Abby is thrilled to be dancing with Outlet for her 5th season! She started exploring dance in elementary school with strong interests in ballet and jazz, and she was a member of her high school's dance team. In college she joined the Purdue Contemporary Dance Company, where she fell in love with modern dance. Abby has enjoyed the opportunity to continue challenging herself and working with an awesome group of dancers in Outlet. While she previously considered herself a dancer only and not a choreographer, dancing with Outlet has given Abby the confidence to choreograph dances on her own for the first time in her dancing career!  Abby also works as a civil engineer on public works and sustainability projects, and she enjoys spending time outside. 

Abby started dancing when she was 3, and while she was in plenty of other sports, dance was always her constant. When she became a part of Motions Dance Co. in elementary school, dance then became everything. In high school it was the South Elgin Dance Team, and in college Abby was a member of the Mizzou Competitive Dance Team, always craving a space to move and collaborate. It’s been a few years since Abby has had the chance to dance, and she’s so excited to get back to it! The dance community has given Abby some of the best of friends, and shes so thankful to be a part of Outlet to continue that! 

Dance has been part of Ali's life for as long as she can remember. Her dance training includes Faughborg School of Ballet, McDonald’s Dance Academy, Visceral Dance Center, and Pavilion Dance Center. Ali keeps dance part of her life by teaching classes, leading competitive dance teams, and dancing as a full-time company member with Outlet Dance Company.  Outside of dance, Ali works full time as a Marketing and Public Relations Manager and enjoys being in nature and working on home projects. 

Allie has been dancing since she was three years old, training in ballet, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, hip hop, modern, and tap. She grew up dancing at Dance Motions in Bartlett, and joined Motions Dance Company in sixth grade. As a company member, Allie performed in various showcases such as Dance Chicago, Dance in the Parks, and Dance the World in Disney World. Allie was also a member of the varsity dance team at South Elgin High School, where she qualified for the State competition all four years of her high school career. She went on to earn her B.S. in Secondary Social Studies Education from Indiana University, and her M.A. in Political Science from Northern Illinois University. Currently Allie is in her 8th year as a high school social studies teacher and varsity dance team coach. She also manages Fostering Success, a nonprofit organization that works to pair at-risk teens with an adult mentor from their community, and works at Orangetheory Fitness!

Allison Duda started dancing at age 3 training in ballet, jazz, and modern/contemporary all through local studios and Riverside Brookfield High School's dance program.  She graduated from Illinois State University in 2015 with her Bachelor's degree in Dance Education and endorsement in Physical Education.  Allison also received her Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University in the spring of 2023.  After teaching and choreographing for numerous high schools throughout the Chicagoland area, Allison is now the dance teacher and Orchesis Director at Loyola Academy where she has been teaching dance and physical education classes for the last 5 years.  This is Allison's 7th season with Outlet Dance Company and is excited for another great season and show!

This is Ally's 10th season as a company member of Outlet Dance Company and her first year in her new role as Outlet North's Branch Manager!  Ally is the dance teacher and Orchesis Director at Regina Dominican, an all-girls private high school in Wilmette. In 2014, Ally graduated Cum Laude from Illinois State University with her Bachelor’s of Science in Dance Education with a minor in Health Education. Throughout Ally’s dance career she has had the opportunity to study abroad in Brazil as well as attend multiple dance conferences, such as the American Dance Festival. Ally has had the pleasure of choreographing eight high school musicals, directing ten high school dance concerts and has set her choreography on multiple companies, studios and schools in the Chicagoland area. In October of 2023, Ally was nominated by one of her dance students and was selected as WGN's Teacher of the Month! Ally is excited to celebrate an entire decade dancing with Outlet and looks forward to many more years to come!

Aly Heintz Raddatz is a versatile contemporary modern dancer from the Chicagoland area. A graduate of the Dance Center of Columbia College Chicago, received her BA in Dance Teaching & Choreography, as well as a minor in Arts Management. She has had the honor of training with many influential dancers and teachers including: Alberto Arias, Margi Cole, Paige Cunningham,  Rosemary Doolas, Jeff Hancock, Dardi McGinley-Gallivan, John Lehrer, Debbie Nanni,  Nana Shineflug, Richard Smith, and Ellen Werksman. Aly’s most notable (favorite) performance experience was being a featured dancer for the Art Institute of Chicago’s opening of the Toulouse Lautrec Exhibit! For nearly 15 years, she taught dancers in workshop settings all over the US, coached dance teams, choreographed for many high school musicals, and choreographed for youth concert companies. From 2015-2024, she was the Director of Operations at Allegro Dance Boutique, supporting our dance community outside of the studio setting. When she’s not dancing, you can find her building businesses, playing guitar, training her Australian Shepherds, or building Legos with her husband, Patrick. 

Amanda Freebeck has been dancing since she was 3 years old.  She received her formal training at Jo’s Footwork Dance Studio with a focus on ballet, modern, jazz, pointe, and lyrical.  During high school Amanda was a member of  Matrix Dance Improv and Eurythmics Dance Company performing works by Randy Duncan, Keith Elliot, Jeff Hancock, Terry Wethington, and Corey Nagel.  She continued her dance studies at the University of Illinois as a performer and choreographer with 3 Spot Dance Troupe. As a graduate from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, she received her bachelor’s degree in Human Development/Family studies with a concentration in child/adolescent studies and dance.  After college, Amanda coached Poms Dance at Lyons Township High School, founded Footwork All Star Elite Dance Team, and is currently teaching at Jo’s Footwork. Her additional degree in Occupational Therapy has enabled her to pursue her passion of teaching dance to children of all abilities and needs to reach their goals. When not dancing,  you will find Amanda providing school based Occupational Therapy services and spending time with her husband and dog.  Amanda is looking forward to returning to the stage as a member of Outlet Dance Co.

