THE STORY
Hi there! I'm Erika, Owner/Creative Director at The Studio and I am so happy that you're here! Here's a little backstory of how The Studio came to be!
Legend has it that I began dancing before I could walk, but I didn't have the opportunity to take formal dance classes until the age of 8 years old. Even then, that journey was cut short and I didn't return to formal classes until high school! During my college years on the NC State dance team is when my serious study of dance took off. But in between you could find me in my neighborhood creating dances with friends and performing for local and school talent shows. It was so much fun! From a very young age I saw how dance could bring people together and create joy!
My journey through dance has always been about tapping into joy and I want that for every person who comes through the TS doors! And that's what we're doing at TS...consistently preparing a space where joy is present through dance!
In 2019, I opened our doors and we had a wonderful turnout! However, 10 months later a global pandemic arrived at all of our doorsteps! Without a doubt, I pivoted and kept TS open virtually and we came through stronger than ever! Since our opening, we have presented our Nutcracker...the Remix holiday show, participated in the Greensboro Holiday parade annually, provided free dance days for the community, grown our competitive program from 20 members to 50, and so much more! As we continue to grow, me and the TS staff promise to maintain our core values of family, focus, and fun! We honestly believe that we can have fun while keeping your family life in balance and focusing on taking our craft seriously.
A bit about my experience...
I have over 25 years of experience as a choreographer, all-star/school cheer coach, college dance coach, and studio instructor for various schools and studios. My most memorable experiences have been serving as the head coach of the dance teams at Wake Forest University, The University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and my Alma Mater, NC State. Pack4Life!️
I teach jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary, acrobatics, creative movement and oversee the performance and company programs at The Studio as the Creative Director. I continue my dance education through certifications from CLI, Acrobatic Arts, Progressing Ballet Technique, convention seminars, and more! I am a proud member of the Dance Studio Owners Association's Inner Circle where I also work as a mentor to other studio owners on their entrepreneur journey. Continuing education is very important to me in my efforts to keep the TS staff ready to care for and teach your child(ren) and to also serve you as the parent/caretaker.
Along with dance education, I have always had a passion for studying child development which led me to earn my master’s degree in counselor education. My background in counselor education gives me a unique set of skills that helps children shine in dance and in life! At TS you will find us focusing on not only dance, but also social emotional learning through our monthly/quarterly activities.
Together, my passions for dance and counseling children has shown me a clear path to my dream of opening The Studio. Next to my husband and four children, The Studio is my ultimate passion project.
I believe everyone can find a place at The Studio!
Come dance with us!
Zaiah Parson
Lead Instructor/Community Performance Group Program Coordinator
SZN5 Outstanding Employee
I hold a BS in Criminal Justice from NCAT, but my true passion has always been dance and cheer—something I’ve loved since age 3. I’m currently the Lead Teacher and Assistant Director for the Community Performance Group at The Studio, where I’ve been since 2021. I also support the marketing team and bring creativity, leadership, and heart to everything I do.
My goal as an instructor is to create a positive, empowering space where dancers grow, express themselves, and feel confident. I love being part of The Studio’s welcoming community, where every dancer has the chance to shine.
Outside the studio, I enjoy cooking, line dancing, movies, time with loved ones, and new adventures!
Delaney McKaughn
Company Instructor/Company Program Assistant
I’m a Dean’s List graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill with a B.A. in Exercise and Sport Science, currently pursuing my Doctorate in Physical Therapy at High Point University. With 15 years of competitive dance experience, I bring a science-based approach to instruction—combining biomechanics, injury prevention, and performance training to help dancers move safely and confidently.
My background includes working as a student athletic trainer for UNC Football, a group fitness instructor, PT tech, and captain of my college sorority's dance team. I also serve as Secretary for HPU’s Pro Bono Clinic, supporting community health outreach.
I’ve trained under Erika Holmes for 12 years and have been an instructor at The Studio for 2 years. I love being part of a space that values both excellence and personal growth—where dancers are empowered to reach their full potential in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Outside the studio, I enjoy fitness, cooking, running, and exploring new cuisines. My mission is to help dancers build strength, confidence, and longevity—on and off the floor.
Mallory Greenwood
Club, CPG and Company Instructor
I’ve been dancing for 9 years, with training in ballet, jazz, contemporary/modern, acro, and hip hop, and I’m a former competition dancer. A graduate of Penn Griffin School for the Arts as a dance major, I’ve choreographed for stage productions and taught technique classes as both an assistant and instructor.
Now in my second year at The Studio, I love being part of such a supportive and creative environment. The Studio provides a safe space for learning, creativity, and growth—something I’m proud to contribute to. My goal is to inspire young dancers by building confidence, creativity, and strength through positive, technique-driven instruction.
When I’m not in the studio, I enjoy hiking, being outdoors, and spending time with friends and family.
Sanaia Moore
Club Instructor
With 12 years of training across styles like Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Contemporary, and Modern, dance has been a major part of my life. I’ve received national and fine arts awards and led youth-focused dance projects within the A.M.E. Church to uplift and inspire. I also have experience mentoring kids in schools and as a summer camp counselor, which taught me the value of patience and creativity.
I hold an Associate Degree in Science and am currently pursuing a Bachelor's in Biology with the goal of becoming a Physician Assistant. I’m passionate about empowering others—both through healthcare and dance.
Since joining The Studio nearly a year ago, I’ve loved being part of a team that values growth, creativity, and diversity.
Outside the studio, you’ll find me dancing, cooking, or enjoying the outdoors!
Jessica Horton
Club Instructor
I’ve been an athlete for 12 years, with experience competing at The Cheerleading Summit and Worlds multiple times. I hold level 6 stunting and tumbling skills and have previous coaching and instructor training experience. Currently, I’m an honors sophomore at NCAT, and I’ve also volunteered at summer camps working with kids in active, supportive environments.
I love food, naps, trying new hobbies, working out, and creating things. My goal is to provide a safe, fun space where everyone feels encouraged to grow. I’m passionate about helping others push through challenges and discover their strength in doing what they love.
This is my second year at The Studio, and I truly love it—it feels like one big, happy family, full of love, support, and good vibes!
Tanika Carrion
Club Instructor
I started dancing at the age of 3 and danced until I was 17. I was on a dance scholarship and spent six days a week dancing between two studios, specializing in tap, jazz, ballet, and lyrical. I’ve been teaching tap for 3 years at The Studio and am currently in my second year teaching combo ballet, tap, and jazz for 5-7-year-olds. I love all things creative, from making hair bows and accessories using faux vinyl to decorating custom cookies with royal icing. But above all, I love being a mom—watching my kids create and achieve their personal goals in life brings me so much joy. When I'm not at The Studio I’m a stay-at-home mom of 5.
My professional goals at The Studio include choreographing a competitive dance and seeing it performed on stage, teaching acro, and helping grow the tap genre. My passion is to ensure my dancers have fun and fall in love with dance just like I did as a child. And if they develop a love for tap, I’ll be one happy teacher! I’ve been at The Studio for 5 years, and I’m excited to continue inspiring young dancers here.
Rhonda
Human Resources
Accounts
April
Operations
Technology
Melinda
Enrollment Coordinator
Communications
Accounts
Elizabeth
Customer Care Specialist
