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- Team Spotlight:
We’re so excited to introduce one of the newest members of our Edge team — Zoe Madamba! Zoe joined Edge in September and jumped right in at the start of the season. You’ll find her smiling face at both our Cinnaminson and Lumberton studios throughout the week, always ready to help our dancers and families. Zoe brings fresh energy, creativity, and a true artistic spirit to our CSR team. She’s a natural creative with a background in dance, music, and singing — and outside of the studio, her talents only continue to shine. Zoe plays seven different instruments and even writes her own songs! 🎶 When she’s not behind the desk or making music, you might find her out training — she’s currently preparing to run a marathon this November! 🏃♀️ A Few Fun Facts About Zoe 💛 Favorite Color: Yellow 🍫 Fun Fact: She’s not a fan of sweets (we can’t relate!) 🎤 Hidden Talent: She was a competitive a cappella singer — total Pitch Perfect vibes! We’re so lucky to have Zoe as part of our Edge family. Next time you’re in the studio, be sure to say hi and wish her luck with her marathon training! 💫
- Team Spotlight: Ms. Kelly-Ann Lodato
When Chrissy and Jacque started Edge 20 years ago, there were a few special people who joined them and have remained part of our Edge family ever since — and we are thrilled that Kelly-Ann Lodato is one of them! Kelly-Ann is a dedicated and talented member of our Edge Dance Center teaching team. An alum of Edge herself, she has been part of our studio since we first opened our doors in 2006! A graduate of Montclair State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance , Kelly Ann is also a Dance Masters of America Board Certified Instructor and a former member of the Andrea Mychaels Dance Project , among many other accomplishments. Her creativity, warmth, and joy shine through in every class she teaches. Kelly-Ann has a wonderful family — her husband Brian and their two children, Adalyn and Cameron. She spent time focusing on family and their new home, and we’re so happy to have her back sharing her love of dance with our students. Kelly Ann currently teaches our youngest dancers from Laurel Tree Academy and recently joined our Thursday classes in Lumberton . Fun Facts About Ms. Kelly Ann 💜 Favorite Colors: Purple and Teal 📚 Loves: Reading and bike rides with her family 🌊 Enjoys: Spending time at the beach (and recently moved closer to it!) ☀️ Summer Tradition: Vacations in North Carolina — and has even had to evacuate for hurricanes! We’re so grateful for Kelly Ann’s dedication, positivity, and the heart she brings to Edge every day. She truly embodies the spirit of our Edge family!
- Teacher Spotlight: Ms. Corinne!
We are thrilled to share that Ms. Corinne celebrated her wedding this past September, tying the knot with Ryan at a stunning venue with perfect weather. We couldn’t be happier for the newlyweds and are excited to see Corinne continue to bring her energy and passion to our Edge Dance Center family! Miss Corinne will be teaching at our Cinnaminson location on Saturdays this season. A returning team member, she brings confidence, high-energy, and performance-driven instruction to every class. Fun Facts About Miss Corinne: Favorite color: Purple 💜 Originally from Hawaii , sharing her Hawaiian heritage and skilled in Hula dance Former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader , performing at two Super Bowls , traveling internationally, and representing the Eagles on a USO tour to military bases We are so grateful she chose to make the Philadelphia area her home — and even more grateful she’s part of our Edge family ! This season, Miss Corinne will be leading: Multi Edge 3 Multi Edge 4–6 Ballet & Tap Coming in October → Mini Hop! Interested in joining one of Miss Corinne’s classes? Email us: info@edgedancecenter.com
- Edge Magazine – Recital 2025 Edition
We are thrilled to welcome you to Edge Dance Center’s 19th Annual Recital at the Burlington Township Performing Arts Center! As we gear up for another unforgettable weekend of performances, this edition of Edge Magazine is your go-to guide for all things recital. Our goal is to make this experience as smooth and special as possible for dancers and families alike. Inside this digital magazine, you’ll find all the essential information to help you prepare for the big day—from arrival logistics and backstage guidelines to volunteer info and show etiquette. As always, we are here to help! If you have questions beyond what’s covered here, the best way to reach us is by email at info@edgedancecenter.com . Edge Dance Center’s 19th Annual Show 📅 Saturday, May 31st – 11AM, 2PM & 6PM 📅 Sunday, June 1st – 11AM, 2PM & 5PM 📍 Burlington Township High School Performing Arts Center 610 Fountain Avenue, Burlington, NJ 08016 For class assignments, dress rehearsal schedules, and more, please visit our Recital Magazine . Why We Recital A dance recital is so much more than a performance. It’s a celebration of a dancer’s growth, confidence, and love for the art . Recitals offer a professionally directed stage experience that reflects an entire year of hard work and