Andrea Novak began her dance training over 28 years ago. As a young girl, she was a member of the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago children’s cast of The Nutcracker, which allowed her to perform over 100 times at Chicago’s Auditorium Theater. Her passion for dance and baton twirling landed her a spot as a member of the 2006 USA Baton Twirling World Competition Team that competed in Netherlands and placed 3rd in the world. In 2009, Andrea was Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen, and she was blessed to be able to dance on stage at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas for the Miss America pageant. Andrea went on to graduate Cum Laude from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration where she majored in Marketing and earned minors in Dance Performance and Public Relations. While in college, she was a 4-year member of the UWW Dance Company and UWW Dance Team. Andrea began her business career at Arlington International Racecourse where she worked in digital marketing was the writer of the track’s fashion blog, The Style Guide. She then went on to earn her Masters of Science (MS) in Communication & Marketing from Purdue University’s graduate program. Currently, Andrea is the Director of Marketing for Auxo Brands, where she oversees the marketing department for RP, FLX/Flexistretcher, Exotic Tea, and produces the 5.6.7.EIGHT Podcast. Andrea is thrilled to be dancing with Outlet Dance Company for her 7th year!

Arianna began dancing at the age of 2 at a studio called Dance Corner until it closed when she was 16. While at Dance Corner she learned many styles and was a part of the competitive team for 12 years. She was also a part of the dance team at her high school Glenbard East as well the Elmhurst University Dance Company. While at Elmhurst University she took several dance classes to learn more about choreographing. Arianna works part time as a dance teacher and enjoys reading and spending time with family. 

Becca Bremer has been dancing since she was 2 years old. Becca was involved in orchesis and Poms at Maine West High school and in 2 dance companies while dancing Bataille Academie of the Danse. In 2017, she graduated from Hope College with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance Performance and Choreography.  Throughout Becca’s dance career, she danced with Strike Time Dance Company and various showcases. Becca has performed and choreographed in Paris in 2017! Becca currently teaches at Viking Gymnastics and Dance and loves to share her passion for dance with her students! Becca is looking forward to many more opportunities and is thrilled to be back on the stage with Outlet for another season!

Brittany began dancing as a young child and knew in high school that dance would always be a part of her life. She trained at the Dance Center of LaGrange, Lyons Township High School and studied all around the city of Chicago throughout her high school career.  After high school, she continued her dance education as a Dance Performance major at Illinois State University.  While at ISU she had the opportunity to study and perform with many choreographers and artists from all over the country. You can now find her teaching dance to dancers of all ages at the Dance Center of LaGrange, where she has recently taken over ownership with her sister.  Brittany also coaches the Varsity Poms team and directs the Eurythmic Dance Company at Lyons Township High School.  This is Brittany's fourth season with Outlet and first year as the South Branch Manager.  When not dancing and teaching, Brittany is chasing around her toddler, enjoying being a new mom.

Brooke Kirschsieper is a fifth year Outlet Company member. She started dancing at the age of 5 through The Dance Company and The American Dance Center. In 2016 Brooke graduated with a Bachelors degree in Dance Performance and Writing. She previously was a dance instructor at Dance Workshop and Dance Images. Through Dance Images she was a competition team choreographer, winning the Choreographers Award in their 2017/2018 season. Outside of dance Brooke held a 4-year career at Orangetheory Fitness and just recently her new full-time career is an Admissions Advisor at Rasmussen University. She loves spending quality time with her boyfriend Tyler and her family. She is extremely grateful for all of their support and encouragement.

Carli began dancing at the age of three and continued all through her twenties. She is trained in ballet, tap, jazz, pointe, lyrical, modern, and hip hop. Before college, she participated in a competitive dance company, orchesis, and her high school poms team. During college, she took every opportunity to join dance performances. One her favorite memories was co-choreographing a philanthropy dance performance for her sorority. After college, there were limited options to dance again as an adult. She ended up connecting with a fellow dancer who ran adult classes in jazz, lyrical, and tap. She also had an opportunity to coach 3-5 year old ballet and 7-9 year old poms at a local park district. COVID brought a quick halt to her dance opportunities. She is excited and grateful for the opportunity to dance again with Outlet! 

Cassie began dancing at the age of two at Gotta Dance Studio.  At the age of three, she started her competitive dance career with the Starlite Dance Company and continued dancing competitively for 10 years, attending competitions nation-wide.  While attending Elk Grove High School, Cassie was a member of the Grenadette Poms team where she had many opportunities to grow as a choreographer as well as leading her team to the State Contest as Captain her senior year.  Cassie graduated from The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a BS in Chemistry and is currently working as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. Cassie is a scientist, but also has a great passion for the performing arts and is very excited to be given the opportunity to be a member of the Outlet Dance Company.

