Meet our
Choreographers.

Meet Kristy

Kristy

North Dance Studio Inc. was built from a dream, but more importantly, it was built from a belief — that when people come together as one family with one shared vision, they can accomplish incredible things.

For over 30 years, dance has been a part of my life.

Through every stage of my journey, dance has taught me the value of hard work, what not to do, how to speak in front of large crowds, be a voice when others are silent, and leadership. As the years passed, I felt a calling to create something bigger than myself — a place where dancers and families could feel supported, valued, and inspired while growing together.

That calling led me in the direction of NORTH.

The meaning behind One Family, One Vision, One Direction is simple, yet powerful. We are more than a dance studio — we are a family. We share a vision of creating opportunities, building confidence, and inspiring the next generation. And together, we move in one direction: forward.

There comes a moment in life when you must decide whether to keep dreaming or take the chance to make that dream a reality. For me, that moment was stepping into the unknown, trusting the path before me, and taking a leap of faith. It was time to move in the direction of NORTH and give a dream the chance it deserved.

Today, I am honored to serve as the CEO of North Dance Studio Inc., alongside an incredible team and a community that continues to believe in this vision. None of this would be possible without the support of my husband, Tony, who has stood beside me throughout this journey, helping shape this dream into reality, and my two children, Riley and Junior, who remind me every day why building something meaningful matters.

North is more than a destination — it is a reminder that when we come together as one family, unite behind one vision, and move in one direction, there are no limits to what we can achieve.

Welcome to NORTH.

Where dreams become reality, families become one, and together, we rise.

Meet Makena

Makena

Makena has been dancing since the age of three and has dedicated her life to the art of dance and performance. She trained competitively for 12 years at Studio One Dance, where she developed a strong technical foundation and passion for choreography, artistry, and mentorship.

She continued her dance education at University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, studying dance for two years and expanding her knowledge in technique, performance, and movement education. Makena also served as the head coach of the Elk River Dance Team for three years, where she led and mentored student athletes while building strong team culture, discipline, and performance excellence.

Throughout her years as both a dancer and choreographer, Makena has received numerous awards and recognition for her choreography and performances at competitions and events.

As a teacher at North Dance Studio, Makena is passionate about creating a positive, disciplined, and inspiring environment where dancers can grow both technically and personally. She strives to help every student build confidence, artistry, and a lifelong love for dance.

When she's not in the studio, she spends most of her time with her two boys, Malik and Micah, who inspire her every day. As a dedicated autism advocate and proud autism mom, she is passionate about creating spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and celebrated.

"If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you."

Can't wait to share my love of dance with everyone! See you on the north floor!

Meet Kayla

Kayla

Hello everyone! I'm Kayla, one of your teachers here at North. Allow me to tell you a little bit about who you'll be working with!

First, let's start with my passion for dance. Growing up with this beautiful and meaningful sport has truly been one of the best things in my life. It helped me step out of my comfort zone A LOT. Dance has always been there for me whenever I felt anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed.

Most importantly, during difficult times in my home life, dance became my safe place. It was hard trying to talk about what I was going through because I often felt like nobody understood me, but through dance, I was able to release my emotions. Whether it was anger, sadness, or needing a good cry, I could express it all through movement. Truly, dance has healed me in ways I never thought possible.

As your teacher, I hope I can help bring that same peace, confidence, and expression into your life — especially during moments when things may feel impossible.

One thing I always want everyone to remember is that dance is not all about winning. It's about how you felt after stepping off that stage and completing your routine. Those feelings and memories will always mean more than a trophy that may eventually collect dust later in life.

Cherish every single moment — the heat of the lights, the energy of the crowd, and the support surrounding you every step of the way — because THAT is what makes it all worth it.

"Dance. For. You."