progress. Students learn more than just choreography—they build self-esteem, teamwork skills, and stage presence that benefit them in school, social settings, and future endeavors like job interviews or college auditions. The rehearsal and recital process teaches responsibility, dedication, and the joy of working together toward a common goal. The smiles, the applause, the sense of accomplishment— it’s a moment they’ll never forget . Performance Tips & Tricks Arrival Instructions: Arrive 30 minutes before showtime, fully dressed and recital-ready. Use the side cafeteria doors for dancer check-in. Audience members enter through the front auditorium doors . Be prompt! Late arrivals cause unnecessary stress for performers. Auditorium Seating: All tickets are General Admission . Those with accessibility needs may enter first. Please be kind, courteous, and patient while waiting in line. Showtime Details Dancers remain backstage for the duration of the show. We create a fun, safe environment in the cafeteria with snacks, crafts, and a closed-circuit livestream of the show. No visitors are allowed backstage , including during intermission. No food or drinks in the auditorium. Video and flash photography are not allowed. We want every dancer to shine without distractions. ❗ No vaping is permitted anywhere on school property. Dismissal Process For “Dance with Me” Classes: Dismissed at intermission in the lobby. Only one parent/guardian should pick up the dancer. If returning to the audience, please change them out of their costume. For All Other Students: Dancers are dismissed at the end of the show —not before. Younger classes will be called in order. You’ll meet them at the bottom of the stairs on house right . Older dancers will meet parents in the lobby . After pickup, please exit the auditorium promptly to allow for a smooth dismissal process. Volunteers & Chaperones We are so thankful for our incredible team of volunteers and class chaperones who help bring our recital to life. Each class has assigned chaperones to guide dancers backstage. Volunteers assist with guest greetings and student transitions. Volunteers arrive 45 minutes before showtime and stay backstage throughout the performance. However, they are permitted to step into the auditorium to watch their dancer perform. No ticket is required for volunteers. Want to help? Sign up in the studio lobby or email us at info@edgedancecenter.com .
- Studio Picture Week - Details, Tips & FAQs
Each year, we invite our dancers to have their photos taken in their dance costumes, capturing special memories to cherish for years to come. We are excited to once again welcome Dave Male and the DSM Photography team as our official studio photographers! The week after Spring Break , all classes at our Lumberton location will be dedicated to capturing stunning studio portraits of our dancers. This exciting week will replace regular classes , giving dancers the chance to showcase their costumes, smiles, and skills in front of the camera. Keep reading for everything you need to know and our top tips to make the most of this special week! Class & Individual Photos Class photos will be taken during each class’s scheduled time, with the option for individual portraits if you choose to order. You can place your order using the link below: https://www.cognitoforms.com/DSMProductions1/EdgeDanceCenter28th3rdPhotoOrderForm Order your photos online before April 28th ! Each class has been assigned a specific time for photos, which coincides with their regular class day and time. The full schedule can be found in the Spring Magazine. Picture Day Tips: Follow all costume and hair instructions provided with your dancer’s costume. Arrive 10-15 minutes early to ensure a smooth process. Light makeup is recommended—a little blush and lipstick can enhance your dancer’s look without being overpowering. Make sure your dancer’s shoes are clean! A baby wipe is usually all that’s needed to freshen them up. No food while in costume! Water only, please. Prepare costumes in advance. They may need steaming to remove wrinkles. Tutus do best when hung upside down, and a steamy shower can help release wrinkles. Don’t wait until Picture Day or Recital Day to remove costumes from garment bags—fluff them in advance! A little preparation goes a long way in making your dancer look their best in photos. Parent/Guardian Guidelines To ensure a smooth experience, each dancer should bring only one parent or guardian to Picture Day. Unfortunately, we do not have space to accommodate additional guests. Any extra family members will need to wait in the car or outside the studio. Parents/guardians will not be permitted in the photo area, as it can be distracting for dancers. Makeup Dates Can’t make your class that week for pictures? No problem! Please contact the studio to let us know. We also have two scheduled makeup picture blocks available: Friday from 7:30–8:00 PM and Saturday from 1:00–1:30 PM . We’ll do our best to make sure every dancer gets their picture perfect moment! We can’t wait to see our dancers shine in their photos! If you have any questions, please contact the studio. Happy Picture Week!
