Our Mission

Our mission is to provide the most professional dance experience possible all while offering quality instruction to dancers of all ages and abilities. We understand that students enroll in dance for various reasons. It is our vision to build the foundation to make it possible for all students to attain their personal goals. At Byron Dance Academy, we pride ourselves in creating an atmosphere that gets the very best out of each dancer. This positive environment allows each dancer to grow in confidence and self-esteem while mastering the many different dance styles and techniques.

• PDF Schedule- Click Here (Updated10/24)

• Our Mission

  Our mission is to provide the most professional dance experience possible all while offering quality instruction to dancers of all ages and abilities. We understand that students enroll in dance for various reasons. It is our vision to build the foundation to make it possible for all students to attain their personal goals. At Byron Dance Academy, we pride ourselves in creating an atmosphere that gets the very best out of each dancer. This positive environment allows each dancer to grow in confidence and self-esteem while mastering the many different dance styles and techniques.

  Lead Instructors:

  Jessica Julian (Cultural Arts Director/Lead Instructor)

  Jessica brings over twenty-five years of dance education experience to her students. A former dancer herself, she trained at several diverse studios throughout the Stateline area and understands firsthand the profound impact dance can have on young lives.

  Jessica is skilled in teaching all styles of dance and connects effortlessly with dancers of every age and ability. Her passion for both music and children is evident in her creative choreography and the vibrant, encouraging atmosphere she fosters in each class.

  As a member of Fourth Movement, a semi-professional ensemble that toured throughout Europe, Jessica gained valuable performance experience that continues to inform her teaching. She has also performed across the United States, earning numerous top-scoring awards at regional and national competitions.

  Jessica’s choreography has been showcased at multiple studios and featured in several productions throughout the Stateline area. Her enthusiasm, professionalism, and dedication to her students shine through in every class—bringing out the very best in each dancer she teaches.

  
  

   

  Erin Spedding (Cultural Arts Assistant/Lead Instructor)

  Erin has been teaching and inspiring dancers for over 25 years. A lifelong performer, she grew up dancing and competing with several studios throughout Northern Illinois, where she developed a strong foundation in many styles of dance, with a particular passion for Tap and Musical Theatre.

  As a teenager, Erin began choreographing for the CBA’s Rockford Lightning dance team — the Lightning Girls — an impressive early milestone that showcased her creativity and leadership. Over the years, she has continued to share her talents by choreographing for various local theater productions, where her work has been praised for its energy, storytelling, and attention to musical detail.

  Before joining Byron Dance Academy, Erin owned and operated her own dance studio, where she not only taught proper technique but also fostered creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love for performance. Many of her students have gone on to pursue dance professionally — performing with programs and companies across the country — while others have continued their passion through college dance teams and community productions.

  Erin is dedicated to creating a positive, motivating, and inclusive environment for every dancer she works with. She believes dance is a powerful tool for self-expression and personal growth, and she strives to inspire each student to reach their full potential both in and out of the studio.

  
  

  
  

  Alana McQueary (Lead Instructor)

  Alana has been passionately dedicated to the art of dance since the age of four. Now in her fourth year as a faculty member at Byron Dance Academy, she is celebrated for her ability to craft choreography that is both challenging and memorable, inspiring dancers to grow both artistically and personally.

  In the classroom, Alana is known for recognizing the unique strengths and needs of each dancer, fostering technical growth, confidence, and creativity. Her innovative choreography engages students of all levels, empowering them to reach their full potential while maintaining a joyful and motivating learning environment.

  Alana was recently accepted into the prestigious CLI Summer Intensive in Massachusetts, further refining her expertise. Her choreography has been showcased on multiple platforms, including City First Church and various local high school dance teams. She has also received numerous awards for her competition pieces, including choreography, overall, and high point honors—solidifying her reputation as an accomplished and respected choreographer.

  Outside of her dance career, Alana is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Christian counseling, reflecting her dedication to guiding and supporting others both in and beyond the studio.

  
  

  
  

  

  Annabella Barker (Lead/Assistant Instructor)

  Bio coming soon...

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

   

   

  Hannah Doane (Lead Instructor)

  Hannah began her competitive dance career at Evolve Dance Company, where she discovered a deep love for technique and ballet. She later trained under Joseph Caruana and Mike Gosney, studying throughout the Chicago area, including with Elements Contemporary Ballet. During her competitive years, Hannah attended YAGP, NYCDA, Artists Simply Human, Tremaine, and Radix, earning multiple scholarships and a personal invitation to UNCSA’s Summer Intensive from world-renowned instructor Misha Tchoupakov.

