Meet our Staff
Mrs. Tara Studio Owner / Director
Mrs. Tara is a renowned Certified Teacher, esteemed Studio Owner, and visionary Director whose unparalleled journey in dance began at just 18 months old. Her early immersion in the art form has evolved into a distinguished career, marked by elite training with legends such as Travis Wall, Mia Michaels, Alex Wong, and Twitch. Her expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of dance disciplines, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Musical Theatre, Hip-Hop, Gymnastics, Acrobatics, and Poms.
Mentored by a former NY Rockette and the Captain of the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders, Mrs. Tara has set a gold standard in the industry. As the Director of Elite Dance Company (EDC) for over 18 years, her innovative choreography has garnered over 150 prestigious awards. She has been honored with the Choreographer of the Year title in 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2022, and received the Excellence in Innovative Choreography award in 2024. Her groundbreaking work was further distinguished with the Contemporary Choreography Award at the Collective Dance Awards in Chicago in 2021, with additional nominations in 2023 and 2024.
Under Mrs. Tara’s exceptional leadership, EDC dancers have achieved numerous National and Regional Titles, earned College Scholarships, and secured Cash Prizes and Special Awards. The studio itself has been celebrated as the Top Overall Highest Scoring Studio at premier competitions and honored with the prestigious Studio of Excellence Award from the ADCC.
Driven by her profound dedication to dance, Mrs. Tara cultivates an elite and supportive environment at EDC, where excellence and passion flourish. Outside the studio, she is a cherished wife and devoted mother of three.
Mr. Jacob
Mr. Jacob's exceptional journey in dance and gymnastics began at the age of two, setting the stage for a distinguished career in the performing arts. His talent was further honed in 2008 when he was awarded a full scholarship to a prestigious summer intensive with The Dance Theatre of Harlem, under the esteemed direction of Arthur Mitchell and Robert Garland.
As an accomplished musical theatre soloist, Mr. Jacob excels in acro technique, earning numerous accolades throughout his career. His competitive achievements include top honors at prominent venues, notably securing 1st place overall in Senior Solos at the “Turn It Up” National Dance Championship in 2016 and achieving 2nd runner-up in the Senior Men’s Division at the acclaimed “World Dance Pageant.”
Beyond his impressive performance credentials, Mr. Jacob has made significant contributions as a Backstage Manager for the Star Dance Alliance and has trained with the Men’s Bulgarian National Team. His expertise extends internationally, having served as a FIG Judge in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Mr. Jacob holds certifications in USAG and CPR/AED, complemented by a current background security clearance. He earned an Associate’s Degree in General Studies with an emphasis in Business Administration, further demonstrating his commitment to both the artistic and administrative aspects of dance.
Currently, Mr. Jacob is a Professional Dancer with Manassas Ballet Theatre, where he continues to inspire and elevate the art form with his exceptional skill, dedication, and unparalleled experience.
Miss Jewel
Miss Jewel's dance journey began at just two years old, and her remarkable career spans over 20 years, showcasing her unparalleled expertise and dedication. A distinguished recipient of a college scholarship, Jewel pursued her fine arts degree at the renowned Studio School in Los Angeles, where she trained under the guidance of top commercial artists and choreographers, solidifying her status as a leading figure in the industry.
Returning to Maryland, Jewel has become a sought-after instructor, renowned for her nine years of experience in both recreational and competitive dance. Her choreography has earned multiple National and Regional titles, celebrated for its innovation and originality. Jewel’s illustrious background includes training with the Radio City Rockettes, the Moscow Ballet, and the Washington Football Team dancers, alongside completing prestigious workshops with globally acclaimed choreographers.
As a distinguished member of the National Dance Education Organization and IDTS certified, Miss Jewel is highly respected in her field. Her unwavering passion for teaching, combined with her extensive training and commitment to fostering a positive and dynamic environment, makes her an exceptional and revered mentor in the dance community.
Miss Courtney
With an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades, Miss Courtney is a celebrated powerhouse in the dance world, known for her exceptional expertise and vibrant teaching style. She kicked off her dance journey at the age of 2 and has been dazzling audiences ever since. From competitive stages to prestigious workshops, she’s collaborated with top choreographers on both coasts, earning numerous awards and scholarships that showcase her dedication and skill.
Miss Courtney’s passion for dance extends beyond the studio, with advanced studies during college that enriched her broad expertise. For the past 9 years, she’s brought her energy and enthusiasm to Elite Dance Company, inspiring dancers of all levels—from beginners to competition stars. Her dynamic teaching spans Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Gymnastics, Contemporary, and Hip-Hop.
A champion of both technique and creativity, Miss Courtney ensures every class is a fun and engaging experience where students can shine and express themselves. Her reputation as a sought-after instructor speaks to her remarkable impact and the joy she brings to the dance community.
Miss Kelsie
From the moment she laced up her first pair of dance shoes at the age of two, Miss Kelsie has been captivated by the art of dance. Her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, shaped by training under the esteemed Mrs. Tara DeMarr and masterclasses with world-renowned artists like Travis Wall, Alex Wong, and The Radio City Rockettes. Her dedication was recognized with a prestigious scholarship to AMDA's High School Summer Program in 2020, showcasing her exceptional talent and potential.
Miss Kelsie excels in Contemporary, Lyrical, and Acrobatics, and her achievements on the competitive stage speak volumes about her prowess. She has garnered numerous first overall awards and titles, including "Junior Miss Starpower" and "Junior Miss USTD." Her remarkable journey also includes being hand-selected for the "Contemporary Company" by USTD in 2018 and performing as a Russian Dancer with the Moscow Ballet in 2019.
Currently, Miss Kelsie is pursuing a degree in Mass Communications with a minor in Dance, blending her love for dance with academic excellence. Her passion for her craft and commitment to her students make her not only an inspiring teacher but also a beacon of enthusiasm and prestige in the dance community.
Miss Taylor
From the moment she took her first twirls at just 2 years old, Miss Taylor’s passion for dance has been unstoppable. Trained under the expert eye of Mrs. Tara for over 16 years, Taylor has also had the privilege of learning from dance legends like Twitch, Alison Holker, Alex Wong, and the prestigious Radio City Rockettes. Her journey through the world of dance has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Taylor’s exceptional talent has earned her a trove of accolades, including multiple first-place finishes and top-scoring performances. She dazzled at the "Starpower National Competition," where she clinched the First Overall title and was crowned "Miss Starpower." Her impressive achievements extend across a broad spectrum of competitions, showcasing her dedication and skill.
As a teacher, Taylor excels not only in her technical prowess but also in her role as an amazing recreational teacher. Her kindness and caring nature make her a beloved mentor who inspires and nurtures her students. With a diverse training background in ballet, lyrical, tap, jazz, and hip hop, Taylor combines her versatility and vibrant enthusiasm to help her students thrive. Her journey from a prodigious young dancer to a celebrated performer and compassionate educator is a testament to her unwavering dedication and boundless love for the art of dance.
