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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

Christina Hampton

Ms. Hampton began her ballet career with training in Belgium from Bejart soloist, Daniel Lambo.  She also trained at Tidewater Ballet with Pat Sorrell, Virginia State Ballet, Star Dancer’s Ballet in Tokyo, Japan and she was a full scholarship student at Chicago City Ballet.  Christina also spent two summers at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB).
She began her professional career in 1986 with Tampa Ballet and moved on to perform in Ruth Page’s production of the “Nutcracker” in Chicago.  In 1987, she became principal dancer with Minnesota Ballet where she performed in roles such as Odette/Odile, Aurora and Swanhilda.  Christina moved to Miami in 1995 and performed the Snow Queen in Miami Ballet’s Nutcracker directed by Yanis Pikieris.  In 1996 she was principal guest artist with Santa Barbara’s State Street Ballet directed by Rodney Gustafson.

While in California, Christina was offered a position with Hartford Ballet where she performed soloist and principal roles in Graham Lustig’s “Evening,” Bronislava Nijinska’s Blue Girl in “Les Biches” and Artistic Director Kirk Peterson‘s “Nutcracker.“ She spent the last eight years of her twenty year career as a principal dancer with Ballet Florida.  She performed in works by world renowned choreographers such as Glen Tetley‘s “Sphinx,“  Val Caniparoli‘s “Lambarena,“ Lar Lubovitch‘s “Smile with my Heart,“ and “Musette,“ Sean Lavery‘s “Sleeping Beauty“ and “Classical Symphony,“ Ben Stevenson‘s “Dracula“ and “Esmeralda“ pas de deux, Jerome Robbins’ “In the Night” and Twyla Tharp‘s “Baker‘s Dozen.“
Christina Hampton’s career as a dance instructor has included associations with such prestigious schools as Chicago City Ballet School, School of Minnesota Ballet, Miami Conservatory, Academy of Ballet Florida, Palm Beach Ballet Center and Jeanne’s School of Dance, NuEvolution Dance Studio.

She has been a “Summer Guest Faculty” member at CPYB since 1999. In October 2019, she was a guest ballet teacher at Brigham Young University (BYU) and at Next Generation Ballet in Tampa Florida in 2015 as well. Ms. Hampton’s experience as a ballet teacher has spanned over 37 years.

Kat Vance

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 Felice

Miranda was born and raised in Arizona, and received most of her training in the valley.  Throughout her training, she performed various roles such as: Chinese and Dew Drop Fairy in the Nutcracker, and Fairy Godmother in Cinderella. Miranda has had the opportunity to spend her summers training with American Ballet Theater and Alonzo King’s LINES Ballet.  Miranda was a part of her high school dance team where her love for choreographing began to spark.  When she began teaching dance 10 years ago, she quickly realized her passion for inspiring children.  Miranda graduated in May of 2014 with a Bachelors in Early Childhood Special Education, and now teaches preschool for children primarily affected by Autism.  Now, she is thrilled to be teaching at NuEvolution for her third season.

Valerie Aguinaga

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 Rodriguez

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 Haskins

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

Ari

Ari is a passionate dancer whose journey in the world of movement began at the tender age of 3. Hailing from the vibrant dance scene of Southeast Michigan, Ari's devotion to dance quickly became evident as she embarked on a remarkable path that would shape her into the dancer and teacher she is today.
With a dance journey spanning over years, Ari's formative years were marked by dedication and determination as she delved into various styles including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Modern, and more. Her commitment to mastering her craft led her to not only explore a wide array of genres but to excel in each one.
Ari's dance education was truly holistic, as she trained extensively in the refined art of Cecchetti Ballet, diligently progressing through Grade III. Amid her pursuit of excellence, Ari found herself drawn to the electrifying world of dance competitions, showcasing her skills and creativity from ages 11 to 18. These early experiences sculpted not only her technical prowess but also her ability to captivate audiences through her performances.
High school proved to be yet another platform for Ari's multifaceted talents. While continuing her competitive dance journey, she seamlessly transitioned into her high school's Pom team, infusing her distinctive style into the team's dynamic routines. Ari's thirst for knowledge and growth led her to participate in numerous local intensives and workshops, immersing herself in the ever-evolving landscape of dance.
Upon graduating from high school, Ari embarked on a new chapter at the University of Michigan. This phase of her journey was marked by academic achievements as well as artistic growth. She not only obtained her Bachelor's degree but went on to secure a Master's degree, all while being an integral part of the university's student dance team. This experience enriched her understanding of dance as both an art form and a means of expression.
As life's rhythm carried her across states, Ari found herself embracing the sun-drenched landscapes of Arizona. With a heart full of excitement and a wealth of experience, she is excited to start a new year with her NuEvolution dance family. Ari's infectious passion for dance and her genuine enthusiasm for nurturing young talents make her a perfect fit for NuEvolution. Arizona's dance scene continues to be enriched by Ari's expertise, creativity, and unwavering dedication to sharing the joy of dance with the next generation.
In Ari, the legacy of a dancer, competitor, scholar, and mentor converge, forming a narrative that inspires and uplifts. As she imparts her knowledge and love for dance to the budding dancers of NuEvolution, Ari's journey comes full circle – a testament to the enduring power of movement, expression, and the unending pursuit of one's true passion.

Sara Lamb

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 Jones

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.

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