Faculty

As the founder of The Dance Arts Studio (Est. 1987), Linda Facciponte has been a pillar of arts education in Syracuse for nearly four decades. Holding degrees in Dance from SUNY Brockport and New York University (NYU), Linda combines prestigious academic training with a deeply nurturing philosophy. She is renowned for her ability to transform shy beginners into professional artists, having guided students from overcoming stage fright to performing on stages in Las Vegas. Linda remains dedicated to creating a non-competitive environment where every student is encouraged to "Dance to Express, Not Impress." 

Andrea Facciponte serves as the Artistic Director and Director of Vocal Studies, bringing a foundation of academic rigor and elite training to the faculty. A graduate of the prestigious Crane School of Music (BM) and Syracuse University (MS), Andrea’s vocal artistry was shaped by renowned instructors including the late Dr. Lonel Woods, Dr. Richard Ford, and Dr. Jerry Exline. She further refined her technique locally under the guidance of Gayle Ross and Sonny Farrar. Andrea specializes in developing healthy, versatile voices across classical, jazz, pop, and musical theater genres. Her instruction focuses on preparing high school students for collegiate success and guiding beginners through a supportive, technically grounded curriculum. 

Aria Apparies brings elite professional experience to the faculty as a current Company Artist with Syracuse City Ballet. Her distinguished training began at The Rock School for Dance Education (Professional Division) and includes intensives at Boston Ballet, The Kirov Academy, and The Joffrey Ballet. Aria made her professional debut at age thirteen with Roxey Ballet and has since performed featured roles in classical masterpieces like La Bayadère, Coppélia, and The Nutcracker. With a strong background in Musical Theatre (Hello, Dolly!, Fiddler on the Roof), Aria combines technical precision with versatile stage experience. 

Maggie Hansen brings university-level expertise to the faculty, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Dance from the University at Buffalo. During her academic career, Maggie performed with the university's resident pre-professional company, the Zodiaque Dance Ensemble, as well as in the Emerging Choreographer’s Showcase. Her pedagogy is grounded in training under renowned instructors such as Tom Ralabate and Kerry Ring. With a strong foundation in both classical and contemporary movement, Maggie currently leads the Contemporary Jazz and Ballet curriculum, inspiring students with her technical discipline and artistic passion. 

Hannah Cherry began her classical training at Philadelphia Dance Theatre, earning full scholarships to The School of American Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet alongside the 2020 Outstanding Soloist award at Regional Dance of America. As a Trainee with Charlotte Ballet, she performed in Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, and The Nutcracker—working directly with the legendary Patricia McBride—and recently danced Principal roles during Albany Berkshire Ballet’s 50th Anniversary Tour. Beyond the stage, Ms. Cherry is a dedicated educator and choreographer who has served as a Ballet Mistress and premiered original work at Charlotte Ballet’s 2024 Showcase, bringing professional rigor and artistry to her students. 

Jasmine Cheung represents the enduring legacy of The Dance Arts Studio, transitioning from a dedicated fourteen-year student to a valued member of the faculty. Currently attending Hobart and William Smith Colleges, she is pursuing a rigorous dual degree in Biology (B.S.) and Dance (B.A.). This unique academic focus allows her to approach dance education with a deep understanding of anatomy and movement mechanics. Jasmine is proud to mentor the next generation in the same nurturing environment where she began her own artistic journey.