College Dance Association's National College Festival at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
After her tenure at Kent State University, Jarosz relocated to Seattle, Washington to educate the next generation of dance artists with Allegro Performing Arts Academy and Gotta Dance. Since moving across the country, Jarosz has choreographed for KentHOPE’s 2018 and 2019 annual Gala as well as co-choreographed for Auburn Mountainview's High School production of "Head Over Heels". She has also become a certified instructor in Progressing Ballet Technique, attended Rhee Gold’s DanceLife Teacher Conference, worked as the Social Media Director for Allegro Performing Arts Academy, and co-direct Allegro's Precision/PURE Dance Company. In late 2020, Jarosz worked with Moonbug Entertainment and was featured on Blippi's "Move and Dance With Blippi" video on YouTube. Jarosz currently resides in Ruston, Washington as a resident teacher & choreographer at Allegro Performing Arts Academy and Ignite Dance & Yoga. She is excited for the upcoming year as she reignites her passion for choreography and continues to immerse herself more in the Seattle dance community.
KAM MARENCO
Dance Teacher
I’ve been dancing since I was three years old and trained at IGNITE, where I graduated with a strong foundation in contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, and tap. I went on to study at Gonzaga University, earning a business degree with a minor in dance while performing with the university’s coed hip-hop team Bomb Squad. With the team, I choreographed and performed at campus events, alumni gatherings, major sporting events, and even traveled to Las Vegas for the WCC tournament—plus the unforgettable opportunity to perform at March Madness games and ESPN College Game Day. Dance has shaped both my artistry and my work ethic, and it continues to be a driving force in everything I do.
I’ve been dancing since I was three years old and trained at IGNITE, where I graduated with a strong foundation in contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, ballet, and tap. I went on to study at Gonzaga University, earning a business degree with a minor in dance while performing with the university’s coed hip-hop team Bomb Squad. With the team, I choreographed and performed at campus events, alumni gatherings, major sporting events, and even traveled to Las Vegas for the WCC tournament—plus the unforgettable opportunity to perform at March Madness games and ESPN College Game Day. Dance has shaped both my artistry and my work ethic, and it continues to be a driving force in everything I do.
KRISTA KLINE
Yoga Instructor
Krista began dancing at age 6. At age 18 she was traveling the world as a professional dancer on board the cruise ships of Holland America Line. Her passion for dance led me to explore the mind and body benefits of yoga. She is a E-RYT 200 (certified yoga instructor with Yoga Alliance) and completed by training in 2014 at 8 Limbs Yoga Centers in Seattle, WA. She has studied under master teachers Melina Meza, Chiara Guerrieri, Jenny Hayo, and Anne Phyfe Palmer at 8 Limbs Yoga Centers. Since completing my certification, she has continued to seek out and train with master teachers Schuyler Grant, Janet Stone, Noah Maze, and Scott Schwenk.
Outside of yoga she enjoy traveling and spending time with her husband and King Cavalier, Stella. She feels most inspired when outdoors, walking, or learning about plants and birds! In addition to teaching yoga, she uses her education in wine technology while pouring for William Grassie Wine Estates in Snoqualmie, WA.
Krista began dancing at age 6. At age 18 she was traveling the world as a professional dancer on board the cruise ships of Holland America Line. Her passion for dance led me to explore the mind and body benefits of yoga. She is a E-RYT 200 (certified yoga instructor with Yoga Alliance) and completed by training in 2014 at 8 Limbs Yoga Centers in Seattle, WA. She has studied under master teachers Melina Meza, Chiara Guerrieri, Jenny Hayo, and Anne Phyfe Palmer at 8 Limbs Yoga Centers. Since completing my certification, she has continued to seek out and train with master teachers Schuyler Grant, Janet Stone, Noah Maze, and Scott Schwenk.
Outside of yoga she enjoy traveling and spending time with her husband and King Cavalier, Stella. She feels most inspired when outdoors, walking, or learning about plants and birds! In addition to teaching yoga, she uses her education in wine technology while pouring for William Grassie Wine Estates in Snoqualmie, WA.
KATY MAPLES
Dance Instructor
Miss Katy Maples is from Seattle, Washington and brings a well-rounded background in dance and teaching. She trained in all styles and danced competitively for six years, with over 14 years of total dance training. Now in her seventh year of teaching, she enjoys working with dancers of all levels, with a particular passion for contemporary and technique classes. Miss Katy has trained with professional companies including Vitality and MusEffect, served as a judge and backstage manager for Fly Dance Competition, and worked as a pro assistant with the BluePrint Alliance contemporary convention.
Miss Katy Maples is from Seattle, Washington and brings a well-rounded background in dance and teaching. She trained in all styles and danced competitively for six years, with over 14 years of total dance training. Now in her seventh year of teaching, she enjoys working with dancers of all levels, with a particular passion for contemporary and technique classes. Miss Katy has trained with professional companies including Vitality and MusEffect, served as a judge and backstage manager for Fly Dance Competition, and worked as a pro assistant with the BluePrint Alliance contemporary convention.
HANNAH KICHA
Dance Instructor
Miss Hannah began dancing with IGNITE’s competition team in 2016. After graduating, she continued her dance training while attending Grand Canyon University, where she studied in a program rooted in ballet, modern, and jazz technique. Dance is her creative outlet, and she loves teaching and sharing her passion with students—watching them grow, gain confidence, and connect with their own artistry. She is excited to continue her teaching journey with the IGNITE community.
