About

Our Story

In late 2002 Susan Barr's daughters were enrolled at Thome Ohio Gymnastics and Susan was training the Girls Gymnastics Team in Ballet. The gym owner encouraged Susan to start her own studio and offered her the use of the gym's dance room. Susan followed through on the offer and started Above the Barre School of Dance in January 2003. The name is a play on her last name and a ballet barre. By June, ATB finished the short year with over 40 students. Over the next 3 years the school added a competitive Dance Company and expanded to 3 dance rooms and their own building entrance and lobby. In 2008 Thome Gymnastics closed and Above The Barre Dance & Gymnastics was born with a new focus, a remodeled facility and nearly 425 dancers and gymnasts. Growth continued and space became a problem. In 2014 ATB broke ground on a new Gymnastics facility on Berea Industrial Parkway with the backing of Petrocek properties, the Berea City Council and Mayor Kleem. In June 2015 the new 16,000 Sq. Ft. gym opened with all new equipment, 2 in ground trampolines, 3 foam pit systems, 2 dance rooms, a viewing balcony, a snack and study room and birthday party inflatables.

In 2016 the Bagley Rd facility was remodeled again with a unique pre-school gymnastics area, 6 dance rooms including a black box theater, dedicated stretch and acrobatic area, aerial arts area, student lounge and teacher break room.


Today, Above the Barre Dance and Gymnastics is Northeast Ohio’s premier dance and gymnastics facility featuring a staff of 50+ including 40+ instructors and coaches who are dedicated to serving over 1,200 enrolled students annually. ATB is unique in it's ability to offer beginner to advanced training in both Dance and Gymnastics for boys and girls.


Click on the link to take a virtual tour of our dance studio and gym and get a glimpse of all we have to offer.

VIRTUAL TOUR

Our Mission

To build confidence and coordination through the use of arts and athletics

Our MOTTO

Begin Here, Go Anywhere

Our Business

  • Developing Coordination
  • Building Strong Minds and Bodies
  • Instilling Confidence
  • Impacting Young Lives
  • Creating a Passion for Arts and Athletics
  • Teaching Character, Goal Setting, Teamwork and Accountability
  • Training the Leaders of Tomorrow

When I started Above the Barre, I did it with the mission that I was going to impact children’s lives and I was going to use Dance as the medium to do that. Our Mission Statement reflects this purpose. I was excited when we added Gymnastics because we could reach a whole new group of kids.


Parents have a lot of choices today in regards to selecting organized activities for their kids and I believe we have something special for all children as expressed in our Motto. Our programs provide a unique and safe environment for learning coordination, balance and teamwork. These are foundational life skills and lead to success in any activity your child may want to pursue.

-Susan Barr

Owner ATB

MEET OWNER

Susan Barr

Susan Michael grew up in Western Pennsylvania where she was involved in Dance from childhood through College. In her teen years she danced competitively and started teaching and choreographing. Susan attended Grove City College where she continued to choreograph and perform in multiple productions every school year. She majored in Accounting and also continued to teach at her childhood studio.


After graduation Susan and her college sweetheart Jim Barr were married and moved to Cleveland. Jim started a career in IT and Susan worked as an Accountant and Project Manager for Key Bank. In 1999 daughter number 3 was born and Susan left her career to be a fulltime mom. Susan invested the next 3 years raising her girls and running Wednesday evening children's ministry at her church. In 2002 a conversation with Genie Thome led to the opening of Above the Barre in 2003 where Susan was able to re-ignite her passion for teaching dance.

Susan is a member of Dance Masters of America and board member of Dance Masters of Ohio. She is a graduate of DMA's Teacher Training School and holds certification in Tap, Ballet, Jazz and Acrobatic Arts. Susan is an active member of the Cecchetti Council of America and is certified to teach through Professional Grade 5. Susan also is a professional member of the USA Gymnastics and is Safety Certified. Every year Susan attends numerous conventions and workshops across the country where she enjoys learning the latest styles of dance teaching techniques and gymnastics instruction.


“Dance has been a part of my life since I was 8 years old and I still get really inspired watching the kids grow up and attain goals they never thought possible. I love to see when things come together for the kids, that precious moment when they perform a skill on their own for the first time. When I started Above the Barre, I did it with the mission that I was going to impact children’s lives, and I was going to use Dance (and later Gymnastics!) as the medium to do that.”


Susan and Jim have been married for over 26 years and their 3 daughters Jessica, Christina and Ashley are all ATB alumnae and teachers.

Leadership Team

Ashley Barr
Dance Manager
Ashley Barr
Dance Manager

Ashley had danced for 18 years with the Above the Barre dance company before becoming an instructor. She has won many awards as a performer and choreographer throughout her years. Ashley was accepted into the Broadway dance center professional semester in New York where she trained. She prides herself on encouraging dancers to be the best they can be in a positive way. aside from dance Ashley attends Lorain County Community College to pursue a career in graphic design. She loves the arts and incorporates a fun creative learning environment for her students.

Brittany Garofalo
Recreational Gymnastics Manager
Brittany Garofalo
Recreational Gymnastics Manager

Brittany started at Above the Barre in 2016. Previously, she taught preschool for 7 years. She has a passion for teaching and helping children progress. Brittany is certified in CPR and First Aid, amongst many other Early Childhood trainings. Brittany has received certifications from the OCALI Autism Certification Center in both Early Childhood and School-Aged ranges. A well-rounded coach, she is excited to share her passion with every student and can’t wait to see them succeed.

Cora Kaufhold
Director of Marketing
Cora Kaufhold
Director of Marketing

Cora has been working with Above the Barre in varying degrees since the doors opened in 2003. She has enjoyed taking part in creating graphics, marketing and even altering costumes for the Dance Company. Her four daughters have all grown up at ATB dancing or taking Ninja classes. She and her husband Tom live in North Ridgeville and enjoy camping and spending time with family and friends.

Dave Forister
Gym Team Manager
Dave Forister
Gym Team Manager

Bio coming soon!

