FACULTY
Working professionals who teach.
Nanci Hammond, one of the founders of The Performing Arts Center, began dancing at the age of four and was instructing children by age 15. Born in Hanford California and raised in Fresno California she attended Denise Sommers School of Dance and opened her first dance studio, The Dance Programme, at the tender age of 20.
In 1975, Nanci moved to Los Angeles to study fulltime at Eugene Loring's American Ballet School and within a year was working professionally on a national commercial choreographed by Jo-Jo Smith. Since that time, she has worked professionally in a variety of theater, television, film, video and commercial venues. Nanci has performed in such prestigious television programs as The Academy Awards, The Peoples Choice Awards, The Movie Awards and Carnivale , a weekly variety show in Rome, Italy. She has appeared in the films Thank God It's Friday, Stayin Alive as well as The Jackson Brothers, Lionel Ritchie and Kenny Rogers videos.
Currently, in addition to her full time duties as Artistic director, Nanci can be seen on a national Heineken commercial, on an episode of Glee; she has recently performed on the Kid’s Choice Awards and is presently lending her choreographic talents to The Master of Illusions – Live tour.
Nanci credits her success as a dancer to her husband, Joseph Malone, who diligently and meticulously trained her, Alex Ruiz, who taught her to listen, Michael Peters who taught her to dance from the inside out. She also credits her Mother and Father who instilled the idea that she could do anything and her Buddhist training which taught her to never give up.
In 1975, Nanci moved to Los Angeles to study fulltime at Eugene Loring's American Ballet School and within a year was working professionally on a national commercial choreographed by Jo-Jo Smith. Since that time, she has worked professionally in a variety of theater, television, film, video and commercial venues. Nanci has performed in such prestigious television programs as The Academy Awards, The Peoples Choice Awards, The Movie Awards and Carnivale , a weekly variety show in Rome, Italy. She has appeared in the films Thank God It's Friday, Stayin Alive as well as The Jackson Brothers, Lionel Ritchie and Kenny Rogers videos.
Currently, in addition to her full time duties as Artistic director, Nanci can be seen on a national Heineken commercial, on an episode of Glee; she has recently performed on the Kid’s Choice Awards and is presently lending her choreographic talents to The Master of Illusions – Live tour.
Nanci credits her success as a dancer to her husband, Joseph Malone, who diligently and meticulously trained her, Alex Ruiz, who taught her to listen, Michael Peters who taught her to dance from the inside out. She also credits her Mother and Father who instilled the idea that she could do anything and her Buddhist training which taught her to never give up.
Joseph Malone decided on a performing career while doing musicals in high school. Finding that college would not offer the path to his dream, Joe, at the age of 20, started his formal dance training beginning at Eugene Loring's ``The American School of Dance.” In the past 40 years, Joe has sung and danced in over 250 television shows, specials, films and nightclub acts including on Broadway when Director/Choreographer Michael Peters (of Michael Jackson fame) hired him to sing and dance in, “Leader Of The Pack.”
In 1985, deciding to augment his dancing and singing career, Joe started acting. He landed roles in the feature films, “I’ll Do Anything”, “Universal Soldier”, and the ever popular Disney offering, “Hocus Pocus.” He has also had guest starring roles on many television shows including “ Seinfeld”, “Step by Step”, “Quantum Leap”, “Newhart” and “L.A. Law.” Fortune smiled when a guest-starring role on the “The Tracey Ullman Show” lead to Joe’s being cast as a “series regular” on this Emmy Award winning show. His work, both as an actor and as a choreographer, on ” Tracey Ullman Show”, “Tracey Takes On...” and Tracey Ullman’s, “State of the Union” as well as his 25 year + relationship with the brilliant actress, Tracey Ullman, are among the work of which he is most proud.
Joe began concentrating more on directing and choreographing shortly thereafter. Some of the shows Joe has served as choreographer on are Tracey Ullman’s, “State of the Union”, “Tracey Takes On…, “Ugly Betty”, “Boston Legal”, “Boston Public”, “Two and a Half Men”, “Ally McBeal”, “Judging Amy“, “Joan of Arcadia”, ‘Beverly Hills -90210”, an animated sequence for the Disney feature, “Tinkerbell”…. to name only a few. He has also had the honour to serve Director/Choreographer for “Sunday in the Park with George” which he restaged for Reprise! at UCLA as well as opening sequence of Tracey Ullman's television series “Visible Panty Line. “ Additionally, Joe has directed and choreographed two National Tours for country music legend and pioneer, Barbara Mandrell. Additionally, Joe returned to Broadway in 2005, this time as a choreographer, contributing to “Lennon”; a musical based on the life of the prolific artist, John Lennon.
