Our staff of dedicated dance professionals is what makes BDC special. If you are an experienced dance educator and interested in joining our team, please contact us at info@buffalodancecenter.com.
Stacey Dentinger
Director
Stacey began her dance training in Rochester, NY, excelling in tap, jazz, ballet, and modern while earning national recognition, and later expanded her experience through cheerleading, coaching, and founding the Nazareth College Dance Team. She holds advanced teacher training certifications, is certified in Acrobatic Arts and yoga (RYT 200), and continues her education through classes and conventions. An award-winning instructor, Stacey integrates mindfulness and yoga into her teaching to support her students’ development in mind, body, and spirit.
Justine Pettit
Justine graduated from Buffalo State College with a degree in sociology/psychology and a minor in dance, and has trained extensively for over 15 years. She has performed in numerous productions, including 11 seasons of the American Academy of Ballet’s Nutcracker, and trained with programs such as Syracuse University and Cincinnati Ballet. An experienced performer and choreographer, Justine brings passion and energy to her teaching. She is dedicated to inspiring her students and helping them grow as confident dancers.
Amanda Klimek
Amanda began dancing at age eight and expanded her training at Buffalo Dance Center, where she discovered her passion for teaching. She earned a B.A. in Dance from the University at Buffalo and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Education with K–12 Dance Certification. An accomplished performer, choreographer, and Acrobatic Arts certified instructor, Amanda is dedicated to helping her students grow and succeed. She continues to train and attend conventions to further develop her skills as both a dancer and educator. She is passionate about creating a positive, supportive environment where every dancer can thrive.
Molly Derkovitz
Molly began dancing at the age of 4 and hasn’t stopped since. She recently graduated with her BFA in Dance and a Double Minor in Dance Studio Administration and Theatre from SUNY Fredonia. While at Fredonia, she worked closely with Jon Lehrer, the Artistic Director of LehrerDance, as well as Ruth Andrian the Artistic Director of the Paul Taylor 2 Dance Company. She has performed in the Dance Days of Buffalo and for three seasons as a Buffalo Bandette. She also performed for two seasons with Radatz Magical Productions at Darien Lake. Molly looks forward to teaching at Buffalo Dance Center and hopes to share her passion, love, and knowledge of dance with her students.
Katrina Bierk
Mrs. Katrina trained at prestigious institutions including the Ruth Page Center, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, and Joffrey Ballet School, launching a 20+ year professional career at age 19. She holds a BFA in Theater & Dance and has performed as a Principal Dancer with multiple companies. With extensive experience as a teacher, director, and choreographer, she has led productions across all levels, most recently choreographing Carmen for Buffalo Opera Unlimited. She is passionate about mentoring dancers and sharing her extensive professional knowledge in the studio.
Abhishek Sharma
Hailing from India, Mr. Abhi is equipped with 20+ years of performing experience. Before leaving India in 2013, he appeared as a contestant and winner in 4 Indian television dance shows and has worked as a backup dancer in multiple Panjabi music videos. He has performed with a Canadian Bollywood crew for NBA Raptors Half-Time show in 2013 and has conducted dance workshops in Canada, India & USA. Currently he teaches HipHop, Bhangra & Bollywood in Buffalo, NY, and runs a dance entertainment and education YouTube channel : @abhi-shake
Kelsey Martin
Kelsey began dancing at age two and is trained in a wide range of styles, all of which she now teaches. She holds degrees in Childhood/Special Education and Literacy Education and currently teaches 4th grade in Lancaster. An experienced competitor and current member of Surge Dance Company, Kelsey is passionate about inspiring dancers to grow, work hard, and love dance. She is excited to be part of the Buffalo Dance Center team and continue helping her students thrive.
Ali Steinmetz
Ali is a versatile dancer and instructor from Rochester, NY, where her journey began with gymnastics and classical ballet training. By 13, she had transitioned into a wide range of dance styles, using her technical roots to grow as a well-rounded performer. She attended the University at Buffalo and spent two seasons performing with the UB Dazzlers Dance Team. After college, Ali joined the Buffalo Bandettes, dancing with the team for three years and serving as assistant captain in her final season. She has twice reached finalist status for the Carolina Panthers’ TopCats cheerleaders and continues to share her love of dance by teaching in studios whenever possible.
Shannon Alexander
Shannon has been singing since she was 5 years old both in choirs and as a soloist. Shannon has a B.A. in Vocal Performance from SUNY Geneseo and an M.A. in Vocal Performance from the University of New Mexico. Her approach combines technical precision with artistic expression, empowering her students to unlock their full vocal potential while nurturing their unique sound. Shannon’s teaching philosophy is centered around fostering a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel empowered to explore and grow as artists.