RSB Alumni

Since 1998 RSB has been offering pre-professional instruction to its students, training them for post-secondary dance study and jobs.  Please find below a list of our current alumni, including students, staff, area directors as well as local businesses to read what they are doing and what they have to say about RSB and how it influenced their lives.
2001 Jenni Nalette
Jennifer Nalette graduated from Ohio University with a dance minor in 2007 and has since taken Cleveland teaching scene by storm.  She is currently teaching and coaching the competition teams at Studio 82, Studio J and The Dance Centre.  Her competition teams have won High Golds and Platinums in Ohio, Penn, and Detriot.  Along with teaching in studios around the Cleveland area, Jennifer is on her second year being a teaching artist for Dancing Classrooms NEO and working along side other RSB alum Jo Jo Graham.  As well as teaching Jennifer just finished her last tour with Azaguno African Dance Company which has brought her to South Korea, Italy, Tiawan,  New Jersey, New York, and cities around Ohio. As a RSB student she danced lead roles in Coppelia & the Nutcracker.  As a graduate, Jenni has been a integral part of the RSB Summer faculty, as well as the 2008 RSB Staff.  Photos by Nathan Telea.


"There is no better school than RSB.  It was the place where I grew up and was surrounded by love and support."

"Thanks to RSB and Joanne Morscher my life would not be what it is today.  I owe all my success to Joanne because she gave me a chance and believed in me."

Photo by Richard Finklestein.

2000 Lynn Brennan Tabor
Ms. Tabor was a Guest Artist with RSB in 2000 and set "Dance Danube" on the school's Senior and Junior Divisions.  "Dance Danube" premiered at the 2000 RSB Spring Repertory Concert and was re-staged for the 2007 RYBC Spring Repertory Concert.  Ms. Tabor, along with her husband Chris Tabor are formerly from the Cleveland area, where both were  members of Dennis Nahat's Cleveland San Jose Ballet Company and Ms. Tabor was the Director for the Dance program at the Cleveland Musical School Settlement. Currently both Ms. Tabor and her husband, Chris are the Artisitc Directors of the Portland Youth Ballet.  Please see below for Contact Information on the Portland Youth Ballet.

"I had the pleasure to know Joanne Morscher while teaching in Cleveland. She is a consummate professional and her students were of  such a high caliber. She was also a wonderful friend who reached out to the Cleveland dance community in a very positive way. I wish her  all the best and I'm sure she will have great success in all future  endeavors."

Lynn Brennan Tabor, Artistic Director Portland Youth Ballet
Portland Youth Ballet
7901 SW Cirrus Dr. Bldg. 27
Beaverton, OR 97008
(503) 914-8913
www.pybdance.com

1999-2008 Kenya Woods Cooper
Kenya Woods is a native of Cleveland, Ohio, where she first began her training in dance.  She is a graduate from Tenessee State Unversity with a minor in Dance and has studies the Russian classical technique with Marguerite Duncan of North Coast Ballet Theater.  Ms. Woods continued her training NYC with The Alvin Ailey Dance Center, Broadway Dance Center and Dance Space Center.  She has performed with Ballet Highlights and Alpha Omega Theatrical Dance Company.  She has toured and given workshop classes with Eiffman Ballet through City Center and Pilobolus.  She has been the features dancer  for works created by Antolino Alvarez and Brian Brooks of Donald Byrd - The Group in the Santa Fe Summer Dance Festival.  She has also served as Guest Teacher and Choreographer for Santa FeCommunity College, Cleveland School of the Arts, Hudson Repertory Dance, RSB and Peridance.  In addition to her dance training Kenya is a commercial/sports model and has been featured in Nike Goddess and Olay Products commericlas; Sports Illustrated Women, Dance Spirit, Essence, Heart-N-Soul and Fitness magazines.  Kenya is Mom to son, Jordan age 4years and daughter, Sage who is 20 months old. Kenya is currently working Freelance in the Cleveland community and is on staff at The Cleveland School of the Arts.  She gave many years of her time and loyalty to the success of RSB, where she headed up our Modern Division.
Update on Ms. Woods!
Ms. Woods is currently teaching Ballet at Kim's School of Dance in North Royaton, as well as teaching Pre-School Ballet in our local libraries.  Ms. Woods is using the RSB Syllabus tointroduce our little people to the world of dance..