Courtney was born in Los Angeles, California, but her extensive dance training began over two decades ago throughout the northwest suburbs of Chicago.  Courtney has studied a multitude of styles but specializes in contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and contemporary & classical ballet. Training as a competitive dancer, she had the honor to train with Joel Hall, Kirby Reed, William Gill, Lane Alexander, Richard Smith and many more as well as receive multiple convention scholarships.  Courtney has attended Break the Floor, Joffrey Ballet Summer Intensive, Chicago Dance Connection, Dupree Dance,CNADM, and Joel Hall Jazz Camp. She has performed in the Macy’s Thanksgiving and the Magnificent Mile Parades and has had the opportunity to travel around the country through dance! Courtney also spent some time dancing at Loyola University Chicago before becoming the founder and artistic director of Glendale Heights Dance Company at the age of 19. As a choreographer, Courtney’s competitive work has earned notice through overall placements and judges’ awards.  In addition to her dance work, she choreographs award winning floor and beam routines for artistic and power gymnasts as well as cheerleading and pageant routines. Currently, Courtney is a dance instructor and choreographer in Roselle, IL as well as a fitness instructor in Lake Zurich. Courtney is absolutely thrilled to continue sharing her passion for movement as a member of Outlet. 

Cydnie began dancing at age 3 at the Streamwood Park District. She continued to dance at Larkin High School in their Performing Arts Dance Academy, and in college on the UWO Dance Team. She worked at the Streamwood Park District as a choreographer for the Starlights Dance Team and now works at the Bartlett Park District running their cultural arts program! Cydnie is excited for her first year dancing with Outlet! 

Dana is excited to rejoin Outlet after a six-year break from dancing. Her journey in dance began at the age of 3 and progressed through high school as a dancer and choreographer with the Elk Grove High School Orchesis. Dana further honed her skills performing as a company member in the Rodriguez Dance Theatre and assisting with their annual community performance projects. She was a company member and board member with Outlet Dance Company during seasons 1 through 4 before taking a hiatus to raise her two beautiful daughters. Now, she is thrilled to return to dancing alongside many amazing women in Outlet for season 10.

Danielle started dancing when she was just three years old. When she was five, she was asked to join a pre-professional dance company called Ballet North. Here she studied ballet, and performed in full productions such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote, and many others. She even had the opportunity of taking classes with Joffrey, Ballet Chicago and ABT over summer intensives and guest classes. Danielle learned other styles of dance through her high school and college dance club called Orchesis. Since graduating from Bradley University with her Bachelor’s in Health Science, she decided to further her education and achieve her Masters in Nursing. Currently she works as a pediatric nurse and is appreciative of the moments she gets to share with her patients. When Danielle is not dancing or working, she finds time to create all types of crafts and enjoys the outdoors.

Destiny has been dancing since she was four years old and has been in love with it ever since. She has trained and continues to train in various styles but has a special love for contemporary. Destiny danced competitively for multiple years as a child. She was also a member of Elk Grove High School orchesis, where she fell in love with choreographing and creating pieces of her own. Straight out of high school, Destiny started teaching at multiple studios, her previous high school and adult pop up classes. She was a member of InsideOut Dance Project in 2019-2020. She currently teaches at Aspirations Dance Company where she loves sharing her passion with her students and watching them grow. Destiny continues her dance training at Visceral Dance Center, The Rooted Space and other Chicago studios, and now excited to say, Outlet Dance Company. 

Ellery Woodworth grew up as a competitive dancer at Impact Dance Studio and Beyond Words Dance Company. During this time, she had the honor to dance with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (2006) in their 12th Anniversary Welcome Yule Christmas Show – choreographed by Jeremy Plummer and Lizzie Mackenzie. Under the training and choreography of Kate Jablonski, Ellery danced in the Jazz Dance World Congress showcase (2009), Capezio A.C.E. Awards (2009), an off-Broadway production, Beneath the Surface/Beyond Words, at New World Stages Theatre in New York (2010). She also was featured in GHOSTLIGHT’s “Six Years Later” music video (2011) and Laura Marling’s “I Was Just a Card” music video (2012).  Ellery continued her training through college at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign where she graduated with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and a Hoeft Technology and Management minor. She danced for two years with the Illinettes Dance Team where she performed at all the at-home football and men’s/women’s basketball games. She concluded her collegiate dance career with the UIUC 2XS hip hop team where she danced at various shows around the UIUC campus, neighboring colleges (Indiana University, University of Michigan, and Purdue), and venues in downtown Chicago. Most recently, Ellery travelled to Šibenik, Croatia with The Kate Jablonski Statement for their production Dream State in 2022.  When Ellery is not dancing, she works as a Manager in Energy & Utility consulting at West Monroe Partners and loves to spend time traveling, cooking, reading, and playing with her dog Zuko.

Elizabeth Stepien is originally from Wilmington, IL. She received her early training from the Major School of Dance where she later started her teaching career. She also supplemented her ballet training at the Von Heidecke School of Ballet where she also performed in the Chicago Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker. While studying theater, dance and Costume Design at the College of Charleston in South Carolina, Elizabeth danced with The Robert Ivey Ballet and performed with the Footlight Players. After returning to IL, Elizabeth finished her dance degree with a concentration in teaching at Columbia College
Chicago. She studied with Liz Burrit, Peter Carpenter, Margi Cole, Johanna Rosenthal as well as attended workshops with Same Planet Different World, The Joe Goode Performance Group, and Cloud Gate Dance Theater of Taiwan to name a few. She is a Former Company
member, Choreographer and teacher for Meraki Dance Company. Since graduating in 2011, her main focus has been taking care of her family, as well as sharing her love of dance while teaching at Elite Dance academy, Southwest Synergy Dance, Dance FX, and Forte Arts Center, and Elevation Dance Company. She is currently a dance faculty member at Momentum Dance Studio and guest teacher for Dance Tapestry workshops. She is also an affiliate of the American Academy of Ballet and teaches workshops in Progressive Ballet Technique(PBT) and Progressing Contemporary Technique (PCT). She is also a wife and mother of two, who are her biggest supporters as well as the center of her life. Elizabeth is excited to move from guest teacher to Full company member for Outlet Dance Company.

