Instructors

 
 
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ADRIANE SKOUSEN

Adriane started dancing at the age of ten, and she is trained in multiple styles such as Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, and Hip Hop. For years, she was an award-winning competitor across the country in both team and solo/duo/trio competitions. In addition to competing, Adriane was a member of the Orem High Dance Company and served in the Presidency. A couple of years after graduation, she joined a performing dance company that included members from "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing With The Stars."

Adriane's love for the arts has led her to work on numerous side projects, including the Scera production of "Aida," as well as various productions by the local talent group Pop Live, where she contributed both as a dancer and choreographer. While she enjoys competing and performing, her true passion lies in teaching. Her teaching career began at a young age, and now at 30 years old, Adriane has choreographed hundreds of award-winning competition and performance pieces that encompass a wide array of styles and genres.

Throughout her career, Adriane has taught at various dance studios and schools, including Orem High School, American Leadership Academy, Confidance Kids, and Dance La Vié Academy. Beginning this year, she will also be teaching at Timpview High School and Forever Dance Studio. Adriane believes in the importance of teaching not only the skills and techniques necessary to become a better dancer but also incorporates life lessons into her teaching agenda. Her goal is for her students to become more confident, positive, and happy individuals in their everyday lives.

Adriane expresses her deep appreciation for teaching at Provo School of the Arts and working with her dance companies. Her commitment to her students and the arts continues to inspire those around her.

Alec Parker

Alec is a man of passion, especially when it comes to storytelling. Having performed in various ways, whether he's in a serious scene or a cackling comedy, acting has always been a significant part of his life. He aims to consistently hone this talent he has cultivated with great care through the years, always looking to improve in even the smallest of ways. Alec's detail-oriented mindset has not only allowed him to deliver spectacular performances but has also enabled him to help others unlock their full potential. The thrill of working collaboratively is something that drives him; being a team player is a non-negotiable for him, as he truly believes that helping those around him brings out the best in himself too.

Born and raised in the fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada, Alec has traveled extensively, seeking to gain a broader perspective on life and the diverse artistry that it offers. He enjoys working with kids of all ages, having taught in schools since 2021. This year, he is particularly excited to bring his experience and enthusiasm to Provo School of the Arts, where he will be teaching acting classes. He looks forward to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of performers, sharing his insights into the craft while encouraging creativity and self-expression in a supportive environment. Alec is eager to embark on this new journey, confident that together with his students, they will explore the wonderful world of acting, filled with collaboration and growth.

anika baker

Anika is a dedicated and talented performing arts instructor with a passion for teaching piano at the Provo School of the Arts. Since the age of two, she has been immersed in various dance styles, competing and performing internationally. Her achievements include national and world titles in Latin ballroom dance as well as numerous national awards in Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, and Tap through her studio. Anika also cherishes her love for musical theater, having delivered a standout performance in "Strictly Ballroom" at the Hale Center Theatre in Sandy.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Anika served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she developed leadership skills and a commitment to service that inform her teaching approach. This experience not only enriched her personal growth but also deepened her connection with the community. Anika emphasizes the importance of discipline and dedication in both her musical and dance instruction.

Excitingly, she is preparing for a new chapter in her life as she gets married soon, bringing a new level of joy and inspiration that she looks forward to incorporating into her teaching. Through her diverse experiences, Anika remains a dedicated educator who fosters creativity and passion in her students at the Provo School of the Arts.

annie luke

Annie has dedicated over 20 years to the art of dance, mastering a diverse array of styles including jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and lyrical. Her commitment to the craft was evident during her time at Provo High School, where she excelled as the Vice President of the dance company. In this role, she not only demonstrated her leadership skills but also showcased her creative talents by choreographing several compelling pieces for the team.

In 2019, Annie achieved notable recognition as the dance sterling scholar for Provo High School, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication. She further distinguished herself by becoming one of only 12 finalists at the state level of this prestigious competition, highlighting her prowess in the field.

Annie's passion for dance extends beyond her personal achievements; she has been nurturing young dancers since she was just 12 years old, beginning her journey as a teacher’s assistant. Annie served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, dedicating her time to share her faith and support communities in need. During her mission, she developed strong interpersonal skills and gained a deeper understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. This experience not only strengthened her spiritual beliefs but also enhanced her ability to connect with individuals from various backgrounds, fostering a spirit of service and compassion. The lessons learned during her mission continue to influence her approach to challenges and opportunities in her personal and professional life. She has loved working with her students as a dance instructor at Provo School of the Arts. Annie finds immense joy in teaching, eagerly sharing her love for dance with her students. Her commitment to fostering their growth—both in skill and self-confidence—reflects her belief in the transformative power of dance. Each class is an opportunity for her students to explore their creativity and develop their unique voices through movement, and she takes pride in guiding them on this journey.

