Abbie has danced competitively and professionally since age 7. Classically trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, and tap, she has performed across the U.S., working with choreographers and companies in Austin, Las Vegas, Portland, and New York City.
For the past 14 years, Abbie has trained competitive dancers and choreographed for companies in Portland, Oregon, earning numerous overall placements, special awards, and choreography honors throughout the Pacific Northwest. Most recently she taught and created work in Manila, Philippines, with Nude Floor Studio, Elan Ballet, and Daloy Dance Company. She is a dedicated educator who builds technique, strength, and artistry in every dancer.
Teacher
Brittany Tolbert
With a BFA in Dance Performance and Choreography from the University of Southern Mississippi, Brittany has demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence in dance and choreography. Her education has been complemented by numerous performances, such as “Dracula” with the New Orleans Ballet Theatre and “Sleeping Beauty Ballet” with Mobile Ballet, which have allowed her to showcase her skills on significant stages. Her academic journey also includes participating in and choreographing various repertory dance concerts, where she has worked with esteemed choreographers and developed her own unique choreographic voice.
In addition to her performance experience, Brittany has engaged in impactful choreographic projects. Notable works include “Not a Farewell” and “Say It,” both performed at the University of Southern Mississippi’s Repertory Dance Concerts. Her choreographic style has been influenced by research and inspiration from Yvonne Rainer’s “No Manifesto,” which she explored deeply in the work “No Manifesto: Defining the Silhouette.” These projects have allowed her to refine her craft and contribute meaningfully to the dance community at USM.
Brittany’s dedication to dance extends beyond performance and choreography to teaching and community engagement. She has served as a teacher’s assistant at Gale’s Studio of Dance and the University of Southern Mississippi, sharing her knowledge with the next generation of dancers. Her involvement in residencies with companies such as Axis Dance Company and Pilobolus, along with internships and intensives, has enriched her understanding of diverse dance practices. These experiences, combined with numerous awards, including the Donald Drapeau Prize for Excellence and the Emerging Artists Grant, highlight her passion and dedication to advancing the field of dance.
Abbie Ware
Teacher
Kyndall Ransom
Teacher
Kyndall Ransom recently graduated from the University of South Alabama with a B.S. in Biochemistry and a minor in Kinesiology and Health. Before attending USA, she completed a year of graduate-level dance courses at the University of Mobile and worked on stage crew for multiple South Alabama drama productions.
She brings 17 years of recreational training, five years of dance education, and five years of teaching experience. Kyndall has trained at Melinda Leigh’s Performing Arts Center, Broadway South Dance, and with Davidson High School’s Kinetics dance company. She has studied with instructors across the U.S., including Matt Cady, tWitch, Kathryn McCormick, and Josh Smith. Her training spans contemporary, ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, hip hop, and musical theater, with additional experience in weight sharing, ballroom, African cultural dance, yoga, and Pilates.
Maren Cunningham
Teacher
Maren Cunningham is a dedicated dance instructor and performer with a passion for nurturing talent and inspiring young dancers to reach their full potential. Having trained at Gulf Coast Dance Alliance as a member of their competition team, Maren developed a strong
foundation in various dance styles including ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, and acro.
During
her high school years, Maren was not only a standout performer but also a leader as the captain of the Fairhope Dance Collective. Her commitment to excellence and her ability to motivate her peers earned her respect both on and off the stage.
Maren
is continuing her journey in dance as a member of The University of South Alabama Prowlers Dance Team. Her dedication to her craft and her exceptional talent have allowed her to excel in this competitive environment, where she continues to push the boundaries
of her artistry.
Currently
pursuing her dreams of becoming a physical therapist, Maren is studying diligently at The University of South Alabama, with the aim of specializing in sports rehabilitation. Her aspiration is to merge her love for dance with her knowledge of physical therapy
to aid athletes in their recovery from injury, allowing them to return to their passion with strength and confidence.
Beyond
her accomplishments as a performer, Maren's true passion lies in teaching. With a nurturing and supportive approach, she imparts her knowledge and love for dance to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether teaching ballet, tap, jazz, or acro, Maren's
classes are characterized by passion, encouragement, and a commitment to excellence. Maren finds immense joy in inspiring young dancers to realize their potential, fostering an environment where they can thrive both artistically and personally.
Maren
finds fulfillment in guiding young dancers as they discover their own strengths and abilities, instilling in them the confidence and determination to be the best they can be. Her infectious enthusiasm and genuine care for her students create a positive and
nurturing learning environment where each dancer can thrive.
With
a compassionate heart and a determined spirit, Maren Cunningham is poised to make a significant impact in the dance community. She is grateful for the opportunities that have shaped her journey thus far and looks forward to continuing to inspire and uplift
those around her, both on and off the dance floor.
