Owner/director/instructor, Broadway South Dance Studio, Mobile, AL

Ages taught: 7 to adult. Our studio offers classes for children ages 2 to adult. One of our most popular programs is our adult curriculum.

Genres taught: Broadway theater dance, jazz (traditional, contemporary, lyrical), tap

Teaching dance for: 8 years, but I assisted teachers in New York City for more than 10 years.

Why she teaches: I always knew I wanted to teach. It was a natural progression for me after dancing professionally in New York City. Once I started my family, I knew this was the route I wanted to pursue since my passion is dance. I am so thrilled to be able to pass on the wonderful things I have learned from some of the country’s best dance teachers. They have made me the dancer and teacher I am today.

Greatest inspiration: Adrian Rosario, an incredible dancer/teacher whom I assisted in New York. I was a freshman dance major at New York University and he took me under his wing and made me blossom. He taught me the most important thing about dance—to dance from the heart! That is what I pass on to my kids. Also, Bob Fosse is a huge inspiration—I love his style.

Michelle Adams-Meeker (left) brings her experience as a dancer in New York to a Broadway theater dance class. (Photo by Becky Welch)

Philosophy of teaching: I have a very positive approach to teaching. I believe in correcting dancers in a positive, consistent way. Some students have been taught improper technique and are frustrated without immediate results. I tell them that is what class is for—to get better. Once they grasp this concept, it is so nice to watch them reap the results. Technique taught the right way is what my style revolves around.

What makes her a good teacher: I am compassionate and positive. I do not make my students feel bad about not being able to accomplish something. I know what it is like to be a dancer and therefore I know how to get through to all students. I also have adapted my teaching style to reflect that of my wonderful mentors.

Fondest teaching memory: Watching our first recital from the wings. Seeing those kids get out there and know their routines, and scope out their parents in the audience and wave, was priceless. I felt such pride at how much these children learned in their first nine months at our studio.

Best piece of advice for teachers: Remember that you will touch these dancers’ lives, maybe without realizing it. The lessons you teach will be with them for a lifetime. Pass on something wonderful you have learned from your mentors and create your own teaching legacy.

What she would do if she couldn’t teach dance: Most likely I would continue with my job of being “Mom, the taxi driver.” I am sure I would find some way to be involved in the arts.

More thoughts on dance and teaching: I have the best job in the world. I try not to spread myself too thin, so I have a wonderful staff teaching with me. Make time for yourself so you can be more creative and inspiring as a teacher. If you take time for you, it will come through in class!

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