Jeff Vacha
Boys Program Director & Equipment Inspector
Jeff Vacha
Boys Program Director & Equipment Inspector

Jeff has spent over 30 years in this building and has been a coach here since 2008. He was a college gymnast at the University of Illinois in Chicago and has been coaching since 1997. Jeff loves this sport and everything it does for children’s strength, confidence and most importantly, having fun. He is USAG Safety Certified and is actually a registered professional disc golfer. In his free time, he loves to snowboard and throw Frisbees.

Jessica Noonan
Dance Company Director
Jessica Noonan
Dance Company Director

Jessica is a native of Cleveland Ohio. She comes from a dancing family and is an alumnus of Above the Barre. At a young age, she trained in dance and gymnastics winning many state and national titles including Miss Dance of Ohio 2013. Jessica has studied at Broadway Dance Center in New York City under the direction of Bonnie Erickson getting to perform on the Alvin Ailey Stage. She has worked professionally for Norwegian Cruise Lines as and dancer and aerialist through the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Jessica has a huge passion for choreography and training. Her choreography has been recognized on the regional and national level.

Lisa Yesko
Customer Service Manager
Lisa Yesko
Customer Service Manager

Lisa is Above the Barre's Customer Service Manager. She joined our staff with over 25 years of customer service experience including over 4 years of office management experience in the customer service industry.

Nicole Delgado
Compulsory Team Director
Nicole Delgado
Compulsory Team Director

Nicole is a familiar face with Above The Barre since she is a Thome-Ohio Gymnastics Alumni and started coaching here at the age of 15. Throughout her 16 years of coaching, she has traveled around and gained knowledge throughout different programs! Currently she is our Compulsory Team Director who also enjoys being on our Marketing Team. Nicole graduated from Baldwin Wallace University in 2015 with a Liberal Arts Degree, Majoring in Public Relations and Minoring in Business Management. The sport of gymnastics and children have always been her passion, as she enjoys waking up everyday doing exactly what she loves to do in life! If she is not at the gym you can find her spending time with her family. She just had her first baby girl on January 24th, 2024. She hopes her daughter will love the sport of gymnastics as much as she does!

Stefanie Vlna
Girls Team Coordinator
Stefanie Vlna
Girls Team Coordinator

Stefanie has been teaching gymnastics for over 20 years. She has specialized in developing compulsory team gymnasts but has coached optional gymnasts up to level 10 for the past few years. She has run many gyms and programs throughout the years and has loved every second of it. She believes in developing confident gymnasts with compassion and attention to detail. Her favorite part is seeing gymnasts grow and learn new skills. She has her degree in Exercise Science and is currently working on her master's degree in the same field. She also has a 3-year-old named Ronin and a dog named Lilly.

Taylor Weiss
Early Childhood Gymnastics Director
Taylor Weiss
Early Childhood Gymnastics Director

Taylor has been a part of Above the Barre most of their life. Starting gymnastics in Preschool and continued both as an athlete and an employee through high school and college. This past spring Taylor graduated from Lorain County Community College(LCCC) with an Associate of Arts. Through LCCC Taylor found a passion for ceramics and even had pieces featured in the school’s art show.  With a deep connection to Above the Barre and a passion for creativity, Taylor strives to make the gym a fun and comfortable space that helps foster children’s skills and confidence. 

OUR Team

OFFICE SUPPORT STAFF

Amy Harhay
Amy Harhay

Amy is a proud mom to Alyson 15, and Ryan 17. Alyson has been dancing at Above The Barre for 10 years and is now a sophomore at Olmsted Falls High School. Ryan is a senior at Lake Ridge Academy and is looking forward to going off to college next Fall. When Amy is not busy you will find her in her garden, going on a road trip, or simply spending time with her family.

April Thomas
Birthday Party Coordinator
April Thomas
Birthday Party Coordinator

Bio coming soon!

Cora Kaufhold
Cora Kaufhold

Cora has been working with Above the Barre in varying degrees since the doors opened in 2003. She has enjoyed taking part in creating graphics, marketing and even altering costumes for the Dance Company. Her four daughters have all grown up at ATB dancing or taking Ninja classes. She and her husband Tom live in North Ridgeville and enjoy camping and spending time with family and friends.

Donna Brinker
Donna Brinker

Donna joined the ATB Customer Service Team in 2013. Donna resides in Grafton Township with her husband of 36 years. They are the proud parents of 2 children and 2 grandchildren. When she is not working, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family & friends. 

Jessica Sopko
Jessica Sopko

A newer addition to the ATB family.  Jessica has more than 15 years of experience in Dance and Theatre in Ohio and New York and is thrilled to use her knowledge to assist you in customer service!  You will always be greeted with a smile and welcoming "Hello!".  In her spare time, you will find Jessica either outside enjoying nature or seeing live Theatre.  


Lisa Yesko
Customer Service Manager
Lisa Yesko
Customer Service Manager

Lisa is Above the Barre's Customer Service Manager. She joined our staff with over 25 years of customer service experience including over 4 years of office management experience in the customer service industry.

Suzanne Molnar
Suzanne Molnar

Bio coming soon!

DANCE TEACHERS

All ATB staff is concussion certified and background checked!

Aaron Blizzard
Aaron Blizzard

Aaron Blizzard’s entire life has revolved around the world of performance arts. With a dance background that spans over 18 years, Aarons savvy holds no limit to the dance genre, avenue, or creative outlet—including a repertoire of Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Contemporary, and Musical Theatre. His concert dancing background stems from his pre professional and intensive apprenticeship training with both Early Mosely’s Institute of the Arts and Connecticut Dance Theatre (Artistic Director Donna Bonasera). Today, Aaron is devoted to perfecting the art of Ballroom Dance as a professional DanceSport athlete. As a ballroom instructor, Aaron is certified through Full Silver in the American Style Rhythm, American Style Smooth, Alternate and Club Style Dances, and Exhibition. He also holds in-depth expertise of Partnering Lifts and Tricks coming from an extensive Ballet training. As a complement to his dance background, Aaron's knowledge extends into physical fitness as a former personal trainer, specializing in strength and conditioning, corrective exercise techniques and flexibility. Aaron is driven to link his diverse knowledge of physical training to create a more comprehensible Dance curriculum—installing into his students what it means and takes to be both a dancer and an artist. He challenges his students to realize what limitless potential they hold from the first time they walk into the studio. With a deep passion for straight-forward teaching combined with an inalienable humour, Aaron loves to work with students of all ages, levels, goals, interests, and backgrounds.