- Employee Spotlight: Ms. Allison G.
The first word that comes to mind when we think of Ms. Allison? Vibrant! With her high energy, colorful personality, and undeniable stage presence, she’s a true attention-getter in the best way! Allison’s journey with Edge started long before she became an instructor—she began as a dancer right here at Edge! We are so proud and lucky to have her back on our teaching staff, sharing her passion and talent with the next generation. She is dedicated, creative, and one of the most hardworking people we know. Not to mention, we can always count on her to make us smile! Allison and her husband, David, live right here in Lumberton, and their son, Theo (almost 2!), is absolutely adorable. 🩵 At home, she also has a fun-loving two-year-old pup, Phoebe! Broadway Dreams & Big City Life Allison studied at The Hartt School at the University of Hartford before spending six years in NYC, fully immersed in the Broadway lifestyle as a dancer, actor, and singer. Along the way, she even met some major celebrities like Bono, Oprah, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, and Sara Bareilles! Passions & Favorites Specialty: Musical Theatre & teaching tiny humans to dance! 🩰 Favorite Color: Pink 💖 (but also obsessed with leopard & cheetah print 🐆) Favorite Candy: Reese’s 🍫 Hobbies: Reading, swimming, and spending time with family & friends Edge is beyond lucky to have Allison back at her home studio as one of our amazing Edge Alumni-turned-instructors! The energy and light she brings to the studio each week is simply amazing, and we are so grateful to have her on our team!
- Staff Spotlight: Ms. Ana Lynch-Comer!
At Edge Dance Center, we are incredibly fortunate to have a team of passionate and inspiring instructors, and Ms. Ana is no exception! As she enters her fourth season with us, her energy and enthusiasm continue to shape the Cinnaminson studio in the best way possible. Ana’s positivity and motivation create a welcoming and encouraging environment for our young dancers. From the moment students step into her class, they’re met with a warm greeting and a big smile—setting the tone for an uplifting and engaging experience. One of Ana’s greatest strengths is her creativity, particularly in her music selections and choreography. She encourages her students to embrace freedom of movement, helping them develop confidence and artistry in every step they take. Her passion for tap dancing is evident in all she does, from teaching the tiniest tappers at age four to guiding pre-teens through more advanced rhythms. She makes learning tap an exciting and rewarding experience, instilling a lifelong love for the art form in her students. Beyond the studio, Ana is an adventurous spirit! She loves to travel and has explored multiple countries, with Puerto Rico being her favorite vacation spot. When she’s not dancing, you’ll likely find her curled up with a great book—so be sure to share your favorite recommendations with her! She’s also a proud “Dog Mom” to her beloved pup, Osito. We are so grateful to have Ana as part of our Edge Dance Center family! Her passion, creativity, and dedication continue to make a lasting impact on our students. Next time you see her in the studio, don’t forget to say hello and share a book suggestion!
