Academy of the Arts, shawnee, lenexa, overland Park, dance

Julie Smith

Ballet Instructor

Julie grew up in Kansas City, Kansas studying dance from the age of 3. She stepped away from dance for many years returning to it at the age of 18. While working toward her degree in education, she studied ballet, pointe, and jazz under Michelle Hamlet-Weith and Maura Neighbor Landers. Upon graduating from college, Julie used her degree in education and passion for dance to jump into full time dance education at Academy of the Arts where she is currently the Ballet Director. Julie teaches, writes curriculum, supervises assessments and trains other instructors for Academy of the Arts. Julie is also a certified Cecchetti Classical Method of Ballet instructor receiving a Pass Highly Commended in her teaching exams. In addition to teaching, Julie has danced with the Potter's Clay Sacred Dance Company, Ryan-Strati Dance Ensemble, Kacico Dance and Anazao. She also choreographs and performs as an independent artist for churches and events throughout the Kansas City metro area.