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Meet the Owners

Angie Messner

Co-Owner

Angie, co-owner of NuEvolution Dance Studio, embarked on her dance journey at the tender age of 4, transitioning seamlessly into teaching during her teenage years. Her dance repertoire spans ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary styles. Hailing from Virginia, she honed her craft at Virginia Commonwealth University before venturing into choreography for diverse events, competitions, and organizations. With a thriving dance studio under her belt in Virginia, Angie expanded her expertise by obtaining certifications in Preschool Dance and Strength Training with a focus on injury prevention from CLI Studios.

 

Upon relocating to Arizona in 1995, Angie shared her passion for dance at Jeanne’s School of Dance, Heat Wave Dance Academy, and the Gilbert Parks and Recreation Department. Her teaching philosophy prioritizes nurturing each dancer's self-esteem and confidence while instilling proper technique.  Angie finds unparalleled fulfillment in witnessing the transformation from toddlers to poised performers.

 

As co-owner of NuEvolution Dance Studio, Angie is dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching environment, aiming to offer unparalleled dance training experiences.

Rashell Rodriguez

Co-Owner

Rashell is originally from Long Island, New York and was a Competitive Baton Twirler and Instructor growing up. She was the Captain of her High School Dance Team. She has a Degree in Business Management from New York Institute of Technology (NYIT). Rashell moved to AZ in 2003 with her husband and two daughters where they found the love of dance. She was employed as the Studio Manager of Jeanne’s School of Dance before becoming the Co-Owner of NuEvolution Dance Studio. Both of her daughters danced competitively at NuEvolution Dance Studio until they graduated High School. Alexsys went to college on a Division I Softball Scholarship and is currently a dog trainer. Tayla is a current Dance Instructor at NuEvolution, Pom Coach and was on NBC World of Dance for 2 seasons. She has over 30 years of Management experience with over 15 being Dance Studio. She is proud to be an owner of NuEvolution and loves her dance family!

Our Staff

Kat

Kat Vance began her Ballet training with Christina Hampton at age 13. She has attended summer intensives at The Boston Ballet, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre, in New York.  Kat competed in varsity hip hop and jazz with Basha High School's Kinesis dance company and graduated as a member of the National Honors Society for Dance Arts in 2011. Kat went on to attend the BFA program at the University of Arizona School of Dance where she studied Ballet, Modern, and Jazz. Kat is also an Actor’s Equity Association Membership Candidate, having earned equity points for her performance in Arizona Theatre Company’s production of The Great Gatsby.

Recently she cast and choreographed a music video for the band Brydes and is currently a member of Rogue Dance Theater.  Today, Kat Messner is a dance instructor and a choreographer at NuEvolution Dance Studio. Kat feels that a positive learning environment is of utmost importance and hopes to inspire creativity in all of her students.

Nina

Nina Brambila is a Nuevolution alumni and a graduate from the Institute for American Musical Theater in New York City. Nina was awarded a scholarship to this prestigious school where she trained in all styles of dance along with voice training, and acting lessons. She studied under Broadway actors, directors, producers, and choreographers such as Michael Minarik, Richard Hinds, and Jenny DiNoia. Nina is currently a professional dancer with the Arizona Rattlers Cheer team. Nina is been teaching dance for the past 10 years as both an assistant teacher and as a lead teacher for Nuevolution Dance Studio.

Miranda

Miranda has been teaching dance for 18 years, including 12 years at NuEvolution. Growing up in the East Valley, she developed her passion for dance and went on to train with renowned institutions such as ABT (American Ballet Theatre) and Alonzo King LINES Ballet.
In addition to her extensive dance background, Miranda holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and spent 10 years teaching special needs preschool. This experience has shaped her ability to connect with and inspire students of all abilities. Miranda’s dedication to her craft has earned her multiple choreography awards, showcasing her creativity and commitment to excellence.
Outside the studio, Miranda is a proud mom to two children, Ethan and Sylvie. She and her family are Disney Park enthusiasts, finding inspiration and joy in frequent visits to their happy place.

Valerie

Valerie is trained in jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, and has musical theater experience in productions such as “The Music Man”, “Annie” and “The Fiddler On the Roof”.
Kind of a late-bloomer, her formal training began at the age of 14 in ballet, lyrical and jazz under the direction of Sheree Skiles at The Ballet Theater in CA. For two years she danced the parts of Lead Russian and in a trio for Arabian in their production of The Nutcracker.