"Your syllabus rocks!  It is the best."
. 
1998-2008 Kim Holsopple
Kim Holsopple joined RSB shortly after it opened and in addition to studying ballet she was a guest jazz teacher at RSB. Kim has studied jazz, ballet and modern during her more than 25 years of dance training. Kim's jazz training has been with Dee Hillier and Karen Colabianchi here in the Cleveland area but she has also studied with many other jazz teachers, including some in New York City. Her ballet training has been with Marguerite Duncan, Nancy Arcury and Joanne Morscher. Kim has also had the opportunity to study modern dance with instructors Jen Preis and Kenya Woods. Throughout her dance career, Kim has worked professionally in the Cleveland area, performed in many summer theater productions and has been the choreographer and dancer in many productions that WorldView Community Church (WVCC) and WorldView International (WVI) have produced. Kim has hadthe privilege of traveling with WVI to South Africa, Madagascar, Switzerland and Malawi as the choreographer and dancer in original stage productions presented in these nations. Kim was the Dance Department Director at WVCC for 12 years and founded the Worship Dance Team there. Kim's teaching experience includes a wide range of age groups and technical abilities, as she has been a teacher at several dance studios in the Cleveland area along with her work with WVCC and WVI. Kim resides in Olmsted Falls with her husband and two children.

"My time at RSB greatly enhanced my dance career, both as a dancer and a teacher. I greatly appreciate Joanne's extensive ballet knowledge and unique ability to train highly skilled ballet dancers. My technique and ballet knowledge grew significantly during my training at RSB. As an adult dancer, I was welcomed into class and was provoked and inspired by the young dancers in my classes. It was also a joy for me to teach Jazz to the RSB students; their joy of dance and willingness to learn made teaching such a pleasure. Joanne, thanks for all you have given to the world of dance.

Can't wait to see where/when you will get back into dance!" -Kim Holsopple

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul.-Martha Graham"

2000 Julie Speck Miller


Julie graduated from the University of Akron with a BFA in Dance with a concentration in Ballet in 2004.  As a previous Guest Artsist with RSB she has danced lead roles in Swan Lake & Paquita with her partner Buddy Flowers.  Julie has taught at RSB, emjaez in Bay Village and is currently on staff at Excel Dance in Hinckley, Ohio where she will be teaching Ballet & Modern.


Photo by M. Romo

 
2000 Bethany Karas
2005 Magna Cum Laude graduate of the Point Park Conservatory with a B.A. in Advertising  & Public Relations plus a Dance Minor.  Bethany is currently in NYC pursuing a career in Public Relations.

2001 Kathleen Luschek


2005 graduate from The American University in Washington D.C. with a Bachelor's of Arts.  She is planning on pursuing a graduate education.  While in Washington D.C Kathleen interned with the Washington Ballet and contiuned to study ballet @ the university.  Kathleen is currently working and living in Charlottsville, VA. Kathleen is the daughter of RSB/RYBC Costumer and  Stage Crew, Vicki Luschek.



2001 Sarah Schneider
2005 graduate from Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA with a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching & Choreography.  Sarah has accepted a job with Ballet Memphis in Tennesee.  She teaches ballet, pointe, repertoire and STOTT Pilates for the Ballet Memphis school, as well as acting as the Co-Artistic Director of the Ballet Memphis Junior Company.  Sarah is also in-charge of the educational enrichments programs for Ballet Memphis.

"During my years with the Royal School of Ballet I was given strong classical ballet technique and so much more.  RSB was a nurturing environment that allowed me to grow and develop as a dancer and as a young woman.  I was encouraged to explore the world of dance and find my place in it.  Mrs. Morscher gave me the tools needed to succeed in this field: technqiue, confidence, discipline, and a true love of movement.  She inspired me to pursue the career of my dreams and I am forever grateful.  The Royal School of Ballet will be missed, but I am confident that Mrs. Morscher's legacy will continue to positively impact the world of dance for years to come."

2001 Renee Rossi
Renee Rossi joined the staff at RSB in 2003. After graduating from the University of Akron in 2005 with a B.A. in French and Minor in Dance, she made her choreographic debut with the Royal Youth Ballet Company in 2006 with "Facades." Besides guest choreographer, she has held such titles as administrative assistant to the Director, ballet instructor at RSB, RYBC board member, RYBC Artistic Director from September-December 2007 and most recently was an Intern with the George Balanchine Trust in New York City.  Renee spent the 2006-2007 school year teaching english abroad in Nice, France. In her free time, Renee enjoys spending time with her family, studiying ballroom dance, and speaking French. Renee accepted a full time position as the new Coordinator for the New York Choreographic Institute in New York City.  She will be working with artists from around the world including members of New York City Ballet and of the George Balanchine Trust.  The New York Choreographic Institute will have its first showing on Friday Otober 17th, 2008. Renee continues to thrive and work in NYC for the Balcnchine Trust.  Her job will see her traveling abroad in the upcomng year.
Check out Renee and NYC Ballet @ http://www.nycballet.com/nyci/about.html   Photo by Danny Vega

"Words cannot begin to describe what RSB has meant to me since I stepped through its doors in 2000. It is there that I developed as a dancer, an artist, and a professional, thanks to the support and encouragement of Joanne Morscher. My experiences at RSB have provided me with the necessary tools and knowledge required to succeed in this profession. I will always hold the memories of the cherished eight years that I spent there close to my heart."