Amanda Recko-Downing
Amanda Recko-Downing

Amanda was born and raised right here in the Cleveland area and now resides in Avon, Ohio. Amanda has been with Above the Barre since 2005 and has 30 plus years’ experience and training under her belt in dance. Amanda attended both Kent State and University of Toledo where she studied and majored in Dance. She was a member of KSU Dance Flash Force and Captain of the Toledo Rockettes and is currently a proud member of DMA Chapter #16 and Ohio Dance Masters. She also studied and assisted at Broadway Dance Center in New York City and at The Edge in LA. Amanda has performed as a dancer, singer and a magician’s assistant throughout the U.S. and abroad; also spending six summers and 8 fall seasons performing at Cedar Point Amusement Park. You can see her cutting edge, award-winning work in theaters, amusement parks and local studios throughout North America. Her teaching accolades include numerous regional and nation competitive Choreography & Technique Awards. Just some of her many awards for her performances include “Best Female Performer” IAPPA 2005-2007 and “Best Actress in a Musical” by The Scene. All of Amanda’s students are taught to practice what you perform, be confident, be committed, and of course have fun.

Ashley Barr
Ashley Barr

Ashley had danced for 18 years with the Above the Barre dance company before becoming an instructor. She has won many awards as a performer and choreographer throughout her years. Ashley was accepted into the Broadway dance center professional semester in New York which she trained. She prides herself on encouraging dancers to be the best they can in a positive way. aside from dance Ashley attends Lorain County Community College to pursue a career in graphic design. She loves the arts and incorporates a fun creative learning environment for her students.

Carla Pizzola
Carla Pizzola

Carla joined us here at Above the Barre in 2015 teaching Jazz Lyrical Ballet and Acro. Carla started dancing when she was just three years old and has over 25 years’ experience with competitive dance and performing. While attending Point Park College, she earned her degree in Dance with a concentration on Ballet and Jazz. Carla was also a member of the Pittsburgh Tap Ensemble and performed in multiple shows including “The Nutcracker” with the Ohio Ballet Theater and “The Jazz Nutcracker” with PoPC and spring show cases. Due to her love of dance and commitment, she has been awarded numerous scholarships and awards for dance and choreography. Here at ATB, Carla fell in love with teaching due to watching her students grow and excel all while having a smile on their faces, “I love watching that lightbulb go off when they get something right; and then to watch them live their dreams while dancing on cruise-lines, college dance teams and even going pro.” Not only is Carla a great asset here at ATB as a dance instructor, but she also is a talented hair stylist in Independence, OH. When she’s not at the dance studio or salon, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three children where they live in Westlake.

Carlin Dixon
Carlin Dixon

Above the Barre’s Hip Hop, Boy’s Next, and Adult Hip Hop classes has the pleasure of having Carlin be the instructor since 2014. Carlin has achieved many accomplishments working with different organizations, the performing arts and helping others. At Berea Mid Park High School, he was a part of the Theater program, Concert Choir, Key Club, program director for the Annual Black History Celebration and the peer mediation program. In just his first year of college at Write State University, Carlin became Vice President of his freshman class for the Black Student Union and led many events throughout the year including a suicide prevention event. He was a part of an award-winning dance group and was voted to be Chaplian for two Christian organizations on campus, one being a Gospel choir. At his home church, and many other in Cleveland, Carlin has choreographed and coordinated dance ministries, including his own Team Victory and for the guys Dance Too Program with the Cleveland Ballet. With life lessons and excellent dance moves, his teaching style is very inspiring to those in his class and is “honored to be part of the ATB family.”

Cassidy Yesko
Cassidy Yesko

Bio coming soon!

Cecily Herchek
Cecily Herchek

Cecily Herchek hails from northeast Ohio where she has founded her dance career. Having been a competitive dancer for 12 years, Cecily is well rounded in many forms of dance, but her passion is tap. She has had the honor of traveling the country, working with many highly acclaimed and respected tap dancers and mentors. Cecily is also a founding member of the Ohio Elite Tap Company and an apprentice with Tap Into The Network. Among many competitive dance accomplishments, she has also had the privilege of performing as an All-Star dancer for Showstoppers and being the first overall winner of the international, Australian-based, Ooh La La Dance Extravaganza Competition. She has also been recognized by the state of Ohio as gifted and talented in dance with the first-ever perfect evaluation score. Cecily graduated from high school in 2022 and this opened up more time to focus on her tap dance career. Cecily had the extreme honor of being invited to perform with the esteemed members of Rhythm ISS… at the Tapology Call and Response Concert in Flint, Michigan. Most recently, she was invited to tour with Tapology as a performer in Seattle, Washington. During her inaugural year as a choreographer, Cecily brought success to her students with award-and-Title winning choreography. This year brings new adventures for her, not only as she is continuing her journey as a choreographer, but also as a dance educator and preparing to undergo adjudicator training. Cecily is beyond blessed for the opportunities she has received so far and is excited to see what the future brings.

Christina Barr
Christina Barr

Christina is a professional dancer who loves working with Above the Barre. Christina was accepted into the Broadway Dance Center Professional Semester in New York City when she graduated high school. Christina has been spotted in multiple music videos, countless dance magazines, and numerous YouTube videos. She was with Tokyo Disney performing in King Triton’s Concert 2017-2018. Christina loves to inspire children to live their dreams and push themselves to be their best version.

Claudia Gulan
Claudia Gulan

Claudia Gulan grew up dancing at Above the Barre for a total of twelve years while also competing with their Dance Company. She taught dancenastics for two years while in high school and dancing at the studio. She will be graduating from Ohio University in December 2023 with a degree in Early Childhood Education, while also teaching school age dance and Acro! 

