Meet Mrs. Brandie – Ballet Instructor at Rising Star
Mrs. Brandie is a dedicated ballet teacher and educator whose love for dance began at a young age. Inspired by the 1982 musical film Annie—specifically the performances of Ann Reinking and Aileen Quinn—Brandie began dancing at just three years old and quickly developed a passion for ballet.
Professional Ballet Training & Performance
By age 11, Brandie was invited to train at the official school of the Kansas City Ballet (KCB), where she studied under renowned professionals including Flo Klenklen, Deena Budd, and Sean Duus. During her time at KCB, she performed in both student productions and company performances, gaining valuable stage experience.
In 1999, Brandie had a full-circle moment when she met her childhood idol, Ann Reinking, who was choreographing Suite Kander on the artists of KCB—set to music by local composer John Kander. Brandie further enriched her dance education by attending summer intensives with the Nashville Ballet and the Missouri Fine Arts Academy.
Academic Career & Dance Education
Brandie pursued her academic passions alongside her love for dance, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary English Education from Missouri State University. With over 15 years of experience in the classroom, she currently teaches at Natrona County High School in Casper, Wyoming.
Despite her focus on education, Brandie has remained closely connected to the dance world. She has taught ballet at various studios and worked with Melissa’s Studio of Performing Arts in Sikeston, Missouri, helping to establish a strong ballet foundation for young dancers.
Teaching Philosophy & Personal Journey
Brandie believes that ballet builds lifelong skills that reach far beyond the studio. Traits such as confidence, self-discipline, responsibility, determination, and grace under pressure are central to her teaching philosophy. Her own dance training helped her navigate personal challenges, including hip dysplasia and the pursuit of her master’s degree.
Today, Brandie is thrilled to share her love for ballet with the next generation of dancers at Rising Star Tumbling & Dance Studio. She is passionate about helping students grow both technically and personally—through ballet and beyond.