Genna began dancing at the age of three at Jo’s Footwork Studio in Western Springs, IL. While her training has primarily focused on jazz, modern, and ballet, she has also studied tap, musical theatre, and African dance throughout her career. Genna attended Lyons Township High School in La Grange, IL where she was a member of the Eurythmic Dance Company and had the opportunity to work with renowned guest choreographers, including Randy Duncan and Keith Elliot. She was also a member of the Varsity Poms team where she learned and performed competitive jazz and pom. Genna continued her dance career while attending Elmhurst University and received accolades for her dance performance and small group choreography. Most recently, Genna served as the Assistant Varsity Dance Team Coach at IC Catholic Prep in Elmhurst, IL. Genna is extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a member of Outlet Dance Company. When she’s not dancing, you can find her working at CBRE as a commercial real estate advisor or playing with her 15-year-old beagle named Duke.

Hannah grew up dancing at Lively Arts Dance Academy and Thrive Center for Dance, training in ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, tap, and hip hop. She was captain of Lyons Township Varsity Poms, captain of BOOM BOX! Dance Company, member of the Eurythmic Dance Company, and member of BOOM CRACK! Dance Company. Hannah’s obsession with dance followed her to college where she graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in May of 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a concentration in Physical Therapy. Collegiate performance credits include Charlie Maybee's The Promise of Stormy Weather and the Lyric Theatre @ Illinois production of Crazy for You, directed by Sarah Wigley. During her senior year of college, Hannah danced and choreographed with 3Spot Dance Troupe. Upon graduation, Hannah opened a virtual dance studio, Dance with Miss Hannah, where she taught themed dance classes via Zoom. Hannah is currently pursuing her Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Midwestern University in Downers Grove and anticipates graduation in May of 2024. Upon graduation, she hopes to start her career as a pediatric physical therapist and continue working with young dancers. Hannah wishes to make dance a vital priority within the sciences by educating dancers on the importance of well-rounded dance instruction and prioritizing their body’s wellness. This is Hannah’s third season with Outlet Dance Company South. She is thrilled to continue her devotion to dance through Outlet!

Holly danced throughout her childhood and teen years before earning her bachelor’s degree in Dance from The University of Iowa in 2005. Holly spent her formative dance years at The St. Charles School of Dance, and as a state champion with St. Charles East Dance Team. Studying dance technique, improv, choreography, and performance in UI's dance department was one of the greatest joys of Holly’s life. Almost 20 years later, it is an absolute thrill to return to dancing through Outlet Dance Company for a second season. A former elementary teacher and curriculum specialist, Holly is currently a full time mom and volunteer.

Jackie started dancing at age 3 so her mom could get some free time each week… little did she know that Jackie would fall in love! She continued to dance and compete in gymnastics throughout Middle School and High School. After taking years off, Dancer and Board Member (Dana Weber) told Jackie to try-out and see what happens. Now, Jackie is dancing for her seventh season with Outlet North and will be joining Outlet West for their first season. In addition to dancing with Outlet North & West, Jackie is also the Social Events Chairperson for both branches and is excited for the upcoming season with these AMAZING people! 💚

Jenna Jensen is a fourth year member of Outlet Dance Company! She is a 7th grade math teacher and high school dance coach. She began dancing at age 7 at Lisa’s School of Dance in Bartlett, IL. She continued to dance at the studio through high school and spent time at South Elgin High School performing in their musical productions. Jenna went to Augustana College where she danced on the Vikettes Dance Team and Augustana Dance Company. She has a huge passion for coaching, and will be entering her 6th year as a dance coach. She currently coaches at Burlington Central High School. She has led every team she has ever coached to State. She is excited to be part of Outlet, as it has given her a place to dance for herself. 

Jessica started her dance career at Jo’s Footwork Studio in Western Springs studying under local dancers Corey Nagel (Modern & Improv), Mari Jo Irbe (Jazz), Jackie Farina (Ballet), and Connie (Fagan) Sweeney (Lyrical).  She performed with both Matrix Dance Improv and Eurythmics Dance Company in high school.  She attended Knox College and pursued a minor in Dance.  Additionally, she was the President of Terpsichore Dance Collective and Co-Captain of the Knox College Dance Squad during her college years.  She choreographed two pieces for the American College Dance Festival Association and attended the American Dance Festival six week intensive at Duke University during the summer before her senior year.  Post college, she was the Co-Artistic Director of Progression Dance Company and choreographed an award-winning (“New Voices Choreographer Award”) piece for the Dance Chicago festival.  Jessica works in financial compliance and is a mother of two.  This is her third year as a member of Outlet Dance Company. 

Jordan’s love of dance began by taking dance classes in elementary school. She continued to dance on her high school dance team and performed in 4 musical productions. She was heavily involved in the dance program at Elmhurst University ‘16, being the first student with a K-12 PE degree to graduate with a Dance Education minor and endorsement from the school. Both during college and after graduation, Jordan coached the Lemont High School and Neuqua Valley High School dance teams, choreographing 3 state-qualifying routines for Lemont. She has continued choreographing for dance teams in the area and also choreographs for numerous marching bands, both in the area and across the country. Jordan is currently in her 8th year of teaching dance and physical education classes at Neuqua Valley High School, where she appreciates being able to teach dance as a form of lifelong physical activity. Jordan is excited for her 3rd season with the Outlet Dance Company!