Diana Horvath
Diana Horvath

Diana Horvath is on the board of directors for the Ohio Chapter of Dance Masters of America and manages Ohio Dance Masters’ yearly scholarship competition.  Diana also choreographed Tap pieces for Dance Project Seasons 6 & 7 and teaches at Medina Centre for Dance Art.  Diana was a dance studio owner for over 25 years and a dance instructor in all genres for over 40.  As such, Diana has choreographed countless recitals, and competitive routines as well as judged auditions and competitions.  

Diana is certified to teach Tap, Jazz, Ballet, and Acrobatics from Dance Masters of America. She has studied dance since the age of three and has over 40 years of teaching experience.  Throughout the years she has taken Master classes with Sandman Sims, Savion Glover, Stepp Stewart, Steven Boyd, Bob Rizzo, and Rennie Davis.  She also attended the Dance Masters of America Teachers Training School at Kent State University. 

Diana has a BA degree in Business from Cleveland State University and rounded out her dance training while earning her degree.


Denise Bryant
Denise Bryant

Denise Bryant has over 42 years of teaching experience. Denise has danced both on stage and on television. For 24 years she owned and operated the Denise Bryant Studio of Dance in Tallmadge. Denise is now happy to be sharing her knowledge of dance with several students in various locations. She is currently serving as President of Ohio Dance Masters and is also a member of Dance Masters of America, and the Cecchetti Council of America (where she serves as Scholarship Chairperson). Denise choreographed Bye, Bye Birdie for Tallmadge High School and Fiddler On the Roof, Oliver, My Fair Lady and The Wizard of Oz for The Dynamics, an intergenerational theater group in Tallmadge. Denise has taught Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe, Acro, Modern and Lyrical. She participates in workshops and master classes to continue learning about this living art we call Dance.

Emma Brady
Emma Brady

My passion for ballet was shaped by my struggles with injuries and the perseverance and strength training required to overcome them. I pursued a ballet career after high school and became a trainee with Nashville Ballet. I then moved to the West Coast to dance with companies there, but a spinal injury cut my career short. When I returned to teaching ballet, I discovered that my unique perspective and approach to technique - focused on strength, consistency, and humor - resonated with my students. I believe that anyone can achieve their dream of becoming a dancer, regardless of their natural abilities. With the right guidance, knowledge, and body awareness, you can transform your ballet technique and your life. My mission is to put a new spin on ballet and create an engaging, motivating environment for dancers of all levels.


Erianna Raib-Ptichkin
Erianna Raib-Ptichkin

Our Dance Manager Eri is a well-trained and experienced dance teacher from the Youngstown, Ohio area. In addition to over twenty years of dance training, Ms. Eri has studied extensively at the collegiate level, receiving both a B.A. and B.S from Youngstown State University, as well as being both CPR and Concussion Safety Certified. As an active member of Ohio Dance Masters and Dance Masters of America, she continues to share the art of dance in local high schools, state universities, and private studios. Teaching since 2003, Ms. Eri joined the Above the Barre family in 2013, and now works with the teachers and staff at ATB to create the best customer experience for you!

Estevon Scruggs
Estevon Scruggs

Estevon Scruggs is a professional dancer, he recently finished dancing at Michael Jackon’s One by Cirque Du Soleil. He specializes in the art of Popping, Animation, Breaking, House, Waving, and other street dances. From age 12 he was self-taught, until age 17 when he gained the opportunity to learn Modern and Ballet under the direction of Ririe Woodbury in a mentorship program called Step Up led by Caine Keenan. In 2011 he became a part of a UWD Underground Crew, which blended street dance and studio dance to create a yearly production located in Slc, UT which consisted of 30+ dancers each season. Starting in 2012 until 2015 he became the Popping Coordinator for the company where he was able to present 10 original pieces for their consecutive yearly production. In 2014-2017 he became both a dancer and Choreographer for They Reminisce presented by the BBoy Federation. Since 2012 his training consisted of the mentorship of artists like PopNTod (Lxd/Illuminate), Boogie Frantick (LXD/Step Up/Gr818ers), Chacho “The Mute” (Flavonoids/House Of Flava/Bboy Fed), Pandora Marie (LXD/Cirque Eloise/Style Elements Crew) Quali D (Style Elements Crew) and many other internationally known street dancers. After relocating to Las Vegas in 2017 He has been featured in 10+ variety shows as a specialty solo act, performed as an Original Character created by himself in Cirque Du Soleil’s One Drop 2018, performed as a specialty act in Mr. Bizzaro’s Halloween Boo Bash 2019 as Mr. Bizarro, was a staple dancer in Troyboi’s residency at Drai’s Beach Club and won over 15+ competitions where he was made an Honorary judge at First Friday’s Monthly Battles sponsored by Zappos after winning 4 consecutive months. His current creation is a performing arts company located in Las Vegas called The Black Lotus Dance Company which is dedicated to creating visual arts with all dance styles and The School Of Waves, A school dedicated to teaching Illusionary art forms such as waving and popping.

Grace Kelly
Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly is an award-winning choreographer and dancer. Before attending Kent State to earn her bachelor's degree in business and marketing, she danced with Above the Barre for 15 years. Since then, Grace has continued to teach and choreograph throughout Northeast Ohio, while also pursuing further training in all styles of dance. Her passion remains strong as she inspires her students to become confident and skilled dancers and individuals.

Hannah Rogers
Hannah Rogers

Hannah Rogers is currently studying Visual Communication Design at Kent State University while also continuing her dance training. She graduated from Padua Franciscan High School in 2020 and trained and competed in the dance company program at Above The Barre for 7 out of the 16 years she has been dancing. Hannah is now choreographing and teaching for the talented students at Above The Barre and loves to inspire them to take their artistry to the next level.

Holly Kuhn
Holly Kuhn

Miss Holly has training in a variety of styles of dance, but her true passion is west coast style jazz. She has studied coast to coast over the years and is certified through Dance Educators of America and Acrobatic Arts. After owning her own studio, judging and master teaching for numerous competitions and conventions, her teaching experience is now 30 plus years. Many of her students have gone on professionally and are currently operating their own dance companies. Her pride and joy are her two children. Her son, Tanner, will be a senior this year at Amherst Steele High School and Rylie will be an upcoming freshman and also is one of our own as an elite ATB dance company member. Miss Holly is thrilled to have found a home at Above the Barre and is honored to be a part of your children's dance journeys this season and years to come.