2003 Leah Baxendale


A current graduate of Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA.  As a RSB student, Leah danced lead roles in Coppelia, Nutcracker and Paquita, and was an original cast member in Handel Suites and Preludes. 



Photo by M. Romo


2003 Leanne Breslin Wadenpfhul
Graduate of the University of Akron with a double major in Business & Dance. Leanne served as the 2007-2008 Interim Director of RSB. As a RSB student, Leanne danced lead roles in the Nutcracker, and was an original cast member in Handel Suites & Preludes. Prelude One was choroegraphed on Leanne and received its premiere in Spring 2002.  Prelude One was invited to be showcased at the  25th Ohio Dance Anniversary in Cleveland, Ohio.  Leanne was also a member of the 2001 Ensemble 3rd Place Finish @ YAGP in Chciago, Illinois. Leanne has accepted a Writing Internship at the University of Akron for 2008.  Leanne gave birth to a daughter Poppy in February 2009. 
Photo by E. Skarl

"RSB was my dance home for almost 9 years. Training, dancing, performing, teaching and growing up in this school have been significant milestones in my life. Joanne Morscher is a knowledgable and caring teacher and mentor. All of the staff at RSB have passed on a love and hunger for dance and dance education that I will carry for the rest of my life."

2003 Brooke Datko
A student @ RSB from November 1998-November 2003, Brooke participated in many performances and festivals.  Brooke was an original member of the RYBC & traveled to Columbus, Ohio for the premiere of Preludes.  Brooke graduated from the US Navel Academy in May 2009 and is in Texas planning a career in Aerospace Engineering.

"Mrs. Morscher has been a role model for me.  The discipline I have learned from Ballet has carried with me, and prepared me for the military.   Ballet is very challenging.  It makes you work hard and push yourself past your limits."


2003 Amanda Klusmann
Amanda will graduate in 2008 from Ohio University with degrees in Dance Studies and Exercise Physiology. Amanda plans to pursue graduate study in Dance and Exercise Physiology so she can "can possibley improve the longevity of a dancers career"  As a RSB student she participated  in many Nutcrackers and was an original cast member in Handel Suites & Preludes.  Amanda was a member of the 2001 Ensemble 3rd Place Finish @ YAGP in Chicago, Illinois.

"I spent some of the best years of my childhood at RSB and I cannot believe it won't be open anymore.  You were such an outstanding teacher...it really seemed like when students would come in and start taking classes they were a blob of puddy, and you spent time and molded them into talented beautiful dancers.  You have an astounding knack for training dancers. "
Photo by M. Romo

2003 Jill Laub
A summer school student from 1999-2000, Jill began attending RSB in 2001 and worked her way to full time study in 2002-2003.   At the 2002 Winter Extravagnza Jill performed the role of Mother Ginger in the Nutcracker and opened the performance with a contemporary jazz  number choreographed by Mary Jo Rimke.  She is currently training @ Broadway Dance in NYC and pursuing her undergraduate degree @ Fordham University in Communications and Media Studies with an English minor.  For the 2005-2006 season she will be participating in the first year of the new intensive scholarship, the Professional Program @ Broadway Dance Center.  Additionally, she has been assisting Michele Assaf in class and with her instuctional dance video series. Live! at Broadway Dance Center.  She has performed with the Fordham University Dance Team (2003-2004), @ the Hatch at Jennifer Muller/The WORKS, the DUMBO Arts Festival, in the Boardway Dance Center Showcase, as well original contemporary showcases with Collide and Enfocus dance.  In March 2005 Jill presented a Guest Artist workshop @ RSB teaching AI Strech and Jazz.
* Jill graduated from Fordham University in 2007 then spent the summer studying & teaching in Italy.  In January 2008 Jill moved to Los Angeles where she is finding work as a commerical artist.   Click on Link to see Jill dancing : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-6qbGeHw3g  

"RSB gave me the technical background & professional etiquette to walk into any dance class and be able to work to my fullest potential."         

2003 Alison Morey
RSB student from 1998, Alison graduated from the University of Akron's dance program with a BFA in Dance with a concentration in Ballet, as well as a a minor in Business Management Technology.  Alison was an active member in the University's dance club Terpsichore, where she particiapted in many student choreographed performances such as  Choreographer's Workshop & Spring into Dance.  Roles have included Cygnet (Little Swan) in Swan Lake, the Emerald Fairy from Sleeping Beauty, as well as original choreography from Andrew Carroll, Cydney Spohn and Marc Ozanich.  Alsion  performed & toured with University of Akrn's Opera Chorus, where she had a featured role in their production of Amahl.  Alison was offered a contract with Jennifer Muller-The Works in NYC for the 2007-2008 Season.  She currently teaches Dance in the greater Cleveland area.

As a RSB student, Alison particpated in many Festivals, Nutcrackers, and Competitions.  She has held various corp de ballet (Coppelia, Swan Lake) and princpal/solist roles (Sugar Plum Fairy, Marzipan, Paquita, Handel Suites, Prelude Three) @ RSB. Additionally, she was a member of the 2001 Ensemble 3rd Place Finish at YAGP in Chicago, Illinois.  Lastly, Alison has been a RSB Staff member teaching Ballet & Floor Barre.

