About Us
A well-rounded dance education is not just the foundation for lifelong physical wellness or the inspiration for the next generation of artists. It is the key for confident, problem-solvers that will change the world. Since 2014, Applause Dance Academy offers the highest standards for dance education, creating a positive, complete dance experience for ages 18 months to 18 years old.
At Applause Dance Academy, our mission is to empower dancers through high-quality instruction and a supportive community. We believe that dance is a powerful form of expression and a means to build confidence and creativity.
Our Facility
Applause is a family friendly space and there is plenty of room for anyone to hang around while dancers are in classes. We have a welcoming lobby area, as well as free wi-fi. We have a back room with tables and chairs set up for dancers to do homework or eat dinner or have a snack between classes. There are books, toys, and games to enjoy as well. There is a large space for dancers to hang their coats and keep their dance bags. We have three dance studios equipped with sprung hardwood floors, double barres, and full mirrors for the best dancing experience. We are located on highway 16 between La Crosse and Onalaska just south of Valley View Mall.
Our Qualifications
Our Staff
Miss Kate
Studio Director, Instructor
Kate started dancing at the age of 9 in Brown Deer, Wisconsin. She studied Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Modern in the Milwaukee area. She moved to the La Crosse area to attend the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Miss Kate is a member and on the Board of Directors of Chicago National Association of Dance Masters. She is a Certified Master Dance Educator (MDE) through CNADM. Miss Kate is also certified and licensed in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), the beginning and basic levels of Giordano Jazz Technique, Acrobatic Arts Modules 1 & 2, Alixa Flexibility Modules 1-5 and Contortion Training, and Sugarfoot Therapy. Miss Kate is also a Level 3 Certified Barre Instructor through the International Ballet Barre Fitness Association. She enjoys attending dance conventions and dance training schools throughout the year. Kate has been teaching dance throughout the Coulee Region since 2010. She has experience teaching all ages and abilities and hopes to inspire her students to love dance as much as she does.
Contact Miss Kate at kate@applauselacrosse.com
Miss Liz
Company Coordinator, Instructor
Miss Liz started dancing at the age of four in Central Wisconsin. Miss Liz attended Viterbo University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Sports Science. While in college, Liz also continued her dance training by taking classes at Viterbo. Miss Liz is a Master Dance Educator through the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters and is on their Board of Directors. She is certified in Progressing Ballet Technique, Acrobatic Arts Modules 1 and 2, Alixa Flexibility Modules 1-5 and Contortion Training, and Sugarfoot Therapy. Miss Liz has also continued her tap training through Karida Griffith's Tap Teacher Training and is certified in the Basic and Beginning levels of Giordano Jazz Technique. She has also been awarded Best Choreography for her dance 'Run' at Midwest Starz Dance Competition in 2022. Miss Liz began teaching with Applause in 2018 and has found her home here. Miss Liz is very excited to be a member of the the Applause family and to work with wonderful dancers!
Miss Josie
Company Assistant, Instructor
Josie began dancing at age two in Minnesota. She followed in her big sister's footsteps, competing in solos, duets, groups, and productions. Miss Josie has a Bachelor’s in Exercise Sports Science with a minor in dance from UW- La Crosse. Currently, Josie is also completing her Masters in Clinical Exercise Physiology. Josie works as an Assistant Coach for Aquinas Dance Team and this is her fourth season with Applause. In addition to teaching, she is our Company Assistant. Josie choreographs and helps our competition dancers feel prepared to take the stage. She is a member of CNADM and certified in Sugarfoot Therapy and Alixa Flexibility. Josie is excited to be back in the studio with old and new faces this season!
Miss Kathryn Instructor
Miss Kathryn is a new instructor at Applause, but has been dancing since she was two years old. While at UW-La Crosse, she participated in their Poms Team for four years. When not teaching, you can find Kathryn taking dance classes herself or working as a teaching assistant at La Crescent Montessori and Stem School. Miss Kathryn loves attending CNADM to be inspired and is excited to connect with new dancers this year. Be sure to introduce yourself to Miss Kathryn when you see her around the studio!
Miss Meghan
Instructor
Miss Meghan joined the Applause Dance Academy team last year, and this is her first season as a lead instructor! She has experience in early childhood education and managerial work, but couldn't help staying away from her passion of dancing. Meghan has experience performing with the La Crosse Community Theatre and enjoys many ensemble roles. When not at Applause, you can find Meghan working at Grounded Patio Cafe or hanging by the river. Miss Meghan is most looking forward to getting to know her dancers and preparing for recital!
Miss Emma
Instructor
Miss Emma is a first year instructor at Applause this season! She began dancing at the age of three, competed with the Kimberly Varsity Dance Team in high school, and has a Dance Studies certificate from UW - Madison. Emma also has experience coaching for Dance Team Athletics and choreographing for the student dance organization while in college. Needless to say, dance has been one of Emma’s passions her whole life. Outside of dancing, Emma works as a data analyst and loves being on the water. We are so thrilled to welcome Miss Emma to our teaching staff this year!
Miss Brenda
Front Desk Manager
Although you won’t find Miss Brenda leading one of our dance classes, she is the first face you see when you walk into the studio each evening. Brenda is joining the Applause staff as the Front Desk Manager this year. She has been part of the Applause family for almost a decade. Outside of the studio, Miss Brenda loves spending time with her three adult kids and husband, Ira. Brenda is most excited for meeting all of our families and dancers this year!
Miss Jodi
Sparkle Team
As a dance mom of over 20 years, Miss Jodi is not new to the dance world. She has had her countless share of trips to the studio, sequins exploding throughout her car, and recitals. Jodi is our Sparkle Team this year, working to keep the studio clean, fresh, and spotless for our Applause families. During the day, you can find her working in the kitchen at Eagle Bluff Elementary School. You might even find her taking one of our Strength & Flexibility classes in the evening! Be sure to say hi when you see her around the studio!