In 2000, Joe was honored with an Emmy nomination for Best Achievement in Choreography for his work on “Tracey Takes On...”, and again in 2003 with another Best Achievement in Choreography nomination for his work on “Boston Public.” Joe was recognized for his choreographic efforts on “Ally McBeal” with an American Choreography Award, and received another American Choreography Award for his work on “Boston Public.” Additionally, Joe has been honored with The Lehman Award, The National Academy of Dance Award-Best Choreography on a Television Series for his work on ”The Tracey Ullman Show.” However, of all his accolades, the most meaningful for him is receiving The Min-on Art Award, The SGI Culture Award, The Soka Art Award and The SGI Culture Pin from his mentor in life, Dr. Daisaku Ikeda for his contribution toward the realization of lasting world peace through culture and art.
In 1992, along with dancer (and wife of 45 years) ,Nanci Hammond, he established The Performing Arts Center, a school that focuses on the training of young artists who dream of a career in the performing arts. In 1994 he, again with Ms. Hammond, established, Mandalone Project re-named Artists in Concert; a company dedicated to developing music and dance related projects in a concert style setting. Working with for the International Committee of Artists for Peace (ICAP), Joe has had the distinct privilege to help create, direct and choreograph an in-school anti-bullying program called “iChoose.” To date this program, designed to empower youth by helping them become more self-aware while showing them alternative choices to violence has been implemented in schools both nationally and internationally. This program’s philosophy, based on the humanistic principles of both respect for oneself as well as others, has been attended and lauded by thousands of students as well as teachers and community leaders. Notably, students from Middle and High Schools in Hawai’i, Los Angeles, New York, New Jersey, Oslo, Norway and most recently Auckland, New Zealand have all participated to date. Joe is currently in development creating an original show based on the Buddhist ideals for peace.
Most recently, Joe helped develop and directed a One Act Comedy, “Benches” which premiered at the Broadwater Theater in Hollywood starring an outstanding ensemble including the ever-popular Patrick Duffy. Joe is presently busy at work writing a new musical and compiling a book of poetry.
He credits the success he has enjoyed to his practice of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism, the compassionate training of many, many dedicated teachers, and the unconditional support of wonderful friends. His wife Nanci and sons Patrick and Michael are without a doubt his greatest treasures.
In 1985, deciding to augment his dancing and singing career, Joe started acting. He landed roles in the feature films, “I’ll Do Anything”, “Universal Soldier”, and the ever popular Disney offering, “Hocus Pocus.” He has also had guest starring roles on many television shows including “ Seinfeld”, “Step by Step”, “Quantum Leap”, “Newhart” and “L.A. Law.” Fortune smiled when a guest-starring role on the “The Tracey Ullman Show” lead to Joe’s being cast as a “series regular” on this Emmy Award winning show. His work, both as an actor and as a choreographer, on ” Tracey Ullman Show”, “Tracey Takes On...” and Tracey Ullman’s, “State of the Union” as well as his 25 year + relationship with the brilliant actress, Tracey Ullman, are among the work of which he is most proud.
Joe began concentrating more on directing and choreographing shortly thereafter. Some of the shows Joe has served as choreographer on are Tracey Ullman’s, “State of the Union”, “Tracey Takes On…, “Ugly Betty”, “Boston Legal”, “Boston Public”, “Two and a Half Men”, “Ally McBeal”, “Judging Amy“, “Joan of Arcadia”, ‘Beverly Hills -90210”, an animated sequence for the Disney feature, “Tinkerbell”…. to name only a few. He has also had the honour to serve Director/Choreographer for “Sunday in the Park with George” which he restaged for Reprise! at UCLA as well as opening sequence of Tracey Ullman's television series “Visible Panty Line. “ Additionally, Joe has directed and choreographed two National Tours for country music legend and pioneer, Barbara Mandrell. Additionally, Joe returned to Broadway in 2005, this time as a choreographer, contributing to “Lennon”; a musical based on the life of the prolific artist, John Lennon.
In 2000, Joe was honored with an Emmy nomination for Best Achievement in Choreography for his work on “Tracey Takes On...”, and again in 2003 with another Best Achievement in Choreography nomination for his work on “Boston Public.” Joe was recognized for his choreographic efforts on “Ally McBeal” with an American Choreography Award, and received another American Choreography Award for his work on “Boston Public.” Additionally, Joe has been honored with The Lehman Award, The National Academy of Dance Award-Best Choreography on a Television Series for his work on ”The Tracey Ullman Show.” However, of all his accolades, the most meaningful for him is receiving The Min-on Art Award, The SGI Culture Award, The Soka Art Award and The SGI Culture Pin from his mentor in life, Dr. Daisaku Ikeda for his contribution toward the realization of lasting world peace through culture and art.