Miss Hannah began dancing with IGNITE’s competition team in 2016. After graduating, she continued her dance training while attending Grand Canyon University, where she studied in a program rooted in ballet, modern, and jazz technique. Dance is her creative outlet, and she loves teaching and sharing her passion with students—watching them grow, gain confidence, and connect with their own artistry. She is excited to continue her teaching journey with the IGNITE community.
SOPHIA OLVERA
Dance Instructor
Miss Sophia Olvera has been dancing ever since she could walk—starting with twirling through grocery store aisles before training at studios in the Bothell area. She has studied jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theatre. Dance has always been a powerful outlet for her creativity and self-expression, and she is passionate about helping dancers build confidence and discover movement as a positive, empowering outlet.
Miss Sophia Olvera has been dancing ever since she could walk—starting with twirling through grocery store aisles before training at studios in the Bothell area. She has studied jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theatre. Dance has always been a powerful outlet for her creativity and self-expression, and she is passionate about helping dancers build confidence and discover movement as a positive, empowering outlet.
JESSICA SMOLINSKY
Dance Instructor
Miss Jessica has lived in Washington for the past 15 years with her husband and their two children, Caden (13) and Aria (11), along with their beloved labradoodle, Lucy. She grew up with a passion for dance, singing, and theater and is a graduate of the University of Kansas. With a background in teaching Kindermusik and preschool-aged music and musical theater classes, Miss Jessica is deeply passionate about creating joyful, supportive environments where dancers feel confident, encouraged, and excited to learn.
Miss Jessica has lived in Washington for the past 15 years with her husband and their two children, Caden (13) and Aria (11), along with their beloved labradoodle, Lucy. She grew up with a passion for dance, singing, and theater and is a graduate of the University of Kansas. With a background in teaching Kindermusik and preschool-aged music and musical theater classes, Miss Jessica is deeply passionate about creating joyful, supportive environments where dancers feel confident, encouraged, and excited to learn.
EMMA SMITH
Dance Instructor
Miss Emma brings a thoughtful, encouraging presence to the classroom and is passionate about helping dancers grow both technically and artistically. She has over 14 years of dance training and has been competing since the age of seven with IGNITE. Specializing in contemporary and hip hop, Miss Emma loves working with children and is committed to creating a supportive, positive environment where dancers can build confidence and reach their full potential.
Miss Emma brings a thoughtful, encouraging presence to the classroom and is passionate about helping dancers grow both technically and artistically. She has over 14 years of dance training and has been competing since the age of seven with IGNITE. Specializing in contemporary and hip hop, Miss Emma loves working with children and is committed to creating a supportive, positive environment where dancers can build confidence and reach their full potential.
AMI WATTERS
Dance Instructor
With over 30 years of teaching experience at dozens of studios and schools, Ami Watters, ACUSA has dedicated her life to sharing her passion for dance. A graduate of Bellevue College, Ami studied dance from Mandy Moore and Rhonda Miller. She has traveled extensively, assisting Tap with Hoctor's Dance Caravan and Tremaine Dance, where she had the opportunity to assist the Industry Dance Awards Favorite Convention Teacher award winner, Laurie Johnson. Ami is a qualified Cecchetti USA Ballet teacher, having earned her Final Diploma under the guidance and tutelage of Betty Seibert, FCUSA, Director of Exams. An elected National Committee member of CUSA, Ami hosts and teaches at workshops across the country. Ami is also certified in BASI Pilates and Progressing Ballet Technique. Many of her students have become dance teachers, some have graduated from prestigious programs such as NYU Tisch, some have performed with huge music artists, on the Grammy’s stage, on tv, in films, and just this year she had a soloist earn 1st place on their Classical Ballet Sr Solo at YAGP regionals. Ami strongly feels that dance is for EVERYONE, all bodies and abilitiies! Ami loves sharing her love of ballet and dance with the students of IGNITE!
With over 30 years of teaching experience at dozens of studios and schools, Ami Watters, ACUSA has dedicated her life to sharing her passion for dance. A graduate of Bellevue College, Ami studied dance from Mandy Moore and Rhonda Miller. She has traveled extensively, assisting Tap with Hoctor's Dance Caravan and Tremaine Dance, where she had the opportunity to assist the Industry Dance Awards Favorite Convention Teacher award winner, Laurie Johnson. Ami is a qualified Cecchetti USA Ballet teacher, having earned her Final Diploma under the guidance and tutelage of Betty Seibert, FCUSA, Director of Exams. An elected National Committee member of CUSA, Ami hosts and teaches at workshops across the country. Ami is also certified in BASI Pilates and Progressing Ballet Technique. Many of her students have become dance teachers, some have graduated from prestigious programs such as NYU Tisch, some have performed with huge music artists, on the Grammy’s stage, on tv, in films, and just this year she had a soloist earn 1st place on their Classical Ballet Sr Solo at YAGP regionals. Ami strongly feels that dance is for EVERYONE, all bodies and abilitiies! Ami loves sharing her love of ballet and dance with the students of IGNITE!
CODY HANSEN
ADMIN
TESTIMONIALS
SARAH C. | REC DANCE STUDENT | AGE 3
“We love IGNITE! Our daughter started dancing there at the age of 2 last year, She has loved every minute of it and i can't image her stopping at any point. the teachers are so great with all ages, including the ones. the atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, and the staff make everything easy to coordinate. We recommend IGNITE to any and all of our friends who have young kids who are looking for activity that helps our kids grow strong and kinder."
IN THE NEWS & AFFILIATIONS
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