Julie Paige
Owner/Director
Ballet, Jazz/Contemporary, Hip-Hop, Twinkle Star Dance, Musical Theatre
Julie Paige is both a classically and commercially trained dancer and actress. She began dancing at the age of 5 and immediately fell head over heels in love with dance! At 7 she stumbled upon the world of acting & musical theatre and found a second love. Throughout her childhood Julie called acting her “heart” and dance her “soul.”
In college, Julie went on to study in some exclusive BFA Dance and Acting programs at top college conservatory schools including the University of Arizona, The Boston Conservatory of Music, and NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, receiving her degree from NYU.
After college, Julie spent 6 years performing professionally in NYC and Los Angeles. As a Dancer & Actress, she performed in repertory theatre, national tours, music videos, commercials, and as a featured dancer and actress in film and television. Her favorite dance credit was dancing with Britney Spears in a live televised concert on Mtv. She’s also choreographed for both stage and the Warner Brothers CW television network.
After 6 years of performing professionally, Julie experienced a pivotal life moment when her agent called her with an audition for a role on a popular television show. The audition was at the same time as her favorite dance class in NYC. She did not want to miss her dance class for the audition. It was then that she realized that, while she enjoyed performing, her true love was in the classroom. She preferred the challenge of constantly learning new material and working on improving the different aspects of style, technique, and artistry that the classroom provided. Based on this realization, Julie tried her hand at teaching. As soon as she did, she immediately realized that teaching was her soul’s calling!
As a teacher Julie feels like she’s truly being of use in the world in a positive way. Helping to educate and inspire children and teens to reach their dance dreams, while also instilling in them a sense of confidence and self esteem that comes with working hard and setting up disciplined healthy habits to achieve goals, is of the utmost importance to Julie. She loves watching a student’s eyes light up with joy when they finally achieve a move they’ve been working hard to master. She also loves the camaraderie of the classroom and encourages all of her students to support and uplift each other in reaching their goals.
Soon after her first teaching engagement, Julie opened her first studio The Paige Conservatory of Performing Arts in Massachusetts. After several successful years with this studio, Julie’s love for teaching continued to grow, but her soul was missing a more creatively artistic community where she could, not only take her teaching to greater heights, but where she could consistently grow as a dancer, educator, and person. In 2016, Julie made the decision to move back to Los Angeles and create Inspire Dance Studio. In 2021, Julie welcomed her magical daughter, Vivia Bliss Lille Paige, into the world and her heart was filled to the brim with love & joy.
TODAY, Julie is so thrilled to be living sunny Los Angeles with her daughter and doggie, Vivia & Sky. She is now a multifaceted entreprenuer. Along with Inspire Dance Studio, Julie is a published author and Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation (IFC) with ontological, entrepreneurial, executive, and relationship coaching skillsets, along with a TICC (Trauma Informed) certification and CMC (Certifed Mentor Coach) certification. www.mostinspiredlife.com.
She feels so incredibly blessed to have two careers that bring her such meaning, purpose, and joy; to be working with such an elite faculty whom she completely respects and admires; and to have the family of her dreams! She is beyond excited to continue to welcome students and families into the INSPIRE Dance Studio family!
April McLeod-Baker
Conservatory Ballet, Pre Pointe, Pointe, & Nutcracker Co-Choreographer
April McLeod-Baker began her classical ballet training under the direction of Jamie Zimmerman, former San Francisco Ballet principal dancer and her professional career began as an apprentice with The Sacramento Ballet. While on scholarship at The Rock School of the Pennsylvania Ballet she had the opportunity to work with the Pennsylvania Ballet. Since 2000, April has performed for various classical and contemporary ballet companies throughout the San Francisco and Los Angeles areas. She has performed soloists and principal roles in new works as well as classical ballets such as Raymonda, Valse Fantasie and Stars and Stripes as well having the opportunity to perform in various movies and commercials and working with professional photographers on published fine art projects.
April joined City of Angels Ballet in 2004 training and dancing professionally under Mario Nugara Artistic Director, and Stephanie Saland, former New York City Ballet principal dancer under George Balanchine. 15 years of working alongside these remarkable mentors has given Mrs. McLeod-Baker an intimate understanding of ballet technique focused on body and mind awareness. Studying innovative coaching methods that infuse dancers with further understanding of classical ballet technique and artistry through conscious movement and technical choices. She has focused her career on studying and implementing creative and respectful teaching methods that infuse a high level of professionalism and discipline. Working with students at any age, level and with various dance goals April is passionate about helping every student reach their fullest potential as a fine artist and inspiring in them the respect and love of the art of classical ballet.