Teacher
Wendy Langham
Wendy Langham is a highly accomplished and versatile dance teacher with an impressive background in the world of dance and performing arts. Hailing from Mobile, AL, Wendy's passion for dance was ignited at a young age as she began her training at Sheffields School of Dance and Mobile Ballet. Under the tutelage of renowned instructors, she honed her skills and developed a deep understanding of various dance genres.
Wendy's love for dance led her to join her family's dance school, Green Acres School of Dance, where she began her teaching journey. With her innate talent and dedication, she quickly established herself as an exceptional instructor, nurturing aspiring dancers and instilling in them a profound appreciation for the art form. In 2013, Wendy took a significant step in her career by rebranding the studio as Southern Strutt, reflecting her commitment to creating a vibrant and inclusive environment for dancers of all ages and skill levels.
Throughout her illustrious career, Wendy's expertise extends beyond dance. She is also trained in baton twirling and competitive gymnastics, having achieved national recognition as a competitive gymnast under the esteemed guidance of Nasser's Gymnastics in Mobile. This diverse background in multiple disciplines allows Wendy to provide a well-rounded and comprehensive dance education to her students.
Recognized for her exceptional teaching abilities, Wendy has been honored with the prestigious title of Dance Teacher of the Year for an impressive seven consecutive years. This recognition not only acknowledges her technical proficiency but also speaks volumes about her unparalleled commitment to fostering growth, creativity, and excellence in her students.
Wendy's talent as a performer has graced renowned stages across the country. She has showcased her skills at prominent venues such as Six Flags in New Orleans, LA, Opryland in Nashville, TN, and had the privilege of performing the opening number at the televised Showstoppers East Coast National Finals. Her captivating stage presence and dynamic artistry have enthralled audiences and earned her widespread acclaim.
Additionally, Wendy has excelled in the realm of pageantry, where she has demonstrated her multifaceted abilities. Notably, she achieved the distinguished honor of being named a Top 10 Talent Winner in the Baldwin County Junior Miss competition, further exemplifying her versatility and talent as a performer.
With her wealth of experience, unwavering passion, and exceptional teaching skills, Wendy Langham continues to inspire and shape the next generation of dancers. Through her dedication, artistry, and commitment to excellence, she creates an environment where students can thrive and fulfill their potential, both on and off the dance floor. Wendy Langham is not just a dance teacher but a true mentor, guiding her students to discover their own passion for dance and nurturing their dreams along the way.
Gear up for another year of exciting moves as we welcome Chassitie Smith back for her 9th year with GCDA! Chassitie, a true dance enthusiast, began her dance journey at the young age of seven and, twenty years on, she shows no signs of stopping. By the time she was 15, she was already assisting in teaching at the renowned dance convention Company Dance, working alongside industry heavyweights.
Following her graduation from Alma Bryant High School, Chassitie continued to dance, becoming a part of the dance team at Troy University's Sound of the South marching band. Her dancing prowess didn't stop there - in 2006, she clinched the National Title of Miss VIP at the National VIP Dance Competition in Panama City, Florida.
Dance has carried Chassitie far and wide, leading her to serve as a guest choreographer at Tribe Studio in Elba, Alabama, for a decade. She also played an integral role in devising competition choreography for the Tribe Dance Company.
Beyond the dance studio, Chassitie is a nurse. However, dance continues to hold a significant place in her life. Over the past twelve years, she has dedicated herself to teaching and choreographing various dance styles, including lyrical/contemporary, hip-hop, jazz, ballet/pointe, tap, acrobatics, and baton.
We're overjoyed to have Chassitie back at GCDA this year, and eagerly anticipate the fantastic moves she will undoubtedly bring to the dance floor!
Teacher / Choreographer
Chassitie Smith
Teacher
Jessica Treherne
With a career shaped by some of the most prestigious ballet institutions in the country, Jessica Treherne brings unmatched expertise, passion, and dedication to every class she teaches. She began her journey under the guidance of Judy Daniel and Michelle White, later refining her craft at the Baltimore School for the Arts and Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.
Jessica’s training includes time at world-renowned programs such as the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, American Ballet Theatre, and San Francisco Ballet. A proud graduate of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, she studied under ballet legends like Melissa Hayden, Warren Conover, and Gyula Pandi. Her performance credits span celebrated choreographers like George Balanchine and Marius Petipa, and even an invitation to perform with the Hungarian National Ballet.
Her professional career includes dancing with Carolina Ballet, Nashville Ballet, and the American Ballet Theatre Studio Company. As an educator, Jessica has shared her experience at institutions such as the School of the Washington Ballet, Mobile Ballet, and Cedar Lake Contemporary Dance Ensemble. She also spent 11 years leading Harford Dance Theatre as Artistic Director.
