CREATIVITY ARTS

Express Yourself

About US
Welcome to Hilliard Dance Connection! We are a premier dance studio located in the heart of Hilliard. With over 30 years of experience, our passionate team of instructors is committed to providing top-notch dance education to students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are looking to learn ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, or contemporary dance, we have a wide range of classes to cater to your interests. At Hilliard Dance Connection, we believe that dancing is not just about learning the steps, but also about building confidence, self-expression, and fostering a love for the art of dance. Join us today and experience the joy of dance in a fun and nurturing environment.
MISSION
We not only provide your child with an extensive dance education, but we also instill the love of dance.
We make learning fun while nurturing each dancer's confidence and self-image.
"Friends who dance together, stay together" 
HDC 2025-2026 FALL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! 
 

LYRICAL

Lyrical has the blending elements of ballet, jazz, and contemporary dance. It is characterized by its expressive and emotional qualities, with movements that interpret the lyrics and mood of the accompanying music. Lyrical dance often emphasizes fluidity, grace, and storytelling through movement. In lyrical dance, dancers strive to convey the meaning and emotions of the music through their movements, often incorporating techniques such as flowing extensions, seamless transitions, and expressive gestures.

TAP

Tap dancing produces rhythmic patterns by striking the floor with tap shoes, creating a distinctive sound that accompanies the music. The metal plates on the shoes allow dancers to create a wide range of sounds, from soft and subtle to loud and dynamic, by varying the pressure, speed, and placement of their footwork. Dancers often incorporate intricate footwork, syncopated rhythms, and improvisational flourishes into their performances.

JAZZ

Jazz is a style of dance that leans on ballet technique and choreography based on strong sharp movements accompanied with jumps and turn combinations. While jazz dance is often associated with freedom of expression and improvisation, it also incorporates technical elements such as turns, jumps, kicks, and leaps.

CONTEMPORARY

Contemporary stems from the Modern dance style while incorporating isolations and technical lines of the body. It is characterized by its versatility, fluidity, and expressiveness, often incorporating elements from various dance styles, including ballet, modern dance, jazz, and even street dance forms. Contemporary dance emphasizes creativity, individuality, and self-expression, allowing dancers to explore and interpret movement uniquely.

HIP HOP

Hip Hop encompasses a wide range of street dance styles primarily performed to hip-hop music or that have evolved as part of the hip-hop culture. Hip-hop dance styles include breaking, locking, popping, and various freestyle movements characterized by rhythmic patterns, dynamic body isolations, and intricate footwork.

Ballet Technique

Ballet technique classes are designed to learn a specific set of movements, positions, and principles that form the foundation of classical ballet. Ballet technique encompasses a precise vocabulary of steps and gestures designed to create the illusion of effortless grace, strength, and fluidity. Ballet technique training incorporates stretching, barre work, and center work.

Acro
Acro dance is a style of dance that combines classical dance techniques with acrobatic elements. It blends the athleticism and strength of acrobatics with the grace and fluidity of dance, resulting in a dynamic and visually stunning performance. Acro dancers often perform intricate tricks, flips, balances, and contortions seamlessly integrated into choreographed dance routines. ​

Judi Rohrer

Owner

Miss Judi's journey in the world of dance is deeply ingrained, starting from her early childhood and evolving into a lifelong passion and profession. As a co-owner of Hilliard Dance Connection (HDC), Judi has played a pivotal role in shaping the studio's identity and success. Prior to co-founding HDC with Rhonda Wolfe, Judi accumulated two decades of teaching experience in dance. Her dedication and expertise are evident in her versatile approach to teaching, catering to students of all ages, including adults. While her competition specialty lies in Jazz, Judi's influence extends across various dance genres, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive dance education for all her students. At HDC, Judi's leadership and commitment to excellence have helped foster a supportive and thriving dance community. Her passion for dance, coupled with her extensive teaching experience, continues to inspire students to discover and develop their talents. Judi's role as co-owner underscores her dedication to providing a nurturing environment where dancers of all levels can flourish and grow.

