About Krista

Founder & Artistic Director

I grew up in Danville, Kentucky and first fell in love with dance at Stepping Out Studio in Stanford. As I continued training, I studied at Lexington Ballet School, the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, and through a variety of masterclasses and intensives.

I began teaching dance in 2010, offering free classes to the community at Hogsett Elementary. I later continued my dance studies at Western Kentucky University before moving to San Diego, where I performed with local dance companies and taught at area studios.

Over time, teaching became the part of dance I loved most.

For the past 15+ years, I’ve worked with dancers of different ages and experience levels, including six years serving as Artistic Director at Liberty Dance Center in Austin, Texas.

After growing our family, my husband and I decided it was time to return home to Danville. Bluegrass Dance Company grew from my desire to bring quality dance education back to the community that first gave me a place to dance.

My Approach to Dance Education

I believe dance is a performing art, and quality dance education should develop the whole dancer, not just teach choreography.

My goal is to build strong technique while helping dancers grow in artistry, musicality, creativity, expression, and performance. I also believe classes should be age-appropriate, engaging, and fun. I bring my background in child development and education into the studio, using that experience to shape how I teach and connect with young dancers.

Whether someone is stepping into their first class, returning to dance as an adult, or pursuing advanced training, I want Bluegrass Dance Company to be a place where dancers feel challenged, supported, inspired, and excited to keep growing.