- Edge Team Spotlight – Meet Bridgette Toohey, Director of Studio Operations
At Edge Dance Center, our team is the heartbeat of our studio. Each member brings unique strengths, dedication, and enthusiasm that make our community thrive. Today, we're excited to shine a spotlight on Bridgette Toohey, our Director of Studio Operations, as part of our "Thank You Thursday" series. A New Chapter: Bridgette’s Promotion to Director of Studio Operations This season, Bridgette earned a well-deserved promotion to Director of Studio Operations, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to see her continue to shine in this role. Bridgette has been an integral part of Edge Dance Center for years, consistently contributing her time, energy, and expertise to ensure the studio’s success. Known for her sound judgment and balanced approach, Bridgette has become a steadfast support to all our programs. She’s often the calming voice of reason in our ambitious, creative brainstorms, providing invaluable guidance as we work together to bring the best to our dancers and families. Our Customer Service Queen Bridgette truly excels in customer service, which is why we affectionately call her our "Customer Service Queen." She leads our Customer Service Representative (CSR) team with welcoming confidence and a deep knowledge of all things Edge. Bridgette is our go-to for student and studio information, supporting families, answering questions, and ensuring that our studio runs smoothly. Most of our team has had the privilege of learning from Bridgette, as she has played a key role in training new staff members and passing on her passion and expertise. A Family That Dances Together For Bridgette, Edge Dance Center is more than a job; it’s a family affair! Together with her husband, Andy, and her children, Katie and Christian, Bridgette represents our studio with pride and dedication at various events and performances. The family even includes their five Labradors, who joined in on the fun at our recent Trunk or Treat celebration! Bridgette’s commitment to Edge is truly remarkable, and we are so grateful to her and her family for making our community even more vibrant. Thank You, Bridgette! Bridgette, thank you for everything you do. Your dedication, skill, and passion elevate Edge Dance Center every day. We’re so lucky to have you on our team and can’t wait to see all the wonderful things you’ll accomplish in the seasons ahead.
- Spotlight on Ms. Courtney Blazer: Elevating Edge Dance Center's Teaching Assistant Program
At Edge Dance Center, we’re incredibly grateful for our team and the unique skills they bring to our studio and dancers. Each team member is exceptional, but there are those who go above and beyond to exceed our expectations—and Ms. Courtney Blazer is one of them! After welcoming her baby boy, Wyatt, into the world last April with her husband Ryan and son Austin, Ms. Courtney has returned to Edge with renewed passion and a focus on improving our classes this season. Her positive energy and dedication are felt throughout the studio, but her leadership in transforming our Edge Teaching Assistant (ETA) Program is what truly stands out. The ETA Program is designed to develop leadership skills in young dancers while providing crucial support in our younger classes. This year, nearly 50 teaching assistants are participating, and coordinating such a large group is no easy task! From scheduling to ensuring each assistant is ready and in the right place at the right time, Ms. Courtney has taken on this challenge with grace and precision. She’s created a structure that not only benefits our current teaching assistants but also prepares future instructors to deliver the best possible experience for our students. Her ability to lead with patience and enthusiasm has made a lasting impact on our teaching assistants, our instructors, and most importantly, our students. We’re incredibly grateful for everything Ms. Courtney has done to help our dancers thrive, and we can’t thank her enough for the commitment and care she brings to the Edge family. Thank you, Ms. Courtney, for all your hard work! Your dedication is an inspiration to us all.
- Get Ready to Groove at Our Annual Hip-Hop Workshop!