Rhonda Wolfe

Owner

Miss Rhonda's journey in dance is deeply rooted and impressive, starting from her childhood passion. Her commitment to dance led her to pursue a major in Dance at The Ohio State University, where she honed her skills and knowledge in the art form. Before co-founding Dance Connection Inc. with Judi, Rhonda had already begun her teaching career by instructing technique classes and choreographing competition routines. Her expertise and specialization lie in tap dance, which she describes as her "first love." Rhonda's dedication to tap is evident in her teaching of all levels and her choreography for the HDC competition team. Rhonda's contributions to dance extend beyond teaching. Her choreography in tap has earned numerous high-score awards at both regional and national competitions, highlighting her talent and creativity in this distinctive dance style. As a co-owner of Dance Connection Inc., Rhonda continues to shape and inspire dancers with her passion for tap and her commitment to excellence in dance education.

Julie LaSusa

Instructor

Miss Julie's background in dance is both extensive and diverse, reflecting a lifelong dedication to the art form. Her journey began with the Cuyahoga Valley Youth Ballet Company in Akron, Ohio, where she likely cultivated her early passion and skill in ballet. Julie continued her dance education at Wright State University, majoring in dance. Her training expanded through prestigious programs such as the North Carolina School of the Arts, Eglevsky Ballet Summer Program, and the Cleveland Ballet Program. Under the tutelage of notable mentors including Nan Klinger and acclaimed artists like Melissa Hayden, Mia Michaels, Michael Vernon, Lori Klinger, Kimberly Klinger, Suzanne Walker, Jon Rodriquez, and many more, Julie's dance repertoire flourished. At Dance Connection, Julie's expertise shines through her role in teaching the competition dancers. She specializes in classical Ballet Technique and Pointe work, offering her students a solid foundation in these demanding disciplines. Additionally, Julie showcases her choreography of lyrical pieces, showcasing her artistry and creativity and earning high scores at both regional and national competitions. Julie's academic achievements are equally impressive, holding a Bachelor's degree in Organizational Leadership and Learning. Her commitment to both dance education and organizational development exemplifies her multifaceted approach to teaching and leadership at Dance Connection.

Lindsay Mitchell

Instructor

Miss Lindsay's journey at Hilliard Dance Connection is a testament to her dedication and passion for dance. Starting as a competitive dancer at HDC, Lindsay's early experiences ignited a lifelong love for the art form. As an adult, she seamlessly transitioned into teaching at HDC, beginning her instructional career in the early 2000s. Lindsay's commitment to dance extended beyond teaching at HDC. She also traveled with the Starpower Competition company, where she had the opportunity to collaborate with esteemed leaders in the dance community. Lindsay's specialization lies in Competitive Tap, where she excels in choreography and coaching. Her routines consistently achieve remarkable success, consistently making the "TOP 10" at Nationals over several years. This achievement underscores Lindsay's talent, creativity, and ability to inspire her students to excel in competitive settings. Through her teaching and competitive success, Lindsay continues to play a vital role at Hilliard Dance Connection, shaping the next generation of dancers and contributing to the studio's vibrant dance culture.

Jess Kincaid

Instructor

Miss Jess is an accomplished dance educator with a rich background in both competitive dance and teaching. She began her journey at Hilliard Dance Connection, where she honed her skills as a competitive dancer. Jess furthered her education at Otterbein University, studying Middle Childhood Education and serving as a dedicated member of the Otterbein Dance Team for four years. Since 2014, Jess has been a prominent instructor at Hilliard Dance Connection, specializing in competitive Jazz choreography across various levels. Her innovative routines have consistently earned high scores at numerous dance competitions over the past decade. Additionally, Jess is an Acrobatic Arts certified instructor, bringing her expertise to teaching Acro for dancers of all ages.