antonella MILES

Dance has always been her greatest passion and an integral part of her life. She embarked on her dance journey at a young age at the esteemed Wasatch Ballet Conservatory, where she had the opportunity to explore a diverse array of styles including ballet, jazz, and modern dance. During her time at Provo High School, Anti actively participated in both the dance company and cheer team for all four years, honing her skills and building lasting friendships along the way. Currently, she is pursuing a degree in dance education at Utah Valley University (UVU), where she is wholeheartedly dedicated to sharing her passion and extensive knowledge with others. Over the past four years, teaching has played a significant and transformative role in her life. She has had the wonderful privilege of instructing students at Wasatch Ballet, Jive, and Charisma, each experience enriching her understanding of dance education. The joy and fulfillment she feels from witnessing her students grow and flourish as dancers is truly indescribable and fills her heart with immense happiness. Anti is happily married and finds great joy in her work at Provo School of the Arts, where she is thrilled to inspire and guide a new generation of dancers as they embark on their own artistic journeys.

Ariana Abadia

Ariana is a talented vocalist from Ecuador, renowned for her captivating performances in various operatic roles. She holds a Master's degree in Vocal Performance from Brigham Young University (BYU), where she honed her skills and deepened her passion for music.

Throughout her career, Ariana has showcased her exceptional range and emotive delivery in numerous productions, earning acclaim for her powerful stage presence. Her dedication to the art of opera has allowed her to collaborate with esteemed directors and musicians, contributing to a rich tapestry of performances that resonate with audiences.

In addition to her stage work, Ariana is committed to sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring singers. She actively participates in workshops and masterclasses, encouraging a new generation of talent to explore the depths of vocal performance. With her strong background and fervent dedication, Ariana continues to make significant contributions to the world of opera.

CHASE PETERSEN

Chase has a rich background in performance and has been a part of numerous musical events that include over 35 theatrical productions. He has shared the stage with artists such as Loren Allred (Greatest Showman), Madilyn Paige (The Voice) and well-known Utah artists Alex Boye, Daniel Beck, Dallyn Vail Bayles, and Bradley Lever (Gentri). He has also collaborated with organizations such as CCD Smiles with Gaten Matarazzo (Stranger Things) and has also worked in many venues across Utah including Hale Centre Theatre, BYUtv, LDS Motion Picture Studios and many more. Chase is also an avid director and producer for both stage and screen and has created many opportunities for people to share their talents.  When he’s not teaching, he works as a co-producer for both Broadway and the West End associations. He is well versed in many musical genres ranging from classical to contemporary/pop, and his most cherished being musical theatre. Chase has been teaching voice for over 5 years and has found great success with his students. He knows that every voice is different and needs to be catered to on a personal level to uncover their best potential. Chase graduated from Utah Valley University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. If you’re wanting someone who is passionate about you and your success then Chase is who you’re looking for!

Gabriel Johnson

Gabriel Johnson is our piano teacher extraordinaire with over 20 years piano experience, teaching for more than 9 years. He can help students who are bored and frustrated with lessons and make learning to play the piano fun again. Gabriel is a dedicated musician and an active member of his community. He serves as the accompanist for his ward choir, providing musical support to enhance their performances. In addition to working with the choir, he also accompanies soloists, helping to bring their musical talents to life. Gabriel is deeply committed to his family; he is married and has two sons, with another child on the way. His passion for music is matched by his love for his family, and he balances his responsibilities with grace. Gabriels’s artistic talents and nurturing spirit make him a valued member of both his musical and familial circles.He is so loved and captivates his students with his “cool” factor. He has a Bachelors Degree in Technology Management from Utah Valley University.

Jacob Edwards

Jacob has been dancing for nine years and has developed a strong background in various dance styles, including competitive Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, and Rhythm Dancesport. Throughout his journey, he was a member of the Provo High Ballroom company, under the guidance of Angela Williams, where he achieved notable success, winning numerous state titles with his team. Notably, he was also the runner-up for the state title in Smooth, Latin, and Ballroom styles.

In addition to his dance achievements, Jacob has received formal training in teaching and competing in Dancesport at BYU, where he honed his skills and knowledge in both performance and instruction. His dedication to dance has earned him several awards in competitions, and he actively continues to expand his ballroom career by participating in events across the west coast.

At Provo School of the Arts, Jacob serves as the ballroom instructor, a role that brings him immense fulfillment. He has been coaching students in the art of dance, sharing his passion and expertise for three years now. Initially, he began as an assistant coach for the Provo High ballroom program, directing the Exhibition company and later the JV Ballroom company. Now, he proudly embraces his position as an instructor, where he can inspire and guide students in their dancing journeys. Jacob is committed to helping students not only learn the technical aspects of dance but also to instill in them a love for dancing that will last a lifetime.