Katelyn is currently a tenured, full-time dance teacher at Barrington High School, where she also directs the BHS Orchesis Dance Company of 55+ dancers. Through BHS Orchesis, she co-produces the Giordano Choreography Project with Giordano Dance Chicago and organizes the Orchesis Youth Workshop, which has 175+ K-8 grade participants. Katelyn holds undergraduate degrees in Dance Teacher Education, Physical Education, and Business Administration, along with a Master's degree in Teaching & Learning, focusing on Health Education. She also possesses a Learning Behavior Specialist I (LBS1) Certification, a 200-hour Yoga Teacher certification, and a CPR Instructor certification. Since 2017, Katelyn has volunteered her time with Chicago Dancers United and Dance for Life. Her contributions have been instrumental in launching DFL's Day of Dance and Chicago Public Schools outreach, expanding the programs significantly since their inception. Simultaneously juggling a full-time high school teaching job and pursuing her master’s degree, Katelyn was previously a company member with the Joel Hall Dancers for three years. During her time with JHD, she performed at events for Chicago Tap Theatre, See Chicago Dance, Illinois High School Dance Festival, and Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. Katelyn actively participates in various dance organizations, including the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Illinois Dance Education Organization, and the National Dance Education Organization. Furthermore, she has been serving on the steering committee for the Illinois High School Dance Festival since 2017. Currently, this marks Katelyn's 1st year back with Outlet Dance Company, finally returning to Outlet after a 6-year hiatus since 2018.

Katy started her dance career at age 6 and explored all styles of dance from ballet and pointe to tap to modern through High School. At Lyons Township High School she developed a love of choral singing and musical theater. She attended Illinois Wesleyan University and continued her music and dance studies. After college, Katy has continued to take class at Thrive Center for Dance and is thrilled to participate as a member of Outlet South. Katy is mom to Henry and Oliver and works as Senior Manager, School and Teacher Programs at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. 

Kelley began dancing at the age of three at Dance Motions Inc. During her training, she was a member of Motions Dance Company and Inaside Chicago Dance Youth Training Company where she had many opportunities to perform throughout the Chicagoland area. Kelley graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science and a minor in dance from Western Michigan University. She then earned a Master of Medical Science degree in physician assistant studies at Midwestern University and currently works as a physician assistant in family medicine. Kelley is excited to perform on stage again with Outlet!

Kelly Hume-Geremia was born and raised in Arlington Heights, IL where she began dancing at age 3. Her love of dance started at McDonald Dance Academy. Kelly received her Dance Education degree from Illinois State University and her Dance Performance degree from Ohio University. She is a founding member of Outlet Dance Company. She is currently the assistant director for Wheeling High School Orchesis Company. For the last four years, she has taught at the Gurnee Park District and has choreographed for their competition team, Above the Barre. She taught in Chicago Public Schools for 6 years, mainly at Senn Magnet Arts High School as the Lead Dance Educator. She has taught, choreographed, and judged for numerous high school Orchesis groups in the Chicagoland area. She learned traditional West African Dance in Ghana and taught primary school children during an internship in South Africa. Her piece, Please Don't Leave Me (if we were ever to be) was adjudicated at ACDFA in 2010 at the University of Illinois. She is very excited to be performing with Outlet this year!

Kim Elsenbroek has been dancing since 1992 and has trained in ballet, jazz, African, lyrical, contemporary and modern. She trained at Copeland Dance Academy in St. Charles and Beth Fowler School of Dance in Genoa from 1998-2008. Kim danced and choreographed with Southern Illinois Dance Company from 2008-2012 and the African American Dance Company from 2012-2015.  Currently, Kim lives in Northern Illinois and continues to dance and choreograph in collaboration with local artists; she is dancing her fourth season with Meraki Dance Company and her first season with Outlet Dance Company. 

Lauren graduated from Elmhurst University with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Biology, and is currently working at Abbott Molecular. Lauren has been dancing for 19 years. She started taking dance classes at Midwest Ballet Theater in Downers Grove from kindergarten through eighth grade. At Midwest Ballet Theater, she participated in year-end class recitals and in The Nutcracker. Then, throughout high school she took ballet classes at the Academy of Dance Arts in Downers Grove and performed in yearly recitals. Also, in high school she participated in elective dance classes her junior and senior year, which focused on ballet/lyrical, jazz, tap, hip hop, and provided the opportunity to choreograph. Throughout college, she was a member of the Elmhurst University Dance Company and was Co-captain her senior year on the team. She enjoys dancing and how it allows her to express herself through music and movement. Also,
throughout her undergraduate career, she participated in dance classes though the Department of Theater and Dance. She took Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Dance Ensemble classes throughout college. Her favorite styles of dance are ballet, lyrical, and modern. Lauren is very excited to be a member of Outlet Dance Company and is looking forward to the upcoming season, as this is her first year with the company.

Lindsay was always seen dancing at a very young age. She started her training at age 9 at Jo’s Footwork Studio in Western Springs, IL with a focus on ballet, jazz, lyrical, and modern. Lindsay attended Lyons Township High School where she was a member of the Eurythmic Dance Company and the Varsity Poms Team. She had the opportunity to work with well-known choreographers, including Randy Duncan, Keith Elliot, and Corey Nagel. After high school Lindsay attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where she danced with the Vitality Dance Team and studied mathematics with a secondary education minor. Since college Lindsay has devoted time to her family and raising four amazing children. She is so grateful and excited to have the opportunity to continue her love for dance and be a member of the Outlet Dance Company.