Jennifer Meullier
Aerial Instructor
Jennifer Meullier
Aerial Instructor

Jennifer is a professional aerialist and production assistant in the touring sector of the entertainment industry. She works and tours will well-known Rock Acts around the world such as Cheap Trick, Night Ranger, Lita Ford, Linnard Skinnard, and Ace Fraley. She is about to head into the arena level of this industry and we are so excited to have her as part of our staff!

Jessica Noonan
Jessica Noonan

Jessica is a native of Cleveland Ohio. She comes from a dancing family and an Alumni of Above the Barre. At a young age she trained in dance and gymnastics winning many state and national titles including Miss Dance of Ohio 2013. Jessica has studied at Broadway Dance Center in New York City under the direction of Bonnie Erickson getting to preform on the Alvin Ailey Stage. She has worked professionally for Norwegian Cruise Lines as and dancer and aerialist through the mediterranean and caribbean. Jessica has a huge passion for choreography and training. Her choreography has been recognized on the regional and national level.

Joellen Wojtowicz
Joellen Wojtowicz

Joellen began her dance training with Sylvia Hamer, FISTD, in the Cecchetti Method of Ballet, passing student examinations in grades 1-Intermediate. Ms. Joellen furthered her studies at Texas Christian University with the Nordan Fine Arts Scholarship and received her BFA in Ballet. Her performing experiences include the Ann Arbor Civic Ballet, the TCU Dance Ensemble, Ballet Concerto, Allegro Dance Theatre, Chattanooga Ballet, Fort Wayne Ballet, and touring Europe with the Contemporary Dance Company. She has been a guest performing artist with the Lancaster Ballet in Lancaster, Ohio, with Keith Lee and his Newworldance Experience at Centre College in Kentucky, and the Orange Grove Dancers in Chattanooga, TN. Joellen’s performance experience includes Odette from Swan Lake, Giselle and Myrtha from Act II, Giselle, Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker, Blue Bird pas de deux from Act III, Sleeping Beauty, Helena from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Eve from Frank Hay’s Creation, and many other classical and original ballet, modern, and jazz works. Most recently, Ms. Joellen joins us from Chattanooga Ballet where she served as School, Outreach, and School Ensemble Director. Prior to that position, she served on faculty for Chattanooga Ballet, Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts, Fort Wayne Dance Collective, Fort Wayne Ballet, and Allegro Dance Theatre. She has also choreographed for Chattanooga Ballet, Chattanooga Ballet School Ensemble, CB Children’s Company & Junior Corps, Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts, The Baylor School, Orange Grove Dancers, Fort Wayne Ballet, and directed the Fort Wayne Ballet Youth Company & Youth Company too. Ms. Joellen has also taught various master classes and workshops for the University of Mississippi for Women, Middle Tennessee State University, Ballet Arts, En Pointe Dance Studio in Celina, OH., Sylvia Studio of Dance, and several other schools/organizations. Ms. Joellen is an associate teacher member of Cecchetti Council of America and has passed grades 1 through Elementary teacher examinations. In 2012, she received her Master of Arts in Education/Adult Education and Training from University of Phoenix. And, is a licensed provider of Fletcher Pilates Towelwork®, Floorwork® and BarreworkTM

Julie Campell
Aerial Instructor
Julie Campell
Aerial Instructor

Julie started taking aerial classes at Above the Barre with her daughter 5 years ago.  She began teaching in the Spring of 2022.  She worked as a respiratory therapist at Metrohealth for 19 years before earning her degree in dental hygiene in 2017.  She currently practices in Westlake.  She lives in Bay Village with her daughter Maizie and her son Tommy.

Justin Lewis
Justin Lewis

Justin M Lewis, a native of the Washington D.C area has been dancing since the age of 5. Mr. Lewis began by watching the movie “Tap” with Gregory Hines. Lewis then began to study dance at Knock On Wood Tap Studio in Silver Spring Maryland where he later became a member of the Pre-Professional Company, Tappers With Attitude (TWA). Under TWA Mr. Lewis danced on many famous stages including, Lincoln Theatre, Kennedy Center, Wolf Trap, Blues Alley, The Smithsonian, National Corcoran Gallery, The Apollo Theatre in New York City and many more. Lewis was then accepted into a top Arts College in Chicago IL. He attended Columbia College Chicago from 2007-2009, where he majored in Performing Arts Management. 


He had the honor of becoming a principal dancer on a new Tap Dance show at Universal Studios in Hollywood California entitled “Tap Worx”. Mr. Lewis is currently a dancer for Rhythmic Circus’ “Feet Don’t Fail Me Now.” He has performed on many stages across the country and has toured in Scotland for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival as well as performed at Super Bowl 52. 


Lewis is also a Master Tap Choreographer and Artistic Director at Studio Bleu Dance Center in Ashburn Virginia. He currently runs the tap program as well as continues to choreograph for over 45 studios around the country on a yearly basis.


While teaching at Studio Bleu, Lewis has had the honor and pleasure to be the teacher of Mr. Luke Spring (Ellen DeGeneres Show/ A Christmas Story on Broadway) where Lewis and his student Spring teamed up to perform on many occasions. Lewis and Spring are an internet sensation with one of their videos reaching over 65 million views on Facebook and YouTube. 


Lewis has won many awards for his choreography, nominated for “Best Tap Routine of the Year” in 2014. He was also awarded the honor to have his choreography performed at the “Young Choreographers Festival”, in 2015.  He has been a recipient of the prestigious “ACE Awards” in New York City with his company The JaM Project. The company has also reached viral video credibility from the legendary Doobie Brothers on their “Long Train Runnin” concept video. Along with the JaM project, he is also a cast member of the NBC hit television show “World of Dance Season 2”. Lewis also performed for YouTube’s Annual Broadcast at Radio City Music Hall in NYC. 


