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About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
Our Story
Our mission is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where children, and adults of all abilities, backgrounds, and financial circumstances have the opportunity to experience the joy of dance. Through our non-profit dance studio, we strive to empower children and adults with special needs and those from low-income families by providing access to high-quality dance instruction, nurturing their creativity, fostering self-expression, and promoting physical and emotional well-being. We believe that every one deserves the chance to shine, and we are committed to breaking down barriers and enriching lives through the transformative power of dance.
Meet The Team
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Marlina D'Angelo
Co-Director, HR
As one of the Directors/Owners here at Inspirations Dance Studio, I am deeply committed to creating a nurturing and inspiring space for dancers of all ages and skill levels. With a passion for dance that has been a part of my life for 10+ years, I have made it my mission to provide a welcoming community where individuals can explore the world of dance.
My Journey: My dance journey began with a Groupon. YES… You read that correctly! My little girl decided she would like to take a dance class, and I stumbled upon Inspirations Dance Studio. I fell in love with their mission and what they had to offer to the Spokane community. Over the years, I have worked behind the scenes to make sure that the studio was running smoothly and assisting parents with their student’s tuition questions, accounting and human resources director, along with sitting on the board as the Board Treasurer. My business background comes from managing a utility business, I had gone back to school and got my bachelor’s in business management and accounting. (Then added a few extra classes to learn about non-profit accounting). I have watched our studio grow, the instructors and the work of our students. My dedication to dance, the mission and the community, has led me to become part owner and Co-director here at Inspirations and I am so grateful to have this opportunity.
Studio Vision: At Inspirations Dance Studio we believe that dance is not just about movement; it's about self-expression, discipline, and personal growth. Our studio is a place where students can thrive, learn, have fun and develop lifelong skills. We are proud to offer a variety of classes that cater to different interests and aspirations, from recreational dance, fitness, and to those pursuing a professional career.
Our Commitment: At our studio, we are dedicated to providing top-notch instruction from our team of experienced and passionate instructors. We also prioritize creating a supportive and inclusive community that fosters creativity and teamwork among our students.
Community Engagement: Beyond the studio, I am actively involved in our church, other community events such as, Bloomsday, Hoopfest and Valleyfest. This commitment reflects my dedication to giving back and enriching the broader lives or others and the dance community.
Join us at Inspirations Dance Studio where we celebrate the art of dance, encourage individual growth, and build connections that last a lifetime. I look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant dance family.
Mikaela Ostrander
Co-Director
In 2014, my mother Janet and I joined forces to bring our vision to life and launched Inspirations Dance Studio. Dedicated to fostering creativity and community spirit, we set out on a journey that we hoped would leave a lasting impact on the Spokane community.
Janet Ostrander, a true pioneer, played an integral role in shaping Inspirations Dance Studio. Her unwavering commitment and passion for dance inspired countless individuals throughout the years. After many successful years running Inspirations, Janet officially retired in June 2022, leaving behind a legacy of grace and dedication.
I carry the torch forward now as the co-director and current President of Inspirations. My journey in the world of dance began at the tender age of eight, and I’ve been dancing ever since. My passion extends beyond dance as well—I am a certified special education teacher and speech assistant in the State of Washington, specializing in dyslexia, dysgraphia, and other language-based disorders.
At Inspirations Dance Studio, I am able to combine my two passions, creating a haven that embraces individuals of all abilities and ages. With my unique expertise, I’ve has crafted a center that not only supports extra-curricular activities but also provides tailored education for all. Every step taken at Inspirations reflects a deep understanding and appreciation for the unique qualities and needs of each individual.
Over the years, Inspirations Dance Studio has blossomed into a vibrant community hub, exceeding the boundaries of a traditional dance studio. Our incredible team brings the Inspirations mission to life. We strive to empower and uplift all who enter our doors, fostering personal growth, self-expression, and lifelong connections.
Step into the world of Inspirations Dance Studio, where dreams take flight, hearts unite, and a lifetime of inspiration awaits.
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Erica Horn
Lead Dance Teacher, Office Staff
I began taking dance classes at the age of five and have been dancing ever since! I grew up in Sammamish, WA and then moved to Spokane for college. After graduating from Gonzaga University with my Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, I stayed in the area and began my teaching career in the Cheney School District. I am thrilled to be at Inspirations for my second year as a dance teacher and be able to share my passion and love of movement with others.
When I was five, I started taking dance classes at a local community center, then transitioned after a few years to Gotta Dance, the studio I was at through high school. I was part of their competition team for 10 years, training in ballet, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, musical theatre, and pointe.
Throughout high school and college, I worked as a summer camp counselor and dance teacher for dance camps at Gotta Dance for seven summers before becoming Co-Director of dance camp for two summers. I assisted and subbed in various dance classes in high school and whenever I was home from college.
Outside of studio dance, I have also been on my high school and college dance teams, taught classes to fellow Gonzaga students, taken adult dance classes here in Spokane, and most recently choreographed the past four years for a high school show choir.
