About
Explore the Story Behind
Dance Connections Performing Arts Center
Dance Connection has been St. Peters’ premier dance studio since 1992. We provide a comprehensive range of dance classes tailored for students of all ages, beginning from as young as 2 1/2 years old to adult learners. Our classes include, but are not limited to, Acro, Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Jazz, Jumps & Turns, Musical Theater, Pre-Pointe, Pointe, and Tap. We offer both recreational and competitive classes. All DCPAC instructors have a degree in dance and/or keep their dance training and technique current by attending dance classes and conventions throughout the country. Our skilled instructors are dedicated to nurturing each student’s talent and fostering a love for dance in a positive and supportive environment. Join us at Dance Connection to experience top-notch training and become part of a vibrant dance community that celebrates creativity and expression.
Our Mission
Our mission is to foster a nurturing atmosphere where individuals can recognize and embrace their potential in both dance and life. We are dedicated to providing the training needed for talents to be uncovered, developed, and celebrated. By promoting positivity and love, we empower each member of our community to thrive personally and artistically.
Built to Last
From framing and finishes to roofing and remodeling, every project is handled with durable materials and expert craftsmanship designed for long-term value.
Stylish and Versatile
We blend creativity and construction know-how to create spaces that look stunning and work perfectly for your lifestyle or business needs.
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Licensed & Insured
We are fully licensed, insured, and compliant with all state regulations. Feel free to use our services with confidence. Reach out to our team to learn more.
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Long-Lasting Value
Using any of our services will add value to your project that lasts. It’s like adding money to your pocket if you were to sell.
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Attention to Detail
We will help coordinate any additional work that needs to be done on-site before our crews arrive to make sure that your project is ready!
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Deck & Fence Build
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Qualified Experts
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Years of Experience
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Happy Customers
Dedicated Mentorship and Training for Every Dancer
The leaders of Dance Connection Performing Arts Center are dedicated to fostering the growth of every dancer through personalized mentoring and training opportunities. They believe that developing technical skills is just as important as nurturing personal character, paving the way for dancers to excel both on and off the stage. Their commitment ensures that each dancer is empowered to reach their full potential, both as an artist and as an individual.
“Together, WE do make a difference.”
Our 6,400 square foot facility has five dance rooms with special “fully functional” sub-floors covered by professional no-slip dance floors, providing resilience and reducing the possibility of injury and fatigue.
Professional Instructors
Meet Our Talented Instructors
Jackie Williams
Owner & Director + Acro Director
Jackie became the Owner & Director of Dance Connection Performing Arts Center in 2005. She is safety certified by the USA National Congress. She has attended classes on spotting, drills, and creative teaching. She has been a member of USA Gymnastics since 1993.
Jackie was the Program Director and taught gymnastics to children ages 15 months to 18 years old at All-Star Gymnastics from 1992 to 2008.
She was a gymnast from 1973-1979.
Jackie is a mother of three children: Shana, Sarah, and Erik, and a grandma to Trevor, Landen, Alayna, Gavin, Aiden, Julian, Elliot, and Evelynn. Running the studio and enjoying every minute she can with her family keeps her very busy.
Sarah Barrett
Company Director
Sarah began dancing at the age of two and joined Dance Connection Performing Arts Center when she was seven years old. During her years as a competitive dancer, she trained extensively in all styles of dance and had the opportunity to work with many renowned choreographers from across the country. Throughout her competitive career, Sarah earned numerous overall awards, scholarships, and titles at both competitions and conventions.
At just 12 years old, Sarah began assisting classes and became a Master Teacher at the age of 18. She has proudly served as Director of DCPAC's Company for the past 16 years. Sarah treasures the relationships she has built with her dancers, families, and fellow staff members, considering them an extension of her own family. She continues to grow as an educator by observing classes, attending workshops, and staying involved in the local dance community. Her choreography has received numerous awards.
In April 2026, Sarah began a new chapter in her professional career as the Facilities Manager for Royal Canin USA. Her role has further strengthened her leadership, organization, and problem solving skills, which she brings into the studio each day.
Sarah is excited for the 2026–2027 season and is passionate about sharing her love of dance with every student she teaches. She hopes to inspire confidence, perseverance, and a lifelong love for the performing arts. Her greatest wish is that one day a student will say, "Because of you, I didn't give up.”