Justin M. Lewis was honored with choreographing his first musical theatre production of Hot Shoe Shuffle at the Wick Theatre in Boca Raton Florida. 


Lewis has taught for many conventions. Some include WILD dance Intensive, West Coast Dance Explosion, and The In10sive (by In10sity). He has instructed at many tap festivals around the country as well which include, RIFF in Dallas, Little Rock Tap Festival, DC Tap Festival, and Tap Into a Cure in Canada. 


Mr. Justin Lewis plans to continue spreading the love and joy for tap dance in effort to make it a stronger, more innovative art form. 

Laney Waters
Aerial Instructor
Laney Waters
Aerial Instructor

Laney danced since 7th grade with ATB! She has been an Aerial instructor for about 3 years and also taught preschool gymnastics classes. Laney graduated from Olmsted Falls High School where she had attended for all 12 years of schooling. Laney plans to attend Loyola University in Chicago to study Anthropology and hopefully get her Masters and PHD.

Lexi Hartung
Lexi Hartung

Lexi, an Ohio native, is a dancer, instructor, and choreographer. Lexi graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, along with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a Business Cognate from The University of Akron in 2022. While there, she received a 2019 and 2020 Dance Award, completed a grant writing internship with The National Center for Choreography (NCCA), and served as the Vice President of Terpsichore Dance Club. 

 

Lexi previously worked as a dancer for Rock The House Entertainment Group, traveling throughout the Midwest for events. More recently, she has been involved in performances with Monica Bill Barnes & Company, The University of Akron Dance Company, at Fenway Park, and in the Grand Carnivale at Carowinds. 

She currently teaches K-5 dance education for Lorain City School District while continuing to choreograph and instruct for local studios. 

Monica Olejko
Monica Olejko

Monica, known to the Above the Barre family as “Miss Mo” has been teaching dance for over 40 years and has been with us at ATB since 2007. With training in tap, ballet, jazz and ethnic dancing, Miss Mo has been choreographing musicals for all ages from preschool to high school in professional theatres for over 30 years. She also studied in New York with Wayne Ciliento, Onna White, Tommy Tune, Alvin Ailey and Graziela Daniele; also including the study of African movement and dance while in Zimbabwe, Africa while performing for the Harare International Arts Festival. She also choreographed the Olympic Diving and Acrobatic show at Sea World. This award winning performer continues to choreograph and direct theatre right here in Ohio. Miss Mo keeps busy and is a voice-over artist for American Greetings and Little Tyke Toys. When Miss Mo isn’t dancing or directing, she loves to spend time with her grandchildren, “They are the reason I was born.”

Nicole Schultheis
Nicole Schultheis

Bio coming soon!

Rachel Leheney
Rachel Leheney

Rachel Leheney grew up dancing at the age of 2.5 years old at a studio in Sagamore Hills and followed her favorite teacher, who opened up a studio in her hometown, Broadview Heights, in 2009. For the past 20 years, she has trained in various styles of dance including jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, lyrical, ballet, modern, pointe, tap & acrobatics. She has been to conventions including Hollywood Vibe, Velocity & Cle Grooves, New York City multiple summers, and several more amazing opportunities.


 Rachel spent all of 2019-2023 training with Cleveland Dance Project company as a company member. Throughout Rachel’s time on company she has gotten opportunities to perform in several CDP shows, multiple video projects, the Israel Festival, the gathering place, the NFL draft, fashion shows, multiple photo/video shoots and so much more. Rachel has also been involved with the Cleveland Guardians organization as a Cleveland striker from 2022-2023, which consists of performing for large crowds, entertainment, modeling, mascoting and so much more. Rachel has taught various styles of dance to dancers ages 3-35 and has also worked with the special needs adaptive program over the past several years. 


Rachel enjoys teaching several award-winning competitive teams, recreational technique, conditioning, total body, tap, hip hop, and preschool/school-age combos.


Rachel loves teaching and helping dancers become their best selves in and outside of the classroom! She is excited to continue training and learning during her time on staff!


Tabitha Minor
Tabitha Minor

Bio coming soon! 

Susan Barr
Founder & Owner
Susan Barr
Founder & Owner

GYMNASTIC COACHES

Adriana Merdita
Adriana Merdita

Adriana she has been training at Above the Barre for 15 years. She has been teaching for the last few years on both the Dance and Gymnastics side. She is enjoying choreographing gym floor routines for our Team Gymnasts. One fun thing to know about her is that she has a twin sister!

Alex Gili
Alex Gili

Alexa Vraja
Alexa Vraja

Bio coming soon!

Avery Billington
Avery Billington

Bio coming soon

Brittany Garofalo
Brittany Garofalo

Brittany started at Above the Barre in 2016. Previously, she taught preschool for 7 years. She has a passion for teaching and helping children progress. Brittany is certified in CPR and First Aid, amongst many other Early Childhood trainings. Brittany has received certifications from the OCALI Autism Certification Center in both Early Childhood and School-Aged ranges. A well-rounded coach, she is excited to share her passion with every student and can’t wait to see them succeed.

Colleen Thiel
Colleen Thiel

Bio coming soon!

Dave Forister
Dave Forister

Bio coming soon!

George Martin
George Martin

George has been coaching for over 30 years. He started his gymnastics career at age 9 and continued his passion for gymnastics by turning it into coaching. George is a well-rounded coach with a background in girls' gymnastics, cheerleading, and power tumbling. He has a number of USAG certifications and a passion for teaching.

George Skliros
George Skliros

Bio coming soon!

Jackie Saggio
Jackie Saggio

Jackie was a gymnast at Thome-Ohio Gymnastics and is happy to return to coaching after spending time away to be a mom.  Jackie was a competitive gymnast and cheerleader throughout school and previously coached preschool, rec, team, and cheerleading.  Since last coaching, Jackie has spent time judging both gymnastics and competitive cheerleading.  She has a Masters Degree in Education and works at Parma Preschool and Baldwin Wallace.  She enjoys combining her knowledge of child development with coaching and making sure each athlete is well-rounded to meet their full potential. 


Jamie Ferry
Jamie Ferry

Bio coming soon!