Lizzie started dancing in college at Elmhurst University. She had never danced before, but had a strong desire to learn to move her body in ways that helps her to express her emotions and grow stronger. Lizzie started off with ballet, slowly building her repertoire in modern, jazz, tap, and hip-hop. She joined the university’s dance team, eventually becoming the caption during her final two years there. She is excited to dive back into the world of dance with Outlet, being on a team again. Lizzie got her master’s in clinical mental health counseling and is a mental health therapist in the city of Chicago. When she’s not therapizing, she’s hanging out with her husband Erik and their cat Graham! 

Mary Read earned her BFA in dance performance from Northern Illinois University (NIU) in 2013. That year, she received the Dean's Award for the College of Visual and Performing Arts; an award that reflects academic excellence, leadership and artistic versatility. She stayed at NIU to earn her Masters in Education with a focus in Physical Education. Read has taught technique and choreographed for the Élan Dance Company at the Naperville Park District (2012-2015), and was an adjunct professor of dance at College of DuPage in Glen Ellyn, IL (2017-2018). She served as Rockford Dance Company's (RDC's) School Director and Outreach Coordinator during their 2018-2019 season. RDC's adult company, Dance L.I.F.E., performed Read's choreography at the Rockford City Dance Festival in January 2020. Read then choreographed for and trained company members at Steps to Grace Dance Academy in Caledonia, IL (2020-2023). She performed with Meraki; a contemporary dance company in Aurora, IL from 2015-2022. She was also a guest artist at various shows in Rockford for Without Shoes Modern Dance Company (2017-2019). Read is currently a Pilates and Barre Fitness Instructor at Peaks Sports Club in Loves Park, IL. She is excited to perform onstage with Outlet in 2024!

Melanie began dancing at a very young age when she became interested while watching  her older sisters in their dance classes. She spent her youth training in various dance techniques including ballet, jazz, lyrical, modern, contemporary, tap, and musical theater at the Geneva Park District under the instruction of Katie Behrens, Heidi Heneks, and Colleen Eddy. She then danced in her teen years at St. Charles School of Dance under Kelly Del Principe and Blair Vaudelle. Throughout high school she was a member of both JV and Varsity dance teams at Geneva High School. Melanie’s passion for dance continued into college when she graduated with a minor in dance in December 2018. While at Loyola University Chicago, she learned a lot from her professors, Mari Jo Irbe, Amy Wilkinson, Deborah Goodman, Mei-Kuang Chen, Cora Mitchell, and Lauren Warnecke. Outside of her classes, Melanie continued to follow her passion by being involved in The Dance Company for two and a half years. She was also involved in several student composition pieces as well as a mentor after she graduated. Throughout her college years, Melanie also participated in a local performance where local Chicago choreographers would come together called Freespace. Melanie is excited to continue to be able to share her love for dance with everyone as she enters her second year with the Outlet Dance Company. 

Melissa began dancing at the age of 3 and has been loving and continuing her training ever since. For 8 years she performed and competed with Ambition Dance Company. She later graduated from Illinois State University in May 2016 with a major in Elementary Education and a minor in dance. During her time at ISU she performed with the Illinois State Dance Theatre and Dance Association. She now currently teaches 2nd grade at Lake Louise Elementary in Palatine. She also works at the Streamwood Park District as a choreographer for the Starlights Dance Company. When not dancing or teaching, you can find her spending time with her husband and new baby girl! Melissa is excited to be back on stage for her 7th season and is grateful to continue her love of dance with Outlet!

Meg has been dancing since she was 5 years old at the Pavilion Dance Center studying ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, modern, lyrical, tap funk, and acrodance. During her studies at Hope College where she graduated with a Bachelor of Art in Business Management in 2017, She taught and performed with the Hope College dance company. She has been teaching at the Pavilion Dance Center for 6 years and BISI Dance Chicago for 2 years with all ages and styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical,  modern, tap, and hip hop. She has been a part of the Outlet Dance Company for four years and is thrilled to be a part of such an amazing company for Season 10!

Meredith is thrilled to be performing with Outlet Dance Company for her 10th consecutive season as a dancer and choreographer, and first year as the West Branch Manager! Meredith's other recent credits include performing in Croatia at the Sibenik Dance Festival with the Kate Jablonski Statement in July of 2022. This was a revival performance of KJS's "Dream State" which Meredith also performed in 2019. Meredith began her dance training at the Pavilion Dance Center and continued training both with Elk Grove High School Orchesis and Jagged Edge Dance Company at Dorothy's Dancing Unlimited during her high school years.  Meredith was a member of the 2010-2011 UIC Dance Team who placed in the top 10 at UDA's national dance competition during her undergrad.  Meredith was also a choreographer for Elk Grove Orchesis, RDT's Community Dance Project, Woodlawn Dance Academy, and placed as a national finalist for young choreographer at the Dance Olympus Dance Competition.  She now works as a Registered Dietitian and Director of Nutrition Services at Allow Wellness. Meredith can’t imagine life without her Outlet Dance family and is so grateful for the opportunity to keep dancing.