At 16 she was scouted out by Laurie Schwimmer to be a member of her competitive jazz and tap dance team, “Dance Attack II”. With them she was able to travel the country performing and competing, ultimately placing 2nd at the US Open in the Cabaret Division. At the age of 18 she was employed as a backup dancer and choreographer for Tito Puente Jr. She toured internationally and performed in events such as the opening ceremonies of the Staples Center in LA, the Caribbean Music Expo in Jamaica, the exclusive Beverly Hills Hotel New Years Eve Gala, and an album release at the iconic Tower Records.

Valerie has a teaching certificate in Kinesiological Stretching from ElasticSteel and is a certified Acro teacher through Acrobatic Arts. She is also a certified Zumba instructor and a certified fitness instructor through AAFA with specialized training in teaching yoga and Pilates.

Tayla

Tayla  is a dedicated teacher, choreographer, and coach based in Gilbert, Arizona. She began her dance journey at NuEvolution Dance Studio and further honed her skills at Elektro Dance Academy. During her time at Elektro, Tayla competed in seasons 2 and 3 of NBC's *World of Dance* and earned silver and gold medals at Hip Hop International. Most recently, she performed in the 2023 Super Bowl Halftime Show with Rihanna.
Currently, Tayla serves as the head Pom coach at Basha High School, teaches at NuEvolution, and tours with Showbiz National Talent & AMP Dance Competition as a backstage coordinator. She instructs students ages 3-18 in hip hop, jazz, technique, lyrical, and contemporary. Tayla is passionate about building strong relationships with her students and inspiring new dancers.

April

April Kristina is a dedicated and versatile dancer with 19 years of experience and a professional career spanning 2 years. From the age of 4 to 18, April was a competitive dancer, which honed her skills and passion for the art. During her high school years with Pulse Dance Company, she achieved notable success, including winning a choreography award for her creative contributions.
Currently a full-time student at Arizona State University, April adeptly balances her academic responsibilities with her dance career. She is also a proud member of Phi Beta Kappa, reflecting her commitment to academic excellence.
As an Advanced Core Member of CaZo Dance Company, April brings her extensive training and enthusiasm to a range of performances. Her ballet background includes memorable roles in classic productions such as The Nutcracker, Paquita, Cinderella, and Coppélia, where she enthralled audiences as the Snow Queen and Cinderella.
More recently, April has showcased her talent in CaZo’s productions, including Tinkerbell in Once Upon a Bachelor (Seasons 2 and 3) and June in their recent fall show Dolls. Her ability to embody diverse characters continues to solidify her dynamic presence in both classical and contemporary dance.

Gabby

Gabby's dance journey began at the tender age of three, and since then, she has immersed herself in a diverse range of styles, mastering the intricacies of tap, ballet, jazz, and hip hop. Her dedication to the craft and relentless pursuit of excellence have not only shaped her into an exceptional dancer but have also garnered her numerous accolades in competitive dance circuits. 

With a repertoire of awards celebrating her skill, creativity, and stage presence, Gabby stands as a testament to the transformative power of dance. Her performances have not only mesmerized audiences but have inspired aspiring dancers to reach new heights. 

Beyond the spotlight, Gabby's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is a cornerstone of our studio's philosophy. Holding a certification from the state department of developmental disabilities, (DDD) Gabby is uniquely equipped to work with children of all learning abilities. Her passion for creating an inclusive and supportive environment shines through in every class, ensuring that every dancer, regardless of their background or abilities, feels welcome and empowered. 

We are ecstatic to have her on our teaching staff. 

Maggie

Mary-Anne

Mary-Anne has been living, loving, and breathing dance for over 30 years! She has studied the art of Jazz, Adagio, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern, Acrobatics, Hip-hop, Ballet, Stage, Show, and Tap. She has competed internationally as a student and has accumulated many awards and scholarships as a dancer.
 Some of her professional credits include Carnival Cruise Line dancer, Olympic Ceremony dancer alongside Michael Buble, Dancer in music videos debuting on Much Music, Miss Canada Teen Global Dancer, Juno awards Dancer/model, CFL's BC Lions dance team, BC Summer Games, and more. Her dance career has taken her throughout Canada, Vegas, L.A. and Mexico, where she was able to study, work, and perform with the best!
 She was a competitive dance director, which she had the pleasure and experience of doing for 17+ years. She has taught every age, level, and style, choreographing over 1000 routines for stage. She has won countless choreography awards, and recently her routines took home two “Joey Awards”. She had the pleasure of working with Canadian Pop Star, Victoria Duffield, and many of her students have gone onto professional careers in both stage and television, such as the dance TV series, “THE NEXT STEP”. Most notably though is her dance training of the NETFLIX breakout star, MOMONA TAMADA. Momona can be found in Babysitters Club as Claudia Kishi, Secret Headquarters alongside Owen Wilson, To All The Boys: P.s. I Still Love You, along with numerous magazine covers and articles including The New York Times, Elle, and Vanity Teen to name a few. Mary-Anne’s training has also made it onto Provincial, National, and World stages in Germany, Poland and Greece.
 Many of her students are now in-demand dancers, teachers, and choreographers. She is an experienced adjudicator and was the owner of an online adjudication service and Canada-wide dance competition called “Feedback”. Currently a member of The Professional Adjudicators Alliance, and she prides herself in upholding their reputable standard. Her passion and genuine love for dance and people is what makes her such an in-demand and beloved teacher, choreographer and adjudicator

