MEET YOUR INSTRUCTORS
Alison Hollingsworth
Ballet Instructor, Master Teacher, Choreographer, Studio Owner
After the completion of her studies of Vaganova ballet technique, modern, jazz, pedagogy, musicality, injury prevention and choreography with a concentration in performance skills at Birmingham Southern College, Alison relocated to New York City where she continued to train, perform professionally, and teach. She had the pleasure of being on staff at Broadway Dance Center for many years in both the open adult division and youth division. During this time Alison also taught at Steps on Broadway, private studios, and master classes in areas outside of the city.
Alison's approach to teaching was highly influenced by Master Teacher David Howard. And as such, her teaching is very kinesthetic and organic in order to help dancers use their bodies in the healthiest way and to maximize fluidity of movement. Through this approach much of the undesired stiffness and gripping that one so often sees in students can be avoided without sacrificing any strength.
After leaving New York City and before returning to Tuscaloosa, Alison spent several years in Seattle, choreographing and teaching at the college level and in the private sector. She is now sharing her love of ballet at her studio Ballet Arts & Fitness in Tuscaloosa, Alabama as well as through various outreach programs.
Naomi Shadix
Ballet Instructor
Naomi began her relationship with ballet at the age of 3 while living in Saudi Arabia. Her early training was primarily in English and American styles. Since then, Naomi has focused mainly on the Vaganova technique, studying with Debbie Spivey at Calvert-Brodie School of Dance, in Columbia, SC, and Rita Snyder and Rhea Speights at The University of Alabama.
Naomi performed under the direction of Rhea Speights for Synesthetic Arts, and part of a collaboration with Sans Pointe Dance Company.
She now trains extensively with Alison Hollingsworth at an advanced level, performing with Alison’s outreach ensemble.
Naomi is passionate about teaching other adults the joys of ballet with an emphasis on proper and safe technique.
Laura Fikes
Tap Instructor
Jenna Hart
Prima Ballerina Program Instructor
Jenna was 5 years old when she began her dancing career at Crystal Coast School of the Arts in Morehead City, North Carolina. It was here that she discovered her love of ballet while also taking classes in tap, jazz, and lyrical. Due to her father’s military assignments leading her family to relocate often, Jenna always found a studio to train at no matter where she went. At the age of 15, she was an apprentice in a ballet class for 3 and 4-year olds at In His Steps Studio in Pensacola, Florida. While working with this group, Jenna recognized her passion for creating an encouraging and positive environment for even the youngest of dancers, much like she experienced from an early age.
Jenna spent her late teenage years in College Station, Texas working on her associate degree and majoring in American Sign Language. At this time, Jenna realized how difficult it was to find adult ballet classes offered in her community. It wasn’t until Jenna moved to Tuscaloosa that she found Ballet Arts and Fitness. She began training in adult classes under the instruction of Alison and discovered an even deeper love for ballet. Ballet Arts has created multiple opportunities for Jenna, including fulfilling her lifelong dream of dancing on pointe.
Upon completing her undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Special Education at the University of Alabama Jenna became an instructor at Faucette-Vestavia Elementary School. She is excited to further her career in education as well as the opportunity to work with children in the studio.
Selah Gosselin
Ballet Instructor
Cope Vinson
Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theater, and Tap Instructor