"We dance for laughter, we dance for tears, we dance for madness, we dance for fears, we dance for hopes, we dance for screams, we are the dancers, we create dreams.  RSB changed my whole outlook on learning and reaching dance goals along with day to day life.  It has been a long, challenging road, but I could not have asked for more."

2003 Kali Tarzanick

A student since 1998, Kali danced as Chinese Tea and a Snowflake in RSB's production of the Nutcracker. She recently taught as a Guest Artist in RSB's Jazz Program.  She is a graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy for Musical Theatre in NYC.  She continues her Jazz and Tap studies @ Broadway Dance Center and takes ballet class from American Ballet Theatre.  
Update on Kali!
Kali is currently back in Cleveland and working as a Cleveland Cavalier Girl.  She can be found in the 2010 Cavalier Girls Calendar as the April Cavalier Girl.  In addition to her Cleveland responsibilities as a Cav Girl Kali traveled to China, along with five other team members to perform and judge on the Tsingtao Dance Passion Reality Show. 

"Joanne, I miss you. I love you.I wouldn't be here without you!  Go Cavs!"
"RSB made me the Jazz dancer I am today.  If it wasn't for RSB I wouldn't have developed such great technique."

2003 Jo Jo Grahm
After studying  at RSB, Jo Jo Graham attended the American Musical & Dramatic Academy (AMDA) in NewYork City. Upon graduation she was hired by the American Ballroom Theater to train under Pierre Dulaine and has since worked, under his guidance, as a Teaching Artist with their Dancing Classrooms program (Movies Mad Hot Ballroom and Take the Lead) throughout NYC schools. Jo Jo has also worked throughout the city and performed for the 25th Anniversary of Dirty Dancing at the Tribecca Film Festival, Body Wrappers, and as part time dance faculty  with AMDA.

Founding Executive Director, Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio
Building on the groundbreaking work of her mentor, Pierre Dulaine, Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio was launched in 2008 by Ohio organizer and founding executive director, Jo Jo Graham. As an experienced Teaching Artist, Educational Liaison, and Director of the DC Weekend Academy for Dulaine, Jo Jo Graham brings valuable experience to her role as Executive Director for Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio. In addition to her work with Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio, Ms. Graham continues her work with Mr. Dulaine as part of the National Network staff working to bring the Dancing Classrooms program to every child.  Ms. Graham has been recently recognized by ABrT as Teaching Artist of the Year (Award for Excellence 2008), the first ever recipient of the distinguished award. Graham is a graduate of the Musical Theater Conservatory at the American Musical & Dramatic Academy in New York City.

Update on the program in the area:
Now in our second year, Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio (DCNEO) continues to grow at an exceptional rate.  Working to double the numbers achieved in our first year in Northeast Ohio we will work with forty-eight classrooms during the 2009-2010 school year.  DCNEO is also expanding the program into communities outside of Cleveland as we waltz our way into Painesville school district this January and hopefully Akron in the spring.  All communities and schools will come together to participate in our 2nd annual Colors of the Rainbow Team Match on Saturday, May 15, 2010 in the Ohio Theatre at Playhouse Square where Pierre Dulaine will be in attendance as our event emcee.  This event is free and open to the public and all are welcome to attend.
 
If you are interested in learning more and bringing our program to your school, please visit our website and contact us for more information.

"I am so sorry to hear of the closing of RSB but am thankful  for the time I was able to spend there. I credit you with providing me  the opportunity to lay a strong foundation in technique and the necessary work ethic without which I would have failed."
 
Jo Jo Graham
440-552-3391
jojomgraham@yahoo.com

Check out Dancing Classrooms Northeast Ohio (DCNEO)accomplishments:

http://www.dancingclassroomsneo.org/press/Article/?l=14

http://blog.cleveland.com/metro/2009/05/cleveland_students_compete_in.html

 http://www.wkyc.com/life/programming/shows/seven/news_article.aspx?storyid=105797&catid=45

Cleveland Magazine November 2008 (page 56) at www.clevelandmagazine.com.

2004 Caitlin Macuga
A graduate of John Carroll University, Caitlin joined RSB in 2000.  She has particpated in Nutcracker (Snowflake & Chinese Tea), Spring Repertory (Swan Lake, Recolhimento em Algeria, Objection Tango) & was a member of the 2001 Third Place Ensemble finish @ YAGP in Chicago, Illinois. 

