MEET THE FACULTY

KELSEY TANNER

Owner & Director

A native of Louisiana, Kelsey Tanner started dancing at the age of 2 at her Mother's studio. "I literally grew up in a studio. I remember watching my mom for hours every day. I dreamed one day that I could be just like her!"

Kelsey is a former scholarship recipient from New York City Dance Alliance, Pulse, Nuvo, West Coast Dance Explosion, Tremaine, and Showbiz National Talent. Kelsey worked in the Summer Counselor Program at Broadway Dance Center in New York City, assisting numerous professional teachers and choreographers, including Mia Michaels and Brian Friedman. She has received Choreography Awards at West Coast Dance Explosion, Onstage New York, Showbiz National Talent, Dance Educators of America, and Primetime Talent.

Kelsey Tanner began her professional career at the age of 17. She was chosen, out of over 1,000 dancers and choreographers, for Royal Caribbean's luxury fleets as Head Dance Captain and Choreographer.

After completing two contracts with Royal Caribbean, Kelsey moved to Los Angeles, California, to further her career as a dancer, singer, and actress. It was there that Kelsey was chosen to be a part of Team Bruno on the hit ABC show, Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann. Team Bruno was announced the winning team after eight amazing episodes, rewarding them a recording contract with Hollywood Records.

From there, Kelsey's career began to take off, which landed her dancing for major artists including Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Katy Perry, Jessie J, Taylor Swift, Britney Spears, The Pussycat Dolls, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Hugh Jackman, Kristen Chenoweth, Adam Shankman, Jamie Lee-Curtis, and many more. She has worked on major films including "Entourage," "Shrek the 4th," and "Family Wedding" with Academy Award winner Forrest Whitaker.

Kelsey was chosen personally by Mattel to perform as "Barbie" in Washington, D.C., which premiered the 50th Anniversary Doll and Dress to the President of the United States. While in Los Angeles, she made many appearances on Dancing With The Stars and toured for three seasons with the show. Her professional expertise gives the students at JK Dance Center the opportunity to obtain dance knowledge unlike any other in our community.

"I am passionate about my work and my students! I love to see them grow into these amazing dancers. Let them praise His name with DANCING!"

ASHLEY WINKLER

Office Director

Ashley serves as the part-time Office Director at JK Dance Center, where she is passionate about creating a welcoming and organized experience for every dancer and family. As a dance mom herself, she understands the importance of communication, encouragement, and building a positive environment where dancers can grow in confidence, character, and a lifelong love of dance.

EMONI NIETO

Instructor & Choreographer

Emoni is originally from El Paso, Texas. She has lived in Midland for the past 10 years. Emoni has loved dancing and singing her whole life. Two years ago she found her saving grace at JK Dance Center to express all of her life battles through her dancing. JK has become her safe place where she continues to learn and grow her love of dance. Emoni is JK Dance Center's Sue Crew Scholarship recipient for 2021. She is excited to now be a part of the JK Staff family!

LILLY KATE JOHNSON

Instructor & Choreographer

Lilly Kate has been dancing for over 10 years. Lilly currently attends Midland Classical Academy, studies dance, and attends classes every day of the week. She started off as a student at JK Dance Center and quickly worked her way to becoming our main Teacher’s Assistant. Lilly Kate has performed in shows such as The Nutcracker, Le Rêve, Mystique, Wonderland, and many more. Her experience in all styles of dance makes her a wonderful assistant teacher.

LUCIA ESTRADA

Office Assistant

An extremely smart and gifted young lady, Lucia is currently a Junior at Early College High School. Lucia joined JK Dance Center in 2021 and quickly became one of our JK & CO members. No matter how large or small of a task she is given, Lucia is dedicated to always doing her best and giving 100 percent. We are excited to welcome Lucia as our new office assistant.

PRESLEY HORNE

I grew up dancing at a renowned dance studio from the age of two and began competing at eight. I was on the MHS Starz for all four years, served as an officer my sophomore year, and was captain for two years. My senior year, I was honored as an All-Star by Showmakers of America.

I also had the opportunity to work with Joey Hahn during my junior and senior years of high school. I recently completed my second year on the OC Blues Dance Team, where I was a game day captain.

I am trained in a variety of dance styles and have experience assisting, teaching students of all ages, helping with camps, and choreographing routines. Dance has always been a huge passion of mine, and I’m excited to continue growing in this field.

ZORA THOMAS

Teacher/Assistant

A light on and off the stage, Zora Thomas is a 14-year-old young lady who appreciates a variety of dance styles and techniques. Practicing since the age of three, Zora particularly loves dancing in ballet. Zora is a member of our JK&CO Pulse team. Being at JK Dance has allowed her confidence and her skill set to improve. Zora's goal is to attend Juilliard to follow in the footsteps of her idol, Misty Copeland. We love having Zora as a part of our JK Staff!

RYLEE CARTER

My name is Rylee, and I am a senior at Midland High School! I have been dancing since I was little, when I lived in The Woodlands, Texas, but after moving to Midland, I have been with JK Dance for six years. I was named the Teen Title winner at KAR Dance. My favorite genre of dance is tap, and I’m so excited to be a part of the JK Staff for my second year!

