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One Faculty. One Philosophy. Limitless Potential.
At The Dance Arts Studio & Center for Performing Arts, exceptional training begins with exceptional educators. We have curated a diverse faculty of university-trained professionals and active performers who span the worlds of Dance, Voice, and Theater. While each instructor brings unique expertise, from international ballet companies to the Crane School of Music, we are united by a single mission: to provide rigorous, non-competitive arts education that prioritizes the health, confidence, and artistic growth of every student.
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."
Linda Facciponte
Linda Facciponte
Founder & Director of Dance
Maggie Hansen
Maggie Hansen
Dance Instructor
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
Hannah Cherry
Dance Instructor
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.
Substitute Dance Faculty
Jasmine Cheung
Jasmine Cheung
Dance Instructor
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.
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