Summer Workshop (takes place June/July) - keep that summer stride, advance your skill, or try something new. Enrollment space is limited!
School Season (takes place Aug-May) - progressive program for advancement in each grade, 10 month commitment.
This season commemorates Miss Jenny’s 30th year as a dance educator. Jenny grew up in St. Louis, MO under the pre-professional tutelage of Norma Beutell-VanSickle & Sylvia Grannemann. She trained multiple styles and competed for Dance Masters of America, Chapter #21 and the St. Louis Solar Acrobatic Association. Extensive ballet and jazz training included study with Joffrey Ballet Student Company and Gus Giordano Jazz Center. Her first professional performances included “Nutcrackers” with the Gateway Ballet & “Cinderella” with the Joffrey Ballet Student Company.
Miss Jenny later trained with Caren & Mark Krupinski, in Chesterfield, MO- who further opened her heart to teaching. Under direction of the Krupinski’s, and Miss Rhea Ruble (office manager), Miss Jenny became staff (as part of the high school co-op program) and was graciously taught the business, teaching, and family aspects of studio ownership. She performed professionally during 1993, 1994, & 1995 seasons at the St. Louis Muny Opera and was honored to assist the Childrens' Choreographer with the St. Louis Muny Opera’s Childrens' auditions. With the encouragement of her ballet teacher, Miss Ellen Cook Isom,
Jenny further continued her studies at Webster University, St. Louis - and in the Dance Ensemble under direction of Gary Hubler. She became a professional member of the Webster Dance Theatre and traveled the country routinely with ballet, jazz, contemporary, and modern performances. Her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with an emphasis in Choreography was earned in 1998; she later returned as choreographer with her personal choreography of a duo titled “Angels” to represent Webster University’s Dance Program at the 1998 American College Dance Festival at the University of Illinois, Champagne - Urbana. In 2004, Jenny founded Villa West, to offer Franklin County residents a wholesome, quality, professional dance education in a loving, positive, and rewarding atmosphere.
She has mentored and encouraged a multitude of young dancers to follow their dreams. Her choreography has been recognized both regionally and nationally. Jenny is passionate about community service and has paid forward thousands in combined charitable contributions, cash and studio scholarships over the past 18 years. Jenny is certified by test, to teach ballet, jazz, modern, and acrobatics; as she is both a certified and a professional member of Dance Masters of America. In 2015, Jenny was nominated as President of Dance Masters of America, Chapter #21.
This is Jenny’s 13th season as a professional member, coach, and 9th year as state ranked judge in acrobatic gymnastics for Region 4 of USA Gymnastics. She was honored to be recognized as the 2021 J.O. Coach of Year. Jenny is an Executive Member of More Than Just Great Dancing - a licensed affiliation of dance studios directors that subscribe to a higher standard of dance instruction and management principles. Commitment to providing MORE than excellent dance instruction,
Jenny’s students go beyond technique to develop important life skills, learning to be respectful, confident and conscientious young people who share their gifts and talents with the community.
Mr. Doug became a Tumbling Coach for our Acrobatic Gymnastics Program in 2014. While he was initially reluctant to become a coach, he has appreciation for the sport and possesses a natural ability to motivate kids. Coach Doug is certified by USA Gymnastics and was awarded the 2019 Region 4 “UnSung Hero” title.
During the day, Mr. Doug is an instructor for the Mid-America Carpenters District Council and P.A.T.T.S. program, he has been a Carpenter for 22 years. He has a gift of being able to reach at-risk teens, build their confidence, teach them the skills they need and help them begin successful careers.
Through the P.A.T.T.S. program, Mr Doug helps government leaders to build diversity and inclusiveness to the workforce. VW was founded with Mr. Dougs support and he continues to be a driving force in building our thriving community!
Miss Cali is VW alumna and enjoys giving back to the next generation! She is proficient in all dance styles and has a passion for seeing students develop their God-given talents in a nurturing environment. Miss Cali is a graduate of graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with a degree in Accounting and began teaching at VW in 2014.
She is certified to teach with Progressing Ballet Technique and currently is serving as one of our Teen Competition Line & Performing Group teachers. Miss Cali is a true leader who embraces the VW culture fully. She organizes and produces special events at VW that build our community stronger.
Ms. Paytience has been with Villa West for 10+ years and counting. She started her journey on the acrobatic gymnastic team where she was one of our first athletes to attend a USAG National competition. From there she was determined to also be a part of our competitive dance program and is currently teaching recreational classes and helping coach athletes on the Villa West competitive teams.
Ms. Paytience who was born and raised in Union, Mo took her skills learned at Villa West to become the choreographer for the UHS dance team her senior year of high school and has continued that position. Recently graduating from Webster University with a major in Psychology, a minor in dance and a certificate in Expressive Arts Therapy.
Ms. Paytience looks forward to continuing her education and getting her maters degree in Expressive Arts Therapy, using her education to give back to her community. She has recently accepted a job at Compass Health Network as an Integrated Health Specialist in the children’s division.