2001-2005 Nina Hoffman
Nina joined RSB in 2001 and continued as a student until 2005.  She participated in numerous Nutcracker (Candy Canes, Chinese Tea and Marzipan) and Spring Repertory performances, as well as performing Preludes at the NorthEast Ohio and Ohio Dance Festivals. She is currently a Junior at Medina High School (MHS) where she has been a member of the JV vollyeyball program.  Nina is presently Dance Captain as well as a performer for the MHS award-winning Show Choir-The Encore Entertainment Company.  Nina is also involved with the Choir program and is a member of a student led all girl acca-pella vocal group.  She keeps her self busy with KetClub, SADDJO, Volleyball and her church choir.  Nina plans a collegiate double major in Dance and Education.

"RSB gave Nina a strong foundation of Ballet Technique so that she was able to continue dance at other studios stepping into the higher level classes."

2005 Rebecca Nicklos  
Rebecca joined RSB in the summer of 2002 and spent the next 3 years immersing herself in ballet.  She has participated in numerous concerts, performances, competitions with the school & youth ballet company.   An original member of RYBC, she danced the role of the Prelude One soloist  in Columbus, Ohio @ the 2003 Ohio Dance Festival.  Rebecca was part of the fourth place Handel Suites ensemble that qualified as a finalist @ YAGP 2004 in Chicago, Illinois.   In 2004, she danced the Nutcracker Pas de Deux with Mac Dang from Dancing Wheels @  RYBC'S  Winter Extravaganza.  In addition to her ballet taining, Rebecca was a member of the North Royalton Royalettes under the direction of Karen Colabianchi.  Rebecca graduated from the residency program in 2007 from the Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts and accepted a contract with MOMIX.
Photo by J. Von Enck


  Today, Rebecca is a thriving Ballet Instructor in the Cleveland area.  Rebecca and her sister Megan (see below) have been invited to perform original choreography inthe upcoming NorthEast Ohio Dance Festival on Saturday March 28th in Cleveland at the at Tr-C East Community Capmpus and at the Ohio Dance Festival Saturday April 4th at Ohio Universityin Bowling Green, Ohio.  Congratulations to both alumni!
"Dance is your pulse, your heartbeat, your breathing. It's the rhythm of your life. It's the expression in time and movement, in happiness, joy, sadness and envy.  Dancers aren't made of their technique, but their passion.  Mrs. Morscher has always taught me that when I am on the stage I should dance for the audience and no one else.  She has taught me so many things I can't even begin to write dow.  All I know is I am truly thankful that I had the chance to experience every moment with her."

2005 Suzanne Ponomarenko
Suzanne is a 2005 graduate of RSB.  She has participated in many summer programs & danced in the 2004 Spring Repertory Concert in Swan Lake.  Suzanne joins other RSB alumni, Kali Tarzanick as a graduate of the American Musical & Dramatic Academy of Musical Theatre in NYC. 
Update on Suzanne!
Suzanne has been studying in NYC with the Paul Taylor Dance Company.

2002-2006 Heather Mills
Heather began her training at Lisa Wilhelm Academy of Dance at a very young age.  In 2002 she became a RSB student and RYBC member  training until 2006.  Heather then returned to the Lisa Wilhem Academy of Dance, where she became a member of the Civic Ballet of Cleveland and to complet her training.  She has attended summer programs around the country including BalletMet, ABT Detroit, Pointe if Departure under Karen Gabay & Raymond Rodriguez and at RSB. 

Heather danced in many roles as both a student and company member.  These include:  Nutcrcaker roles; Chinese, Marzipan, Flowers with RYBC, the Sugar Plum Fairy Pas de Deux with Artour Bajanov at the Lisa Wilhelm Academy of Dance , Ana Lobe's "Onda 9," Swan Lake Pas de Quatre/Corp, Nadeen O'Conner's 'Recolhimento en Algeria," and many original pieces of choreography by Artour Bajanov with the Lisa Wilhem Academy of Dance. She has competed in the YAGP in an Ensemble with RYBC and as a soloist under Artour Bajanov with the Lisa Wilhem Academy of Dance.

Heather is currently a junior at Mercyhurst College majoring in Dance, where she also dances with the Lake Erie Ballet in Erie, PA.  Heather will be seen this season dancing in the "Arabian Dance" in Lake Erie Ballet's Nutcracker.

"I love dancing and my aspiration is to become a professional dancer... then become a dance teacher and inspire others like my  teachers inspired me.  I owe alot of my success's to Joanne Morscher, Lisa Wilhelm and Artour Bajanov.  It is very sad to see RSB close.  Many great dancers came for the passion and hard work of Mrs. Joanne Morscher.  She is a great dancer, teacher and person.  I am blessed to have known her."