BRANDY ISRAEL

Dance/Gymnastics Instructor

Born and raised in Texas, Brandy started dancing and tumbling at a young age, plus she has a Black Belt in Taekwondo. Brandy has been married for 22 years to her husband Brian and has one daughter, Madison, who is a part of our JK&CO Pulse team. Brandy has been a wonderful asset to the JK Staff and has thoroughly enjoyed watching the students grow in their skills.

ARIANNA LAUCHO

Assistant Teacher

Arianna is a 14-year-old girl whose passion from a very young age has been dance. By the time she was four, she knew her favorite style would always be hip-hop. When she first came to JK Dance, she began experimenting with other styles that she also loves. She truly shines when she is on stage! "At JK I have found a family and a team of amazing people and dancers." Arianna is a responsible, extremely dedicated, and passionate young lady with many goals for the future. She hopes to share her love and joy of dance with many others.

MADISON ISRAEL

Madison Israel has been a part of JK Dance since 2021. During her time there, she was a member of the JK Company for three years, where she continued to grow as a dancer and performer. She now proudly dances with the Lee High School Dolls and serves as the Junior Lieutenant. Her dedication, leadership, and passion for dance have been evident every step of the way, and she continues to inspire those around her both on and off the dance floor.

MAKAYLA KOEKEMOER

Instructor

Makayla Koekemoer is originally from New Jersey and has been dancing for 12 years. She found JK Dance Center once she moved and quickly fell in love with the studio! Dance has always been such an important part of her life, especially the family that comes out of it. Makayla has loved being able to be a part of younger dancers' journeys, getting to learn and perform at JK, and can’t wait to see what Midland has in store for her!

PAISLEY TANNER

Assistant

Paisley is a 10-year-old young lady whose passion has always been children, so much so that she wants to be a teacher when she grows up. She has been dancing since she was 16 months old and is a current member of our JK&CO Vibes Team. Paisley has also competed in National Cheer and Dance Competitions, where her team placed 1st Overall and received a bid to go to Nationals in Orlando, FL. She loves helping with all the cute little ones that we teach at JK, and the kiddos absolutely love her. Of course, this runs through her veins, as she is the daughter of the owner, Kelsey Tanner. "As her Mom, it truly melts my heart to see her with all of our JK kiddos. She is such a big help and loves everyone! She never meets a stranger. I am so proud of her!"

SAM PALIASHCHUK and NELLY MUSTAFAYEVA

Ballroom Instructors

Sam Paliashchuk is a professional ballroom dancer whose journey started at the age of seven. By the time he was 16, he held the title of Belarusian National Champion. His dedication and skill led him to become a finalist in numerous European competitions.

At the age of 20, he moved to New York, where his dance journey continued. Through hard work and passion, he became a finalist in the most prestigious competitions across the U.S.

As a dance teacher, Sam began sharing his expertise at just 16, assisting in training junior champions and guiding newcomers to the world of dance. He believes in making couple dancing easy and enjoyable, noting that leading a partner is more intricate than handling a truck. Today, he holds firm to the belief that anyone can dance. They simply need to find the right starting point.

Nelly Mustafayeva grew up studying music and dancing. Her journey began at the age of six, when she trained in ballroom and ballet. She is a national champion of Azerbaijan and a 10-Dance World Vice Champion. Throughout Europe, she showcased her skill, achieving remarkable triumphs in numerous competitions. Her journey to the U.S. was equally fulfilling, where she competed in numerous competitions, leaving a trail of impressive results in her wake.

But Nelly's contributions to dance go beyond winning competitions. As a teacher and choreographer, she's dedicated to sharing her passion and knowledge with others. Whether she's teaching kids or adults, couples or singles, Nelly's commitment to her craft and her ability to inspire make her an invaluable asset to the dance community. Nelly's belief is simple: "Find joy in the process. Dancing is about expressing yourself and having fun."

Sam and Nelly offer a variety of styles such as Latin, ballroom, country western, social, and wedding dance choreography.

JOEY HAHN

Choreographer/Instructor/Coach

Joey was born in Odessa, TX, where he graduated from Permian High School in 2003. He was a member of the National Honor Society, Texas Scholars, and the Who's Who of High School Students. Joey also cheered and won the 2001 NCA High School Nationals while attending Permian High. After graduation, he went on to attend Texas Tech University, where he cheered and won NCA College Nationals at Navarro Jr. College in 2003 and 2004. Joey graduated in 2009 with a Bachelor's Degree in General Studies. In 2009 and 2016, he and his team were the USASF World Champions. Joey then choreographed his teams to victory, becoming the 2015, 2018, and 2019 Varsity Summit Champions. Joey has been a Dance Coach for over 21 years. He has a 4th Degree Black Belt in American Taekwondo. His expertise also includes music mixing and editing and hundreds of Dance and Cheer National Championships.

Joey has also worked professionally in the industry. He has appeared in many commercials, live performances, tours, and music videos, including Rolan Electronics Commercial, Aquile Music Video, Clayton's Beach Bash, Spring Break 2014, Intra Island Music Tour, Hawaii 2005, SXSW Performance with artist Quincy, Dallas Mavericks Halftime Performance in 2014 with Powerhouse Dance, Chosen Dance Video LA, MTA Movement Talent Agency Los Angeles, and many more.

JK Dance Center is so excited to bring Joey into our family!