At 12 years old, Sarah began Assistant Teaching, became a Master Teacher at 18, and has directed DCPAC's Company for 15 years. She enjoys her vital role within the team, considering them family. To stay updated, Sarah observes various classes and attends local dance events. Her choreography has earned several awards.
Sarah looks forward to the 2025-2026 season, fueled by her passion for dance. She aims to share her dedication and expertise with students. "I want to inspire others. I hope someone will say, 'Because of you, I didn't give up.'"
Angie Mahlin
Recreational Director
Angie has been a valued member of the Dance Connection Performing Arts Center family since 2019. Now entering her eighth year as Recreational Director, she continues to grow in her role while inspiring students through her passion and dedication to dance.
Angie began dancing at the age of seven at Dufrenne Dance Academy, where she trained in ballet, tap, and jazz, quickly developing a strong love for jazz. She later continued her training at Berkley Evans and American Youth Performing Arts, both of which emphasized a strong ballet foundation—an influence that remains central to her teaching today.
During her time at UMSL, Angie pursued dance at the collegiate level, performing and choreographing original pieces for various showcases. She also attended and performed at the American College Dance Association, further expanding her experience and artistry.
Angie continued her professional development by studying with Dance Masters of America in New York, where she gained valuable tools and a deeper understanding of teaching dance fundamentals.
She credits much of her teaching style to the instructors and training she received throughout her journey. Angie is passionate about passing on this knowledge and is excited to continue inspiring and educating the next generation of dancers.
Angie began dancing at the age of seven years old at Dufrenne Dance Academy. She studied ballet, tap, and jazz and grew a fondness for jazz while there. She moved to Berkley Evans and American Youth Performing Arts later in her dance training. Both studios had a foundation of ballet which Angie has carried with her throughout her teaching.
She studied dance while in college at UMSL and performed in various showcases the college had put on. She attended and studied at Dance Masters of America.
She attributes a lot of her teaching style to these classes and teachers she studied from. She is excited to bestow more of these teachings onto the next generation of dancers.
Ashlyn Reinhold
Master Teacher & Camp Coordinator
Ashlyn has been dancing since she was four years old. She has taken ballet, tap, jazz, hip-
hop, poms, acro, cheer, and musical theatre over her dancing career. In the fall of 2026,
this will be Ashlyn’s eleventh year as a dance teacher at Dance Connection Performing Arts
Center. She started out as an assistant teacher and has progressed to a master teacher as
of the 2022-2023 dance season. She is excited to continue teaching dance this upcoming
season!
Ashlyn has now taken on the role of Camp Coordinator. This is in addition to her planning
and running the Summer Dance Camps for the past several years. She has also been
teaching Girl Scout Dance classes as well as a few Birthday parties. If you are looking to set
up a Girl Scout class or a birthday party, Ashlyn is the person to go to.
Ashlyn graduated Cum Laude with her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education
degree from the University of Missouri, St. Louis in May 2022. She is certified to teach from
Birth-3rd Grade and Birth-12th Grade in Special Education. Since graduating from college in
May of 2022, Ashlyn spent the next two school years substitute teaching in the Francis
Howell School District continuing to learn and teach in the field of education. Ashlyn now
teaches at O2B Kids in O’Fallon as the Lead Preschool Teacher in their 4/5-year-old
classroom. She is excited to finally have her own classroom after wanting to be a teacher
since elementary school. In April of 2025, O2B Kids had their annual Odie Awards where
Ashlyn was awarded the Educator of the Year award.
Gina Bon-Perez
Master Teacher
Gina is a passionate and dedicated dance educator who's mentored and trained dancers for over thirty years. Her extensive dance training began in St. Louis, where she trained with Norma Beutell, Sylvia Granneman (Gateway Ballet), and, later, Anne Johnston.