2006 Theresa Bonvissuto
A 2006 RSB graduate and RYBC Alumna, Theresa trained at RSB for 5 years dancing most soloist and principal roles in the repertoire. She twice participated in the YAGP Ballet Competition and was on the award winning Group Ensemble number "Handel Suites." Other roles include Sugar Plum Fairy, Dewdrop and Marzipan in Nutcracker, Nadeen O'Conner's 'Recolhimento en Algeria, Ana Lobe's Scherzo as a soloist, Renee Rossi's Facades, Soloist in Paquita and has created original roles in Mrs. Morscher's "Welcome to the Big Tent."   Theresa has been featured in a number of RSB Advertising Campaigns and is currently a Dance and Academic Scholarship student at Mercyhurst College in Erie, PA, where she was offered an apprentice contract with Lake Erie Ballet.
RYBC's "Welcome to the Big Tent," Spring 2006 
Photos by Marc Anthony Photography

Update on Theresa
Theresa is doing very well.  This is her senior year and she is getting ready for auditions soon.  She had professional pictures done by Larry Coleman in Cleveland Heights. She is cast in two pieces for "Raw Edges", student choreography February 6th and 7th.  One is a pointe piece, 12 minutes long and the other is Scottish folk dancing (similar to Irish step dancing) piece, 20 minutes long.  Theresa's family is planning a trip to see her perform.  She is pleased with her casting.

"Thank you for all you have done to teach her/guide her/prepare her for this time of her life.  I am truly grateful for your input and guidance throughout the years. " -Donna Bonvissuto (Theresa'a Mom).

2006 Anna Li
Anna trained at RSB for 8 years as a student and original youth company member.  She was a member of the fourth place Handel Suites at the YAGP competition and has held most principal and soloist roles in The Nutcracker, Nadeen O'Conner's 'Recolhimento en Algeria, Renee Rossi's Facades, Ana Lobe's Onda 9 and  Scherzo, Swan Lake, Paquita, and the Gershwin Preludes. She also was an assistant teacher for Ballet I and II for one year.

She is a National Merit Finalist studying Pre-Medical Health at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA with a double major in chemistry and psychology. She is a choreographer for the student-run Dancers’ Symposium at CMU and continues to take dance classes whenever she can both in Pittsburgh and at RSB.

“RSB was a second home to me, as I grew up with all of the staff constantly supporting and teaching me, shaping me into the person I am today.  I learned more than dance at RSB; I was taught determination, perfection, practice, discipline, expression, and most of all to go for my dreams.”

Update on Anna!
Anna is now a Senior at Carnegie Mellon University, where she is still finding time to be part of the dance world.  This season she is working at the Jewish Community Center teaching Adult and pre-teen/teen ballet classes.  She continues in her role as the Director.Choroegrapher/Dancer for the university Dancers' Symposium, where under her direction  a new company the "DS Dancers" has been added for the more experienced dancer.  Anna is also part of a new dance performance called RADs (Random Acts of Dance), where her company performs somewhere on campus, just one short piece, in our normal clothes, and then when we're done dancing we walk away to class normally.

She is incredibly busy this season as she tackles her studies, concentrates on her "next step in life" and dances.

Please find below updated videos, along with last season that you can watch!

The youtube link to the piece I co-choreographed this semester is here: http://www.youtube.com/cmudsvideo#p/u/13/A_z6sf2_JLU
Videos of the DS Company
http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=A62F9CC17F307A4E

Last Season
1. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wljq7BByr6k (I'm the one on the far right)
2. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE12HkERGNA&feature=related 
3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4DpX35OPaxw&feature=related (I start in the middle on the right...I'm wearing a shirt with one arm)
4. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DiggnhK4ivc (I start on the left in the skirt.)

2006 Rachel Mihalko
A 2006 RSB graduate and RYBC Alumna, Rachel is a student in the University of Akron's Dance Program. Rachel is currently in North Carolina.

Megan Nicklos 2003-2008 
Megan Nicklos joined RSB in the year of 2003 and was an original member of RYBC.  Along with her training at RSB, she has trained under Karen Colabianchi at Uptempo Dance where she studied jazz, tap, contemporary, lyrical, swing, hip-hop, and street tap. Her roles at RSB included: Lead Flower, Snow Queen, Chinese Tea Lead, Marzipan, Gershwin Preludes, Handel Suites, Das Weben, Nadeen O'Conner's 'Recolhimento en Algeria, Dying Swan Variation from Welcome to the Big Tent, Soloist in Napoli, Soloist in Paquita, Pas de Quatre in Swan Lake, The Race, Friends and Enemies, All I Want for Christmas Jazz Solo, Onda Nine, Facades, and Scherzo.  From 2000 to 2004, Megan performed with The Pennsylvania Ballet in their annual Nutcracker.  Her roles with them included: Candy Cane, Mouse, and Polichinelle. She has participated in several NorthEast Ohio and Ohio Dance Festivals throughout the state of Ohio, as well as competing at the YAGP Competition, where she was on the 4th Place award winning Handel Suites in 2004 and in 2005. Additionally, Megan has attended summer ballet programs at the Nutmeg Conservatory for the Arts and BalletMet. 

Megan is currently pursuing a Major in Dance at Ohio University and has received a talent scholarship.  In her first quarter at OU, Megan was one of only two freshmen who choreographed works that were selected for The Movement Lab Concert.  She was also one of the few freshmen at OU that were cast in the Senior Dance Concert. 