Ajah

Mary-Anne has been living, loving, and breathing dance for over 30 years! She has studied the art of Jazz, Adagio, Lyrical, Contemporary, Modern, Acrobatics, Hip-hop, Ballet, Stage, Show, and Tap. She has competed internationally as a student and has accumulated many awards and scholarships as a dancer.
 Some of her professional credits include Carnival Cruise Line dancer, Olympic Ceremony dancer alongside Michael Buble, Dancer in music videos debuting on Much Music, Miss Canada Teen Global Dancer, Juno awards Dancer/model, CFL's BC Lions dance team, BC Summer Games, and more. Her dance career has taken her throughout Canada, Vegas, L.A. and Mexico, where she was able to study, work, and perform with the best!
 She was a competitive dance director, which she had the pleasure and experience of doing for 17+ years. She has taught every age, level, and style, choreographing over 1000 routines for stage. She has won countless choreography awards, and recently her routines took home two “Joey Awards”. She had the pleasure of working with Canadian Pop Star, Victoria Duffield, and many of her students have gone onto professional careers in both stage and television, such as the dance TV series, “THE NEXT STEP”. Most notably though is her dance training of the NETFLIX breakout star, MOMONA TAMADA. Momona can be found in Babysitters Club as Claudia Kishi, Secret Headquarters alongside Owen Wilson, To All The Boys: P.s. I Still Love You, along with numerous magazine covers and articles including The New York Times, Elle, and Vanity Teen to name a few. Mary-Anne’s training has also made it onto Provincial, National, and World stages in Germany, Poland and Greece.
 Many of her students are now in-demand dancers, teachers, and choreographers. She is an experienced adjudicator and was the owner of an online adjudication service and Canada-wide dance competition called “Feedback”. Currently a member of The Professional Adjudicators Alliance, and she prides herself in upholding their reputable standard. Her passion and genuine love for dance and people is what makes her such an in-demand and beloved teacher, choreographer and adjudicator

Sara

Sara trained at Jeanne's School of Dance for 12 years before continuing her studies under Christina Hampton. In 2010, she joined Arizona Youth Ballet during its inaugural year and danced with the company for four more years. During her time with AZYB, Sara performed notable roles such as Dew Drop Fairy, Arabian, Spanish, and Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, as well as Big Swan in Swan Lake, Carabosse in Sleeping Beauty, and Giselle's mother in Giselle. Currently, she serves as the Costume Mistress for AZYB. Sara holds a master’s degree in Mass Communication and a bachelor’s degree in English Literature.

Lane

Lane Blue was born and raised in Yuma, AZ where at the age of 10, he began studying dance with The Dancers Workshop and Yuma Ballet Theatre. Training in Ballet, Jazz and Hip Hop, Lane became a well rounded dancer and upon graduating high school in 2007, was accepted into and awarded a scholarship to the University of Arizona’s School of Dance. While attending University Lane was casted as a lead male in George Balancine’s The Four Temperament’s set by the Balanchine Trust’s Elise Borne, James Clouser’s Carmena Burana and Melissa Lowe’s The Operetta among others. Upon graduation in 2011 Lane was awarded the Outstanding Senior Award from the University of Arizona’s School of Dance and graduated Cum Lade. Lane’s professional dance career spanned 15 years with many different dance companies including, Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre, Odyssey Dance Theatre, Art.If.Act. Dance Project and Arizona Theatre Company. From 2013-2022 Lane was a signed dancer with The Movement Talent Agency and credits include Americas’ Got Talent, Recycled Percussion Live at Plant Hollywood, Utah Jazz, Disney, Sky Vodka, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Super Bowl Li, Holland America and TIk-Tok Live, among others. Lane has taught at many studios and schools throughout the U.S. including Arizona Classical Ballet, Tucson Music and Dance Academy, Classic Image Dance, Western Arkansas Ballet, Creative Dance Arts, Sky High Dance Academy, Dance Republic and Innerlight Dance. Upon wrapping up his profession career in 2022, Lane has accepted and full time position teaching dance in Phoenix, Arizona where he is currently residing.