Jeff Vacha
Jeff Vacha

Jeff has spent over 30 years in this building and has been a coach here since 2008. He was a college gymnast at the University of Illinois in Chicago and has been coaching since 1997. Jeff loves this sport and everything it does for children’s strength, confidence and most importantly, having fun. He is USAG Safety Certified and is actually a registered professional disc golfer. In his free time, he loves to snowboard and throw Frisbees.

Joe Zitriki
Joe Zitriki

Joe is currently a student at Cleveland State University working towards becoming a Physical Therapist. He earned his Black Belt in karate at age 15 and later started parkour and tricking. He soon became a tumbling coach and has continued ever since 2010. Since then he has added break dancing, martial arts weapons training (such as double nunchucks, bo staff, rope dart), popping/animation, and capoeira to his list of skills. He has participated in competitive cheerleading and has also cheered for CSU. He has coached at Camp Woodward with world famous athlete Kie Willis as well as Ohio Cheer Explosion, Tracy’s Karate Studio, Caliber Dance Company and Steel City Parkour. Joe is a former Pararescue Candidate in the U.S. Air Force Special Operations, and is also a certified Personal training by the American Council on Exercise. Joe is exceptionally well rounded and is willing to help anyone achieve their goals no matter what they might be.

Julie Cvitkovich
Julie Cvitkovich

Julie has coached for over 30 years. She started her gymnastics career in competitive dance for two years and then moved to a competition team at Universal gymnastics. She competed up to Level Ten. Julie also competed in High School where her school won two state championships out of the four years she was there. Julie studied Sport Management at Bowling Green and Physical Education at Kent State. While at Kent State she was presented with an opportunity to own a gym. She owned Western Reserve Gymnastics for 8 years. It was quite successful in producing several Level 4, 6, and 8 State Championship teams and several Level 8 and 9 regional and national qualifiers. Deciding her true passion was coaching she sold the gym and coached at several gyms in northeast Ohio. Julie has coached Level 2-Elite as well as created lesson plans, schedules, motivational charts, etc. She is a Level Ten judge and has been one for 8 years. Julie hopes to teach the gymnasts how working hard and smart pays off by focusing on the details, form, and presentation when they are performing their routines and skills. She has aided in coaching several State, Regional, and National Champions with this concept.

Juliana Merdita
Juliana Merdita

Juli has been doing gymnastics for 15 years and still competes to this day. She started working at Above the Barre 2 years ago and absolutely loves working with all of the kids!

Marty Macsay
Marty Macsay

Michelle Barnett
Michelle Barnett

Michelle has been teaching tumbling and gymnastics for over 20 years and counting. Her grown daughters were very involved in gymnastics and cheerleading, and whenever they went, Michelle was there coaching. She treats everyone as though they were her own family

Nate Geffert
Nate Geffert

Nate has been coaching gymnastics for over 17 years. During this time he has coached both private club and high school teams, coaching to State and Regional titles in both team and individual events. Nate joined the ATB family in 2012 and has coached men’s and women’s gymnastics at levels 3-9 as well as Xcel and recreational classes. He is a professional member of USA Gymnastics and holds a number of coaching certificates through USAG University including Safety and Risk Management and Junior Olympic Development Coach Certification. His passion is helping students to not only become better gymnasts, but also become better all-around people. Nate is married and has a 2 year old daughter who loves spending time at the gym as much as her daddy.

Nicole Delgado
Nicole Delgado

Nicole is a familiar face with Above The Barre since she is a Thome-Ohio Gymnastics Alumni and started coaching here at the age of 15. Throughout her 16 years of coaching, she has traveled around and gained knowledge throughout different programs! Currently she is our Compulsory Team Director who also enjoys being on our Marketing Team. Nicole graduated from Baldwin Wallace University in 2015 with a Liberal Arts Degree, Majoring in Public Relations and Minoring in Business Management. The sport of gymnastics and children have always been her passion, as she enjoys waking up everyday doing exactly what she loves to do in life! If she is not at the gym you can find her spending time with her family. She just had her first baby girl on January 24th, 2024. She hopes her daughter will love the sport of gymnastics as much as she does!


Olivia Merdita
Olivia Merdita

Bio coming soon!

Stefanie Vlna
Stefanie Vlna

Stefanie has been teaching gymnastics for over 20 years. She has specialized in developing compulsory team gymnasts but has coached optional gymnasts up to level 10 for the past few years. She has run many gyms and programs throughout the years and has loved every second of it. She believes in developing confident gymnasts with compassion and attention to detail. Her favorite part is seeing gymnasts grow and learn new skills. She has her degree in Exercise Science and is currently working on her master degree in the same field. She also has a 3 year old named Ronin and a dog named Lilly.

Taylor Weiss
Taylor Weiss

Taylor has been a part of Above the Barre most of their life. Starting gymnastics in Preschool and continued both as an athlete and an employee through high school and college. This past spring Taylor graduated from Lorain County Community College(LCCC) with an Associate of Arts. Through LCCC Taylor found a passion for ceramics and even had pieces featured in the school’s art show.  With a deep connection to Above the Barre and a passion for creativity, Taylor strives to make the gym a fun and comfortable space that helps foster children’s skills and confidence. 

Tam Nguyen
Tam Nguyen

Bio coming soon!

Tristen Nye
Tristen Nye

Bio to come.

Student Leadership Team

Alyson Harhay
Alyson Harhay

Alyson is a 15-year-old sophomore at Olmsted Falls High School. She has been dancing for 10 years at Above the Barre, where she is a member of the elite dance program, ATB student leaders group, and the National Honor Society for the Dance Arts.


When not dancing or cheering for her school, you'll find Alyson outdoors, or expressing her creativity through drawing. She has a deep love for animals, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Aryonna Adamczyk
Aryonna Adamczyk

Aryonna has been dancing for 13 years in many different styles. Dance has always been a major part of her life. "It has always been something that has been there for me no matter what was going on in my life."  In 2021 she broke her ankle and was forced to take several months off in order to allow her ankle to heal which was very difficult for her. When she was finally able to return to dance again she was able to feel whole again after all the time she had spent away from dancing. 


