Meet Our Team

Dance has been a part of Ms. Kara’s life since the age of five. She trained extensively in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, and Lyrical, and grew up immersed in the competition world. Kara is a graduate of Montclair State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts/Dance. While pursuing her degree, she studied Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Improvisation, Choreography, Dance History, and more. These experiences that shaped her into a versatile and well-rounded dancer who now incorporates those skills into her teaching.

From 2003 to 2021, Kara was the owner, director, teacher, and choreographer of her own dance studio in Union County, NJ. During those years she guided countless dancers, choreographed award-winning routines (especially in Tap), and built a reputation for excellence and creativity. Her choreography earned numerous regional and national awards, including recognition for originality, musicality, and performance quality. After passing on her studio legacy, Kara relocated to Warren County, and luckily for us, she became part of the Dance Expressions family.

Since joining our studio, Kara has quickly become the heart of our teaching staff. She works with dancers of all ages, from our youngest 2 ½ year olds to high school students, and even the occasional adult lesson. Her ability to connect with every age group is remarkable, and her leadership of our competition teams has brought both success and pride to Dance Expressions. Under her guidance, our dancers have earned high score placements, including numerous First in Category and First Overall awards, choreography awards, and special recognitions for artistry and performance. Achievements that reflect not only their talent but also Kara’s vision and dedication.

Parents admire her steady guidance, and dancers thrive under her encouragement and artistry. Kara is known not only for her technical expertise but also for the positive impact she has on her students and her love of dance. Beyond technique, she helps dancers understand what it means to be a positive member of the Dance Expressions family.

The relationships Kara builds with her dancers, and their families are a meaningful part of what makes Dance Expressions so special. We are grateful for the care she brings to her students and the lasting impact she has on our studio community.

At the age of eight, Ms. Marion began her training at a local dance studio in her hometown and later continued her studies at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway in New York City. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance from the University of Maryland and an Associate of Arts degree in Dance from County College of Morris. While pursuing her BA, Marion performed and trained with the Maryland University Dance Company and the County College of Morris Dance Theatre. She also performed in the Washington, D.C. area and was a member of the University of Maryland Dance Team.

Marion joined the Dance Expressions family in 2021 and has become an essential part of our teaching staff. She works primarily with our youngest dancers, ages 2 ½ - 8, guiding them through First Steps, Combo I, and Combo II classes. Her ability to connect deeply with both students and their families sets her apart, creating a nurturing environment where children feel comfortable and excited to learn. Parents often remark on the creativity she brings into every class, making each lesson engaging and memorable.

Marion also plays a vital role in our summer camps, where her popularity and imaginative touches have made many of the sessions some of the first to fill each year. Families are drawn to the joyful energy she brings, and her camps have become a highlight of the summer for so many of our dancers.

Her work with our youngest students is especially valuable as she helps lay the foundation for their dance journey, ensuring that they not only learn technique but also develop confidence and joy in the process. The relationships she builds with her dancers and their families make her a treasured part of our studio home, and we are grateful for the love and creativity she shares with every child who walks through our doors.

Ms. Kelly has been dancing since she was three years old and truly hasn’t stopped. She trained in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Hip Hop, and began her dance journey at Dance Dimension, joining their competitive team at age five. By the age of ten, she earned her first regional title; the beginning of many accomplishments as she continued to grow as both a dancer and performer.

Kelly went on to dance at Middlesex County College, performing with both the Dance Team and the Dance Ensemble Program. She was invited to choreograph for the Ensemble over several semesters, which helped shape her creative voice. After graduating, she transferred to Rowan University, where she triple majored in Elementary Education K-6, Mathematics, and Geography. She later completed her master’s certificate in Special Education and now teaches at Byram Intermediate School.

Kelly began teaching dance at nineteen and started choreographing competitively at twenty two. Over the years, her routines have earned Platinum awards, regional championships, high score overalls, and invitations to world championship events. Since 2012, she has also been a principal dancer and choreographer with Artistic Visions Dance Company.

Kelly joined the Dance Expressions family in 2024 and quickly became an important part of our teaching staff. She currently teaches Jazz, Lyrical, and Contemporary, and she choreographs several routines for our competition team. During the 2025-2026 season, Kelly choreographed her very first competition piece for Dance Expressions. While she had choreographed for competitive teams before, this was her debut creating work for our studio’s dancers to take to the competition stage, a milestone she was thrilled to reach. Her routine “Camp SOS” was created in response to the tragic floods in Texas at Camp Mystic, and it carried deep meaning for both Kelly and her dancers. The piece earned several awards throughout the season, including the Emotional Execution Award for choreography, a recognition that made the experience even more special.

In addition to her work as a teacher, Kelly is also a proud dance mom. Her daughter is now entering her second season with Dance Expressions, giving Kelly a unique perspective and deep appreciation for the journey of both dancers and their families. We are thrilled to have Kelly as part of the Dance Expressions family and grateful for the care and enthusiasm she brings to our students each day.

Ms. Marianne has been part of the Dance Expressions family since 2023, sharing her expertise as our Acro teacher. Her journey began at the age of five when her parents enrolled her in acrobatic classes, a passion she carried through high school. She later joined her school’s gymnastics team and went on to compete with a private competitive club team, where her love for the sport truly took root.