My favorite part about dance is the ability to express yourself through movement. I love to encourage my dancers to try new things, add their personal flair to the movements, and have fun! When I’m not dancing, you can find me baking, volunteering, or relaxing on the couch with Netflix on!
Josie D'Angelo
Assistant Lead Dance Teacher, Office Staff
I am passionate about the art of dance and dedicated to sharing its joy and beauty with my students. With 8 years of experience in the world of dance, I have honed my skills and knowledge to create an engaging and nurturing learning environment.
My journey in dance began at 12 years old, and I have trained with Mikaela, one of the founders here at Inspirations Dance Studio. This background has equipped me with a deep understanding of technique, rhythm, and expression, which I bring to every class I teach.
I believe that dance is not just about mastering steps; it's about self-expression, creativity, and building confidence. In my classes, I create a supportive and inclusive environment where students of all ages and levels can explore the joys of movement. Whether you're a beginner taking your first steps or an advanced dancer looking to refine your skills, I'm here to guide and inspire you on your dance journey.
I am also proud to have been a part of the Inspirations Dance competition team, allowing me to refine my skills and explore the competitive side of dance.
When I'm not teaching or choreographing, you can find me immersed in the world of dance, continuously expanding my knowledge and skills to bring fresh and exciting experiences to my students. Attending college and being as social as I can be with my friends and family.
Seeing my students grow as dancers and individuals is the most rewarding aspect of my work. Join me in one of my classes, and let's dance our way to joy, fitness, and artistic expression together.
Myah Rice O'Bryant
Dance Teacher
Dance has always had a special place in my heart, but I began my official dance journey at Inspirations Studio at age 11, when it first opened its doors. That's where my love for dance grew into a passion. A year later, I began competition dance with Inspirations, and I continued dancing here until I was about 16 years old, when I began dancing for my high school’s drill team.
As I grew older, I made sure to nurture my love for dance by taking drop-in ballet classes whenever I could at Spokane Ballet. So, when the opportunity arose for me to teach ballet at the very studio where my love for dance had blossomed, it felt like a dream come true. Dance holds a special place in my heart, and I'm truly honored and excited not only to share that love through teaching but also to instill it in my dancers, help them embrace it and watch them grow as dancers as well as people.
My favorite dance style is lyrical because it allows me to express my deepest emotions and connect with the audience on a personal level. I feel like lyrical dance is a beautiful fusion of grace, fluidity, and technical precision. I love the way it blends ballet, jazz, and contemporary elements to create a unique form of artistic expression.
In my time outside the studio, I enjoy spending time with my daughter. It's amazing to witness her growth and curiosity. I'm also a big fan of the outdoors – hiking, camping, and being surrounded by nature are some of my go-to activities. In addition to that, I really enjoy cooking and diving into a good book when I need some downtime.
I am thrilled to be back at Inspirations this year as a teacher, where my dance journey began!
Keely Meachem
Dance Teacher
I am a passionate dancer and dance instructor born and raised here in Spokane. I started taking dance classes at a local studio, then transitioned to my high school’s dance team where I am currently an assistant captain. I love being able to perform high-energy jazz and hip hop dances at sporting events for my school as well as at dance team competitions.
My favorite part about dance is being able to express my emotions through movement. I love being able to let go and have fun dancing and performing.
I hope to instill in my students the same sense of enjoyment that I feel when dancing. As a dance teacher, my goal is not only to teach technical skills but also to nurture a love for dance as a means of personal expression. I create an environment where my students feel comfortable exploring their emotions through dance, fostering creativity, and building confidence in the process.
Some of my hobbies and interests outside of dance include reading a good book or spending time outside. I enjoy paddleboarding, bike riding, and backpacking with friends or family.
This is my first year at Inspirations Dance Studio, and I am so excited to be here! The studio’s mission and values mean a lot to me. I’m looking forward to grow as part of the Inspirations dance family!
Anneke Loder
Substitute Dance Teacher
Originating from Spokane, WA, my dance journey started at a local studio taking ballet class at the age of three. Progressing through jazz, hip hop, lyrical, modern, and contemporary genres, I dedicated my formative years to a competition dance team from 10 to 17. I also joined my high school’s drill team where I graduated in 2009. In college, I was able to take a ballet class as an elective, and from there began teaching dance classes.
My favorite styles of dance are ballet, for the technique, and lyrical/ contemporary, for the added emotion, musicality, and freedom of movement. I enjoy teaching these styles as well as being able to express myself through them as well.
I have been teaching at Inspirations Dance Studio on and off for about 10 years- I actually grew up dancing with Mikaela from a young age! I’m looking forward to being back at the studio this year as a substitute dance teacher, as well as helping teachers with choreography ideas. In the past, I have been a teacher for the competition team at Inspirations, and have experienced some amazing memories. My students’ love for dance and hard work has earned them first overall on their solos as well as choreography awards! It has been a privilege seeing dancers grow in their skills and confidence.
I enjoy spending time with my husband Ryan and my bonus son Conor on our farm. We have three dogs, five goats, two cats, and thirteen chickens!
SOCIALS
@Inspirations Dance Studio
@Inspirations.Dance
@InspirationsDanceSpokane
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