FOUNDER

Anika is delighted to be the founder and director of The Dance Atelier. Anika is from Sydney, Australia where she studied full-time ballet at The Conlan College of Classical Ballet under world class teachers. Upon graduating, Anika received her first professional job from the very first audition she attended, to be a classical dancer in Universal Studios Japan's “Triwizard Spirit Rally.” Her professional credits after this include ensemble dancer in Tokyo Disneyland’s “One Man’s Dream ii”, Head Dancer on MSC Cruises, Choreographer and Dancer for Elevate Performance Company and dancing in multiple variety shows with Brad and Jenny Moranz of Moranz Entertainment.

Anika has always had a passion for teaching dance to children. She believes in creating a nurturing environment that encourages everyone to be the best version of themselves. Anika emphasizes learning correct technique from your very first class, to ensure a long and healthy dance journey.

Anika is an ABT® Certified Teacher, who has successfully completed the ABT® Teacher Training Intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 3 of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. Anika is also a certified Progressing Ballet Technique instructor.

Anika is proud to present her classical ballet students for formal ballet examinations through the American Ballet Theatre.

Anika loves being able to be a part of all her students’ childhoods and to see them flourish both in and out of the studio.

TUMBLING

Born and Raised in South Carolina, Tori has spent her entire life within the world of Dance and Gymnastics. She grew up competing in both, until she made the decision to pursue dance professionally at the age of 18. 

Tori moved to LA in order to focus on Jazz, Heels, Acro, and Hip-hop. Quickly becoming a represented dancer of Go2Talent Agency, she found work dancing behind multiple artists across the US, Mexico and China. After experiencing the industry in LA, she wanted to embrace the travel aspect of her work and joined Princess Cruises. She began a near decade of dancing in shows under the direction of Steven Schwartz, Danny Teeson, Liz Imperio, and Eden Shabanti.  

During the pandemic, she moved home and began performing with different entertainment companies throughout Charleston. She began coaching gymnastics and movement to athletes between the ages of 3 and 18 years old and she fell in love with teaching. Over the past 3 years she has continued growing within this new passion.

Tori is excited to bring her knowledge and enthusiasm to The Dance Atelier. She cannot wait to coach the next generation of performers!

TEEN LYRICAL & JAZZ

Born and raised in North Carolina, Audrey Lanning discovered her passion for dance at the young age of three. By the time she was seven, she had embarked on a competitive dance journey that spanned over a decade, training extensively in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, lyrical, hip hop, and tumble at Lake Norman Dance Gallery.

In 2015, Audrey moved to Charleston, South Carolina, to pursue a double major in Business and Dance at the College of Charleston. Throughout her time at the university, she was an integral part of various performances, both as a choreographer and performer.

In 2018, Audrey had the opportunity to collaborate with Annex Dance Company, performing in Origin at the prestigious Piccolo Spoleto Festival, showcasing her versatility in modern dance.

Beyond performance, Audrey has a strong passion for choreography, creating original works for both collegiate productions and competitive dancers at Anne Marie’s Academy of Dance. Her work was recognized at the League of Champions regional competition, where she received the Choreography Award.

Her dedication and excellence in dance earned her multiple accolades, including the Dean’s Excellence Award, Recognizing distinguished performance in Theatre and Dance and the School of the Arts Scholar, honoring top graduates for scholastic excellence in Theatre and Dance

Since graduating, Audrey has been actively involved in Charleston's business world while staying connected to the dance community. She is also a Certified Yoga Instructor (RYT 200), further expanding her movement and body awareness expertise.

Audrey’s lifelong commitment to dance, choreography, and artistic expression continues to shape her journey, inspiring those around her through both movement and mentorship. Audrey is excited to share her knowledge with the students ofThe Dance Atelier.

HIP HOP

Victoria Hales specializes in teaching hip hop and is passionate about inspiring young dancers through movement, creativity, and confidence.

She began dancing at the age of 3 at Burlington Dance Academy before starting her competitive training at The Dance Shop in Archdale, North Carolina, at age 6. By 11, Victoria was assisting classes, and by 18, she was choreographing routines for students, laying the foundation for her passion for teaching.

Victoria continued her dance career at Coastal Carolina University, where she performed as a member of the NCAA Division I Chanticleer Dance Team. Since then, she has taught and choreographed at studios across North and South Carolina, working with dancers ages 5–18. She also completed a six-month performance contract in Boston as a princess performer, bringing beloved characters including Elsa, Ariel, Cinderella, and Rapunzel to life through singing, dancing, and interactive performances. She currently serves as a Stage Manager for One Beat Dance Brands, working events for Breakout, Groove, BTS, and Reverb Dance Competitions.

Victoria moved to Charleston in January 2023 and is excited to continue sharing her love of dance with the Charleston community. She strives to create a positive, encouraging environment where dancers build confidence, develop strong technique, and have fun while fostering a lifelong love for dance.