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Senior Spotlight - Gretchen

Graduating Seniors
June 05, 2024•1 min read

Class of 2024 Spotlight - Gretchen

With recital right around the corner, we are shining the spotlight on our graduating seniors one at a time. Today, we're thrilled to celebrate Gretchen, who has danced in all styles and in Company at The Pointe. Gretchen is a Linn-Mar HS Graduate and 14-year PSD dancer! She is an excellent role model for our younger dancers and has been a very helpful assistant in our growing Acro program!

This year, Gretchen has competed in several group dances, two solos, and performed as the Sugar Plum Fairy in our first Nutcracker production. In Gretchen's own words, here are some dance career highlights and advice for dancers.

How long have you been dancing?

I've been dancing since I was 3 - so 14 years! This is my 7th season in Company.

What is your favorite routine that you've performed?

There have been a lot, but I really liked "Bailar", a Company small group jazz dance with Miss Laura.

Favorite dance memory?

Company rehearsals.

Favorite genre of dance (and why)?

I like contemporary because the rules are really bendable and you’re not constricted.

I love dancing at The Pointe because....

I love expressing myself.

What are your plans (as of now) for after high school?

A chemistry major with pre med studies.

What advice would you give younger dancers?

Don’t be afraid to look stupid.

Miss Vanessa is the owner and director of The Pointe School of Dance. She has been sharing her passion for dance and mentorship with students for over 10 years. In addition to teaching at the studio, Vanessa has taught and choreographed for a variety of dance programs and performing groups throughout Iowa. Her choreography has won several “Best Choreography” and “Judges Choice” awards. She is the founder and director of The Pointe School of Dance. Vanessa is also the founder of The Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. In addition to her work at the studio, she is dedicated to improving the dance industry by serving as a Certified Coach for Youth Protection Association for Dance and More Than Just Great Dancing. Outside of her work, Vanessa lives with her husband, Dan, who is a band director at Linn-Mar High School and their son, Ray.

Vanessa Terrell

Miss Vanessa is the owner and director of The Pointe School of Dance. She has been sharing her passion for dance and mentorship with students for over 10 years. In addition to teaching at the studio, Vanessa has taught and choreographed for a variety of dance programs and performing groups throughout Iowa. Her choreography has won several “Best Choreography” and “Judges Choice” awards. She is the founder and director of The Pointe School of Dance. Vanessa is also the founder of The Pointe Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization. In addition to her work at the studio, she is dedicated to improving the dance industry by serving as a Certified Coach for Youth Protection Association for Dance and More Than Just Great Dancing. Outside of her work, Vanessa lives with her husband, Dan, who is a band director at Linn-Mar High School and their son, Ray.

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