In 1992, along with dancer (and wife of 45 years) ,Nanci Hammond, he established The Performing Arts Center, a school that focuses on the training of young artists who dream of a career in the performing arts. In 1994 he, again with Ms. Hammond, established, Mandalone Project re-named Artists in Concert; a company dedicated to developing music and dance related projects in a concert style setting. Working with for the International Committee of Artists for Peace (ICAP), Joe has had the distinct privilege to help create, direct and choreograph an in-school anti-bullying program called “iChoose.” To date this program, designed to empower youth by helping them become more self-aware while showing them alternative choices to violence has been implemented in schools both nationally and internationally. This program’s philosophy, based on the humanistic principles of both respect for oneself as well as others, has been attended and lauded by thousands of students as well as teachers and community leaders. Notably, students from Middle and High Schools in Hawai’i, Los Angeles, New York, New Jersey, Oslo, Norway and most recently Auckland, New Zealand have all participated to date. Joe is currently in development creating an original show based on the Buddhist ideals for peace.
Most recently, Joe helped develop and directed a One Act Comedy, “Benches” which premiered at the Broadwater Theater in Hollywood starring an outstanding ensemble including the ever-popular Patrick Duffy. Joe is presently busy at work writing a new musical and compiling a book of poetry.
He credits the success he has enjoyed to his practice of Nichiren Daishonin Buddhism, the compassionate training of many, many dedicated teachers, and the unconditional support of wonderful friends. His wife Nanci and sons Patrick and Michael are without a doubt his greatest treasures.
Patrick began dancing at three years old in the Lower Division, graduating from the Upper Division after studying tap and ballet for 15 years. He began performing in our annual production of “The Nutcracker” and became a member of the Mark Goodman Tap Company at 16 years old. At that age, Patrick toured with TMGTC in “Seal with a Kiss” and “Red”. Throughout high school, he performed in the “American Choreography Awards”, in American Ballet Theater’s “Sleeping Beauty” as a supernumerary, and in the film “What Just Happened” with Kristen Stewart as a dancer.
While getting his degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at UCSC, Patrick was a cast member in “Mixed Nutz!” for several seasons, a show conceived, directed, and choreographed by Tandy Beal. At that time he also began exploring choreography, creating his first tap piece in a student choreographed and directed show called “Random with a Purpose.” He also worked with Anthony Morigerato for the Dizzy Feet Foundation, performing at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, taught tap at local studios around the Santa Cruz area, as well as “busked” in the downtown area.
Post graduation he signed with Go 2 Talent Agency and moved back to Los Angeles to further explore commercial dance. Through them, he booked “The 2014 Latin Grammy Awards,” performing in the opening piece with “Calle 13” under the direction of Spencer Liff, which lead to Gregg Russell graciously extending an invitation to Patrick to join his company, Tap Sounds Underground. Recently, Patrick was delighted to work with Becca Sweitzer for a “Garry Marshall Foundation” benefit, tapping with a live 9-piece band alongside Joseph Leo Bwarie.
Irene Cho is a Kansas City native. Performing career highlights include The
Phantom of the Opera (original Broadway cast, LA and SF companies), Jerome Robbins’ Broadway (original cast), The King & I (w/Yul Brynner, Broadway and National Tour), Funny Feet (Off Broadway), Sayonara (Papermill Playhouse), the Yeston/Kopit Phantom, Hollywood Bowl (Showboat, Carousel, South Pacific and Bernstein’s Mass), LA Opera (Rigoletto, Aida, Turandot), Joffrey Ballet Concert Group, Cleveland Ballet, American Ballet Comedy, “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” for TV, commercials, still photography work with Harvey Edwards.
In addition to her role as a master teacher of ballet at various summer intensive programs, Ms. Cho is also employed by the Los Angeles Unified School District as an intervention teacher specializing in working with students to improve math skills as well as assisting English language learners with writing skills.
As a former pre-med student at Stanford University, Irene actively pursues professional development opportunities to expand her knowledge of body mechanics and injury prevention in order to enhance her ability to be a more effective dance teacher. She also diligently educates students and families with structured meetings which address a variety of issues. Her priorities include equipping dancers to recognize signs of injury warranting medical attention, to understand that there are differences in body structure which affect athletic ability (and the possible need for an individual to modify how movement is executed), as well as stressing the value of physical conditioning both during the recovery process and as a measure to prevent injury altogether.
Irene first joined the Performing Arts Center family as a parent seeking a reputable studio with a teaching philosophy which would provide professional- level dance training in a healthy, nurturing fashion. Over the years, she has been immensely pleased to see how the PAC policies and rules of conduct for students, parents, and staff create a safe after-school environment that has enabled her own children to mature into articulate, responsible, independent, capable, and confident young people.
Irene’s favorite career highlight is raising her 2 amazing boys Nathan and Brandon with her actor/singer husband, Norman Large. In addition to her extensive 25-year performance career, Irene has raised over $1,000,000 for various charities, and she is proud to continue to volunteer her time to produce a number of fundraising events.