Megan and her sister Rebecca (see above) have been invited to perform original choreography inthe upcoming NorthEast Ohio Dance Festival on Saturday March 28th in Cleveland at the at Tr-C East Community Capmpus and at the Ohio Dance Festival Saturday April 4th at Ohio University in Bowling Green, Ohio.  Congratulations to both alumni!

"Just wanted to let you know that you have really left an impression with many people. Rebecca and I auditioned our piece for NorthEast Ohio Dance Festival and they called us to let us know they have accepted our piece for the show on March 28th. She said that after looking at our resumes, before even looking at our piece, they saw your name and immediately were impressed and remembered the very professional work that you contributed to the shows. So I just wanted to thank you for all your help, through teaching, and through giving us opportunities in the community".  -Megan Nicklos

"Great dancers are not great because of their technique; they are great because of their passion."  “You are unique, and if that is not fulfilled, then something has been lost.”      –Martha Graham-  
                                                                                             
“If there is one thing that I have learned so far during my years of dancing, it would be this. Don’t ever lose yourself. Find who you are meant to be and run wild with it.  Hold it tight and be the best you can be.  Inspire one another, learn from one another, and laugh with one another.”     -Megan Nicklos-    

2008 Gina Katsaros
A 2008 RSB graduate and RYBC Alumna, Gina joined the RSB Program in 2006.  She danced roles in Handel Suites, Nutcracker and Napoli.  Gina will be attending the University of Cincinnati to pursue a degree in Pharmacy. 

2008 Nicole Von Enck

A 2008 RSB graduate and an original member of RYBC.  Nicole began her Ballet Training in 2000 and was cast in most solost and principal roles in the repertory.  Her roles included:  Sugar Plum Fairy Pas de Deux, Coffee and Dewdrop in The Nutcrcaker, Paquita Pas de Deux, Onda 9, Das Weben, Scherzo, The Race, Facades, Napoli, Gershwin Preludes, Handel Suites, Swan Lake, Friends and Enemies and Welcome to the Big Tent.

A two time YAGP competitor, Nicole was a member of the 4th Place award winning Handel Suites in 2004 and placed 2nd Place in the Junior Contemporary Solo Category in 2005 where she went on to compete in the NYC Finals.  She has participated in several NorthEast Ohio and Ohio Dance Festivals throughout the state of Ohio.  Additionally, Nicole has attended summer ballet programs at the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and the Chautauqua Institution.

Nicole is currently in her second year as an Apprentice with North Carolina Dance Theater (NCDT) in Charlotte, NC under the guidance of Jean Pierre Bonnefoux. She has been cast and has performed with North Carolina Dance Theatre  in Balanchine's Raymonda Variations, The Four Temperments, as well as other works such as:  Nutcrcaker, Carnival of the Animals, the Innovative Works Dance Series, Dwight Rhoden's Othello and this season was cast as the "Ugly Duckling" in a children's ballet choreographed by Mark Diamond.  Nicole spent her 2009 summer in Richmond Ballet as a Trainee.

Read about Nicole on the NCDT Website : http://www.ncdance.org/

"I want to thank you for the past eight years of support and training.  They are truly the reason why I'm where I am today.  You helped me grow not only as a dancer, but as a person as well.  Your guidance and your words of wisdom will always live in my memory and will be a constant reminder to never let go of my dreams.  Please accept my appreciation and admiration as well as the words I can not even begin to say "

2008 Claire Von Enck
A RSB student since 2000 and RYBC member since 2003. Claire began her Ballet Training in 2000 and was cast in most corp and some soloist/principal roles in the repertory.  Her roles included:  Clara, Chinese Tea, Marzipan, Snow, in The Nutcrcaker, Paquita corp and soloist, Swan Lake Hungarian, Scherzo, Facades, Handel Suites, Friends and Enemies and Welcome to the Big Tent.  Claire has participated in several NorthEast Ohio and Ohio Dance Festivals throughout the state of Ohio.

Upon RSB's closing Claire continued her training under the direction of Gladisa Guadalupe at the Cleveland School of Dance for the 2008-2009 season.  She is currently training and living in NYC at School of American Ballet (SAB), where she received a merit scholarship. Check out SAB @ www.sab.org/

"I don't know what words to say to a person who has been such a mentor to me for almost my whole life.   You have not only helped me grow to become a better dancer, but you have helped me become a better person.  You have taught me so many lessons and given me so many words of wisdom that I will take with me wherever I go.  You are an amazing teacher  and I am so honored  to have studied under you.  My life has really been impacted by you."

2003-2008 Emma Brodowski
Coming soon!

2003-2008 Emma Von Enck
Emma started her ballet training at RSB in 2003.  She was invited to join the Royal Youth Ballet Company (RYBC II) for the 2005-06, 2006-07and 2007-08 seasons, participating in their Winter and Spring Repertory Concerts.  In the summer of 2007 Emma began training at the Cleveland School of Dance.  She performed the role of Clara in CSD’s 2008 The Little Nutcracker Tea. She also danced in their 2009 Annual Spring Performance at the Allen Theatre in Cleveland.