We’re excited to announce that Edge Dance Center’s Annual Hip-Hop Workshop is back—and it's bigger and better than ever! Whether you're new to hip-hop or looking to push your skills to the next level, this workshop has something for everyone. With three levels—Beginner (Ages 8-10), Intermediate (Ages 11-13), and Advanced (Ages 14+)—dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in on the fun! Our Hip-Hop program is led by Jake, the heart and soul of hip-hop at Edge Dance Center. Jake started this annual workshop with a vision to bring dancers together, challenge their skills, and introduce them to fresh new moves. Joining Jake this year are two guest instructors, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have them on board! The workshop is a fantastic opportunity for dancers from Edge, as well as from outside studios, to come together and learn from some of the best in the business. We’re especially excited to see our two large competition groups in action, as they are required to attend. But it’s not just for the competition team—everyone is welcome! If you know someone from another studio who might be interested, let us know! Spaces are filling up fast, so don’t wait! Register today for just $55 and secure your spot in this one-of-a-kind hip-hop experience. We can’t wait to see you on the dance floor! Current Edge dancers, please enroll here: http://app.jackrabbitclass.com/eventcalendar.asp?orgID=512704 New dance friends, please enroll here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeDMFa07MNgXqlPNe0TUHooHYVU3fa5VMGHZySrz87g5antvw/viewform?usp=sf_link Workshop Details 📅 Date: Sunday, October 13th 💥 Beginner: Ages 8-10 💥 Intermediate: Ages 11-13 💥 Advanced: Ages 14+ 🎉 Price: $55 Meet the faculty: Jake Simon Jake Simon also known as “Jakes fresh” is a professional hip hop dancer and choreographer from the Philadelphia/ New Jersey region. He has experience dancing at World of Dance competitions, Prelude, East Coast competitions and more with his crew from Philadelphia. Jake has had the opportunity to dance for Ludacris, Musik Fest, Justina Valentine and other various music artists. He was casted for the 2023 NVYSN show called “The Grid” directed by Deshawn Da Prince, Smart Mark, Sasha Herrera and more. Jake has choreographed for numerous competitive dance companies as well as professional dancers including SYTYCD contestant Allen Genkin. Jakes students have won numerous awards including National Titles, Best Choreography in Hip Hop and Entertainment awards. He truly enjoys watching his students grow as dancers while providing an understanding of the culture and styles of hip hop. Daniella La Rosa A New York professional dancer, at 26 years old I have had the opportunity to perform with some incredible artists. On Good Morning America, I performed with Jason Derulo. Last November I performed at the annual Kennedy awards with Gloria Estefan and Arianna Debose. I was a Philadelphia 76ers dancer for 5 years traveling and dancing in China and Mexico. Before my professional career I attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School, Montclair state university for dance and competed competitively, receiving multiplie awards and scholarships from different conventions and competitions. Azari Ford Azari Ford earned her B.F.A in Dance and minor in Business from the University Of The Arts. All while being a member of The Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleaders from 2018-2024. Azari is a former 6th year veteran and captain of the team. She has represented the Eagles organization on international media outlets as a global brand ambassador and performed at Super Bowl LVII in Arizona. As well as being voted the Philadelphia Eagles 2024 Pro Bowl Cheerleader. Representing the Eagles Cheerleaders and organization at the NFL’s 2024 Pro Bowl Games. Excelling both on and off the field, Azari was awarded two of the most prestigious and highly selective scholarships for exceptional talent during her time at UArts. She has performed works of many artistic directors and choreographers, including Thom White, Queen Dinita and JustSole Clark and Robert Battle of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Concert Goers could even spot her performing with iconic musicians such as Queen, New Kids On The Block, and Darius Rucker. Azari enjoys sharing her gifts not only as a performer but also as a dance educator in the tri-state area. Teaching many styles such as hip-hop, contemporary, jazz, pom and more. As well as being a dance competition choreographer. Helping others to see dance as a language and not just movement, is just one of her many artistic objectives.
- 2024/2025 Studio Calendar
Welcome to our 2024-2025 Dance Season! Our studio calendar is your go-to resource for all the important dates and events this year, from class schedules and holiday breaks to special performances and studio activities. Stay informed and plan ahead to make the most of your dance journey with us! September 9th - Classes Begin October 24th -30th - Dress Up Week October 31st - Halloween Studio Closed November15th - Costume Deposits Due November 27th - 30th - Thanksgiving Break Studio Closed December 24th - January 1st - Winter Break Studio Closed January 15th - Costume Balance Due January 20th - MLK Day Studio Closed February 17th - Presidents Day Studio Closed April 7th - Summer Enrollment Begins April 18th - 26th - Spring Break Studio Closed April 28th - Pre-Registration for 2025/26 April 28th - May 2nd - Picture Week at Lumberton May 23rd - Last Day of Regular Classes May 24th - 26th - Memorial Day Studio Closed May 27th/28th/29th (TBD) - Dress Rehearsal May 31st/June 1st (TBD) - Recital at BTPAC July 7th - Summer Classes Begin September 8th, 2025 - Season 20 Starts! **Subject to change. **Dance schedule does not always follow school closing schedule – please mark your calendars. **Inclement weather closings will be announced on Social Media, Studio Voicemail and Email - makeup classes for weather or emergencies are not guaranteed and are built into our schedule.