She received her B.A. in Performing Arts from Lindenwood University and, during that time, also studied ballet with Gary Hubbler at Webster University. She lived in New York City for ten years, studied at Broadway Dance Center and Steps, and was also on scholarship in L.A. at Tremaine Dance Center and The Edge Performing Arts Center. She's had the privilege of training with some of the very best in the field- a few who left an indelible mark in her dance journey include Joe Tremaine, Jackie Sleight, Marcea Lane, Doug Caldwell, Andy Blankenbeuhler, A.C Ciulla, Mia Michaels, Peter Schabel, Finis Jung, Madame Darvash, David Howard, Germaine Salsberg, Barbara Duffy and Ray Hesselink.
Professionally, she's performed in stock and regional theatre as well as several Broadway National and European productions. Career highlights include touring the country in productions of State Fair, My Fair Lady, Evita, The King and I, and the European tour of Grease, as well as singing in the opera Die Fledermaus in Rome, Italy. She's also performed in regional productions of Chicago (Velma Kelly), Nunsense II (Sister Leo), The Mystery of Edwin Drood (Rosa Bud), A Chorus Line, and the world premiere of Prince and the Pauper. She's been a faculty member and guest choreographer for many prestigious performing arts centers and choreographed productions for high schools and colleges on the East Coast and St. Louis region.
In addition, she's served as a faculty member for several national dance conventions, including Dance Masters of America and Kids Artistic Revue. She continues to study with the great master teachers of dance, making yearly trips to New York City and has completed Vaganova teacher training with ballet great Mr. Peter White and the accredited Broadway Dance Center teacher workshop.
Besides spending time with her beloved family, her greatest joy is walking through that studio door where all the magic happens. There's nothing in the world she loves more than sharing her passion and love of dance with this next generation of dancers.
Tynlee Jones
Master Teacher
Tynlee grew up in Wentzville, Missouri where she trained as a company dancer at DCPAC for 15 years. Her senior year of high school, she was the captain of Timberland Varsity Dance Team. After she graduated, she attended AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts in Hollywood, California where she obtained her BFA in Dance Theater. She was dance captain for many performances and assisted professional choreographers such as Tracy Silver, Laura Berg, Gabriel Ash, and Michelle Elkin. She was part of multiple performances at AMDA, as well as professional events throughout Hollywood. Tynlee has since returned to the St. Louis area and is excited for her second year of teaching at DCPAC! She looks forward to continue sharing her passion for dance through teaching the next generation!
After she graduated, she attended AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts in Hollywood, California where she obtained her BFA in Dance Theater. She was dance captain for many performances and assisted professional choreographers such as Tracy Silver, Laura Berg, Gabriel Ash, and Michelle Elkin. She was part of multiple performances at AMDA, as well as professional events throughout Hollywood.
Tynlee has since returned to the St. Louis area and is excited to share her passion for dance through teaching the next generation!
Emilie Hatfield
Master Teacher
Emilie Harty-Hatfield is from Cottleville, Missouri, where she began her dance training at the age of four.
Throughout the years, Emilie has won numerous scholarships and awards for competitive dancing. She has attended dance conventions and competitions from New York to Los Angeles. Emilie has taken classes from many well-known choreographers. Emilie has spent numerous summers training at intensives and taking classes at Broadway Dance Center in New York and Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio in Los Angeles. She traveled across the country with the Tremaine Performance Team as a company member for eight years. As a company member of Tremaine, she assisted well-known choreographers in a classroom environment. One of her most rewarding moments is watching young dancers look up to her as she teaches and shares her love of dance.
Emilie graduated from Lindenwood University, where she studied Dance and Political Science. During her time at Lindenwood University, she performed in the dance program concerts and choreographed her own work. Emilie attended and performed at the American College Dance Association. She was also a member of the Lion Line dance team, which won the 2017 title of Jazz National Champions in the Open division. Emilie's passion is dance. She loves teaching dance and having the privilege to inspire and see growth in the students that come to her class.
This will be Emilie's seventh year teaching at Dance Connection Performing Arts Center, and she looks forward to the 2026-2027 season!