Aroynna is in the class of 2026 and will be graduating from Berea-Midpark High School. After high school, she wants to go into the medical field, preferably into surgery. 

Ashley Evanson
Ashley Evanson

Ashley goes to school at Berea Midpark High School, where she will graduate from in 2025.

Ashley enjoys cheering for her High School when she is not at dance. She has been dancing for 13 years 

Avery Caudill
Avery Caudill

Avery Caudill is one of the ATB Student Assistants! She goes to Olmsted Falls High School and will graduate in 2024. 


Avery has been dancing for 14 years. She also does sideline varsity cheer and gameday cheerleading. She is involved in Student Ambassadors, Student Council, Key Club, National Honor Society, Dance Honors Society of the Arts, Science and Math Honor Society, and is Vice President of her class! Avery enjoys skiing in the winter with her family and taking on new adventures outdoors!

Avery Ignazio
Avery Ignazio

Ella Smith
Ella Smith

Ella is a current junior at Olmsted Falls High School and has been dancing at Above the Barre for 13 years. She is involved in many extracurriculars at school including varsity sideline cheerleading, gameday competition cheerleading, Key Club, Student Council, SADD, and Student Ambassadors. In her free time, Ella enjoys spending time with her friends and family as much as she can! 

Emersyn Fleming
Emersyn Fleming

Emmy is a sophomore at Berea-Midpark High School, where she is an honors student and football cheerleader. At school, she is involved in student council, student-athlete leadership team, and sophomore class executive board.  Emmy has been dancing at Above the Barre since she was 3 years old. She is a Grade VII Cecchetti student, is in her 10th year with the Above the Barre Dance Company, and is a member of the National Honors Society of Dance Arts. 


Kate Errington
Kate Errington

Kate, is am a junior at Berea Midpark High School. This will be her thirteenth year in dance and my fourth year in Dance Company. In addition to dance, she also does show choir, drama club, and marching band. 

Kaitlyn Williams
Kaitlyn Williams

Kaitlyn is a sophomore at Olmsted Falls High School and will graduate in 2026! She is an honors student and cheerleader and a devoted member of multiple clubs. She has been dancing at ATB since she was 3 and has been a Dance Company member since she was 6. Her favorite styles of dance are contemporary, lyrical, and tap. When not at the studio Kaitlyn enjoys spending time with family and hanging out with friends. 

Kristiana Recko
Kristiana Recko

Kristiana is a 15-year-old sophomore attending Olmsted Falls High School. Kristiana has been dancing since the small age of 18 months old. She has formal training in ballet, jazz, Tap, lyrical, contemporary, acrobatics, hip-hop, ballroom, and studies in a commercial program. She travels around the country where she studies at multiple conventions in all disciplines of dance. She has been awarded many scholarships for her talent and dedication to many of these outside programs. As tradition, she also has been in ATB‘s Nutcracker for many years holding many roles. Kristiana has held many titles through dance.  Her favorite was being crowned Petite Miss Dance of America. Outside of dance Kristiana is a varsity football cheerleader for her high school. She also enjoys singing and musical theater. She hopes to continue in her passion and love for dance by continuing her collegiate education in dance and musical theater and or becoming a Radio City Rockette. 

Lily Norris
Lily Norris

Lily is a sophomore at Olmsted Falls High School. She is involved in many things at school, such as being an Honors Student, on Student Council, Key Club, and SAAD. As well as a football cheerleader.


She has been dancing at Above the Barre since she was three years old, which makes this her 13th year dancing! She is a grade VII Cechetti student, and part of ATB's elite company. She loves to go to conventions and competitions in many different states and learn from all different teachers. In her free time, she loves to hang out with family and friends!

Lily Yoakam
Lily Yoakam

Lily has been dancing for 11 years and 8 years at Above The Barre. She goes to Berea Mid-park High School and will graduate with the class of 2026! She is a part of the Sophomore executive board at BMHS. Lily also works part-time at Dairy Queen as a lead and trainer! She looks forward to seeing all the kids in class!

Madelyn Blatnica
Madelyn Blatnica

Madi Buie
Madi Buie

Madison is a Junior at Brunswick high school. She enjoys working on the yearbook at school and is in the National Honor Society for Dance Arts. 


This is her 8th year at Above the Barre, and her 13th year dancing. She loves going to Cedar Point and the lake to go boating with her friends in the summer.

Meghan Hicks
Meghan Hicks

Meghan is 17 years old and is a senior at Olmsted Falls High School. She has been a part of the student leadership program for 2 years now and she loves helping and engaging with her students inside and outside of class. Meghan is in the graduating class of 2024 and will be completing her 15th year with ATB! Outside of dance, Meghan enjoys going to the gym, hanging out with her friends, reading, and attending youth services at her church. She also loves to help with the special needs students while in school! 

Morgan Berger
Morgan Berger

Morgan is a student at Fairview High School. She is the captain of her school’s drill team. Morgan has been dancing at Above The Barre since she was two years old! She is a senior in High School and will be graduating this upcoming spring! 

Paige Bielozer
Paige Bielozer

Paige is a sophomore at North Ridgeville High School.   She will be graduating in 2026. Paige has been dancing for 13 years. 

Riley Zahorchak
Riley Zahorchak

Riley is a 15-year-old Sophomore at Olmsted Falls High School. In school, she is a part of Helping Hands, Key Club, SADD, Student Advisory, and Student Council. She has been dancing since she was two at Above the Barre. It first started with a mommy and me class with Ms. Mo and ever since then, she fell in love with it. Dance is a huge part of her life and she is so excited to help others find their passion for dance just like she did!

Rylie Kuhn
Rylie Kuhn

Rylie is a senior set to graduate in 2024 from Amherst Steele High School, she actively engages in various academic and extracurricular pursuits. She is a dedicated member of the National Honors Society, National Honors Society of Dance Arts, Leo Club, Link Crew, and Student Council.


 With a fifteen-year journey at Above the Barre, her passion for dance has led her to not only perform but also choreograph competitive routines for soloists. Rylie frequently participates in conventions, seeking insights from seasoned choreographers. She aspires to have a professional dance career. 

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