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About Us

Dance University

 

Dance University offers a convenient location on Lena Road (SR 70, right off 175) with 2 large studios to accommodate lessons and camps. Studio A provides a custom built sprung dance floor and a large, open space to accommodate large classes and performances. Studio B allows for a more intimate setting for small classes and private lessons and has a professional fitness floor.

Mission Statement

At Dance University, we aspire to create and nurture a love for dance. To provide technique training that can be brought to life in a variety of dance styles. Each dancer is deeply encouraged at every stage of dance progression to promote self esteem, leadership and team building skills.

Michele Mercier
Studio Director/Owner

Michele began dancing in New Jersey at age three, studying jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, musical comedy and gymnastics. She became a a member of the dance company at her local studio, attended workshops and competitions in New York City. In 1984 she won the title of Miss Hemisphere Talent. Miss Michele landed her first teaching job at age 15. She taught tap and jazz at a local fitness club in New Jersey. She also created her own after school dance team in high school. After high school, she earned a full scholarship at the prestigious Phil Black/Dance Central Station studio in Manhattan, New York (the same studio that produced Jennifer Lopez).  There she studied all styles of dance and also attended classes at Broadway Dance Center. She also performed in Africa for the King of Morocco. Her true love and passion was always teaching. In 1995, her family relocated to Massachusetts and had teaching positions at Boston Ballet, the YMCA, and started a dance program at a country club gym. In 2004, her family relocated to Florida. Since then, she has taught programs at Flex, Southside Athletic Club, the YMCA, Bradenton Cheer Academy, Willis Elementary, the Imagine School, Gullett Elementary, and Wakeland Elementary.

Marina Mercier
Choreographer/
Competition Director

 

Marina has been dancing through her youth and teens, dancing at Diane Partington's School of Ballet as well as the Black Pearls Dance Team at Braden River High school. She then went on to coach the JV and Varsity dance teams at Braden River. Marina also coached her own elementary/middle school competitive dance team. Marina specializes in competitive programs, and her teams have won many awards in choreography, technique, and in national competitions.

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