Faculty

Tamra Chace

Owner & Director

Tamra Chace is the owner and director of Chace Dance Company. Tamra has her BFA in Ballet Performance and Dance Education from one of the countries top performing arts universities- The Univerity of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA. Where she mastered her dance technique and learned how to become the incredible teacher she is today.

Before opening the studio, Tamra had a prosperous performing career both nationally and internationally. She has danced for major artists, concerts, music videos, commercials, and even danced in the professional cheer industry overseas.

A few years later while living in South Africa, she found her love of teaching by sharing her knowledge with a few local girls. Soon, what started in a two-car garage, with three girls, no air conditioning, and in Africa, has now grown to a beautiful commercial space in Lake Nona, Fl with flourishing enrollment and an incredible online following.

She has built a community around dance and focuses on building relationships with everyone in the studio, "people are important, and everyone means something to me, I believe we can all make the world a better place by just taking the time to be nice and really connect with everyone." says Tamra.

When Tamra is not teaching, she enjoys spending time getting her hands in the dirt growing food for her family (yes, like a real garden!), reading, and eating Brownie Core ice cream from Ben and Jerry's!

Olivia Wheelan

Dance Instructor

Nurturing Young Minds in the World of Ballet - Meet Ms. Olivia!

Olivia Wheelan is a talented and dedicated ballet teacher specializing in teaching toddler ballet and pre-ballet classes. With a natural affinity for working with young children and a deep love for ballet, Olivia creates a nurturing and engaging environment where budding dancers can develop their skills, build confidence, and foster a lifelong love for the art of ballet.

Background and Training:

Olivia's journey in ballet began at a young age, and her passion for dance has never wavered. She received comprehensive ballet training from reputable dance academies, including Cambridge Ballet School, focusing on both classical technique and creative movement for young children. Olivia's extensive training and experience have equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively teach and engage with young dancers.

Teaching Philosophy:

Olivia firmly believes in the power of building relationships with her young students. She understands that each child is unique and learns in their own way, and she embraces this diversity in her teaching approach. Olivia strives to create a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment where children feel comfortable expressing themselves, exploring movement, and developing their own individual artistic voice.

Experience:

With several years of teaching experience, Olivia has become highly regarded for her ability to connect with young children and create a positive learning atmosphere. She has taught toddler ballet and pre-ballet classes at renowned dance studios and community centers, earning praise from parents for her patience, kindness, and ability to engage even the most energetic little dancers.

Teaching Style:

Olivia's teaching style is characterized by her gentle and patient demeanor. She understands the importance of age-appropriate instruction and uses creative techniques to capture the attention and imagination of her young students. Olivia combines imaginative storytelling, playful exercises, and age-appropriate ballet technique to create a fun and engaging learning experience.

Relationship Building:

One of Olivia's greatest strengths lies in her ability to build meaningful relationships with her students and their parents. She recognizes the importance of open communication and collaboration, ensuring that parents are involved and informed about their child's progress. Olivia takes the time to understand each child's unique personality and learning style, tailoring her approach to meet their individual needs.

Passion for Early Childhood Development & Pediatrics:

Aside from her love for ballet, Olivia has a deep understanding of early childhood development and the importance of movement in a child's overall growth. She incorporates activities that promote motor skills, coordination, and cognitive development into her classes, ensuring a holistic learning experience for her young dancers.

Olivia Wheelan is not only a talented ballet teacher but also a dedicated advocate for early childhood development. Through her passion for ballet and her ability to connect with young children, she has created a nurturing and inspiring environment where toddlers and pre-dance students can flourish. Olivia's commitment to building relationships, fostering creativity, and instilling a love for ballet empowers her young dancers to embrace their potential and embark on a lifelong journey of artistic expression.

Vashti Goracke

Dance Instructor

Danielle has been dancing for over twenty-two years and it's her passion and has been teaching for over ten years! Her favorite style of dance is jazz-funk and her favorite style to teach is acro and contemporary!

She grew up dancing and competing, realizing her love for dance early on. She knew dance would always be an important part of her story and is so happy it is still a huge part of her life. She was captain of both her high school and college dance teams, which further emphasized her passion for choreographing and being a part of a team. While attending Endicott College she majored in Hospitality, Event Management and minored in Dance. Her dance team competed annually at UDA Nationals where they became a nationally ranked team.

While in college, she became a UDA staff member teaching and spreading her love for dance to high school dance teams and helped run their special events. She also spent those years teaching and choreographing for many dance studios and teams! She learned a lot from those teaching experiences that she applies to her classroom at Chace Dance Company. She then started working as an emcee for Turn It Up Dance Challenge.

After graduating she landed her dream job as a performer at Walt Disney World and is blessed to be living out her performing career. Her most recent endeavor was opening an online dance business called DNC Tricks & Tips where she teaches dancers popular tricks something she LOVES teaching!

Her favorite activity outside of dance is hot yoga & collecting seashells and sea glass at the beach! She is excited to work with the dancers this year and can’t wait for a passionate and productive season!

Rhema Joy

Dance Instructor

Rhema Joy is a dedicated and experienced ballet teacher who has spent her life immersed in the world of dance. With a deep-rooted passion for dance and entertainment, she has created a huge commitment to nurturing young dancers, she has become a respected figure in our dance community. Through her expertise, creativity, and unwavering dedication, Rhema has inspired countless of our students to discover their own love for ballet, contemporary, and jazz to reach their fullest potential.

Background and Training:

Rhema's journey in ballet began at a young age, when she quickly discovered her love for the art form. With unwavering determination, she pursued intensive training, honing her skills under the guidance of renowned instructors and mentors. She studied at prestigious dance academies, where she absorbed the techniques and artistry that would shape her teaching style.

Teaching Philosophy:

With a strong belief that dance is not only a physical discipline but also an expression of art and self, Rhema approaches teaching with a holistic approach. She focuses not only on technique but also on fostering creativity, musicality, and emotional connection in her students. Rhema understands that every dancer is unique and tailors her teaching to meet the individual needs and goals of each student.

Experience:

Rhema boasts an impressive teaching career spanning over two decades. She has had the privilege of teaching at prestigious dance schools and academies across the country, including the Enterprise School of Dance and the Dothan School of Dance, and now currently Chace Dance Company. Her students have gone on to achieve success in professional ballet companies and have been recognized for their outstanding talent and artistry.

Teaching Style:

Known for her patient and nurturing demeanor, Rhema creates a supportive and encouraging environment in her classes. She instills discipline, dedication, and a strong work ethic in her students while also fostering a love for ballet and a sense of joy in their movement. Emily's classes are both challenging and inspiring, allowing her students to grow both technically and artistically.

Rhema Joy's passion for ballet is infectious, and her commitment to teaching is unparalleled. Through her extensive experience, creative approach, and nurturing teaching style, she has influenced the lives of countless dancers. Rhema's enduring dedication to the art of dance has not only shaped the technical proficiency of her students but has also instilled in them a love for the art form that will last a lifetime.