Marta Yazrombek

Instructor

Miss Marta's journey in dance and education is quite diverse and impressive! Originally from Tiffin, OH, she began dancing at the young age of four and has pursued her passion ever since. Her academic pursuits led her to Otterbein University, where she not only studied Business Management but also immersed herself in dance by minoring in the field. During her time at Otterbein, Marta's involvement extended beyond academics. She was a notable member and choreographer on the Otterbein Dance Team, showcasing her talent and dedication to the art form. Since 2015, Marta has been a valued teacher at Hilliard Dance Connection, bringing her expertise primarily in Hip-Hop and Contemporary styles. Additionally, her teaching repertoire includes Jazz, Musical Theater, Lyrical, and Combo classes, reflecting her versatile skills and commitment to nurturing young dancers. Marta's background in both business and dance, combined with her extensive teaching experience, enriches her ability to mentor and inspire students at Hilliard Dance Connection. Her dedication to both disciplines underscores her passion for education and the arts.

Keri Stidham

Instructor

Miss Keri's journey with Dance Connection is a testament to her enduring love for dance and commitment to education. Starting at Dance Connection at the age of 8, she immersed herself in the studio's vibrant dance community as both a dancer and a member of the competition team. This early experience laid the foundation for her deep connection to dance, which continues to shape her life today. Transitioning from student to teacher at Dance Connection, Keri brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. Her educational background includes a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Bowling Green State University, complementing her role within Hilliard City Schools. This expertise not only enhances her teaching approach but also shows her dedication to nurturing young dancers and instilling a love for dance from a young age. Keri's adventurous spirit led her to serve in the Peace Corps abroad for two and a half years, where she continued to share her passion for dance with her students and even formed a dance group that competed. To further enrich her dance knowledge, Keri regularly travels to New York City to attend classes at Broadway Dance Center, ensuring she stays current and inspired in her teaching practice. Keri cherishes the opportunity to pass on that knowledge and love of dance to her students each season, continuing the legacy of excellence and passion at Dance Connection. Her multifaceted background and unwavering enthusiasm make her a cherished member of the dance family at Dance Connection.

Sarah Vah

Instructor

Miss Sarah is a versatile and accomplished dancer with a strong educational and professional background in the field. A proud graduate of Kent State University, she earned her B.A. in Dance Studies, complemented by double minors in Arts Entrepreneurship and Disability Studies. Her dance journey began in Hilliard, Ohio, where she spent 11 years dancing competitively at Dance Connection. Currently, Sarah is a Company Dancer for Hixon Dance in Clintonville, Ohio, where she continues to contribute her skills and passion. Her teaching experience spans multiple studios in Columbus and Kent, covering a wide range of styles and age groups. During her time at Kent State, Sarah was a dedicated member of the Kent Dance Ensemble for three years, holding roles as both the Student Artistic Director and Social Media Representative. Notably, in 2022, she showcased her choreographic talent with a piece titled “Not Just Yet” at Kent’s student dance concert. Sarah is passing her knowledge of dance onto others as she teaches the intermediate to advanced level dancers in various styles of technique at HDC.

Hannah Elton

Instructor

Miss Hannah's journey at Dance Connection is quite impressive! Starting as a student for a decade, she mastered a wide range of dance styles including Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Hip Hop. Her dedication and skill were evident as she not only participated but excelled in competitions with the HDC Competition Team, earning multiple top awards and three National Championships. Transitioning from student to teacher at Dance Connection in 2021, Hannah brings a wealth of experience and a deep love for the studio. Her enthusiasm for teaching is evident in her excitement to work with all the students, nurturing their growth as dancers. Her connection with the studio, from fellow team members to the students themselves, underscores her commitment to fostering a supportive and thriving dance community.