Phantom of the Opera (original Broadway cast, LA and SF companies), Jerome Robbins’ Broadway (original cast), The King & I (w/Yul Brynner, Broadway and National Tour), Funny Feet (Off Broadway), Sayonara (Papermill Playhouse), the Yeston/Kopit Phantom, Hollywood Bowl (Showboat, Carousel, South Pacific and Bernstein’s Mass), LA Opera (Rigoletto, Aida, Turandot), Joffrey Ballet Concert Group, Cleveland Ballet, American Ballet Comedy, “It’s Showtime at the Apollo” for TV, commercials, still photography work with Harvey Edwards.
In addition to her role as a master teacher of ballet at various summer intensive programs, Ms. Cho is also employed by the Los Angeles Unified School District as an intervention teacher specializing in working with students to improve math skills as well as assisting English language learners with writing skills.
As a former pre-med student at Stanford University, Irene actively pursues professional development opportunities to expand her knowledge of body mechanics and injury prevention in order to enhance her ability to be a more effective dance teacher. She also diligently educates students and families with structured meetings which address a variety of issues. Her priorities include equipping dancers to recognize signs of injury warranting medical attention, to understand that there are differences in body structure which affect athletic ability (and the possible need for an individual to modify how movement is executed), as well as stressing the value of physical conditioning both during the recovery process and as a measure to prevent injury altogether.
Irene first joined the Performing Arts Center family as a parent seeking a reputable studio with a teaching philosophy which would provide professional- level dance training in a healthy, nurturing fashion. Over the years, she has been immensely pleased to see how the PAC policies and rules of conduct for students, parents, and staff create a safe after-school environment that has enabled her own children to mature into articulate, responsible, independent, capable, and confident young people.
Irene’s favorite career highlight is raising her 2 amazing boys Nathan and Brandon with her actor/singer husband, Norman Large. In addition to her extensive 25-year performance career, Irene has raised over $1,000,000 for various charities, and she is proud to continue to volunteer her time to produce a number of fundraising events.
Michelle Elkin has served as Choreographer for Sutton Foster and Jonathon Groff Live At Lincoln Center for PBS, the TV series’, Younger, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and Young Sheldon with Jason Alexander. She was seen on Netflix as a co-star in Gilmore Girls’ “Winter”. She also choreographed the TV show, Me and My Grandma with Rhea Perlman, as well a Southwest Airlines web spot. Select Theatre credits include, Hunchback of Notre Dame (Broadway World Awards Nominee), Sister Act The Musical (Broadway World Awards Nominee). She also created musical numbers featuring Sutton Foster and special guest, Joshua Henry for the National Symphony Orchestra at Kennedy Center, the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and the Houston Symphony at Jones Hall. She has also lent her choreographic talents to the hit ABC Family show, Baby Daddy, a TNT pilot titled, Dawn directed by Sam Raimi as well as a production of Little Shop Of Horrors in Tampa, FL, the feature films, Wild Hogs and What Just Happened, as well as Emmy award winning television shows, Boston Legal, Weeds, Lifetime’s reality show, Your Mama Don’t Dance, Warren the Ape on MTV, Marvin, Marvin on Nickelodeon, as well as he tap sequences in ABC Family’s Bunheads. She made her professional debut at the age of 8 in the movie musical, Annie. Since then, she continued to work in numerous film, television, commercial and theatre projects as a dancer and assistant choreographer such as Bunheadsm Boston Legal, Joan of Arcadia, Boston Public, Ally McBeal, Charmed, American Idol, the TV Series, Fame LA, 3rd Rock from the Sun, That 70’s Show, Tracey Takes On, The Country Bears, Batman and Robin, Austin Powers I-III, A Time For Dancing, and Elizabethtown. She was the Associate Choreographer for the films, Semi-Pro, Tropic Thunder, 10 Things I Hate About You, Cinderelmo, Looney Tunes: Back In Action, 13 Going on 30, Starsky and Hutch, TV Series, Viva Laughlin, Dancing With The Stars, the musical Sister Act at Pasadena Playhouse, as well as the 58th Emmy Awards with Conan O’Brien, the 63rd Emmy Awards with Jane Lynch and the 81st Academy Awards with Hugh Jackman. Michelle was also the Associate Choreographer of the Broadway Show, Wonderland at the Marriott Marquis Theatre.
Tamara Baston started dancing as a child, participating on school dance teams and continuing her love of dance at Southwest Texas State University. There she majored in Dance/Physical Education and Studio Art. While in Texas she studied and danced with Martha Graham, Eric Hawkins, Paul Taylor, Jose Limon, and Kelly Holt.
Tamara followed her passion to California where her interest in dance education developed resulting in the opening of a private studio, teaching primarily ballet and tap classes for young dancers. In 1992 she joined the founders of the Performing Arts Center in their opening year, establishing the Lower Division Program, and has been the director of that division for the past 25 years. Along with teaching, Tamara choreographed for the Lower Division recitals, Mandalone Project, and the Upper Division Modern class.