KAITLYN Galbraith 

Kaitlyn has been singing, dancing, and acting for over 13 years. While at Provo High School, she sang in the choirs, starred as a Narrator in "Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," and was awarded the Sterling Scholar in Vocal Performance, making it all the way to State. Since graduation, she studied Vocal Performance at Utah State University and plans to transfer to Utah Valley University in the Fall.

Kaitlyn has been teaching her own Musical Theatre classes, Dance classes, and Private Voice lessons for the past couple of years. She has also directed three musicals, including "The Wizard of Oz." Recently, she achieved second place in Sing Utah's professional division.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Kaitlyn works as a Registered Behavior Technician with children with autism at ABS Kids. She loves doing hair, is bubbly, kind, and outgoing, and truly enjoys working with children. She always strives to make a positive difference in their lives.

Now married and expecting their first child, Kaitlyn is thrilled about this new chapter in her life. She is particularly excited to continue her journey in teaching musical theater and voice at Provo School of the Arts, looking forward to inspiring the next generation of performers.

Lara Johnson

Lara was born in NY & began training in dance at age 3 adding piano, voice and acting study throughout her school years. Her love for performing and musical theater began in her first show, “Oklahoma!” in 5th grade.  She dreamed of performing on Broadway and in 7th grade, a talent scout saw her performing as Nancy in “Oliver!” and asked her to join a children's acting company in Manhattan which would have been her in, but she regrettably had to turn down the offer because her family was leaving NY & moving to CA.  With the mindset of every audience is as good as a Broadway audience, she dove right into her new school’s musical programs, local community theater and performing groups. At 15 she began teaching piano lessons at her father’s store The Piano Shop. At 16 she was hired for a recording project which produced a #1 song in Samoa entitled Special Kind of Love. After graduating from Torrance High School, she studied Music, Dance Theater at El Camino College. She met and married her husband John, a Utah native, and shortly thereafter moved to Utah where she, of course, immediately got involved in performing as well as teaching piano & fitness classes. Lara has played many leading roles in almost every theater in Utah County, including Hale Center Theater and the Scera, and has worked with and recorded with many recording artists in the LDS music industry. Inspired, she arranged and produced two albums of her own entitled Songs of Everlasting Joy in English/Russian & English/Spanish. In 2010 Lara started The LDS Music Artist Showcase . She graduated from Utah Valley University in 2016. In hopes of spreading her love and passion for the performing arts Lara and her husband opened Provo School of the Arts on January 1, 2018. In 2023 Lara released two Christmas songs entitled Santa Knew, & Silent Night, O Holy Night . On Easter Sunday 2024, she released a song entitled Where Are You God? . Christmas of 2024 she published a children’s board book entitled Santa Knew after her song. Look for her newest single Love is the Reason which comes out this year. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram & subscribe to her YouTube channel Lara Johnson Music to see her music videos as well as know when her new music comes out!

LAUREN HILL

Lauren started dancing at the age of seven at Jive Dance Studio in Orem, Utah. From her very first class, she understood that dance would become her lifelong passion. After several years at Jive, she transitioned to the competition dance studio Spotlight Revue, where she immersed herself in classical ballet while also competing in jazz, contemporary, and hip hop. Throughout her educational journey at Orem High School, Lauren was an integral member of the Orem Dance Company, where she not only performed but also showcased her talent as a choreographer. Her hard work earned her the Sterling Scholar Award in Dance and several first-place medals at the Shakespeare Festival for Dance.

Now, as a ballet instructor at Provo School of the Arts, Lauren brings her wealth of knowledge and creativity to her students. Her enthusiasm for teaching is evident in the way her students respond to her; they genuinely love her and thrive under her guidance. Lauren's teaching goes beyond technical skills, as she cultivates a nurturing environment that encourages her students to express themselves through dance.

This year is particularly special for Lauren, as she is not only committed to sharing her passion for ballet but is also preparing for her own wedding. Her excitement for both teaching and this new chapter in her life reflects her profound love for dance and the community at Provo School of the Arts. She plans to continue her dance education at Utah Valley University, eager to expand her knowledge and further enrich her students' experiences.

MARGARITA Bojórquez

Margarita graduated from Utah Valley University with a Bachelor of Science, emphasizing Ballroom Dance. Her vibrant background includes a rich tapestry of multicultural folkloric dance, showcasing her commitment to embracing cultural diversity. Margarita is actively involved in various cultural and social programs, tirelessly working to enrich her community through the arts.