Following high school, Marianne earned a gymnastics scholarship to Temple University. After graduation, she began coaching competitive gymnastics and has remained deeply involved in the sport ever since. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation, which she used in her work as a therapist supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s and cognitive care.

When her children were born, Marianne chose to focus her time on gymnastics coaching, and her two boys quite literally grew up in the gym. They learned to walk surrounded by mats and beams, and both competed in gymnastics when they were young. That family connection to the sport underscores how deeply gymnastics is part of her life.

At Dance Expressions, Marianne brings that same dedication to her Acro classes and students. She is known for her encouraging approach and her ability to support students who may feel unsure of themselves. Marianne is highly focused on ensuring that each dancer is truly ready before moving to the next level, guiding them to concentrate on the skill at hand while keeping the process fun and rewarding. She believes that tumbling skills require patience and practice, and she celebrates each milestone alongside her students.

Her thoughtful teaching style, combined with her deep experience, makes Marianne an invaluable part of our studio home. Families appreciate the confidence she instills in her students and the joy she brings to every class.

Miss Joanie has been part of Dance Expressions since the age of six, when she first discovered her love for dance in a Saturday Jazz class. Over the years she trained in Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Musical Theater, Gymnastics for the Dancer, and Hip Hop. She expanded her training through master classes and workshops in a variety of dance forms, learning from respected instructors such as Chelsea Phillip, Jonathan Godfrey, John Comix, and Charles Smith.

As a member of our Troupe program, Joanie had numerous opportunities to perform locally and on larger stages such as the Country Tonite Theatre and the Smoky Mountain Opry in Tennessee. She was honored with the John Palotta Memorial Scholarship Award in 2018. Joanie also competed for many years, earning accolades including 1st place in Hip Hop, Judges’ Choice and Energy Awards, Top Score Overall, and a National Championship title. Her senior solo was recognized with Platinum Plus, 1st in category, and the Super Groovy Judges’ Award.

Beyond dance, Joanie is a full time student at Centenary University studying Forensic Science. She works as an EMT and volunteers with local first aid squads, while also training in Muay Thai Kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Her dedication extends to community service, where she has participated in Honor Guard and Police Explorers, earning recognition such as the Commandant’s Award and Top Physical Challenge Award from the NJ State Police Trooper Youth Week Program.

For the past six years, Joanie has built a reputation at Dance Expressions for teaching dancers ages 8 through high school, challenging them to reach their potential while expressing themselves through dance. She believes in educating her students about hip hop culture, social connection, and empowerment. Her classes foster confidence with age-appropriate choreography, helping every dancer grow in confidence and have fun while learning.

We are thrilled that she is choreographing several routines for our competition team this upcoming season. Her fresh, relevant vibe brings a new energy to the program, ensuring our dancers stay connected to the evolving world of hip hop while still grounded in strong technique.

The relationships Joanie builds with her dancers and their families make her a beloved part of our studio home, and we are grateful for the passion and care she shares with each class.

Ms. Heather began dancing at the age of two at a family owned studio in Morristown, and from that moment on, dance became her favorite thing in the world. Over the years she trained at schools in Blairstown, Notara’s School of Ballet, Susan’s School of Dance, and the Dance Academy of North Jersey, building a strong foundation across many styles.

Heather’s love of working with young performers led her to coach midget cheerleading, teach at several dance schools in New Jersey, and earn awards for her choreography. She also served as a teacher and assistant manager with Kids Dance Caravan. After becoming a mom, Heather developed and taught her own dance programs for young children, which she shared for several years at Bloom Waldessori in Stroudsburg, PA. She eventually found her way to Dance Expressions through her daughter, Anna, who has been a member of our dance family for several years.

Heather joined the Dance Expressions family in 2025 and teaches Musical Theater. In her classes, she creates a positive and welcoming environment where every dancer feels comfortable trying new things. Her Musical Theater classes have quickly become some of the most sought after at Dance Expressions, often filling early each season. Families love the environment she creates, and dancers leave her classes eager to come back.

This past summer, Heather and her husband Doug welcomed a new addition to their family, making this season especially meaningful. After many years of knowing Heather, we are especially happy to welcome her to the Dance Expressions teaching family and excited for the impact she will have on future generations of dancers.

Miss Grace has been a dancer at Dance Expressions since she was two years old, making this her 15th year with our studio family. Over the years, she has trained in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Acrobatics, with Ballet, Contemporary, and Hip Hop remaining her favorite styles.



Grace has been competing since she was 12 years old and has had the opportunity to perform in small and large group dances, as well as duets and solos. Last season, she earned First Overall awards at two competitions and a Second Overall placement at her final regional competition. She has also received convention scholarships and was selected for the Backstage Nationals Performance Team. Among her many accomplishments, Grace earned the top scoring solo in her division out of 76 routines across all age groups.

This year, Grace was selected as one of three student choreographers for our holiday show featuring emerging country artist Jessica Lynn. Her passion for choreography has continued to grow through leadership opportunities as a captain of her high school dance team, where she helps create and perform routines for halftime performances at home basketball games.