In 2000 Tamara pursued a Master’s in Theater Arts and Dance along with completing her California Secondary Teaching Credential in Dance, Physical Education, and Theater Arts and Technologies. These credentials allowed her the opportunity to teach in private and public schools such as Archer School For Girls and Fulton College Prep. At these schools she created countless dance and musical theater numbers as well as competition pieces for the cheerleading, drill, and hip-hop teams she established at Fulton, guiding them to hold first place State Championships for several years.
Presently, she is teaching dance at Lewis Middle School and continues at The Performing Art Center as the Lower Division Director where her love of teaching began.
Tamara followed her passion to California where her interest in dance education developed resulting in the opening of a private studio, teaching primarily ballet and tap classes for young dancers. In 1992 she joined the founders of the Performing Arts Center in their opening year, establishing the Lower Division Program, and has been the director of that division for the past 25 years. Along with teaching, Tamara choreographed for the Lower Division recitals, Mandalone Project, and the Upper Division Modern class.
In 2000 Tamara pursued a Master’s in Theater Arts and Dance along with completing her California Secondary Teaching Credential in Dance, Physical Education, and Theater Arts and Technologies. These credentials allowed her the opportunity to teach in private and public schools such as Archer School For Girls and Fulton College Prep. At these schools she created countless dance and musical theater numbers as well as competition pieces for the cheerleading, drill, and hip-hop teams she established at Fulton, guiding them to hold first place State Championships for several years.
Presently, she is teaching dance at Lewis Middle School and continues at The Performing Art Center as the Lower Division Director where her love of teaching began.
Bobby Amamizu, originally from Irvine, CA is a graduate from Orange county School of the Arts and holds a BFA in Dance Performance from UC Irvine. Currently, he is pursuing his career in Los Angeles as a professional dancer, educator, assistant choreographer and choreographer. He has danced in all varieties of entertainment including stage, industrials, company, film commercials and television.
Stage / Industrials / Company credits include: Cirque du Soleil's ``Viva Elvis`` (original cast),``The Power of Music`` Evening with Hans Zimmer, ``Freelusion,`` Cirque du Soleil's, ``Worlds Away Roadshow,`` ``Loving The Silent Tears`` (original musical), International Ballet Festival of Miami, Laguna Dance Festival, National Choreographers Initiative, L'Oreal, Mattel, Morinda, ``Unity LA`` (Tessandra Chavez) and ``Commonality`` (Adam Parson).
Film: ``A Week Away`` (Netflix), ``Valley Girl, Like totally a Musical,`` ``Fame,`` `` A VeryHarold and Kumar Christmas,`` and ``Dear Dumb Diary.``
Television / Commercials: ``Roar, The Voice Promo,`` ``Carpool Karaoke,````Ford,`` ``Lip Sync Battle,``Hulu's, ``Door No. 1,`` ``Home... Joy,`` Dancing with the Stars, Miss Universe, ``Strictly Come Dancing,`` Finna Apple's Video, ``Paper Bag,`` and the Jerry Lewis Telethon.
Bobby has taught for many different companies, institutions and conventions including: Cirque Du Soleil, Houston Met, OCSA, Edge Performing Arts Center, Tremaine Dance Convention, and LA Elite / Elite Dance Convention. he is currently on faculty for Hollywood /connection Dance Convention, Debbie Reynolds Scholarship Program and an Adjunct Professor at Pace University.
Bobby is an assistant choreographer to many choreographers such as Marguerite Derricks, Michael Rooney, Bonnie Story, Lane Napper, Dominique Kelley among others. Some of the projects he has been fortunate to serve as assistant choreographer for include 'Happy Socks,`` ``AT&T,`` ``Carvana,`` ``Flirty Dancing,`` and ``The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.``
As a dancer, Nichelle was a member & soloist with the Civic Ballet of San Luis Obispo by the age of 14. In 1990 she left San Luis Obispo to become a line captain & featured dancer on Princess Cruise Line. Since moving to Los Angeles some of Nichelle’s credits include Friends, Clueless, Austin Powers 2, Totally Blonde, Divine Design, and Her Last Chance MOW. She has appeared in commercials for Mervyns, McDonalds, Bacardi, and NBC. Nichelle has worked with the likes of Doug Caldwell, Marguerite Derricks, Mia Michaels, & Vincent Paterson.
As the founder and artistic director of the LA based Reflections Dance Company. Nichelle has been bringing inspiration to the stage through all genres of dance. The choreography brought to life by Reflections crosses the boundaries from commercial to theatrical. Reflections has been invited to participate in many reputable events. The Mix Match dance festival, Dancing For NED, The Mc Callum Choreography Festival in Palm Springs (2011-2014) & presenting around Southern California.
