Our Staff
Kristen Varrassi
Kristen Varrassi has been dancing since the age of two and has dedicated her life to sharing that passion with others. What began as a teaching role evolved into a leadership position, and for the past decade, she has proudly served as the Director of Broadway Academy of Art and Dance South. Kristen has experience as a competitive dancer, coach, and now serves as a judge for IHSA Dance.
Outside the studio, Kristen’s life is full and vibrant. She and her husband, Adam—a pilot with SkyWest Airlines—are proud parents to three active kids: AJ (11), Lukas (9), and Emersyn (7). Whether they’re on the ball field or in the studio, family time is always front and center.
Kristen is deeply passionate about providing a safe and supportive space where young dancers can express themselves freely. She believes that dance education is about much more than movement—it builds accountability, dedication, hard work, respect, and lifelong skills.
After 13 wonderful years of partnership with BAA, Kristen is excited to continue that supportive relationship as she begins her next chapter as Director of the South Dance Collective.
Amy Nolan
With over 25 years of experience in the arts, Amy Nolan—affectionately known to her students as Ms. Amy—has found her greatest joy and fulfillment in working with children and young adults as they discover their passion for dance.
Her own love of dance began in middle school as a member of the Poms Team and continued through all four years of high school. Though she began her dance journey later than most, Ms. Amy never let that hold her back. She went on to compete with award-winning teams, earned MVP honors, participated in numerous conventions and master classes, and has now been teaching dance for over 20 years. She is also a proud member of Sparrow Dance Company.
Throughout her career, Ms. Amy has coached high school dance teams, worked with children with disabilities, directed a children’s program at a fitness company, and shared her expertise with several local studios. In 2018, she found her true home at South Dance Collection (SDC), where she continues to inspire and uplift young dancers.
As both an instructor and a mother, Ms. Amy thrives on helping young athletes achieve their goals and build confidence both on and off the stage. And one thing is certain—you can always count on her to be the loudest one cheering from the sidelines!
Emma Wade
Emma Wade has 19 years of cheerleading experience including both sideline, competitive, and collegiate cheer. She comes to South Dance Collective with 5 years of cheerleading coaching experience, and 2 years of acro class experience. Emma is a 2019 graduate of Badger High School where she was a varsity athlete all 4 years, and earned many accolades including multiple State Championship titles. She loves being able to bring her knowledge of tumbling to dancers to help them excel in her dances. She looks forward to helping the dancers grow both physically and mentally and is looking forward to being a part of the new South Dance Collective Team.
Grace Vacala
Grace Vacala brings over 11 years of dance experience, including six years of competitive training. She also spent four years on her high school’s varsity cheer team. While she enjoys all styles of dance, contemporary holds a special place in her heart. As an instructor, Ms. Grace is dedicated to fostering a fun, safe, and supportive environment where every dancer can grow, learn, and express themselves.
Lainie Callahan
With over 25 years of dance experience, Ms. Lainie has dedicated her life to the rhythm of movement and the power of expression. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Dance from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she deepened her understanding of choreography, performance, and the artistry of the human body in motion.
As the artistic director of Sparrow Dance Co, Ms. Lainie has built a creative home for dancers to explore, connect, and grow—rooted in a passion for storytelling through movement. Her love for music and travel constantly inspires her work, infusing every piece with fresh energy and global influence.
When she is not in the studio or on the stage, you'll likely find her with a warm cup of decaf coffee, planning her next adventure or seeking out a soundtrack to match the moment.
Leah Spencer
Ms. Leah is excited to return for her second year of teaching at the studio. With 12 years of dance experience, she specializes in jazz but actively trains in a variety of styles, including ballet and contemporary. Ms. Leah is entering her senior year at Westosha Central High School, where she competes on the school’s dance team. Prior to that, she danced for three years on the Burlington High School team and competed at the WACPC State Dance Competition.
Before stepping into a teaching role, Ms. Leah spent a year assisting under the mentorship of Ms. Kristen. Her goal this season is to continue sharing her passion for dance while learning and growing alongside her students. Ms. Leah is thrilled to be part of the SDC community and looks forward to an exciting year ahead.
Madison Chock
Madison Chock has been dancing since the age of 2. She has trained in all styles of dance, but the one that speaks to her most is Hip Hop. Madison loves attending the Monsters Dance Convention, where she continues to refine her Hip Hop technique and style. She has competed in the IHSA State Series representing Crystal Lake South High School, and has also performed on national stages at The Summit and The Dance Worlds. Madison is excited to bring her dynamic Hip Hop energy to SDC!
Paige Pearson
With over 24 years of dance experience, Paige brings a lifelong passion for movement and artistry to every class she teaches. She trained at Summers Academy of Dance in Illinois and spent 11 years teaching at Broadway Academy of Art and Dance, where she also served as the Early Childhood Director. She went to McHenry County college to pursue her medical assistant degree and health coaching license through the American council on Exercise, which she loves to bring health and wellness tips to her dancers. Paige choreographed for the BAA dance teams that has been featured by the Milwaukee Bucks, and she trained with industry leaders including Giordano Dance, American Ballet Theater and the Rockettes. Paige specialize in ballet, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, and tap, and has even worked with many couples and groups for custom wedding dances! Paige is thrilled to return to continue sharing the joy of dance with the next generation!
Shannon Rodriguez
Shannon Rodriguez is a passionate dance educator and performer who graduated in May 2025 from Hope College in Holland, Michigan, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Dance with a minor in Dance Pedagogy. She brings a wealth of experience from teaching and assisting at various dance studios across the Midwest. Her choreography has been featured in Hope College’s formal showcases, reflecting her creative approach to dance.
In addition to her dance expertise, Ms. Shannon is a certified yoga instructor, having completed her certification in July 2024 at Pura Vida in San Jose, Costa Rica. She is dedicated to promoting a holistic lifestyle and has developed curricula for practitioners of all levels.
As a performer, Ms. Shannon has been a Company Member of H2 Dance Company, collaborating with renowned guest choreographers such as Sharon Wong, Kristen Farmer, and Lindsey Hanson. She has also contributed to notable films, including Selah and Conform Me Not, and has worked with acclaimed choreographers such as Nick Pupillo and Jennine Willett.
Continuing her artistic journey, Ms. Shannon now has the opportunity to work with Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre’s Second Company, further expanding her training and contributing to the company’s mission of blending dance, music, and visual art to explore authentic personal stories at the crossroads of heritage, culture, and identity.
Tianna Chiluk
With 24 years of dedicated experience in dance, Tianna Chiluk has cultivated a rich and diverse career in the art form. She taught at Broadway Academy of Art and Dance for 12 years, she has shared her passion and inspired countless students. As a dancer with the Sparrow Dance Company from 2012 to 2021, Ms. Tianna has honed her craft and showcased her talent in numerous performances.
Ms. Tianna has received extensive training in Ballet, Contemporary, and Jazz, and has traveled widely to deepen her expertise and artistic vision. In addition to teaching, Ms. Tianna has served as a competition coach for five years, guiding dancers to achieve their competitive goals and develop their skills. From 2019 to 2021, she held the role of Director at the Broadway Academy of Art and Dance East, overseeing the artistic vision and curriculum for the school.
Under the mentorship of Alyce Brinkman, as well as at Visceral Dance Center and Ruth Page, Ms. Tianna combines rigorous technique with a heartfelt passion for dance, inspiring the next generation of artists!