Our Programs
From your first steps to advanced technique, we offer elite instruction for every stage of your dance journey.
Elevé Academy
Elevé Academy is the foundation of our training philosophy, offering a comprehensive dance education for students of all ages and levels. From a dancer’s very first class through advanced technique, our Academy program emphasizes strong fundamentals, proper progression, and a deep understanding of movement across all styles.
Elevé Ensemble
Elevé Ensemble is a performance-based team program designed for dancers who want to be part of a team and gain stage experience—without the intensive commitment of a full competitive track.
This program offers a more flexible pathway for dancers to participate in performances and select competitions while continuing their training within the Academy. Ensemble dancers build confidence, teamwork, and performance quality in a supportive, lower-pressure environment.
Perfect for dancers who love to perform and want more opportunities on stage, Elevé Ensemble balances commitment with accessibility.
Elevé Elite
Elevé Elite is our highest-level competitive program for dancers demonstrating technique, artistry, and commitment. This track is designed for dancers ready to train at an elevated level.
Elite dancers receive advanced instruction, specialized training, and commit to a schedule that supports accelerated growth and excellence.
Our Instructors
Led by a professional and experienced faculty, our curriculum is designed to foster technical precision and artistic growth through mentorship-based training.
Kristen Veale
Founder & DiRECTOR
Kristen is a lifelong dancer and experienced instructor who began training at age two. She has taught ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary throughout Massachusetts and Virginia. A graduate of Westfield State University and Florida Institute of Technology, she combines her passion for dance with a professional career as an Operations Research Analyst. Kristen has continued her training at respected programs including Joy of Motion Dance Center and BalletNova Center for Dance and is passionate about inspiring dancers of all ages.
Julia Advento
choreographer & instructor
Julia Advento is a dancer, choreographer, and neuroscience student at Wesleyan University. She began dancing at age two and has trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, ISTD Modern, and Irish dance. A former competitive dancer with CenterStage Dance & Theatre School, she earned multiple regional and national titles. At Wesleyan, she founded WesNeuroArts and performs with Precision Dance Ensemble and FXT Collective. Julia is excited to join Elevé Academy, where she looks forward to inspiring students to grow in confidence, creativity, and a lifelong love of dance.
Ariyanna McDaniel
choreographer & instructor
Ariyanna McDaniel is a dedicated dancer and choreographer from Middletown with more than sixteen years of experience. She is actively involved in training, competitions, conventions, and professional performances while also choreographing for dancers and teams. Ariyanna has earned multiple first-place awards for choreography and has been recognized as an Elite Dancer for three consecutive years. She plans to continue pursuing a professional dance career while studying Dance Science and Business at Dean College.
Rory Joslin
choreographer & instructor
Rory Joslin is a Dance major at Wesleyan University with training in contemporary, modern, hip hop, West African, capoeira, ballet, tap, and jazz. As Director of the Precision Dance Ensemble, he leads a company of 25 dancers and has choreographed, directed, and performed in numerous productions. Rory is passionate about making dance accessible to all and fostering an inclusive, supportive learning environment. In Fall 2026, he will participate in the Trinity/La MaMa Performing Arts Program in New York City before returning to Connecticut to continue working with Elevé Academy.
10 Bokum Road
Essex, CT 06426
(959) 265-0199
info@eleveacademyct.com
Fall Registration is Open • Join The Movement • Elevé Academy