April's most recent work experience includes coaching professional dancers throughout the Los Angeles area, working as Ballet Mistress and Performance Coach with Freaks with Lines and Contempo Arts Productions. Refining choreographic choices and helping dancers implement technique into the fast paced demands of professional performances. April has worked with the team at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex and the Alex Theatre to stage new works by choreographers in these professional companies.
Jiyeon Han
Basic Ballet, Conservatory Ballet, Pointe, & Stretch & Strengthening, & Nutcracker Co-Choreographer
Jiyeon Han's journey in the world of dance began with the rigorous training of the Vaganova Method during her formative years, setting the foundation for her passion and dedication to the art form.
After completing her studies at Sungkyunkwan University in Seoul, Jiyeon embarked on a professional career that led her to the prestigious National Theater, also known as the Gwangju City Ballet. Over the course of a decade, from 2014 to 2024, Jiyeon had the honor of serving as a professional ballerina, performing a wide range of soloist to corps de ballet roles in both Full Performance classical and contemporary ballets.
However, like many dancers, Jiyeon encountered the challenges of injury during her tenure with the ballet company. Rather than letting setbacks deter her, she embraced the opportunity to explore new avenues of growth and learning. Jiyeon delved into the realms of rehabilitation, conditioning, and alternative methods such as RAD and Somatic Method, seeking to reconcile the pursuit of beauty in ballet with the imperative of maintaining a healthy, resilient body.
Jiyeon's commitment to the dance community extends beyond the stage. As a Board Member of the Korea Ballet Association and a Company Representative for the Gwangju City Ballet, she has actively contributed to the advancement of dance in her community. Jiyeon's dedication and contributions were recognized with the prestigious Mayor’s Award for Achievement in Art Development, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the arts.
In addition to her expertise in classic and contemporary dance performance, Jiyeon is deeply passionate about ballet instruction. She believes in providing individualized instruction tailored to each student's unique needs and learning styles, drawing upon her BA in Psychology and understanding of child development principles to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment.
Following her tenure with the ballet company, Jiyeon transitioned into the dynamic world of film and commercial business, where she has lent her talents as a dancer, actor, and choreographer to various projects. She worked as This multifaceted experience has enriched Jiyeon's artistic perspective and reinforced her belief in the transformative power of dance across different mediums.
Julia Haynes
Hip-Hop, Acro, Jazz, Tap, Theatre Dance, & Twinkle Star Dance
Julia Haynes has had the opportunity to be exposed to many different facets of performing. She is adept in many dance styles and has studied at an elite training level for 19 years. This AMDA (American Musical and Dramatic Academy) graduate has been immersed in professional film, stage, television, and music videos where she exhibits her dance, acting, and vocal abilities. From filming with TV streaming service Dame Dash Studios to touring/performing on Broadway in Alaska (The Little Mermaid), Julia is eager to bring her talents to Inspire Dance Studio. Alongside her talents, Julia is the Co-Owner of JSF Productions LLC founded by JSTYLZ and is also the Studio Director at Dynamic Movement LA. Julia is currently signed with Go2 Talent Agency in Los Angeles and is excited to have been given this opportunity to share her artistry with her Inspire Dance students!
Ezra Shipin
Basic Ballet, Conservatory Ballet, Pointe, Ballet Variations, & Stretch & Strengthening
Ezra Shipin is a professional dancer and choreographer born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. While Ezra's been trained as a multi-versed dancer, her focus, passion, and professional career has mainly been in the ballet and contemporary genre. She graduated from the prestigious Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (LACHSA)’s Dance program where she had to opportunity to train with Fiona Lummis, Gina Buntz, Wendy Lawson, Edouard Kouzmitch, Don Martin and more. She's had the opportunity to dance as a soloist in ballets such as Napoli, Coppelia, Sleeping Beauty, La Bayadere and Symphony of Psalms. She was also a dancer and captain of the Los Angeles Sparkids under Liezel Marie and Adam Parson. Ezra then went on to graduate with a BFA in Dance from The California Institute of the Arts where she trained extensively and performed in original works by Glen Eddy, Andre Tyson, Doug Nielsen and more. Ezra danced in Los Angeles for the following two years— gaining experience commercially for brands and music videos (Phoebe Bridgers, Ava Max, Vincint) and joined the MashUp Contemporary Dance Company. During that time, Ezra also gained experience working as a mentor for AllwayzOnStage, a non-profit on a mission to give Young Adults with disabilities an opportunity to perform in stage productions and musicals. In 2017, she moved to New York City where she danced and taught Ballet, Contemporary and Yoga for 7 years. She was a member of Alice Farley Dance Company, XY Dance Project, assisted choreographers at renowned studio’s such as Broadway Dance Center and Steps, and began working in immersive theatre with Meyer2Meyer Entertainment.
