KELLY LAX
Owner
Kelly has a passion for the developmental value and community that dance provides children. A career educator with advanced degrees in early childhood development, elementary education, and curriculum and instruction, she wholeheartedly believes in a structured and individualized approach to performing arts.
Her mission is to ensure that Kelly’s Dance remains a special, non-competitive space for children of all ages to learn the love of dance. Creating a happy learning environment where students achieve high levels of personal accomplishment and learn the life skills to come into their own as young adults is her priority.
PARIS JONES
Director
Paris has been dancing for twenty years in many different states and also, several other countries.
She has extensive training in various styles such as Contemporary, Modern, Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, and Tap. Paris said, “My favorite style of dance is Modern because I love how you can make it your own and how fun and unique it can be.” She goes on to explain, “I love teaching dance because I get to see my student’s progression and improvement. I love making dance fun and exciting for all my
students.”
Paris has been an instructor at Kelly’s for the past six years and is currently the Studio Director.
our instructors
VICTORIA BENJAMIN
Instructor
JESSICA MERIAM
Instructor
HANNAH FOXWORTH
Instructor
Victoria has been dancing for twelve years and is in her second season as an instructor at Kelly's Dance after enjoying a season as a dancer here as well.
What is your favorite genre?
"My favorite style of dance is contemporary. It really teaches you to be in tune with your body and focus on intrinsic artistry. The shyest kid can feel comfortable and confident on stage."
What do you like about dancing and instructing at Kelly's?
"There's so much talent here at Kelly's, in every age groups. The classes are fun, encouraging, and organized so the students are able to learn quickly."
Jess is originally from Brooklyn, New York, but moved to Summerville when she was 6 years old.
She has been dancing at Kelly’s Dance since she was 7 years old, and in her own words, she “grew up at the studio.” This is her fifth year as an instructor after several as an assistant.
Favorite style of dance? Jess said, “That’s a hard question! But, if I had to choose one, I’d say jazz. Jazz is a really fast and fun genre and I’ve always excelled in it.
Teaching it is just as fun! Big smiles, big stage presence, and big attitudes!” Jess added, “Dance has changed my life by being a creative outlet for me since I was little. Even before I started taking classes, I remember being a little girl and doing ballet in the grocery store. It’s always been a way to express myself, and now as an instructor, I get to share that with others!”
Hannah, originally from Hawaii, began her dance career at the age of four in a basic ballet/tap class. She loved it and has continued classes in various studios as her military family moved around the country. She has danced her way from the East Coast to Alaska!
What is your favorite genre in dance? "My favorite is ballet because it combines beauty, grace, and strength.
What's the best part about teaching? " As a Pre Ballet/Tap instructor I get to form a wonderful connection with students. I love hearing them tell me how they practiced during the wee, or how much they love dance. Watching them learn skills week after week brings me so much joy. From practicing pliés, reviewing relevés, or teaching toe taps, I love being a part of laying their foundation of dance."
Hannah is in her third year of dancing at Kelly's, her initial season en pointe, and the beginning of her instructional career.