Sarah Harnetiaux
Master Teacher
Sarah started dancing when she was two years old. She began competing at age eight and has experience with every style of dance. She was a member of Marquette Catholic High School’s Varsity Dance Team for four years and was a captain her senior year. During her time on the team, she earned accolades such as x2 UDA All American, x2 IDTA Rising Star recipient, a State qualifying soloist, and a third place finish at IDTA State in 1A Jazz. After high school, Sarah became a member of the SIUE Competitive Dance Team for four years and was a captain her senior year. For SIUE, she competed in the NDA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL. She earned a National Championship ring for Division 1 Pom in 2021. Sarah graduated in 2022 with a Bachelors degree in Applied Communication Studies. Following graduation, she was the Assistant Coach for Marquette Catholic High School’s Varsity Dance Team for two years, leading the team to two IDTA State Championships in 1A Lyrical/Contemporary and two second place finishes in 1A Jazz. Sarah is excited for her third year of teaching at DCPAC!
During her time on the team, she earned accolades such as x2 UDA All American, x2 IDTA Rising Star recipient, a State qualifying soloist, and a third place finish at IDTA State in 1A Jazz. After high school, Sarah became a member of the SIUE Competitive Dance Team for four years and was a captain her senior year. For SIUE, she competed in the NDA College Nationals in Daytona Beach, FL. She earned a National Championship ring for Division 1 Pom in 2021.
Sarah graduated in 2022 with a Bachelors degree in Applied Communication Studies. Following graduation, she was the Assistant Coach for Marquette Catholic High School’s Varsity Dance Team for two years, leading the team to two IDTA State Championships in 1A Lyrical/Contemporary and two second place finishes in 1A Jazz.
Sarah is excited for her second year of teaching at DCPAC!
Caitlin Hopkins
Master Teacher
Caitlin started her dance training at the age of 12 in Kalamazoo, Michigan at Ballet Arts School of Dance where she took on various styles of jazz, modern, and tap as well as participating in their youth ballet company, Ballet Arts Ensemble, where she learned varying types of ballet forms deriving from Vaganova, Balanchine, even testing through level 5 of the Cecchetti Method.
After her secondary education she went on to study at Western Michigan University where she furthered her studies in dance while also having the opportunity to perform in faculty pieces, guest artist works, and taking master class with visiting guest artists as well.
After graduating in 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance she was given the opportunity to spend her first year post-graduation as a trainee with The Big Muddy Dance company in St Louis, Missouri where she was able to participate in various festivals and shows under the Big Muddy Convergence Trainee name.
She’s now spent the last five years teaching and choreographing for studios in the St. Louis area and can’t wait to teach the Dance Connection Performing Arts Center’s team again!
Kris Anderson
Master Teacher
Kristine Anderson is a dance educator with 30+ years of teaching experience in the Wichita, Kansas dance community. Now living in St. Charles, she specializes in Ballet for all ages, including preschool dancers.
Her teaching philosophy is rooted in leading with creativity and kindness while maintaining a strong, structured, technique-based approach. She is passionate about helping dancers build confidence, develop strong technique, and find joy through movement.
Kaila Morris
Master Teacher & Event Coordinator
Curtaria “Kaila” Morris was born in St. Louis, Missouri, where she has trained in dance since the age of three. She was a member of the Varsity Sensations Dance Team during high school. Kaila was recognized as an All-Star Dancer at Hall of Fame Dance Competition
Throughout her dance career, Kaila has had the opportunity to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade and also performed for Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club events in St. Louis. She has additionally performed at a Black History event held in downtown St. Louis. Kaila also attended prestigious training programs including the Center of Creative Arts (COCA) Dance Intensive and the Nashville Ballet Intensive.
Kaila graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in Kinesiology, where she was also a performer in the University of Alabama Dance Program. She currently attends Lindenwood University pursuing a degree in Sports Psychology while continuing to grow her passion for movement, performance, health, and fitness.
Brittany Guzman
Master Teacher
Brittany has been dancing since she was a small child. She was a part of the competition team at the studio where she grew up dancing. She took ballet, hip-hop, jazz, tap, and tumbling classes. Her favorite classes were jazz and hip hop, but ballet always held a special place in her heart. She started teaching students at a young age, which led to her teaching her own class. Her favorite thing about teaching a dance class is seeing the kids light up when they have been working to master something. She loves being a part of a dance family and watching young children find their second families within the dance community. It is such a great way for a child to express themselves. She is very thankful to be teaching at Dance Connection Performing Arts Center!
