The Dance Collective
AN ELEVATED DANCE EXPERIENCE!
The Dance Collective offers classes for all ages and levels, from 12 months old to pre- professional competition programs, and a variety of adult classes. Our goal is to provide a well rounded and safe dance education in a fun environment for all students. We emphasize not only safe and proper technique, but educational courses needed for dancers to sustain both a healthy mind and body.
Kiara Stuart started The Dance Collective in 2022 with the dream of providing a versatile, safe, and fun dance education for all ages and levels. Kiara grew up dancing in Buffalo and is very passionate about giving back to the dance community that supported her for many years.
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In May of 2022 Kiara graduated from the University at Buffalo with a Bachelor's in Fine Arts in Dance where she also studied Early Childhood/ Childhood Education. During her years of training she studied a variety of styles with world- renowned dancers and choreographers all around the country and parts of Canada. She also has many choreographic credits including works at the University at Buffalo, at local and national competitions, and has received various choreography awards. However, some of her most proud accomplishments are the many hours of educational training and certifications, including Acrobatic Arts, that she shares with her dancers. Kiara has also worked closely with Starpower Talent Competition at their national PowerPak Convention since 2021.
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When she is not at the studio she enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with family. Kiara is also a preschool teacher at a local daycare right in Elma! Her experience there has helped develop how she teaches at the studio, especially her youngest dancers!
KIARA STUART
Owner/ Director/ Instructor
Molly McLaughlin has danced for 12 years. She has helped assist classes for 6 years, This is her first year teaching, and she could not be more excited! She is thrilled for this season and cannot wait to meet everyone!
SHAYLA COOPER
Instructor
Shayla Cooper grew up dancing in the WNY area since the age of 2. She competed in numerous competitions at the regional and national level, along with taking master classes from world renowned choreographers such as Joe Celej, Stephen Laurel Boss “Twitch”, and Travis Wall.
Shayla has a Bachelor of Professional Studies, Master in Applied Clinical Nutrition, and Doctor of Chiropractic degrees. She is also a former licensed EMT. She has completed post-graduated work focused on treating pregnant women and pediatric populations.
As both a Chiropractor and dance instructor, Shayla is able to combine her passion for helping children reach their dreams and achieve optimum health, all while having fun everyday!
MOLLY MCLAUGHLIN
Instructor