- Unveiling the Perfect Performance Look: Hair and Makeup Tips for Competition Dance Teams
Welcome to our dance studio blog, where we are delving into the world of stage presence with our competition dance team members, parents, and dancers! Whether you're a seasoned performer or just stepping onto the stage for the first time, nailing the perfect hair and makeup look is essential for making an unforgettable impression under the spotlight. Today, we're sharing some expert tips and step-by-step instructions to help you achieve that flawless performance glow. 1. Preparing Your Canvas: Moisturize and Prime Before diving into the world of makeup, it's crucial to start with a clean and moisturized face. Hydrating your skin ensures that your makeup will apply smoothly and last throughout your performance. Once your skin is prepped, apply a primer suited to your skin type. Primer not only helps to create a smooth base for makeup application but also ensures that your look stays put under the bright lights. Recommended primer: 2. Foundation and Concealer: Flawless Complexion For that flawless stage complexion, opt for a foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. Blend it evenly using a makeup sponge or brush, paying extra attention to areas that need more coverage. Concealer comes next to hide any imperfections or dark circles under the eyes. Remember to blend well for a seamless finish. Recommended foundation: 3. Eye-catching Eyeshadow: Adding Dimension Choose eyeshadow shades that complement your costume and the theme of your performance. Start with a neutral base shade, then build up the intensity with darker shades in the crease and outer corners. Shimmer can add an extra pop for the stage, but be sure to blend everything well for a polished look. Recommended eyeshadow palette: 4. Perfecting the Wing: Eyeliner Create a dramatic winged eyeliner look to make your eyes stand out on stage. Gel or liquid eyeliner works best for achieving sharp lines. Take your time and steady your hand for precision, and don't forget to extend the wing slightly upwards to lift the eyes. 5. Luscious Lashes: Falsies or Mascara For our younger dancers, a coat of mascara can do wonders to enhance natural lashes. However, for our older dancers looking to make a bold statement, false lashes are the way to go. Trim them to fit your eye shape, apply adhesive, and carefully place them as close to your natural lash line as possible for a seamless blend. 6. Striking Lips: Lipstick Choose a lipstick shade that complements your overall look and coordinates with your costume. For a long-lasting finish, consider using a lip liner to outline your lips before applying lipstick. Matte formulas tend to stay put better under stage lights, but don't forget to add a touch of gloss for extra dimension. Competition color Tips: Matte lipsticks work best and stay the longest Gloss and Chapstick can cause hair to get stuck on lips 7. Adding Warmth: Bronzer and Blush To prevent your face from looking flat under the bright lights, add warmth and dimension with bronzer. Apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline for a sculpted look. Finish off with a pop of blush on the apples of your cheeks for a healthy, rosy glow. 8. Slick and Sleek: Perfecting Your Performance Hairstyle Just as important as your makeup is your hair, which completes your overall stage look. For competitions, a clean and polished hairstyle is essential. Whether you're opting for a classic bun or a high ponytail, using gel and hairspray is key to achieving that sleek finish that will withstand the intensity of your performance. These products not only keep stray hairs in place but also ensure that your hairstyle remains pristine under the stage lights. For more specific hair styling advice tailored to your dance routines and costume choices, don't hesitate to reach out to our Customer Service Team. They'll be happy to provide you with personalized recommendations to help you rock your performance with confidence! How to make the perfect recital bun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZYjVCt_27Y Remember, practice makes perfect when it comes to mastering your stage makeup look. Experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for you and enhances your unique features. And most importantly, wear your confidence as your best accessory—it's the key to truly shining on stage. We can't wait to see you dazzle under the lights!