Millie started dancing in middle school on the Friendship Jr High poms team and continued with competitions and summer camps where she loved getting together as a team. She went on to Elk Grove High School where she danced with poms for two years and finished high school as a member of Orchesis. Orchesis opened her eyes to different sides of dance; She had a new found respect for all dancers and levels. Hip-hop is her preferred style, but in recent years she has found modern dance most appealing and soul satisfying. When Millie isn’t dancing she enjoys hiking, crafting and spending a quiet Sunday with her husband and kids. She is ready to grow her technique, have fun, meet lovely new people, and just dance it out! After 16 years of not dancing, Millie is beyond excited to be with Outlet for her first year!

Nichole has had the pleasure of training in various dance disciplines since she was a young girl. She pursued her passion through high school and was blessed to be a part of the University of Illinois Dance Program, earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. She then earned her Bachelor of Arts in English from Northern Illinois University. Throughout the years, Nichole has continued to find avenues to support her passion in dance by teaching classes, choreographing for musicals, and coaching high school dance teams. Currently, she teaches high school English in the western suburbs. This will be Nichole's 2nd season with Outlet Dance Company, and she is extremely grateful to continue her dance journey with this amazing and supportive group of dancers! 

Pratima started dancing at the age of five.  She trained and performed with the Bonnie Lindholm Dance Company in Palatine, IL in ballet, tap, jazz, and lyrical.  She graduated with her Bachelor and Master of Science in Accounting from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign where she performed with Legend Dance Company.  During her tenure with Legend Dance Company, she choreographed and served as vice president and co-president.  After college she moved to Chicago, IL and continued her dance training in ballet, jazz, and hip hop at The Joffrey Ballet, Ruth Page Dance Center for the Arts, and Hubbard Street Dance.  She is currently a CPA working in financial reporting at a pharmaceutical company and a mother of two. She is thrilled to have found an outlet to dance again after so many years!

Rachel began her dance training at age 3 at the Itasca Park District. She later began taking classes at the Pavilion Dance Centre for 6 years, and was part of the Moving Force Dance Company. She trained under the direction of Lisa, Kimmy, and Lori Pendzimaz with Jagged Edge Dance Company. She was part of Lake Park High School’s Dance Ensemble and the 2014 state champion Varsity Lancettes Dance Team. She has trained in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary throughout this time. In 2018, Rachel graduated with a B.S. in psychology from Loyola University Chicago, where she was part of The Dance Company. In 2020, she graduated with her MEd in School Counseling at Loyola and is now a full-time middle school counselor. Over the years she has had the opportunity to choreograph a number of performance pieces. Currently, Rachel is a dance instructor at the Pavilion Dance Centre. Rachel is very excited to be back on stage and continue doing what she loves with Outlet this year!

Rebecca began her dance training at Arlene Cassara's Dance and Theater Center in North Olmsted, Ohio while in elementary school. In addition to training here, Rebecca enjoyed dancing in musicals at North Olmsted High School. Rebecca attended Elmhurst College where she majored in Elementary Education. While at Elmhurst College, Rebecca took many dance classes through the dance program and was a member of the Elmhurst College Dance Team. It was during this time of her dance career that Rebecca fell in love with choreographing in addition to dancing. Rebecca is now an elementary school teacher and loves leading a dance club at her school.

Rebecca began dancing at Pavilion Dance Centre when she was five. After taking classes for six years, she joined Jagged Edge Dance Company where she had the opportunity to compete at both regional and national competitions. Throughout junior high and high school, Rebecca trained at Dorothy’s Dancing Unlimited, Cimino’s Dance Studio, Joel Hall Dancers & Center and The Edge Dance Academy. When she reached high school, Rebecca joined Elk Grove High School’s Varsity Dance Team, which she was on for four years, served as a captain for two years, and worked with the team on ballet and jazz technique throughout her time on the team. In college, Rebecca was a member of Ignite Dance Company at DePaul University for one year and performed contemporary and jazz pieces. After several years off from dancing, Rebecca is grateful to have an opportunity again to express her love of dance as a first-year member of Outlet Dance Company.

Shannon started dancing at the age of 3 with Galina Dance Studio. Although she started with ballet, she quickly switched to tumbling for the next 14 years. During high school, Shannon began to pick up dance classes again, specifically jazz & contemporary. She also competed for her high school gymnastics team. Following graduation, Shannon decided to retire from tumbling and begin ballet again. Ballet reignited her passion for dance. It was also at this time, she began teaching tumbling classes at Galina. Around the age of 21, she put on her first pair of pointe shoes! Shortly after, she took over choreographing for the tumbling classes. Teaching her tumblers was the highlight of every week. For Galina's final two years before closing, she choreographed and taught jazz classes. Outside of dance, you can find Shannon working in the accounting department at BKI Recycling or spending quality time with her pup, Addi. This is Shannon’s second year with Outlet and she couldn’t be more excited and grateful for the opportunity.

Shannon’s dance training started at the age of 3, and an initial fascination with the way sunlight makes sequins reflect across a room developed into a focus on ballet, tap, jazz, and modern dance at Lapeer Academy of Dance and Dance Connection of Gaylord, both in Michigan. She furthered a strong foundation in ballet by studying Cecchetti through Grade IV and occupied most of her time in high school in the DC Troupe performing modern and jazz pieces across the region. Shannon graduated from Hope College with a minor in Dance, taking advantage of multiple opportunities to dance and choreograph in student dance concerts. While in Chicago, she enjoyed varied dance classes, most frequently at Lou Conte Dance Studio and Visceral Dance Center. After a decade spent making 3 awesome humans who choose to spite her by pursuing activities that are not dance, she was thrilled to start dancing again at Dance Center of La Grange. Sounding a bit like Billy Idol, the need for more, more, more (dance) led her to Outlet, and this is her first year with the South Branch. She remains pro-sequin.