Nichelle was brought on as resident choreographer for Astra Dance Theater in 2012. Where she helped bring unique dance shows to the stage. “Eleanora” an Edgar Allen Poe story & “The Cabinet Of Dr Caligari” a 1920 German silent horror film. Caligari was presented at the Booking Dance Festival, at Jazz at Lincoln Center NYC in 2015 and 2016. Nichelle continues to work with Astra creating new works for stage and screen.
Tammy Jo Baston began in our Lower Division Program as a bunny, graduating from The Upper Division Program 18 years later in the highest levels of Jazz and Tap. She has a BFA in Dance from Texas Christian University and throughout her career has performed in commercials, TV shows, movies, on stage with Carnival Cruise Line, in theme parks such as Knott's Berry Farm, Sea World, and Six Flags, and music videos such as Taylor Swift's ``Shake It Off.”
Tammy Jo has choreographed a number of pieces in various styles, including a solo, Thematic Repetition, which was chosen to represent TCU in the Adjudicated and Gala Concerts of the 2016 South Central Regional Conference of the American College Dance Association, as well as the dance numbers for Weird Al Yankovic's “Mandatory Fun World Tour.” Currently she teaches and choreographs for our Lower Division classes.
Jackie has an innate ability to see a project’s end from the artistic, logistic, practical and technical sides and deconstruct it to into it’s components to move it forward effectively.
She has experience in many facets of the industry from in front of the camera, to all stages of production from pre through post. A left and right brained thinker, she brings solutions to any problem that arises both technically and creatively.
Jackie Evans moved to Los Angeles from Vancouver, Canada where she trained extensively in the Cecchetti Method under Cecchetti Master teacher, Heidi Zolte. Ms. Evans served as the Ballet Mistress for the Upper Division professional Ballet Training Program from 2008-2013 at the Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles and had students travel to Moscow, Russia for the prestigious Bolshoi Academy Summer Program as well as professional programs in NYC. Additionally, some of her students were selected to join the Bolshoi Academy’s year round training program. She is gifted in teaching how to achieve the movement from an anatomically correct place and conveying to all levels of dancers how to refine their technique.
In 2012, Ms. Evans was brought in by Marguerite Derricks and served as private dance coach for two-time Broadway Tony Award-winning musical theatre sensation Sutton Foster, star of the ABC Family television series, “Bunheads”.
Jackie & Jerry Evans created JLE Media Group Inc. in 2010. Since it’s inception, she has served as in-house producer and Chief Operations Officer.
With Jerry, she has co-wrote, produced and filmed a short dance film that also serves as a web commercial for world renowned costume company, Marcea Dancewear, a music video for famed Blues Singer Earl Thomas’ “Standing In The Rain”. She also served as Associate Producer on a Doritos Spec Commercial for the Super Bowl and on K-Pop Superstar, Taeyang’s “Ringa Linga” Dance Video which has garnered over 24 million views. Recently, she produced the short film, “Me and My Daughter”. She is currently in development on a new web series and a docu-series for Television. Additionally, they continue to shoot and edit for creative and corporate clients out of JLE’s production office in Los Angeles, CA. To JLE, she brings a multi-faceted pallet of skill sets ranging from her artistic and creative accomplishments to her unique understanding of production and its inherent demands in all mediums for precise and meticulous organization and execution.
Jerry Evans has worked as a dancer, choreographer and director for over 35 years. His creative and technical skill with stagecraft, performance, dance and out-of-the-box creative concepts has made him one of the select few choreographers and creative directors to work in television (scripted, variety & award shows), concert tours, live stage, films, commercials and music videos.
Having choreographed numerous con-secutive world tours for such artists as Reba McIntyre, Paula Abdul, Chayanne & Usher, Jerry has proven himself to be a favorite with producers for his ability to work to deadline, coupled with a refusal to sacrifice quality results. High energy dance, intricate and captivating stage work, and the ability to showcase performers have become the hallmarks of Jerry’s choreography, earning him industry wide respect and allowing him to elicit the highest quality performances from stars and support dancers alike. With more than 20 feature films, 15 music videos, and 50 commercials to his choreography credentials, Jerry’s reputation precedes him throughout the entertainment industry.
In recognition of his achievements and contributions in dance, choreography, and production, Jerry has been honored with industry and peer awards alike. Jerry was honored with an American Choreographer Award for Best Choreography in a Feature Film for his work in, ‘The Mask.’ In addition he has received the following awards: a Music Video Producers’ Award for Best Choreography for his work on Barbara Streisand’s video “Left in the Dark”; a National Academy of Dance Award for Best Choreography in a Television Variety for his work on the ‘Tracey Ullman Show’; and a THEA (Themed Entertainment Association Award) awarded for Best Live Show for his work on ‘Legend of Mythica’ at Tokyo Disney Sea.
While continuing to add to his impressive resume, Jerry has culled a comprehensive knowledge of film and television camera directing based on his years of choreographic experience. Whether single or multiple camera direction, Jerry is known for bringing his wealth of experience to every production.