  After graduating in 2019, Hannah chose to attend The Studio School of Los Angeles for Commercial Dance, training with top industry choreographers until the pandemic shifted her focus to teaching. Since 2021, she has taught and choreographed for Byron Dance Academy, later expanding her experience in Miami, where she worked at Studio 61 and Miami Fine Arts Academy while continuing advanced training in commercial and classical styles.

  Now back home in 2025, Hannah is thrilled to return to Byron Dance Academy, ready to share her passion, experience, and love of dance with the next generation of performers.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  

  Hannah Otte (Lead Instructor)

  Bio coming soon...

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

   

  Jessica Lane (Lead Instructor)

  Jessica has been dancing for over twenty years and brings a rich, diverse background across multiple styles of dance. From a young age, she developed a deep passion for movement and performance, competing successfully at both regional and national levels where she earned numerous awards and recognition.

  In high school, Jess was a dedicated member of the varsity pom-pom, competitive dance, and cheerleading teams. Her commitment and creativity led her to earn first place with her solo performance at the inaugural NIC-10 Showdown — a highlight of her early dance career.

  Following high school, Jess continued her journey by dancing semi-professionally for various sports teams over the course of five years. Her time performing at the semi-professional level strengthened her stage presence, athleticism, and ability to connect with audiences.

  Eventually, Jess transitioned into teaching and choreography, sharing her expertise with dance studios, theater companies, and local pageants. Her choreography is known for its expressiveness, technical precision, and storytelling quality.

  With over two decades immersed in the art of dance, Jess understands firsthand the transformative power of movement, mentorship, and community. She believes dance not only builds discipline and confidence but also fosters lifelong friendships and personal growth — lessons she strives to pass on to every student she teaches.

   

  

  Lexi Camp (Lead/Assistant Instructor)

  Bio coming soon...

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Masyn Brown (Lead & Assistant Instructor)

  Masyn Brown is a junior at Byron High School and has been passionately dancing for the past nine years. Throughout her dance journey, she has trained extensively in a wide variety of styles including jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, hip hop, and tap. Masyn’s dedication and hard work have led her to become an accomplished performer and competitor. As a proud member of the Byron Dance Academy competition team for the past five years, she has earned numerous top overall placements and choreography awards at both regional and national levels.

  This is Masyn’s second year teaching at BDA, where she loves sharing her knowledge and creativity with younger dancers. She takes great pride in helping her students grow, not only as dancers but also as confident individuals. Seeing her students improve week after week is one of the biggest highlights of her teaching experience. Masyn believes in fostering a positive, encouraging classroom environment where every dancer feels supported and inspired to do their best.

  Her enthusiasm and energy make every class fun and engaging. Masyn has a natural ability to connect with her students, bringing out their confidence and love for dance. Known for her contagious joy and uplifting spirit, she motivates each dancer to set new goals and celebrate their accomplishments, big and small.

  Outside of the studio, Masyn enjoys spending time with friends and family, attending school events, and continuing to challenge herself as a performer. She is thrilled to be part of another amazing season at Byron Dance Academy and can’t wait to watch her students shine on stage this year!

  
  

  Taylor Doane (Lead Instructor)

  Taylor is a dance educator and choreographer from Illinois. She began dancing at a young age and entered the competitive dance world during her teen years, training extensively in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop.

  Taylor’s teaching and choreography journey began at Byron Dance Academy, where she taught recital classes before advancing to competitive choreography and serving as a lead instructor for technique classes. She has also worked as a lead choreographer for Byron Civic Theater’s Beauty and the Beast, and co-choreographed Newsies Jr. and High School Musical.

  She holds a B.S. in Exercise Physiology from the University of Tampa and has trained under the guidance of Neaz Kohani and Marie Spieldenner through the GenPro Program at Genesis Studios. Taylor has also danced with the Geometry Contemporary Company under Mackenzie Martin in Los Angeles and continued her professional growth by studying with MaryAnn Chavez and Monika Felice Smith in the Lume Ignite choreography program.

  Most recently, her contemporary works Retribution and 1,903 Miles were presented in the Lume Ignite Showcase in Los Angeles, reflecting her evolving artistry and dedication to inspiring dancers through innovative choreography.