Stacen began dancing at the age of 4 and began competing in 2nd grade. Her love of dance and performing continued through high school and college. She joined Legend Dance Company while attending the University of Illinois and was co-president her senior year. After graduating she continued to take classes at the Ruth Page Dance Center in Chicago as well as starting yoga classes. While teaching middle school science, she began a dance program after school for her students. She is currently an elementary STEAM teacher and mom to two wonderful kids. She is so excited to get back into the dance world!

Stacy began dancing at the age of four and continued to dance with various studios and companies around Illinois.  As a graduate of Northern Illinois University, she spent four years dancing with Northern Dance Theatre, studying under Randall Newsom, Judith Chitwood, and Paula Frasz.  Highlights of her college dance career include dancing as a soloist for Keith Elliot as part of NIU’s branch of Dance for Life, dancing a wide variety of styles and roles in semester concerts, and being a selected performer for the 2008 American College Dance Festival.  When Stacy is not dancing, you can find her supporting clinical nursing education, orientation, and professional development as Clinical Practice Specialist with Northwestern Medicine.   As a returning member, Stacy is excited to share the stage with the talented members of Outlet Dance Company for the 9th year. 

Stephanie has been dancing since she was 3 years old at Dance Motions Inc. in Bartlett, IL. Her love grew for performing in jazz, lyrical, and contemporary. Through competition teams, conventions, and many recitals later, she decided to audition for the St. Charles East high school's dance team and was on the varsity team all 4 years. When heading off to college, she made Purdue University's Golduster Dance team and performed at countless sporting events - football game days, basketball, baseball, volleyball and within the community spreading joy through dance. She also danced in the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dublin, Ireland while on the Goldusters. After graduating with a Public Relations and Strategic Communications Degree from Purdue, she entered the corporate world and dancing took a back seat. Thanks to Outlet, she is back and ready to rekindle her passion for dancing and performing. She is looking forward to her first season with Outlet!

Stephanie grew up dancing in small studios in Northeast Ohio and went on to obtain her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from Lake Erie College. After college she taught lyrical, musical theatre, tap, and jazz to dancers of all ages at local dance studios while searching for her next right thing. In 2016 Stephanie moved to Chicago to pursue her Master of Arts degree in dance/movement therapy and counseling at Columbia College Chicago. Stephanie is a licensed clinical professional counselor and board-certified dance/movement therapist and currently works with individuals exploring their identity and navigating a variety of mental health challenges with Mind Body Connections. This is Stephanie's third year with Outlet and she is grateful for the opportunity to dance and perform with these beautiful humans. Stephanie is looking forward to many years to come as part of the Outlet family!

Stephanie found her love for dance at the age of 5 and spent her time dancing at Dance Motions Inc. where she joined Motions Dance Company in 2005. Through Motions Dance Co. she had opportunities to perform throughout the Chicagoland area in shows such as Dance for Life and Dance Chicago. Stephanie graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a major in Human Development and Family Studies and a minor in dance. During her time at UW-Madison, Stephanie was a member of Premiere Dance Team and served as a captain and choreographer for multiple semesters. In 2020, Stephanie received her Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and currently works as a Behavior Analyst for children with Autism. Stephanie is excited for her second year with Outlet!

Taylor is a dancer, choreographer based in the Chicagoland suburbs.  She began her dance career at the age of 6 with ballet and tap and continued with recreational classes through most of her life.  Taylor was also a competitive Irish Dancer with many accolades on the regional, national, and international level.  She participated in her school’s dance program from 7th grade through senior year when she was a part of the state and national qualifying Varsity Dance.  During this time, she was also a part of the competitive dance company at Storm Dance Alliance.  After graduation, she attended the University of Illinois and enjoyed participating in any performance she was able through student run organizations and her sorority Alpha Delta Pi. She continued to train through convention and master classes when able.  College was also when Taylor fell in love with teaching and choreography as she landed her first teaching job. Once she graduated from college, she returned to her home studio where she became the director of a youth dance team, instructor for the recreational program and instructor/choreographer for the other companies within the studio.  She has experience teaching age 1 to 18 in all different styles though has a true love for Hip Hop and Contemporary.  Taylor also spent a season as an IHSA judge and choreographed competition pieces for a local high school.  Outside of dance, Taylor is an oncology nurse, a wife to her high school sweetheart, and mom to her beautiful son Killian and three fur babies Scruffy, Harvey, and Chief.  Though she took a brief hiatus to pursue her nursing career and start her family, she felt like dance was missing from her life.  She is excited to reignite her passion for dance with Outlet Dance Company! 

Taylor began dancing at the age of three at the Pavilion Dance Center where she stayed for 13 years.  Taylor continued dancing as a member of Elk Grove High School’s Orchesis for 3 years under the direction of Lisette Rodriguez-Narang. She performed in annual shows as well as the District 214 Showcases and Illinois State Dance Festival. While on Orchesis, Taylor expanded her creativity by assisting with costume design for the annual shows as well as Elk Grove’s Community Theater shows.  Taylor graduated Cum Laude from Wartburg College in Waverly, IA with a double major in Psychology and Sociology and a minor in Spanish. While in college, Taylor performed on the Wartburg College Dance Team. She is fulfilling her lifelong passion of helping others by working as the Development Officer for the Children's Advocacy Center in Hoffman Estates. When she's not dancing, Taylor enjoys going on walks with her husband and dog, Layla. Taylor is excited to continue dancing with Outlet for her 6th season!