Ella Thowe
Jazz, Contemporary, & Basic Ballet
Ella Thowe started her dance journey at a competition studio where she trained in styles including: ballet, modern, tap, jazz, lyrical, and acro. Outside of her studio she also danced with contemporary pre-professional companies and trained with the Kansas City ballet and the Kansas School of Classical ballet. Once she was introduced to commercial dance, she began her training in hip hop, jazz funk, and heels. Since moving to Los Angeles, Ella has taught at competition studios, for dance teams, and other dance programs; as well as dancing professionally in multiple music videos and live performances. She is currently finishing her degree in Dance at AMDA and is so excited to join the Inspire team!
Bryn Bohannan
Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Twinkle Star Dance
Bryn Bohannan is a multifaceted dancer and choreographer based in Los Angeles. Her journey in dance commenced at a young age, honing her skills across various styles including jazz, tap, hip-hop, contemporary, and ballet. Her formative years saw her training at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, where she had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed choreographers like Azshure Barton and Sidra Bell. Currently in her final semester at the California Institute of the Arts, Bryn is on the cusp of earning her BFA in dance. She has also worked on music videos and live performances.
Beyond her experience as a dancer, Bryn has ventured into the technical aspects of performance, exploring disciplines such as sound design and stage management. For her, dance and the arts transcend mere expression; they serve as conduits for connection. As she continues to evolve as a dancer and choreographer, Bryn aspires to instill confidence in her fellow dancers, nurturing their talents and guiding them toward their own creative paths.
Savanna Gonzalez
Contemporary, Jazz, Ballet, Hip-Hop, & Twinkle Star Dance
Savanna Gonzalez is a passionate and versatile dancer with a strong foundation in Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, and Modern dance. Her movement style is rooted in both classical training and contemporary expression, shaped by years of dedicated practice and performance. She is deeply passionate about commercial dance and aims to pursue a career as a backup dancer, with the long-term goal of becoming a choreographer for commercials, music videos, and film productions. However, Savanna knows how important it is to be a well rounded dancer and wants to bring that knowledge to the studio!
Savanna is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree in Dance at California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where she continues to deepen her technical skills and artistic voice. She trains and performs with Indigo Dance Company in Los Angeles, CA, where she explores her artistic vision and continually pushes her creative and technical boundaries. Overall Savanna’s training reflects a balance of discipline and creativity, with an emphasis on musicality, fluidity, and dynamic movement.
As a dancer and educator, Savanna is a firm advocate for clean technique, positive energy, and cultivating a sense of joy in the classroom. She believes in creating an inclusive and inspiring environment where dancers can grow both technically and personally.
Chloe Jewel
Regular Substitute: Commerical Jazz, Contemporary, Hip-Hop
Chloe Jewel is a Los Angeles based professional dancer/ choreographer. She grew up dancing as a competition/convention kid for 10 years. When she graduated from Booker T Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, she was accepted into the inaugural year of the CLI Conservatory. At the end of the year, she was signed bi-coastal with Bloc Talent Agency and moved to LA. She's currently a part of MashUp Contemporary Dance Company, and has booked music videos, commercials, award shows, and live performances.
Annie Simanek
Inspire's NEW Office Manager (& Ballet Educator)
Annie Simane is a recent graduate of Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, and a native Nebraskan who grew up on an Alapaca farm! She holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration and human resources management. She also has an extensive dance background! She trained with Nebraska's professional ballet company, American Midwest Ballet, where she was a founding member of the junior company and ensemble pre-professional programs. She recently moved to Los Angeles, where she intends to launch a career merging her love and talent for business administration and high level customer service, surrounded by her lifelong passion of dance. She lives with her beloved boyfriend Amin and her cat Clarence!
Courtney Briggs
Inspire's Remote Office Manager & Dance Educator
Courtney Briggs’ believes to stay inspired about teaching, choreographing and mentoring, you need to remain curious about learning and challenging your current knowledge. Courtney’s first drive was dancing herself, training within various disciplines under different educators. Later in her education she trained at a select pre professional company where the elements of business, branding and industry relations were taught and explored. As she transitioned into her professional career in Los Angeles, CA her drive shifted into education and early childhood development. She was given many opportunities to build and manage kids dance programs within studios, create and direct a competition team, develop curriculums to support preschool to early elementary learning as well as an assistant program within dance studios to educate up and coming teachers on the craft of being an educator. She continues her work in early childhood development and education. She is also currently moving into her 9th season with Dupree Dance Competition and Convention where she has had the opportunity of having various titles over the years as Lead Assistant, Collective Program Coordinator and currently the Assistant Event Director and the newest addition of teaching within their young education program. Courtney’s driving force with any discipline of work is to support and lift the people, the knowledge and culture within it, to build the individual and group to thrive.