Stephanie Green
Master Teacher
Stephanie’s love for dance began at the age of three and has remained a lifelong passion. Growing up, she trained in a variety of styles, competed with her studio’s competition team, and especially excelled in tap. She later continued performing as a member of her high school dance team before discovering another passion, teaching.
Throughout her teaching career, Stephanie has worked with dancers of all ages and abilities, from young beginners to adults, and has taught a variety of dance styles. She has also choreographed numerous solos, duets, and group routines for competitive dancers, earning recognition and awards for her unique choreography.
Stephanie believes that anyone who wants to dance can dance, and she loves being part of each student’s journey. Now entering her fourth season at Dance Connection, she is excited for another wonderful year of helping her dancers grow in confidence, reach their full potential, and shine on stage!
Megan Studebaker
Master Teacher
Megan started dancing at Dance Connection Performing Arts Center at age 3. She joined the competition team at 7 years old and continued competing until she graduated high school. During her time at DCPAC, she trained in ballet, jazz, and tap. She also attended many conventions where she learned from many well known choreographers. Upon graduating high school, Megan moved to Springfield and received a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Missouri State University. She returned to the St. Louis area and began teaching elementary aged students with special needs for 4 years. In 2023, Megan left teaching to stay home with her son, Rome. She is so excited to be teaching again at the studio she grew up dancing at!
She started teaching students at a young age, which led to her teaching her own class. Her favorite thing about teaching a dance class is seeing the kids light up when they have been working to master something.
She loves being a part of a dance family and watching young children find their second families within the dance community. It is such a great way for a child to express themselves. She is very thankful to be teaching at Dance Connection Performing Arts Center!
Shannon Bollinger
Studio Receptionist
Shannon is the mother of two awesome kids, Jackson and Tilly. She has performed and worked backstage in the local theatre community for over 20 years. When she’s not behind the desk at DCPAC, she’s either crocheting plushies or performing in Main Street St. Charles’ holiday festivals.
Alayna Palazzo
Student Teacher
Alayna has been dancing at DCPAC since she was 2 years old and can’t remember a time when dance wasn’t a part of her life. Over the years, she has trained in a variety of dance styles, performed in countless recitals, and competed at regional and national competitions. Through dance, she has made lifelong friendships and created memories she will cherish forever.
Dance has taught Alayna so much more than technique. It has helped her build confidence, discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and a strong work ethic that she carries into every aspect of her life. She loves being part of the DCPAC family and is grateful for the teachers and mentors who have encouraged and inspired her throughout the years.
Alayna is excited to begin teaching at DCPAC and share her passion for dance with the next generation of dancers. She hopes to create a fun, positive, and encouraging environment where every child feels supported, builds confidence, and discovers a love for dance. Her goal is to help her students grow not only as dancers but also as kind, hardworking, and confident individuals while creating the same unforgettable experiences that dance has given her.
Rylinn Andrew
Student Teacher
Rylinn is from Moscow Mills, Missouri, and has been dancing for 10 years. Jazz has always been her favorite style, and dance has been such an important part of her life growing up. She loves getting to share her passion for dance with others and wants her classes to be a fun and positive place where dancers feel confident, comfortable, and excited to learn. She hopes to encourage her students to work hard, be themselves, and enjoy their time in the studio.
Sophie Poynter
Content Creator
Caroline Musgrove
Assistant Teacher
Ashlyn Skouby
Assistant Teacher
Lyra Fletcher
Assistant Teacher
Raegan Andrew
Assistant Teacher
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Proudly Serving These Areas
- O'Fallon
- St Peters
- St Charles
- Lake St Louis
- Wentzville
- St. Louis County
- And Most Areas Nearby
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Distinguished Certifications
In addition to participating in organizations whose members have similar customer-centered focus, we have received the following certifications over the years:
- Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
- Missouri Society for Healthcare Engineering (MOSHE)
- Associated General Contractors of America (AGC)
Experience the magic of dance at Dance Connection Performing Arts Center.
Business Hours
Mon: 2 PM–10 PM
Tue: 2 PM–10 PM
Wed: 2 PM–10 PM
Thu: 2 PM–10 PM
Fri: Closed
Sat: 9 AM–3 PM
Sun: Closed
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