   

   

  Assistant Instructors:

  Aiva Haynes
  

   

  Elinor McHale

  
  

  Lily Hindenburg

  
  

  Macyn Burris

  
  

  Maddison Lemke

  
  

  
  

• Class Descriptions

  Please note: Not all dance classes are offered year round as part of our recital program. A variety of non-recital adult and youth dance classes are typically offered in the winter and spring months. For a complete list of our current classes, click here.

  ACRO DANCE will increase dancers stamina, endurance and power. Acro is important and in high demand for dancers to master in the competition and professional dance world. Acro dance technique includes balancing, limbering, tumbling and partnering based in flexibility, aspects of contortion and overall strength. *Dancers must have tumbling experience to enroll in this class. Skills that are required are: cartwheels (both hands and single hand), round offs, bridges, and hand stands.

  BALLET will provide an environment where dancers will be able to challenge themselves and grow. Ballet serves as a great foundation for all styles of dance. It allows each dancer to improve essential skills such as balance, coordination, discipline and overall strength.

  COMBO will help dancers discover three ways to have a blast dancing! Each week dancers will learn technique and choreography in ballet, tap, and jazz. The growth that is possible when combining all three styles into one class period is both exciting and incredible!

  MODERN/CONTEMPORARY will provide a very unique and stylized learning opportunity. Delivering an exciting atmosphere of rhythms and different methods on how to use the body in a creative way. This class will teach dancers choreography that will challenge them and build them into strong performers.

  HIP HOP will create a fun and exciting environment where dancers will learn stylized choreography. This class is perfect for boys and girls that have no prior dance experience.

  JAZZ/LYRICAL will introduce two styles of dance. Each dancer will learn skills and choreography in both styles. This class will work on improving flexibility, balance, memorization of steps, and expressing movement connected to meaningful music.

  MINI HIP HOP will introduce dancers to different styles of hip hop dance and even some jazz funk! Each class will consist of some stretching and conditioning as a warm up and will lead into learning short dance routines.

  MUSICAL THEATRE offers a chance for our younger performers to learn about theatre and expand their knowledge of the arts! This class will focus on learning specific dance styles that would be seen in a musical performance. Dancers will be introduced to ensemble work, as well as star driven choreography. We feel this class will give dancers a head start so they are ready to take part in any musical!

  POINTE will work with intermediate to advanced dancers to continue training further in ballet. Pointe assessments will be made on all dancers to determine if they are able to participate in this four-week intensive class. This includes an observation and functional skills test to ensure that dancers are able to appropriately handle the dynamic training that comes with being on pointe. Dancers do NOT need pointe shoes for this assessment but are encouraged to bring them if they have them already.

  STRETCH & STRENGTH will focus on static and dynamic stretching exercises that will improve the overall quality of any dancer. By combining strength and flexibility, dancers are able to focus on how to improve their muscular stamina by learning which muscles are needed for which dance techniques. This informative class will help to properly train dancers to avoid injuries and find a healthy balance to being strong and flexible.

  TAP will offer a variety of tap technique steps, as well as tap combinations that will improve coordination and syncopation in each dancer. Being trained in tap also helps dancers excel in other styles.

  TINY TOTS will learn about balance, coordination and rhythm. It will be a fun and encouraging environment that will allow them to grow using their imaginations and bodies to create dance steps. They will gain knowledge of ballet and tap technique.

  TURNS/JUMPS PROGRESSION will enhance dancers' technical skills. During this class, dancers will learn detailed methods that can be applied during their dance routines to give more power to jumps, more precision with turns, and overall improve transitions throughout dances and classes. This class will increase confidence and take training to a new level.

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  For more details on our dance classes, placement, shoes and more, call Jessica at 815-234-6279 or email her at jjulian@byronparks.org.

• Costume Fees

  Costume fees will be required for each recital class. The fees will be billed at the start of session two and the balance is due by the start of session three. Costume deposits are non-refundable. Students will be measured for their recital costumes mid-November and costumes will be ordered in December. Costumes will be distributed once all costumes have arrived.

  Class	Deposit Fee
  Combo Classes	$130
  Jazz/Lyrical Classes	$160
  Level Classes	$80
  Tiny Tots & Mini Hip Hop	$65

• Dress Code

  Required Dance Attire:

  Ballet Level 1, 2 & 3: Pink ballet shoes are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, tights, spandex shorts, ballet skirt, and leggings.

  Boys Class: Clean hip hop sneakers are required. The following attire is acceptable: t-shirts, athletic shorts, joggers, and sweatpants (more fitted than baggy).