Chelsea Gutowski has been a part of The Performing Arts Center family for over 23 years. She trained extensively in tap, ballet, jazz, and modern through her time in the Upper Division program. She strives to provide the same level of training to her students that she received as a PAC student; one that develops incredible human beings in addition to incredible artists.
Some performance highlights include many PAC Spring Showcase performances and dancing in the opening act of Danny Ezralow’s production of Ezralow Dance at the Ford Ampitheatre.
In addition to her passion in teaching tap, Chelsea has a passion for education and works as a Children’s Librarian. She encourages her dance students to pursue their passions, whatever they may be, and teaches with the idea that the words “intelligent” and “creative” can coexist. Chelsea earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from California Lutheran University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science.
Some performance highlights include many PAC Spring Showcase performances and dancing in the opening act of Danny Ezralow’s production of Ezralow Dance at the Ford Ampitheatre.
In addition to her passion in teaching tap, Chelsea has a passion for education and works as a Children’s Librarian. She encourages her dance students to pursue their passions, whatever they may be, and teaches with the idea that the words “intelligent” and “creative” can coexist. Chelsea earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from California Lutheran University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science.
Originally from Mayfield, Ohio. Brandon Leffler is a dancer, choreographer and educator currently on faculty with LA Dance Magic as well as Broadway Dance Center, The Performing Arts Center, The Male Dancer Conference, Broadway Connection, Broadway Classroom and Ballet Austin.
Broadway and Off-Broadway performing credits include: On The Town, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Wicked, Trip of Love, Fanny, The Golden Apple and Anyone Can Whistle. Brandon has also been seen across the United States with the national tours of My Fair Lady, Wicked, A Chorus Line, and Cats.
Dance Labs and pre-Broadway workshops have given Brandon an inside look at the creative process of many Broadway shows including: The Cher Show, Clueless: The Musical, Carousel, On The Town and Cinderella.
Concert dance has been a huge part of Brandon’s journey, working with companies such as Ballet Austin, Verb Ballets, Collage Dance Collective, The Metropolitan Opera Ballet, Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company, Dancing Wheels and dre.dance.
T.V. credits include: National promo commercials for Wicked: The Musical and Chicago: The Musical, 30 Rock, Saturday Night Live, Gossip Girl, the Tony Awards, and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Lindsey began her dance training in her hometown in Louisiana and moved to Los Angeles in 2001 to continue her training under the direction of Joseph Malone. She has since performed in several Mandalone Concerts – performances by working choreographers doing concert work and experimental theater in Los Angeles, SGI World Peace events, American Choreography Awards (the pre-cursor to the World Choreography Awards), and the ever-popular Choreographer's Carnivals.
She was a Founding Member and Dance Captain for The Mark Goodman Tap Company offering both her performing and assisting abilities in two original pieces using tap as the storytelling style - ``Seal With a Kiss`` and ``Red`` - both premiering in Los Angeles. Lindsey performed in ``The King and I`` starring Deborah Gibson and was Assistant Choreographer for Disney's ``Block Party`` parade as well as the Hollywood Bowl's
``Roaring 20's`` show.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities at studios around the country, Lindsey spends her summers teaching and choreographing for the Teenage Drama Workshop on the Cal State Northridge campus and is the Resident Choreographer for University High School's Theatre Department.
She was a Founding Member and Dance Captain for The Mark Goodman Tap Company offering both her performing and assisting abilities in two original pieces using tap as the storytelling style - ``Seal With a Kiss`` and ``Red`` - both premiering in Los Angeles. Lindsey performed in ``The King and I`` starring Deborah Gibson and was Assistant Choreographer for Disney's ``Block Party`` parade as well as the Hollywood Bowl's
``Roaring 20's`` show.
In addition to her teaching responsibilities at studios around the country, Lindsey spends her summers teaching and choreographing for the Teenage Drama Workshop on the Cal State Northridge campus and is the Resident Choreographer for University High School's Theatre Department.
Stefan started his fitness journey 20+ years ago attaining multiple certifications as a personal trainer, Martial arts instructor and Acrobatics coach. In addition to his teaching experience he has Danced in 3 Broadway shows, multiple television shows and films dancing and doing stunt work. He is a former WKA Karate champion and has performed in countless stage shows and live performances as a dancer, singer and acrobat.
With a heavy background in Martial Arts, Dance, Acrobatics, multiple styles of movement, and strength training, Stefan brings a unique vision to his training philosophy. Blending concepts of Gymnastics, Dance, Martial Arts and Calisthenics, using only your body to get into the best shape of your life. Approaching previous physical limitations and imbalances in a healthy way by ‘bullet proofing’ your body against the daily rigors of life. This blend of strength and conditioning techniques is physically challenging while simultaneously encouraging beautiful movement, increasing mobility, flexibility, strength, coordination, balance, stamina and energy.