Ryleigh

Ryleigh is a dance instructor, coach and choreographer located in Tempe, Arizona. She graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Bachelors of Science in Biomedical Science and has since moved back to the Valley to continue her medical and dance careers. When she was younger, Ryleigh danced at Dance Element dance studio and went on to be the President of Unity Dance Crew, the hip hop company at NAU. Miss. Ryleigh teaches hip-hop and pom and loves to share her knowledge and experiences with aspiring young dancers.

Abrianna

Abrianna is a passionate dance teacher with five years of choreography and teaching experience. Raised in San Tan Valley, Arizona, she has been trained competitively in a variety of dance styles, including contemporary, hip-hop, and jazz. Abrianna's unique approach to dance and choreography is inspired by her diverse training, which she seamlessly incorporates into her teaching. Over the past five years, she has choreographed award-winning performances at prestigious competitions such as YAGP, USA IBC, and Hollywood Vibe. Abrianna is pursuing a career in Elementary Education while remaining dedicated to her love for dance and choreography, with ambitions to make a lasting impact in the professional dance world.

Laurie

Laurie Jones started dancing at one of America’s most prestigious schools, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB) with Marcia Dale Weary. She also danced at Ballet Arkansas with Lorraine Cranford. Ms. Jones has performed a variety of principal roles with CPYB including the Lilac Fairy in Sleeping Beauty and Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco. She went on to continue studies at the School of American Ballet with Alexandra Danilova, Antonia Tumkovsky, Suki Shorer and Stanley Williams. Ms. Jones taught ballet extensively at CPYB for more than a decade, Ballet Mississippi (with Fernando Bujones), Allegheny Ballet Company, Ballet Arkansas, Orlando Ballet School, under the direction of Peter Stark and Dierdre Miles Burger, and Dreyfoos School of the Arts. Most recently, she held the position of PCYB Principal at Patel Conservatory Youth Ballet and Next Generation Ballet with Director Peter Stark and Philip Neal. Jennifer Dunning from The New York Times has praised Jones’ choreography as “a perfect showcase for classical training that nurtures a joyous appetite for movement.” Ms. Jones has worked at several "Carlisle Project" choreographer workshops both as a dancer and choreographer. She created works for Ballet Mississippi, CPYB, Ballet Arkansas, Orlando Ballet School,and Next Generation Ballet at the Strazcenter for the Performing Arts. Ms. Jones has set ballets for Ballet Omaha, CPYB, Ballet Arkansas, and Dreyfoos School of the Arts, and has worked with Edward Meyers, Fleming Ryborg, Sean Lavery, and Violette Verdy.

Jeniah

Jeniah Bethel is a dedicated dance educator with a passion for inspiring young performers to reach their fullest potential. She has trained extensively in both studio and school settings, gaining valuable versatility and adaptability as a performer. Her training encompasses Acro, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Hip Hop, giving her a well-rounded foundation to teach a variety of styles with confidence and skill.
While Jeniah enjoys all forms of dance, she has a particular affinity for Ballet, Acro, and Lyrical, appreciating the artistry, discipline, and expressive freedom each style offers. Her teaching philosophy centers on helping students build confidence, embrace self-expression, and push beyond their comfort zones. She is deeply committed to creating a supportive, uplifting environment where every dancer feels seen, encouraged, and celebrated for their unique abilities.
Whether introducing young dancers to the fundamentals or helping more experienced students refine their technique, Jeniah brings enthusiasm, patience, and a genuine love for the art form to every class she leads.

Olivia

Olivia Bullock is a dedicated dance educator with a lifelong passion for movement, performance, and inspiring young dancers. A proud NuEvolution alumna, she spent 12 years training at the studio, including 10 years as a valued member of the competitive team. After two years as an assistant teacher, she is now excited to step into her role as a full-fledged instructor, bringing both technical expertise and a vibrant energy to every class.
In addition to her extensive competition experience, Olivia trained for eight years with Arizona Youth Ballet, performing iconic classical roles such as Dew Drop and Snow Queen in The Nutcracker and leading as Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty. Her artistry and stage presence were further showcased during her senior year as a member of the Queen Creek High School Pom team.
Olivia’s favorite styles to teach include Contemporary, Jazz, Ballet, and Princess Ballerinas & Tappers. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in fostering both technical growth and personal confidence, ensuring every dancer feels supported and celebrated. One of her greatest joys is watching her students’ dedication come to life on stage at NuEvolution’s annual recital.