Keely Conroy

Guest Instructor

Keeley Conroy is a talented dancer, choreographer, and dance educator based in Columbus, Ohio. She began her dance journey at the age of nine at Dance Connection and later honed her skills at Ohio University, where she earned a B.F.A. in Dance Performance and Choreography in 2022, followed by a Master’s in Arts Administration focusing on community dance practices in 2023. During her time at Ohio University, Keeley was an active member of the Ohio University Dance Team for four years and trained with renowned artists like Zelma Badu-Younge, Travis Gatling, and Nathan Andary. Her choreographic works, including "Amity," "Tarantism," and "Waffles on Sunday," have been featured in various university concerts. For the past two years, she has served as Assistant Director and Competition Team Coach for the OUDT and works as a staff member and adjudicator at Starpower National Talent Competition. Currently, Keeley teaches and choreographs a wide range of dance styles—such as tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, modern, pom, ballet, hip-hop, and musical theatre—across the country.

Shelli Miller

Office Manager

Shelli's journey with Hilliard Dance Connection is truly heartwarming and inspiring! Her story is a testament to the deep impact that dance can have on an individual and their family. From being a proud dance mom cheering on her daughter Ava through 15 years of competitive dance, watching performances by her son Luke, to joining the adult class herself and tapping alongside her mom, “Grammy,” Shelli’s commitment to dance reflects a genuine passion and love for the art form. It’s wonderful to see how dance has become a family affair, with her daughter Ava continuing the legacy by teaching dance in Chicago and her husband Brett as a Dancing Dad. This connection shows how the lessons and experiences gained at Dance Connection extend beyond the studio and influence their lives in meaningful ways. Shelli’s enthusiasm for dance, her appreciation for the vibrant world of music and fashion, and her pride in being part of the Dance Connection staff highlight the enriching and fulfilling nature of the dance community and her important role in supporting the dancer families. Her story beautifully captures the essence of how investing in dance can lead to lifelong joy, confidence, and treasured memories

Madi Bozarth

Guest Instructor/Choreographer

Madi's career in dance began at Hilliard Dance Connection, where she honed her skills in various styles, including Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Ballet, and Jazz. As a dedicated member of the competition team, she earned high scores and national awards, showcasing her talent and hard work. Madi further advanced her training at the CLI Conservatory, learning from renowned artists and choreographers. With experience in commercial dance and live performances, she has continued to share her passion by teaching master classes and choreographing routines at Hilliard Dance Connection.

*CLASSES WILL BE ADDED AS NECESSARY. CHECK BACK OFTEN!

06:30 PM - 08:00 PM
Ballet Technique | Advanced Level
Location: HDC Studio 3

This class is targeted to 14-17yr old dancers with a minimum of 5-10 years of ballet technique experience. In an intermediate ballet technique class, dancers build upon the fundamental skills acquired in beginner classes, focusing on refining technique, increasing strength and flexibility, and developing artistry.

06:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Jazz Technique | Advanced Level
Location: HDC Studio 4

An advanced jazz technique class offers experienced dancers between the ages of 14 and 18 the opportunity to further develop their skills, deepen their artistry, and explore the diverse and dynamic world of jazz dance

05:45 PM - 06:30 PM
Hip Hop 6-9 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio 1

Beginner Hip Hop class for the ages 6-9years old. Dancers learn basic hip-hop moves such as popping, locking, and breaking, as well as foundational steps like the two-step, body rolls, and slides

06:30 PM - 07:15 PM
Hip Hop 10-13 years old
Location: HDC Studio 4

Dancers between the ages of 10 and 13 years old learn basic hip-hop moves such as popping, locking, and breaking, as well as foundational steps like the two-step, body rolls, and slides

07:15 PM - 08:00 PM
Hip Hop 11-14 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio 4

Hip class for 11-14 years old with a minimum of 2years experience. Dancers learn basic hip hop moves such as popping, locking, and breaking, as well as foundational steps like the two-step, body rolls, and slides

05:15 PM - 06:00 PM
Acro Basics
Location: HDC Studio 3

Students will learn the basics of acro skills and techniques. Intermediate-level acro movements may include more challenging variations of handstands, walkovers, aerials, and tumbling passes.

08:15 PM - 09:00 PM
Intermediate Pointe
Location: HDC Studio 3

Students will learn intermediate pointe through barre work and center work. Minimum of 5 years of Ballet Technique training is a prerequisite. Registration for this class must be pre-approved.