  Combo 1, 2 & 3: Pink ballet, black tap, and black jazz are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, ballet dresses, spandex shorts, leggings, fitted tanks, ballet skirts, and fitted t-shirts.

  Hip Hop 1, 2 & 3 and Hip Hop Mini: Clean sneakers are required. The following attire is acceptable: athletic clothes such as, t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, leggings, joggers, and fitted sweatpants. NO JEANS

  Jazz/Lyrical 1, 2 & 3: Nude turning shoes are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, fitted tanks, fitted t-shirts, spandex shorts, leggings, and joggers.

  Musical Theater: Black jazz shoes are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, fitted tanks, fitted t-shirts, leggings, spandex shorts, and joggers.

  Tap 1, 2 & 3: Black tap shoes are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, fitted tanks, fitted t-shirts, leggings, spandex shorts, and joggers.

  Tiny Tots: Pink ballet and black tap shoes are required. The following attire is acceptable: leotards, tights, dance dresses, spandex shorts, leggings, and fitted tanks/t-shirts.

  NOTE: Shoes/attire can be purchased at Foot Lodge, Payless Shoe Store, and Walmart.

• Defying Gravity Dance Camp!
  

  
  

  Ages 7-11 | Dance Studio 1 

  Step into the magical world of Wicked at our Wicked-Themed Musical Theatre Dance Camp! This fun-filled camp will have your child learning dynamic choreography inspired by the beloved musical. In addition to dancing, campers will create fun crafts and receive a special t-shirt. Snacks will be served each day to keep energy levels high! The week will culminate in an exciting performance where friends and family can join in the magic and cheer on the talented dancers. Don’t miss out on this enchanting adventure!

  Day	Date	Time	Fee
  M-Th	6/23-6/26	1:00-3:30 pm	$80/$90

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  Princess Dance Party Camp!

  Ages 5-8 | Dance Studio 1 
  Step into a magical world at Princess Dance Party Camp! This enchanting camp invites little ones to dance and twirl just like their favorite princesses. Dancers will explore ballet and creative movement, all while letting their imaginations soar! Along with learning fun choreography, they’ll create princess-themed crafts and receive a special camp t-shirt. Snacks are provided to keep everyone energized for the royal fun. The camp will culminate in a performance where dancers can showcase their magic for family and friends. Let the princess adventure begin!

   

  Day	Date	Time	Fee
  M-W	7/21-7/23	10:00 am-12:00 pm	$60/$70

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  Step Into Dance: A World of Styles!

  Ages 5-12 | Dance Studio 1 
  Step Into Dance: A World of Styles is the ultimate dance camp for young dancers to explore Ballet, Jazz, Hip-Hop, and Contemporary dance! This camp offers a fun and creative experience where dancers will learn new moves, express themselves, and discover different dance styles. Campers will also create crafts, receive a special camp t-shirt, and enjoy snacks each day. The camp concludes with a performance to showcase all the exciting choreography they’ve learned. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this unforgettable dance adventure!
  
  

  Level	Age	Day	Date	Time	Fee
  Mini	5-8	M-Th	8/4-8/7	10:00 am-12:00 pm	$70/$80
  Junior	8-12	M-Th	8/4-8/7	1:00-3:30 pm	$80/$90

• BDA TEAM AUDITIONS

  Friday, June 27 & Saturday, June 28
  
  
  COMPETITION DANCE TEAM AUDITIONS – LEVEL UP YOUR DANCE JOURNEY! 
  Are you ready to take your dance skills to the next level? BDA Team is the perfect opportunity for dancers looking to challenge themselves, elevate their training, and grow in their self-confidence as performers. 
  
  
  WHY AUDITION? 
  This program is designed for passionate dancers who already have at least one year of dance training and are eager to compete at a higher level. As a member of the BDA Team, you will: 
  • Compete at Regional Competitions: Represent our studio at 3 prestigious regional dance competitions across the Midwest area. 
  • Perform at Local Special Events: Showcase your talent and creativity at exclusive events in the community. 
  • Enhance Your Technique: Be prepared to refine your skills with weekly training in ballet, jumps & turns, stretch & strength, and team technique classes– essential for building a strong, versatile dancer. BDA Team will also participate in elite dance conventions, taking classes from professional choreographers from all over the US. 
  Our team is all about pushing outside of comfort zones, improving dance technique, and fostering a supportive community of dedicated dancers. 
  
  
  AUDITIONS ARE NOW OPEN! 
  If you have the passion and drive and desire to take your dance experience to the next level, BDA Team is for you! Please go to ByronParks.org/Dance for audition time slot information. 
  