With a diverse array of experience, she has served as a Zumba Instructor, Yoga Instructor, Yoga Therapist, Choreographer, and Social Latin Dance Instructor, as well as the Director of the Artistic Yoga Provo Team. For the past four years, she has dedicated herself to teaching Ballroom dance, where she has built a reputation not only for her skill but also for her warm and welcoming demeanor.

Margarita is especially beloved as our Date Night Ballroom Instructor, where her infectious enthusiasm and supportive teaching style create an inviting atmosphere that all her students adore. Her dream is to use dance as a tool for character development, aspiring to become a dance movement therapist. Through her journey, Margarita continues to inspire and empower others, helping individuals express themselves through the transformative power of dance.

megan graves

Megan graduated with a degree in Music Education, emphasizing String Teaching, and has been dedicated to the arts since 2006. Throughout her career, she has had the pleasure of teaching children and teens in various disciplines, including orchestra, singing, and general music and theater. Megan has also directed community musical theater productions, showcasing her ability to integrate and elevate the performing arts in her community. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has organized numerous fundraising concerts and shows, reflecting her commitment to promoting music education.

At the Provo School of the Arts, Megan has found her passion for teaching violin, where she enjoys fostering a love for music among her students. She believes in the power of music as a universal language and strives to create an inclusive learning environment where students feel empowered to express themselves. Her teaching approach incorporates the Suzuki Method—an instructional method she benefited from as a student—and blends it with Kodály principles. This combination allows her to cultivate a strong foundation in musicality while encouraging creativity and self-expression.

Megan specializes in instructing violin and viola; however, her skills extend to teaching beginning bass, cello, guitar, and music theory. She particularly enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for musical theater and fiddle music/bluegrass, making her lessons engaging and diverse. Her recent adventure of performing fiddle for the soundtrack of a short film, “Rustlers,” showcases her dedication to the arts and love for performance, as it continues to circulate in the film festival circuit.

With each lesson, Megan feels grateful to share her passion for music and help her students develop their musical talents. Teaching at the Provo School of the Arts has enriched her life and provided her with countless joyful moments, as she witnesses her students grow and thrive in their musical journeys.

Sarah Dalley

Sarah began her journey in dance at Children’s Ballet Theatre, where her passion for storytelling through movement blossomed. Over the years, she has cultivated an impressive skill set and a deep appreciation for the art of performance. In 2025, she proudly graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Dance from Brigham Young University, where she was actively involved with several dance companies, including Ballet Showcase, DanceEnsemble, and the Folk Dance teams.

Throughout her time at BYU, Sarah had the opportunity to tour internationally, working as a stage technician for renowned groups such as the International Folk Dance Ensemble, Living Legends, and Young Ambassadors. Her versatile talents have also led her to choreograph for various dance companies and projects affiliated with the university, showcasing her creativity and dedication to the craft.

Sarah's teaching experience is extensive, having worked with numerous studios including the Children’s Ballet Theatre, Legacy Dance Studio, and Marissa’s Dance Studio. Her teaching style is characterized by her warmth and enthusiasm, and she is highly regarded by her students at Provo School of the Arts, where she is truly loved. The connections she fosters with her students bring her immense joy, and she finds great fulfillment in being a part of their growth as dancers.

In addition to her love for teaching, Sarah is passionate about musical theater. She has participated in numerous productions at Hale Center Theatre and is currently involved in their rendition of The Addams Family. Sarah is also a member of the American Folk Ensemble, with whom she enjoys touring and performing at folk dance festivals around the globe.

Working at Provo School of the Arts allows Sarah to combine her love for dance with her desire to inspire the next generation of performers. She is committed to sharing her knowledge and cultivating a love for dance in all her students, making her a cherished member of the community.

SOPHIA LUKE

Sophia has been dancing for 18 years and has trained extensively in a variety of styles, including jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and lyrical. Her dedication to the art form was evident early on as she served as President of Provo High School’s dance company, where she not only led the team but also choreographed numerous pieces that showcased her creativity and leadership abilities. In recognition of her talent, she was named the dance Sterling Scholar for Provo High School in 2021 and has received multiple awards for her outstanding choreography. Currently, Sophia is furthering her education at Brigham Young University (BYU), where she continues to hone her skills and knowledge in dance.

Her commitment to the art is matched only by her passion for teaching. Everyone at the Provo School of the Arts adores her as an instructor. Her nurturing approach and enthusiastic spirit create a positive environment for her students, empowering them to express themselves through dance. Sophia began working with young dancers at the age of 12 as a teacher’s assistant, a role she cherished. Sophie served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where she developed a greater love of teaching. She is thrilled to be teaching at Provo School of the Arts, where she finds joy in sharing her love of dance with her students.