05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Ballet Technique | Intermediate
Location: HDC Studio 3

This class is targeted to 14-17yr old dancers with a minimum of 2-3 years of ballet technique experience. In an intermediate ballet technique class, dancers build upon the fundamental skills acquired in beginner classes.

07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Modern
Location: HDC Studio 3

Fundamentals of Modern dancing for intermediate to advanced dancers ranging from the ages of 14 to 17 years old.

06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Beginner 3-5 Years Ballet/Tap Combo
Location: HDC Studio 2

A beginner ballet/tap combo class provides students with a solid foundation in both dance styles while fostering a love for movement and creativity.

05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Tap/Ballet/Jazz Combo 5-7 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio1

A beginner ballet/tap combo class for 5-7 year old dancers that provides students with a solid foundation in both dance styles while fostering a love for movement and creativity.

04:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Tap/Ballet/Jazz Combo 8-10 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio 4

In an intermediate ballet, jazz, and tap combo class, for 8-10 year old dancers in which students experience a diverse and dynamic dance education that blends the techniques and styles of three distinct disciplines.

07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Tap/Lyrical/Jazz Combo 13-15 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio 3

In a beginner lyrical, jazz, and tap combo class, for 13-15 year old dancers which students experience a diverse and dynamic dance education that blends the techniques and styles of three distinct disciplines.

07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Tap/Lyrical/Jazz Combo 15-17 Years old
Location: HDC Studio 4

In an intermediate lyrical, jazz, and tap combo class, for 15-17 year old dancers students experience a diverse and dynamic dance education that blends the techniques and styles of three distinct disciplines.

04:30 PM - 06:00 PM
Tap/Ballet/Jazz Combo 5-7 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio I

A beginner ballet/tap combo class for 5-7 year old dancers that provides students with a solid foundation in both dance styles while fostering a love for movement and creativity.

05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Tap/Ballet/Jazz Combo 8-10 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio III

In an intermediate ballet, jazz, and tap combo class, for 8-10 year old dancers in which students experience a diverse and dynamic dance education that blends the techniques and styles of three distinct disciplines.

07:15 PM - 08:45 PM
Tap/Lyrical/Jazz Combo 12-14 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio IV

In a beginner lyrical, jazz, and tap combo class, for 12-14 year old dancers which students experience a diverse and dynamic dance education that blends the techniques and styles of three distinct disciplines.

07:00 PM - 08:00 PM
Ballet Technique | Beginner 8-10 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio I

This class is targeted to 8-10yr old dancers with a minimum of 0-2years of ballet technique experience. In a beginner ballet technique class, dancers build upon the fundamental skills acquired in beginner classes.

05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Tap/Ballet/Jazz Combo for 5-7 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio I

A beginner ballet/tap combo class for 5-7 year old dancers that provides students with a solid foundation in both dance styles while fostering a love for movement and creativity.

06:00 PM - 07:00 PM
Tap/Ballet Combo for 3-4 Years Old
Location: HDC Studio 2

A beginner ballet/tap combo class for 3-4 year old dancers that provides students with a solid foundation in both dance styles while fostering a love for movement and creativity.

06:15 PM - 07:00 PM
Advanced Hip Hop for 15-17 Year Old
Location: HDC Studio 3

This advanced hip-hop dance class for 15-17-year-old dancers focuses on refining techniques, enhancing creativity, and preparing students for performance in this dance style.

07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Advanced Jazz/Tap/Contemporary Combo for 14-15 Year Old
Location: HDC Studio 4

This advanced jazz/tap/contemporary combo dance class for 14-15 year old dancers integrates elements from Jazz, Tap, and Contemporary dance styles, designed to build on students' existing skills and deepen their understanding of these diverse techniques.

07:00 PM - 08:30 PM
Advanced Jazz/Tap/Contemporary Combo
Location: HDC Studio 3

This advanced jazz/tap/contemporary combo dance class for 16-18 year old dancers integrates elements from Jazz, Tap, and Contemporary dance styles, designed to build on students' existing skills and deepen their understanding of these diverse techniques.