For the past two years, Grace has taught Rising Star Ballet and Hip Hop and is excited to continue teaching this season. Teaching has impacted her in many ways, giving her the opportunity to share her love of dance with the next generation while being part of the small but meaningful moments that make dance so special. Dance has always been an outlet for Grace to express herself, and one of her favorite parts of teaching is watching young dancers gain confidence and excitement in the classroom. She hopes to inspire her students and make dance a fun and encouraging place for everyone while emphasizing the importance of kindness and respect.

Dance Expressions has become a second home to Grace, where teammates have become lifelong friends and the studio has become family. As she enters her final season, she is determined to make it one to remember and is excited for all that lies ahead. We are grateful for the dedication Grace brings to her students and for the positive example she sets for our younger dancers. As a long-time member of the Dance Expressions family, she has made a meaningful impact on our studio and those around her.

Miss Jada started dancing at just two years old and has never looked back. She joined the Dance Expressions family at age eight and has been part of our studio community ever since. With 15 years of dance experience, she loves sharing her passion for dance with the next generation.



Throughout her training, Jada has studied Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern, Musical Theater, and Acrobatics, with Lyrical, Ballet, and Tap being her favorites. She has competed in groups, trios, duets, and solos, earning top placements and standout awards for her emotional execution and ability to connect with an audience. This year, Jada was selected as one of three student choreographers for our holiday show featuring emerging country artist Jessica Lynn.

For Jada, dance is about more than movement; it's about telling a story, creating a connection, and embracing uncomfortable moments because she believes that choosing a challenging path can ultimately make dancers stronger. She strives to bring that same purpose into her teaching by encouraging her students to convey emotion and make every performance meaningful.

For the past two years, Jada has taught Rising Star Jazz and Lyrical. Her ability to connect with young dancers has made her a favorite among many of our students, with younger dancers often counting down the years until they are finally old enough to take one of her classes. Jada loves helping her students build confidence while discovering the joy that dance can bring.

Outside of dance, Jada attends Belvidere High School and plans to study Animal Science on the pre-veterinary track. She currently works at a local veterinary hospital, gaining hands-on experience in her future field. Jada looks forward to a career centered around both people and animals.

Jada's love for dance and her commitment to persistence shine through in everything she does. She is excited to continue sharing her passion while helping the next generation of dancers find their confidence and voice, all while enjoying their love for dance.



We are proud to have Jada as part of our faculty and grateful for the encouragement and perspective she brings to her students. Her ability to connect with young dancers and inspire them to keep growing is something truly special.

Ms. Jeanmarie began her dance journey 15 years ago through her two daughters, and what started as a mom simply supporting her children has grown into a true passion for our dance community. She loves watching the passion and excitement that dance brings to each student, whether they take one class or six. For Jeanmarie, every dancer deserves to feel welcome and encouraged to shine.

Before becoming a mom, Jeanmarie was an Area Manager for AT&T, where customer service and building trusted relationships were her priority. She brings those same skills into the studio each day, making sure everyone who walks through the doors or has the pleasure of speaking with her over the phone feels valued and cared for.

Jeanmarie has become a true staple in our studio, greeting families with a smile whether they're arriving or heading home. She is one of our biggest cheerleaders, celebrating every dancer's progress and every parent's milestone. She's also an excellent problem solver, always ready to help, listen, and find solutions with patience and kindness.



Parents often end up staying longer than expected because talking with Jeanmarie feels easy and natural. It's common for families to linger and chat with her while their dancer is in class. She has a gift for making people feel comfortable and cared for, and the connections she has built throughout our studio reflect that.

First and foremost, Jeanmarie is a mom. She brings the same compassion and patience into the studio, offering genuine care to every dancer and family she meets. Her goal is to nurture an environment where students feel encouraged and at home as part of our dance family. We are grateful for the care she brings to our studio each day and for the meaningful role she plays in making Dance Expressions feel like home for so many families.

Dance has been a part of Ms. Kristen’s life since childhood, continuing through her college years and never leaving her heart. Owning a studio was a lifelong dream, and in 2024 that dream became a reality when she stepped into the role of owner at Dance Expressions, a studio proudly celebrating 29 years of serving Hackettstown and the surrounding community.

Kristen’s professional journey began in the fashion industry, where she developed a keen eye for creativity and design. She later transitioned into higher education, spending more than two decades teaching and mentoring students. That experience strengthened her passion for education and community, qualities she now brings into the studio every day as its leader.

Her vision for Dance Expressions is to build upon its legacy while fostering an environment that is inclusive and welcoming. Kristen is committed to creating a place where every dancer looks forward to coming each week, not only to grow in their art but to feel supported and connected to something special. Just as importantly, she strives to make the studio a home where parents feel welcomed and proud to be part of the Dance Expressions family.

Kristen is honored to guide Dance Expressions into its next chapter, grateful for the strong foundation built by Ms. Darlene and committed to carrying that legacy forward with fresh energy and vision. She is dedicated to ensuring the studio remains a place where students thrive, families feel embraced, all while the love of dance continues to grow for generations to come.