Starz Studio of Performing Arts

Dance and Tumbling instruction for ages 2+

Carissa Christensen

Owner/Instructer

Carissa established Starz Studio of Performing Arts in the fall of 1995. The opening and success of STARZ is the fulfillment of her lifelong dream. "Cari" holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City's Performing Arts Center. She has an extensive background in both performing and instructing including; Three years with the K.C. Chiefs Cheerleading Squad where she also served as co-captain and choreographer, performing at both Busch Gardens, and Fiesta Texas theme parks, National print modeling, Miss Jackson County and top ten Miss Missouri finalist, Kansas City Chiefettes, and Missouri Repertory Theater. Her enthusiasm for the performing arts is second to none. She is extremely motivated, and totally committed to the success of her students. "Shoot into STARZ and let us make your STARZ shine!"

Jill S. Beal

Instructor

Jill comes to Starz from Dearborn Heights, Michigan. She is an award-winning dancer who has performed worldwide. Her credits include two full scholarships to the Atlanta Ballet, acceptance into the School of American Ballet in New York City, and numerous scholarships from the Dance Masters of America. She is a former Miss Dance of Michigan, and has won numerous awards both as a soloist and as a group performer in competitions throughout the U.S. Her professional career has taken her all over the world, performing in shows parkwide at Busch Gardens Florida; Walt Disney World Florida; Tokyo Disneyland; and traveling the world performing with Princess Cruises on the original "Love Boat". Jill is very proud to be a member of the staff at Starz Studio of Performing Arts.

Kelly Solomon

Instructor

Kelly began as a student at Starz and went on to perform as a member of the Super Starz Show Troupe for 6 years. She began assistant teaching at Starz in 1999 and immediately became one of the studio "favorites". Kelly graduated from Grain Valley High School in 2003, and along with competitive dance, she participated in several activities, including two years on the varsity cheerleading squad. Not only has Kelly won many awards as a dancer, tumbler and cheerleader, but has also received superior ratings and awards as a pianist. She is currently pursuing her Business degree at CMSU. This will be Kelly's third year of teaching at Starz. Her passion for dance and enthusiasm for her students is second to none.

Shelley Kreisler

Instructor

Shelley has been teaching dance and tumbling for over 20 years. She was a member of the Missouri Dance Company for 4 years. Her other credits include Starlight Theater, Worlds of Fun Dancers, Chiefs Cheerleader, K.C. Chiefettes, Lyric Theater and Missouri Repertory Theater Performances. She was the Dance Director for Blue Springs High School for 5 years and produced many award winning routines. She choreographed a National Award Winning Cheerleading routine, as well as many musical productions, and KC Chiefs halftime shows. Shelley has appeared in television commercials, and print advertisements, and recently finished a principal role in her first independent movie titled "My One and Only". Shelley has what it takes to bring out the best in your child!

Donna Triozzi Hodson

Vocal Instructor

Donna has over 20 years performing experience in traveling companies throughout the US, and abroad. She worked with the USO, the International Ice Capades, Various Theater traveling companies, Nightclub touring companies, and on Television, Radio, and various Vocals Performances around the US. She owned and operated her own performing arts school for 35 years. Donna also has extensive experience in Pageantry. Having served the Miss America Pageant system as a dancer and vocalist, performing as well as wardrobe modeling, and as a talent choreographer. She has been a delegate on behalf of Missouri, attending the Miss America Pageants in Atlantic City 7 times. She has judged for the Miss America Pageants throughout Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma, and for various children’s pageants throughout the US. Donna will be teaching dance and vocal music classes and private lessons this fall. She is a tremendous asset to our staff.

Ashlee Baldwin

Instructor

Ashlee was one of Starz most popular and valued assistant teachers for several years earning her the opportunity to become a teacher at Starz in September of 2005. She is a graduate of Oak Grove H.S. where she was involved in numerous activities including Cheerleading, Band, and as Co-Captain of the color guard. Ashlee is college student seeking her degree in nursing. She performed in the Nutcracker with Oklahoma City Ballet, and has earned many honors and awards as a dancer with the Super Starz Dance Troupe. Ashlee’s love of children and enthusiasm for teaching has made her classes a popular choice among parents and students alike.