Throughout the past few years Ms. Paytience has become a USA Gymnastics and MSHSAA professional member and coach, along with a Youth Protection Advocate in Dance participant. Each of these titles requiring multiple hours of training, testing and recertification. When not at the studio Ms. Paytience is usually spending time with her family and taking on another title of dog mom.
Miss Jean shares over 35 years of classroom experience and has been at VW since 2014. Her vast education and experience includes a Masters degree in Early Childhood Education, a distinguished board member with the Missouri State High School Dance Team Association, and is currently the Dean of Academic Development at Ursuline Academy where she has been faculty for over 20 years.
Her choreography has one multiple recognitions and 1st place titles and her teams have been well known for excellence not just in dancing -but also in exuding positive character and life values.
Miss Steph joins VW from California where she previously worked as a dancer, singer, and actress. Her education comes from the New York Film Academy Musical Theatre Program in NY and certification to teach from the Millennium Dance Complex in CA.
She’s been a featured extra in various films including Netflix Originals and has won multiple Eily Award Nominations. She can not imagine life without involvement in dance and is thrilled to be a part of the VW community where she has witnessed so much positive warmth and camaraderie of the families and staff at VW.
Megan grew up in Villa Ridge, MO under the pre-professional tutelage of numerous educators at Villa West Dance & Acrobatics. She trained multiple styles and competed for Dance Masters of America, Chapter #21 and USA Gymnastics, Region 4. Extensive ballet, jazz, aerial silks, and contemporary training includes study with programs through Webster University, COCA, and The Big Muddy Dance Company.
Her first professional performances included “The Sound Of Music” with Stages St. Louis when she was only 9 years old. Megan is a USA Gymnastics Professional Member & Coach, certified to teach Aerial Arts, and has become an accomplished young choreographer. Her choreography has won numerous overall and titles.
Megan is also the recipient of the 2021 USA Gymnastics Region 4 Megan Mahon Memorial award, recognizing that she always has performance on her mind while balancing life as a college student with her duties as a coach and athlete.
She selflessly gives to her students, team and her colleagues. Megan continues her education and training at Webster University. She is advancing her performance skills, nurturing her passion for art, and earning an established arts degree.
Miss Mylan comes to VW from Arizona. She is a double major student at Webster University where she will soon earn a Bachelor of Science for Physical Therapy -Exercise Science and a Bachelor of Art in Dance.
Miss Mylan teaches all styles of dance and loves working with young children to inspire their creativity and foster their love of dance. While keeping up with her studies and instructing our Petite & Junior lines, Miss Mylan is also a performing artist and shares her talents with audiences each year.
Mr Rusty has been with VW since 2019. He is a graduate of Lindenwood University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Dance. Mr Rusty has been teaching for many years and his favorite genres include tap and jazz.
He currently leads our Intermediate Competitive Lines in choreography for the upcoming competition season in addition to instructing our Adult Tap program.
Miss Bekah currently serves as a para for the Union RXI district. She loves music and how much joy it can bring, and has been working with children in all age groups in professional settings since graduating from high school. Miss Bekahs passion is music therapy, sharing how music can set a mood in a room, relieve stress, and bring joy to your whole body by listening and participating.
She loves to sing with church band in services, and playing the flute is her favorite. Miss Bekah loves VW because she has seen her own daughter flourish with the support and guidance she gets from the many wonderful instructors here. She herself has always felt welcomed and celebrated at VW, and would love to have your child join music class, learn the foundations of music, and be celebrated too!
Miss Alley a former competitive dancer from the Franklin County area and yet another alumna of VW. She is a preschool dance class specialist, a member of our Adult Tap program, and also a proud dance mom to four young girls.
Miss Alley also currently serves as an office administrator for VW where she manages student enrollment, studio emails, family accounts, student attendance, and more! She loves working with families and kids!
Miss Durae is our Hospitality Services leader at the front desk! She is the first friendly face you will see when you come in and always happy to help. She is an office administrator, managing VW student enrollment, family accounts, etc. and truly enjoys the warmth and camaraderie of the families and staff at VW!
Miss Durae loves seeing familiar faces here at VW as well as welcoming new members! She looks forward to watching our students grow throughout the years
We have been with Villa West for 5 years and counting. I initially chose the studio based on the credentials and experience of the instructors but have since learned this studio is so much more. The owner prides herself on making sure that Villa West teaches more than dancing.
Patricia H.
The care and compassion shown by the teachers and staff at Villa West is something that continues to make the studio our home away from home. Having a studio in our community that focuses on letting kids be kids while providing a foundation in dance and acro that will continue with them for a lifetime, is truly a blessing.
Alexandria P.
ADDRESS & HOURS
1580 Denmark Rd, Union, MO 63084
Monday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday: Closed
Villa West Performing Arts is a vibrant dance studio located in Union, Missouri, offering various styles such as ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, and tap for all ages and abilities. Our dedicated instructors cultivate technique, creativity, and self-expression in a supportive environment, enabling students to thrive and share their passion for dance through engaging classes and performances.
Opening Hours
Monday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Friday: Closed
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Sunday: Closed