Sophia

Sophia Bakonyi is a proud alumna of NuEvolution Dance Company and Arizona Youth Ballet, and she is currently pursuing her dream of becoming a professional dancer. Her passion for ballet began at the age of six, and from her first class, she was captivated by the artistry and discipline of the form.
During her teen years, Sophia joined NuEvolution Dance Studio’s competitive team while also training with Arizona Youth Ballet under the guidance of Ms. Christina Hampton. She rose to the rank of Principal, performing iconic roles such as Marzipan, Lead Arabian Princess, Queen of Hearts, Evil Stepmother, Snow Queen, Sugar Plum Fairy, and Lilac Fairy. Sophia danced with both companies until her graduation in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and artistry.
Her training extends well beyond Arizona, with participation in prestigious summer intensives including Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, Joffrey Ballet NYC, Joffrey RED Los Angeles, Ballet West, and Ballet Arizona. Following graduation, she accepted a coveted year-round position at Ballet West Academy, where she worked extensively with renowned ballet masters. While at Ballet West, Sophia expanded her artistry into contemporary dance, training intensively during summer programs and earning a position in Ballet West’s Current Contemporary Dance Ensemble under the artistic direction of Michael Waldrop.
With this ensemble, she performed in distinctive works such as Salt Contemporary Dance Company’s Radio Silence, Penny Saunder’s Magic Arrow, Don Quixote, and Swan Lake. She also appeared in Ballet West’s Spring Soiree, and was featured in the contemporary dance film Red Right Hand, choreographed by Leisel Blue.
Most recently, Sophia attended Ballet Arizona’s summer intensive, where she was offered a position in the Professional Program 1 for the 2025–2026 season. Now back in Arizona, she is thrilled to continue her ballet training with Ballet Arizona while sharing her passion for the art form through teaching at NuEvolution Dance Studio—her first “home away from home.”

Allison

Allison has been in love with dance since her first class at the age of three. Growing up in the East Valley, she trained as a competitive dancer before going on to earn her degree in Jazz Dance from the prestigious School of Dance at the University of Arizona. At just sixteen, Allison taught her very first class and discovered what would become her lifelong passion, teaching and inspiring young dancers.

For the last 20 years, she has taught and directed at studios across Arizona, including five years as the owner of her own studio, Ocotillo Dance Center, and as assistant director at two well-respected studios in Tucson and Chandler. She has been mentored by incredible master teachers including Susan Quinn, Desiree Robbins and Liz Imperio.

Allison’s classes are structured, disciplined, and focused on strong dance foundations, but her heart is always in helping students build confidence, express themselves, and find joy in dance.

She now lives in Queen Creek with her husband and three children, and also runs her own apparel company alongside her teaching career. She’s excited to join your students in class this season, and can’t wait to get to know you all!

What We Believe

At NuEvolution Dance Studio we believe in promoting creativity, confidence, a strong work ethic and teamwork while creating childhood memories that will last a lifetime. Our amazing staff are eager to help your child fall in love with dance from their very first toddler class to their graduating performance.
We would love for your to be a part of our dance family.

Happy Parents and Dancers

  • Nuevolution is amazing because of the wonderful staff and talented instructors! I won't take my children anywhere else and I would, and do, recommend them to everyone!
    Brittany Morris Brittany Morris
  • My daughter has been dancing here for over a year. I absolutely love it, and so does she. This studio is amazing and the staff and teachers are like family. I can’t tell you enough how wonderful it is, I highly recommend it!
    Christopher Kellogg Christopher Kellogg
  • I have 2 daughters that started here about 3 years ago and this studio has become our family! Never thought i'd end up in the dance life but love every moment of it!
    Benjamin Hansen Benjamin Hansen
  • We Love our dance studio! The staff is wonderful, caring and kind. The teachers are excellent. My shy daughter has grown so much in just a few months. She is more confident and loves to dance because of Nuevolution dance studio.
    Casey Langen Casey Langen
  • We are just wrapping up my daughters first season with this studio after dancing at another in Chandler and one out of state and it has by far been both of our favorites. The entire studio made her feel so welcome as well as the parents! The older girls look out for the younger and the teachers truly have the girls and family’s best interest at heart! It is truly a dance family and I am happy that my daughter has chosen to continue to be a part of it!
    Janelle Gephart Janelle Gephart

NuEvolution Dance Studio

Location 1

19035 E San Tan Blvd

Queen Creek, AZ

480-988-3877 ​

info@nuevolutiondance.com

 

Text Us at

480-435-5693

NuEvolution Dance Studio

Location 2

18914 E San Tan Blvd

Queen Creek,AZ 85142

480-279-6409 ​

info@nuevolutiondance.com

© Copyright 2018 Nuevolution Dance