Mady Buerck
Teacher / Choreographer
Mady brings a rich background in jazz, lyrical, and contemporary dance, starting at six years old and competing throughout her youth. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance and Choreography from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, focusing on Modern and Ballet. Additionally, she performed with the Saint Louis Dance Theater and has taught master classes and choreographed for various studios in the Midwest.
Ava Becker
Teacher
Ava's journey in dance began at the age of 3, laying a solid foundation in technique, performance, and discipline early on. During her high school years, she honed her skills at Launch Pointe and World Class All Stars, where she cultivated both studio and competitive dance abilities. As a dedicated four-year member of the Varsity Dance Team at Ursuline Academy, Ava enhanced her success and leadership qualities. Currently, she dances at the collegiate level as a Division 1 Dance Team member at Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville, where she continues to challenge her athletic and artistic boundaries while proudly representing her university on a national stage.
Kristie Patton
Teacher / Choreographer
Kristie has dedicated over sixteen years to the art of dance. Her passion for dance is evident in every class she teaches, as she brings energy and enthusiasm that inspire her young students. With a nurturing approach, Miss Kristie encourages creativity and self-expression, helping each child discover their own rhythm and confidence. Outside of the dance studio, she enjoys spending quality time with her family, exploring the scenic beauty of Edwardsville and creating cherished memories with her sons.
Savi VanHorn
Teacher /Choreographer
Savi began her dance journey at the age of 8, training in various styles including ballet, jazz, and hip hop. By 13, she was already choreographing and receiving opportunities to teach. During high school, she was chosen by Tessandra Chavez for a convention showcase and was part of a team auditioning for Paula Abdul’s “Live to Dance.” She led her high school's varsity dance team and earned the “Dancer of the Year” award in her senior year.
After graduating in 2011, Savi pursued a degree in wildlife biology at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, completing her bachelor’s in 2015 and master’s in 2018. In 2019, Savi moved to the Bay Area to teach dance full-time, becoming Assistant Director at Livermore School of Dance and Keep in Time Dance Academy. She contributed choreography to a praised production of “Mary Poppins.” Savi is celebrated for her story-driven choreography and has won numerous awards. In 2023, she returned to Southern Illinois, launching Life’s Art LLC, and continues to inspire dancers as a freelance choreographer and instructor.