A Minnesota native, Jillian Schmitz moved to Los Angeles at the age of 18
to train at The Performing Arts Center in Van Nuys, Ca. to pursue a professional
career in the entertainment industry. Her expression has mainly been in dance
appearing in over 15 films like “Ted 2” and “Tropic Thunder”, and dancing in over
35 Television Shows including “The Emmy’s,” “ True Blood,” and “Dancing With
The Stars.”
Jillian's acting credits include the films “Babysitter Wanted,” “The Gesture
and the Word,” and “Barry Munday.” She has also had roles in the television
shows; “Bunheads,” “Rebel,” and “Better Things.” Additionally, as part of a
starring ensemble, Jillian debuted in ‘Benches” - her first play in Los Angeles.
Jillian currently resides in East Hollywood and tours with rap artist
Mickey Avalon and is always delighted to serve as Sia’s “body double” when that
opportunity arises. She has created, produced and directed her own burlesque
shows and entertains crowds weekly as both a burlesque and cabaret soloist.
With her many years of professional experience, Jillian is dedicated to
helping other artists, especially young performers, develop their talent through
teaching and mentoring whenever her busy career allows.
to train at The Performing Arts Center in Van Nuys, Ca. to pursue a professional
career in the entertainment industry. Her expression has mainly been in dance
appearing in over 15 films like “Ted 2” and “Tropic Thunder”, and dancing in over
35 Television Shows including “The Emmy’s,” “ True Blood,” and “Dancing With
The Stars.”
Jillian's acting credits include the films “Babysitter Wanted,” “The Gesture
and the Word,” and “Barry Munday.” She has also had roles in the television
shows; “Bunheads,” “Rebel,” and “Better Things.” Additionally, as part of a
starring ensemble, Jillian debuted in ‘Benches” - her first play in Los Angeles.
Jillian currently resides in East Hollywood and tours with rap artist
Mickey Avalon and is always delighted to serve as Sia’s “body double” when that
opportunity arises. She has created, produced and directed her own burlesque
shows and entertains crowds weekly as both a burlesque and cabaret soloist.
With her many years of professional experience, Jillian is dedicated to
helping other artists, especially young performers, develop their talent through
teaching and mentoring whenever her busy career allows.
Candy Sherwin has been on The Performing Arts Center faculty since 2001. She brings with her a wide range of experience as an actress, dancer, teacher and choreographer. She began studying ballet at the age of nine, and never stopped, adding jazz and tap to the mix along the way. She performed with Ballet Des Arts as a teenager, and in various local theatrical productions. She continued to perform and teach while she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts at California State University, Northridge. Candy trained with Paul Maure, Salle Whalen, Joe Tremaine, Joe Bennett, and Doug Caldwell just to name a few.
She has appeared on over 100 industrials, videos, and musical theater productions. Her choreography credits include, but are not limited to, Bye Bye Birdie, the Music Man, Seussical the Musical.Once Upon a Mattress, Peter Pan, Wizard of Oz. and Fiddler on the Roof. Candy has taught ballet, jazz, and Musical Theatre at California State University Northridge’s Teenage Drama Workshop every summer for over 25 years. She continues to head up its’ dance division. Candy’s desire to share her passion for dance and theatre infuses her classes with positive energy, as she addresses proper technique and styling.
She has appeared on over 100 industrials, videos, and musical theater productions. Her choreography credits include, but are not limited to, Bye Bye Birdie, the Music Man, Seussical the Musical.Once Upon a Mattress, Peter Pan, Wizard of Oz. and Fiddler on the Roof. Candy has taught ballet, jazz, and Musical Theatre at California State University Northridge’s Teenage Drama Workshop every summer for over 25 years. She continues to head up its’ dance division. Candy’s desire to share her passion for dance and theatre infuses her classes with positive energy, as she addresses proper technique and styling.
Coming from Phoenix, Arizona, Roman began his career as a hip-hop dancer. As his desire for dance grew, he received his technical training in his hometown and progressed while attending dance conventions and performing locally. Moving to Las Vegas he performed in “EFX starring David Cassidy” at the MGM Grand Hotel and became a member of the Culture Shock Hip-hop Dance Troupe along with Sky Hoffman, Napoleon and Tabitha Dumo. Now residing in Los Angeles, Roman has had the opportunity to work with artists such as Eva Longoria, Roselyn Sanchez, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Lopez, Jessica Simpson, Celine Dion, Anastasia, just to name a few. Other television/film and video credits include Dance with Jerry Springer, Pepsi, Sprite, EL Pollo Loco, Days of Our Lives, Rock the Reception, Bring it On 5, Indiana Jones 4, Mobbed and Alvin and the Chipmunks 3d. He has also choreographed and performed with companies such as Nike, FUBU, Adidas and Paul Mitchell.