Jessica’s greatest pride is her students. Many have gone on to dance professionally with major companies including Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Washington Ballet, Miami City Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, Dutch National Ballet, and Atlanta Ballet.
When your child learns from Jessica, they’re not just getting top-tier technical training—they’re being nurtured by a mentor who believes in discipline, creativity, and the joy of dance. Whether your child dreams of the stage or simply wants to explore movement, Jessica provides the foundation to help them shine.
Teacher
Andrei Ivanko
Andrei Ivanko is a highly experienced gymnastics and tumbling instructor with a diverse background in the circus and performing arts industry. Born in Moscow, Russia, he began his career in 1976 and has since established himself as a renowned professional in his field.
From 1976 to 1980, Andrei trained extensively in acrobatics and juggling at the Professional Gymnastics School in Moscow, Russia. Following his training, he joined the Moscow Circus School, where he specialized in acrobatics and juggling from 1980 to 1987.
In 1987, Andrei became an acrobat and juggler in a five-person troupe led by Andrei Keruschen at the Russian State Circus. This role allowed him to showcase his talents across Russia, Japan, and France, gaining international recognition for his skills. He performed at prestigious venues such as the Bolshoi Circus in Nagoya, Japan, and the coliseum in Paris, France.
Throughout his career, Andrei has collaborated with various circus productions and organizations. Notably, he organized and led a five-person Russian juggling troupe, performed as a solo juggling act in Koriama, Japan for Paula Paul Productions, and showcased his talents at the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, WI.
In his current positions, Andrei continues to share his expertise and passion for gymnastics and tumbling. Since 1999, he has been serving as a Gymnastics and Tumbling Instructor at the Andrei Ivanko Gymnastics and Tumbling School in Moscow, Russia. Additionally, he holds two other present positions, starting from 2012 and 2019 respectively, where he continues to inspire and train students in the art of gymnastics and tumbling.
Andrei has also extended his teaching skills beyond Russia. He served as an Instructor/Coordinator of circus camps for kids at Cirque du Monde, both in Ocean Springs, MS and Spotlight Elite Dance Center in Pascagoula, MS. Furthermore, he has been a Tumbling and Juggling Instructor at Lanier's Gymnastics in Gulfport, MS, and the Conservatory of Dance Arts in Slidell, LA.
With his wealth of experience, Andrei Ivanko remains a respected figure in the world of gymnastics and tumbling, inspiring students and audiences alike with his remarkable skills and dedication.
Teacher/Choreographer : Director & Founder
Teacher
Dance
Melissa Patterson Covo
Melissa’s dance career started in Mobile, AL in 1981. She danced at Robinson’s School of Dance for nineteen years and was a charter member of the Lynn Robinson Dancers. Melissa is a graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and a minor in Psychology. While attending USM, Melissa was a member of the USM Dance Reparatory, performing many works from faculty, students and Jane Comfort and Company. She was also captain of the Dixie Darlings three of the four years she was on the team. Melissa was an American Dance Festival (ADF) scholarship student in 1999. While at ADF she focused on ballet and modern to include classes and performances. She had the opportunity to learn choreography from both Paul Taylor and Alvin Ailey companies. Melissa studied with company member, Lakey Evans, from Alvin Ailey Dance Company, Susan Mcguire, the head of Paul Taylor Dancers and was chosen to perform original repertoire from each company while attending American Dance Festival at Duke University.
After graduating in 1999, Melissa moved to New York City where she did an internship at Dance Space Center and Steps on Broadway. In 2001 Melissa moved to Raleigh, NC where she taught classes and worked with company members at Dance Creations by Susan Byrd. In 2003, she began working for the Wake County Public School System where she taught dance for two years. Melissa worked as the dance instructor at Old Shell Road School of Performing Arts in Mobile, AL where she taught Ballet, Tap and Jazz in 2006 and 2007. In 2008 Melissa became a dance instructor for a dance company in Fairhope, AL where she was the Director of Ballet and choreographed many stunning ballets and award-winning competitive routines.
Melissa is currently the owner, founder and artistic director of Gulf Coast Dance Alliance in Spanish Fort, AL; one of the most diverse dance studios on the Gulf Coast. Melissa has taught at The Summer Jazz intensive in Chicago at Gus Giordano Dance along with other amazing Dance Educators from across the country such as Cornelius Carter, Fury Gold, and Kirby Reed to name a few.
Melissa’s choreography over the past 13 years as artistic director of GCDA has won many accolades including several choreography awards, overall placements at Universal Ballet Competition (UBC), Youth American Grand apricot (YAGP) and many more national competitions. She continues to pursue her passion of training the next generation of young artists as a dance educator.
Instructor Profiles
Dance
GCDA Dance
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