Miss Jennifer’s Dance Studio adds professional dancer to experienced staff
Abbi DiCenso
Miss Jennifer’s Dance Studio (MJDS) serves Coshocton and surrounding areas with dance classes from toddlers to teenagers. Entering into her 23rd year, Miss Jennifer’s professionalism and quality of instruction continue to grow. “We are passionate about kids and letting them express themselves through dance. Our studio has always been a safe place to grow and learn,” said Jennifer Nelson, owner and artistic director.
MJDS recently hired Abbi DiCenso, a professional dancer from Columbus, who moved to Los Angeles, California, and recently back to Columbus. DiCenso’s credits include the Kenzie Ziegler International Tour 2019, SOFI national commercial, Exhale music video starring Sia and Kenzie and the 2019 Industry Dance Awards. DiCenso has choreographed competition routines for Elite Dance Force in the past, but she will be on staff starting fall of 2020. “The dancers at MJDS have always made me feel like family when I’m in Coshocton. I grew up in a dance studio and I know the positive impact it has on so many kids these days,” DiCenso said.
According to Nelson, “The sign above the door may say ‘Miss Jennifer’s Dance Studio,’ but the entire staff makes our studio outstanding on so many levels.” Another top notch staff member is Samantha Servais, MJDS ballet and pointe instructor, who studied extensively in New York City, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton and Charleston, West Virginia before coming to MJDS in 2014. “After six years of being a part of MJDS, I am continually amazed by the talented young women and men who come through our doors. It’s always exciting to watch the dancers grow into capable young adults. The gift of dance not only develops discipline and ability, but provides a place for nurturing relationships which is so important in this crazy world. I feel incredibly blessed by each and everyone of my students and it’s a privilege to teach the art of classical ballet to the next generation,” Servais said.
Servais has transformed the ballet and pointe programs, and her grace and compassion for the arts, as well as her students, is immeasurable. She is also offering a musical theatre class for teens and adults who are looking to further their stage skills for school musicals, college auditions and community theatre.
Skylar Hasseman, a Coshocton native, has traveled the country dancing and recently worked for Carnival Cruise Line as a professional dancer and singer. When reflecting on growing up dancing and turning it into a career, Hasseman said, “I’m so thankful for the experiences dance and Miss Jennifer’s Dance Studio has given me. I wouldn’t be the person I am without them.”
Visit Miss Jennifer’s Dance Studio on Facebook or their website (missjennifer.com) to register for fall classes. There are 60 plus classes to choose from. Fall classes begin Tuesday, Sept. 8. For more details, feel free to contact Miss Jennifer at missjennifer740@gmail.com.
