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about dr
Dance
Republic

What started in 2010 with a single Saturday combo class has grown into Gilbert’s premier 10,000‑square‑foot home for dance. Today more than 600+ young artists—ages 2 through 18 walk through our seven studio doors each week to learn, sweat, and laugh together.

Our mission is to cultivate passionate, well-rounded dancers and kind humans by pairing elite training with a family-first culture

We believe that strong technique and strong character grow side by side — in a supportive, motivating, and respectful environment.

A studio is only as strong as its teachers

Best

Our core faculty includes former NBA Suns Dancers, Radio City Rockettes, and award‑winning choreographers who bring real‑world experience to every class. We also host regional and national guest artists—giving students direct access to fresh styles and industry connections without leaving Gilbert.

Alexa Anderson
Company
April Melkowski
Owner
Aubrey Melkowski
Hip Hop Co. Director / Co. / Crew / Rec
Bree Watson
Ballroom
Brenna Alleman
Dance Curriculum Director / Co.
Cade Clare
Hip Hop Co. Director / Co. / Crew / Rec / Social
Emily Hickey
Co. / Crew / Rec
Emmersen Toone
Dance Curriculum Director / Co. / Crew / Rec
Heidi Benson
Accounts Manager
Jacqueline Lorenzi
Ballet Director
Janessa Clare
Studio Director
Jason Melkowski
Marketing
Jena Banuelos
Co. / Crew
Kari Nelson
Recreational
Kate Hursh
Rec. / LUXE / Adaptive
Katie Waltemeyer
Office Staff
Lane Blue
Ballet
Leah Hyson
LUXE Director
Lizzie Hursh
Office Staff / LUXE / Rec.
Megan Volquartsen
Rec. / Co. / Crew / Events
Nico Banuelos
Co. / Hip Hop
Randee Madison
Co. / Crew
Reese Hursh
Company
Riley Melkowski
Hip Hop Director / LUXE / Co. / Crew
Sara Lamb
Ballet
Shana Perrien
Crew Director
Sophie Roberts
Rec. / LUXE
Victoria Bennett
Tap Co. / Crew

Facility Tour

Studios
  • 10,000 sq ft with seven fully sprung studios

  • Professional marley & hardwood floors

  • HD sound + large mirrored walls

  • Wi‑Fi & workstations

  • On‑site dance boutique for shoes & apparel

  • Security cameras and check‑in system for peace of mind

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Studio Entrance
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Studio One
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Studio Two
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Studio Three
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Studio Four

What Parents
Are Saying

Love

Kara Tsark

Class name here

Dance Republic has been our second home for the past 14 years, and we couldn't be more grateful for the impact it has had on our daughter. Through exceptional training, she has developed into not only a strong technical dancer, but also a confident, versatile performer who is prepared to succeed in any dance environment. Time and again, the quality of her training is evident when she works with guest instructors, attends conventions, and participates on school dance teams. What truly sets Dance Republic apart is the genuine care and dedication of the owners, director, and staff—they invest in each dancer as both an artist and a person, creating an environment where students thrive and reach their full potential.

Larry Dorame

Class name here

As a dad, one of the greatest gifts has been watching my daughters grow over the years through their experience at Dance Republic. The teachers and staff genuinely care about each child, helping them build confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of belonging. What truly sets this studio apart is its family atmosphere, where students, parents, and instructors support one another every step of the way. We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact it has had on our daughters and would highly recommend it to any family looking for more than just dance lessons, but to grow into well rounded young boys and girls in a safe and welcoming environment.

Taylor Salazar

Class name here

My daughter started at Dance Republic when she was 3. Their classes for preschool age are so great! They keep her attention, the teachers are amazing, and they really cultivate a love for dance at a young age! The moms in our class have become friends and our kids have become friends all because of dance republic! We love DR and love the community they created!

Alison Jalufka

Class name here

My daughter loves Dance Republic. It is more than just a dance studio because it feels like a family when she is there. I know that she is loved and well taken care of when she is at the studio. My daughter is 7 years old, and she takes ballet, jazz, lyrical, and leaps and turns. I appreciate that she has so many options to choose from here. She has grown so much as a dancer at Dance Republic, and she chooses to practice dancing at home in her free time. I love to see the smile on her face when she is dancing.