07:00 PM - 08:15 PM
Ballet Technique | Beginner 8-10 Year Old
Location: HDC Studio 1

This class is targeted to 8-10yr old dancers with little to no years of ballet technique experience. In a beginner ballet technique class, dancers will learn the foundational skills of classical ballet.

DRESS ATTIRE
Ballet: Leotard and tights. Pink Ballet Shoes and hair up and secured. Ballet skirts are acceptable.

Jazz: Tan jazz slip on or Tan jazz shoes that tie for younger if their feet are not big enough for slip ons. Leotard or sports bra with dance shorts. Tan tights. Hair should be up and secured.

Tap: Black tap shoes for tap classes (Please remind your child tap shoes are very slippery). Leotard and dance shorts or skirt.

Lyrical: Leotard and tan stir-up tights. Dance shorts or skirts are optional. Tan pirouette shoes.

Contemporary:Leotartd or sports bra with dance shorts. Barefeet and hair up and secured.

Pointe: Leotard and pink tights are required. Pointe shoes and hair in bun are required. Ballet skirts are optional.

Hip Hop: Sports bra, t-shirt, sweatpants, leggings, or dance shorts. Tennis shoes are required.

Acro: Leotard or sports bra with dance shorts or leggings. Bare feet and hair up and secured.

Preschool Combo: Leotard and pink tights. Hair up and secure. Pink ballet shoes and black tap shoes.


Three Subject Combo, Hip Hop, and Adult Classes

Ballet Offerings

REGISTRATION INFORMATION


REGISTRATION FEE

A $15.00 non-refundable fee and first month’s tuition is required with the registration form to reserve class space. A registration is not considered complete and class space is not reserved until this fee is paid.

TUITION FOR 2025- 2026
The season includes 35 classes, the Spring Dressed Rehearsal and Recital.
Tuition amount is based on ten equal payments.

The Registration fee, along with the first and last payments of the ten payment cycle are due at the time of registration. Remaining tuition for the months of October through May are due in full for all classes whether attended or not. Tuition is non-refundable and due in full the first week of the month or until written notification is given regarding the student or parent's intention to discontinue classes. There will be a 5% late fee charged per month for tuition not paid by the 10th of the month. The class fees will be as follows:

45 Minute Classes - Annual payment $700.00 - or ten payments of $70.00 per month
60 Minute Classes - Annual payment of $750.00 - or ten payments of $75.00 per month
90 Minute Classes - Annual payment of $850.00 - or ten payments of $85.00 per month

Recital Fee:
A Recital Fee of $85 per FAMILY will be due by December 16. The Recital Fee will cover the cost of our Auditorium Rental, Custodial Fees and costs incurred relating to the recital(s). Unlimited tickets will be available.

NOTE: To offset credit card processing fees, a 3.5% transaction fee will be applied to all credit card payments

  •  6/30/2025 09:00 PM - 7/5/2025 09:00 PM
  •   Myrtle Beach, SC, USA

Join the HDC Competition Team at the Showstopper East Coast Nationals for an exhilarating week of high-energy dance routines, passionate performances, and fierce competition.

  •  5/16/2025 08:00 PM - 5/18/2025 08:00 PM
  •   Columbus Convention Center Drive, Columbus, OH, USA

The HDC Competition Team will be competing at the Starpower Regional competition in Columbus, Ohio.

  •  4/25/2025 08:00 PM - 4/27/2025 08:00 PM
  •   Dayton Convention Center

Experience the energy and talent of our HDC Competition Team at the Showstopper Regional, where performers from around the region come together to showcase their skills!

  •  3/14/2025 12:00 AM - 3/16/2025 12:00 AM
  •   Columbus Convention Center Drive, Columbus, OH, USA

HDC Competition Team will be competing at the StarQuest Dance Competition at the Columbus Convention Center March 15th through March 17th.

  • 4125 Main Street, Hilliard, OH, USA