Interested in theatre, Emma started attending acting classes at the Beck Center for the Arts in July, 2009.  She was cast in the Beck’s production of The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe in November 2009.   Emma is continuing her dance training at the Cleveland Ballet Conservatory and most recently performed the role of Clara in CBC’s The Nutcracker Suite in December 2009.

 “RSB has given me a strong foundation in ballet technique.  I just want to say ‘thank you’ to Mrs. Morscher and all the RSB staff for helping me become a better dancer.”

2005-2008 Julianne Wtulich
A RSB student from the age of 5,  Julianne participated in our highly regarded Children's Program studying under Mrs.Morscher as well as Mrs. Wadenfphul.  Julianne performed in Nutcrcaker with RYBC, as well as having children's roles in "Welcome to the Big Tent" and "Friends and Enemies."  Julianne continues her ballet training at the Cleveland Dance Conservatory under the direction of Kerry Skuderin.

"According to Julianne's Dad, Raymond RSB's strong foundational instruction has allowed Julianne to excell nicely, in fact she earned a small solo part in the past spring performance."
 


2004-2008 Allison Bonvissuto
As a RSB student and RYBC Company member Allison participated in many Nutcracker and Spring Concert performances. dancing the following roles: Chinese Tea, Spanish Dance, Waltz of the Flowers, Snow, Germany in Nutcracker, as well as Friends and Enemies, Welcome to the Big Tent and Renee Rossi's Facades, which premiered at the 2006 NorthEast Ohio Dance Festival. 

Allsion is currently a senior at Padua Franciscan High School, where she is a 4 year orchestra member and three year member of the Color Guard/Flag Team for Marching Band.  This year Allsion was chosen to be Co-Captain for teh Color Guard and is responsible for creating and teaching choreography for Flag Team routines/performances.  Allison plans to major in Early Childhood Education in College, and would like to continue her studies in dance and theatre.

Update on Allison!
Allison decided to attend Walsh University in North Canton, Ohio.  She is an elementary education/special education major and is doing well after her first semester.  She has a work study job (in the cafeteria) and is a member of the Walsh University Chorale.  and recently performed with members of the Canton Symphony Orchestra. Allison also is learning to play a baritone (low brass instrument) and is in the Walsh pep band, playing at home basketball games.  Walsh plans to start a marching band at Walsh, and the first step is to create a pep band, so she is learning the new instrument so she can be a part of the process.  She is having a good time and making new friends. 
 
"I can not believe how much I have learned and improved since coming to RSB in 2004.  RSB has helped me to be tough, disciplined, and hard-working.  All of the show opportunities were great and experiences I will never forget.  Although I know for a fact that I do not want to dance professionally, I dance for fun and for the learning experience.  I know that dance has an impact on my life now and will help me in the future.  I truly believe that dancing will be a part of my life forever."
2005-2008 Nicole Roberts
As a RSB Adminstrative Assistant, Cleveland native Nicole began studying dance at the age of five.  She studied with RSB,   Pam Hindall @ Classical Academy of Dance & Jazz @ Lisa Wilhem Dance Academy. Nicole has completed one at LCCC before she moved to Tenessee in the summer of 2008. Nicole has assisted backstage at all of RYBC's Winter Extravaganzas and Spring Repertories. 

"Joanne has helped me to grow in my ability in dance, with her love and support.  Joanne's passion for this art form, is taught and developed in her students as she teaches, and is something I will treasure for the rest of my life.  She is dedicated to seeing her students excel both as dancers and as individuals!"

1998-2008 Pat Lamb
RSB Student since its inception and a former RYBC Board Member. Pat, along with her husband Greg is are the owner's of Select Insurance Services in North Royalton, Ohio.

"I enjoyed your ballet program very much. As an adult student, you always welcomed me in class and allowed me to work within my ability. I found your studio to be supportive by allowing students to grow in their art of dance and encouraging them to be their very best."

"You were born to teach and you will be missed."

1998-2008 Kim Wasielewski
RSB Student since its inception and owner of Kim's School of Dance in North Royalton, Ohio.

"Joanne Morscher is the best ballet teacher in the Cleveland area. Her compassion and knowledge are a wonderful mix for instilling the skills and strength necessary to produce professional ballet dancers. Joanne's years of knowledge and experience allow her to teach from a place of caring as well as motivating the dancer to achieve his/her highest potential.  I trust her with my child as well as referring many of my students."

Kim ATP ®Reiki Master,
Herbalist,
Angel Inspirations,
Angelic Kreations,
Kim's School of Dance www.misskimsschoolofdance.com
Yoga by Kim  www.yogabykim.com


 
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e-mail:  rsb@morscher.com