  
  *Dancers auditioning for BDA Team must attend ballet, stretch/strength/tricks, and jumps/turns/progressions during the 4-week summer session.

• Summer Dance Classes at BDA!

  Technique Tuesdays & Thursdays: Master the Basics 
  Every Tuesday and Thursday, it’s all about building a strong foundation! In Technique Tuesdays/Thursdays, dancers will focus on the technical elements that make every style of dance shine. Whether it’s perfecting your pirouettes, improving your footwork, or refining your posture, this class is designed to help you master the fundamentals. Our experienced instructors will guide you through exercises and drills to help elevate your dance technique to the next level. No matter your style, Technique Tuesdays and Thursdays will help you grow as a dancer! 
  
  
  Wednesday Remix: A Dance Party Every Week! Get ready for a fun-filled midweek adventure! 
  Wednesday Remix is all about variety, giving our dancers the chance to explore different styles each week. Whether you're tapping your feet to the rhythm, learning some hip-hop moves, or mastering ballet techniques, there’s something for everyone! Our talented staff will guide you through each class, offering expert instruction and plenty of fun. It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new, improve your skills, and dance with friends.
  
  
  TECHNIQUE TUESDAY: 7/15, 7/22, 7/29, 8/5
  
  

  Class	Level	Ages	Time	Fee	Location	Instructor
  Tap	Teen	13+	3:30-4:00 pm	$35/$40	Studio 1	Erin
  Ballet	Mini	6-8	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Andrew
  Ballet	Junior	9-12	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Andrew
  Ballet	Teen	13+	6:00-7:30 pm	$70/$80	Studio 1	Andrew
  Pointe	Junior/ Teen	*Instructor Approval	7:30-8:30 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Andrew
  Tap	Junior	9-12	3:30-4:00 pm	$35/$40	Studio 2	Jess J.
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Junior	9-12	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Teen	13+	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Mini	6-8	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Tap	Mini	6-8	3:30-4:00 pm	$35/$40	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Teen	13+	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Mini	6-8	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Junior	9-12	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.

  
  WEDNESDAY REMIX: 7/16, 7/23, 7/30, 8/6
  
  

  Class	Level	Ages	Time	Fee	Location	Instructor
  Mini Hip Hop	Mini	4-7	4:30-5:00 pm	$35/$40	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Combo 1	Mini	4-5	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Jazz/Lyrical	1-2	8-11	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Jess L.
  Hip Hop	1-2	8-11	7:00-7:30 pm	$35/$40	Studio 2	Jess L.
  Contemporary	1-2	8-11	7:30-8:30 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Jess L.
  Tap	1-2	8-11	8:00-8:30 pm	$35/$40	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Tiny Tots	Mini	3-4	4:15-5:00 pm	$50/$55	Studio 2	Lexi
  Combo 2/3	Mini	5-7	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Lexi
  Jazz/Lyrical	2.5+	12+	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Hip Hop	2.5+	12+	7:00-7:30 pm	$35/$40	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Contemporary	2.5+	12+	7:30-8:30 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Tap	2.5+	12+	8:00-8:30 pm	$35/$40	Studio 2	Jess L.
  Acro/Tumbling	1-2	8-11	4:00-4:45 pm	$50/$55	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Acro/Tumbling	2.5+	12+	4:45-5:30 pm	$50/$55	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Ballet	1-2	8-11	5:30-6:00 pm	$35/$40	Aerobics	Jess L.

  TECHNIQUE THURSDAY: 7/17, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7
  
  
  

  Class	Level	Ages	Time	Fee	Location	Instructor
  Ballet	Mini	6-8	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Ballet	Junior	9-12	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Ballet	Teen	13+	6:00-7:30 pm	$70/$80	Studio 1	Hannah O.
  Hip Hop	Teen	13+	3:30-4:00 pm	$35/$40	Studio 2	Alana
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Junior	9-12	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Teen	13+	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Turns, Jumps, Progressions	Mini	6-8	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Studio 2	Alana
  Hip Hop	Mini	6-8	3:30-4:00 pm	$35/$40	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Teen	13+	4:00-5:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Mini	6-8	5:00-6:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Stretch, Strength, Tricks	Junior	9-12	6:00-7:00 pm	$60/$70	Aerobics	Jess L.
  Hip Hop	Junior	9-12	7:00-7:30 pm	$35/$40	Studio 1	Jess L.