Dari Partaine

Dari has been trained by some of the greatest teachers in the country. She received extensive ballet training from Jo Rowan, a George Balanchine prodigy and Ford Jarrell, who danced in many Fred Astaire movies was her private tap instructor. Dari also studied in Los Angeles with Joe Tremaine, Katherine Knapp and Roland Dupree. She has danced professionally in almost every venue. Through regular trips to New York’s most prestigious dance studios on Broadway, Dari ensures her students receive the most up-to-date choreography and instruction. Dari is a former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader and has performed with Vic Damone, Reba McEntire and other celebrities. Her career also includes performing in music videos, a member of the American Spirit Dance Company, the Dance Artists of Tulsa, and has performed on stage and television across the United States and Canada. Dari also co-hosted the television show “Star Shine”, a program to offer young performers an opportunity to showcase their talents.  

Terry Wolter - Advanced Tap

Texas Tap Legend 2010

We are very excited to welcome back Terry for her 4th year at MDA. She is certified by Dance Educaters of America & has taught for Dance Masters of America. At Ursuline Academy, Terry created and directed the dance department.  She is the founder and artistic director of “The Rhythm Junkies”, has instructed at the Hocaday School for 8 years and is the former owner of Dance Traxx.  Her resume includes 20 years heading the Tap Department for Buster Coopers Studios, judging national competitions, and serving as an executive board member of the National Tap Dance Day & the Dallas Dance Council.  She has choreographed numerous pageants, Theater Three, & Dallas Theater Center performances. 

Elizabeth Rock - Hip Hop, Lyrical & Jazz

”Liz” realized her love for music and movement at a very young age. She trained extensively in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, and Hip Hop; as well as gymnastics . She has performed all over the United States and Europe on stage and in television in the DFW area. Liz also helped lead her dance teams and companies in winning many awards. She has spent the past 10 years coaching others in competitive gymnastics and dance in the Dallas area. She’s also lent her choreography skills to many well known productions that have toured all over the US and Europe. Elizabeth was a member for the AFL Dallas Desperados Dancers for two years. She has been recognized and received awards for her outstanding ability to teach Hip Hop throughout the Dallas area.

Ann Cozad - Pre School

Ann has been with MDA for 10 years & has a wonderful ability to make every dancer feel very special. Her background working with preschoolers helped make the decision to have her teach these little dancers.