|
Hot Links |
The Elite FacultyDamian Kush Jr.
Damian Kush began his dance career when he was 7 years old. In the beginning stages of Damian’s training he attended a local dance school, Point Park College summer program (on full scholarship), PBT Jazz Program and gymnastics. Damian decided that it was time to further his dance training when he reached the age of 11. Damian’s love for dance brought him under the training of Tawnie Lawrence and Mark Marino. (Owners of Dance USA Competition and American Dance Company) Damian trained at Marie Lynn Superstars, MTM Dance Studio and The Starstruck Dance Company for 8 years (where Damian also held his first teaching job). He became a fierce competitor at the regional and national levels. Damian is the former recipient of titles to include: Mr. Showbiz, Mr. International Dance, Mr. Starpower, Mr. Kids Artistic Review, Mr. Headliners, and Mr. StarQuest. Damian was the 1st overall solo winner for three consecutive years at the Showstopper Talent Competition that airs on television. Damian performed at the Gene Kelly Awards in 1999 at the Benedum Center for his outstanding tap role as “Andy Lee” with Gargero Productions. At the age of 19, while at Duquesne University, Damian tried out for the principal male dance positions at Paramount King Island and Busch Gardens. Damian won the job, but had to decline it in order to enroll in a dance college. His true dream was to open his own dance studio. Damian was awarded a scholarship into the dance program at LaRoche College. Gerard Holt and Lana Novodrien trained Damian for 5 years in Performing Arts / Classical Ballet. While a student at La Roche, Damian held Principal Male Leads in “Giselle”, “La Bayadere”, “The Nutcracker”, “Swan Lake”, and “Eve”. He choreographed works for several Choreographer Series while in college. Damian performed with the Buffalo City Ballet Company under the direction of Marvin Askew while at the college. In 2001, Damian was sought out by Cindy Stein, owner and director of 42nd Street Studio/Disney Dancers to purchase her existing studio. Damian opened Elite Dance by Damian and began the competitive dance company that is now one of the most prestigious and respected dance groups in the state. After extensive testing, Damian was admitted into Dance Educators of America with honors in 2003. Damian also graduated as an honors student at LaRoche College in December 2004 with a B.A. in Performing Arts/Classical Ballet and Business Management. Maria Caruso, the owner and director of Bodiography Contemporary Ballet Company, offered Damian a lead role in the company in 2004. She was directing a contemporary ballet show with famed ABT director, Johann Renvall and asked Damian to perform in the show. Damian began the show, but with much regret was unable to finish due to a conflict with his Elite team schedule. Damian has received choreography awards regionally and nationally at Footloose Talent Competition, StarQuest Talent Co., Nexstar Talent Competition, International Dance Challenge, Rising Star Talent, Hall of Fame Dance Challenge, Showstoppers, United States Tournament of Dance, Dance Educators of America, Encore Talent Presentations, and NYCDA to name a few. Damian is the recipient of the highest scoring adult solo award at Rising Star Talent Productions National event for his lyrical works to “I Can Only Imagine”. In April of 2006, Damian performed at the Pittsburgh Byham Theatre in “An Evening of Ballet”. Damian held the principal male lead in the show. The show was a sell out and received fantastic reviews from the Pittsburgh dance community! Damian auditioned for “Let’s Dance Pittsburgh” in August 2006 at the Sheraton Station Square. He was chosen to go to the final round after several hours of fierce competition from the best competitors in the state. Judges of this event included the winner of “Dancing With The Stars” Cheryl Burke, Radio Jockey- Jonny Hartwell, and Super Bowl pro Franco Harris. The event was hosted by Susie Castillo who is the host of MTV’s TRL. Cheryl Burke referred to Damian as “the best technical dancer of the evening” and Jonny referred to Damian as “the best dance of the night.” Damian was able to get two full 10’s and a 9.4! He placed third in the final round. In April 2007 Damian auditioned in Atlanta, Georgia for “SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE” a Fox Network television program. Damian received 3 “Yes” votes on his solo from judges Nigel Lythgoe, Mary Murphy and Shane Sparks. Damian was told “You will have a long, successful career” by Shane Sparks and was told that his tricks were so different than other contemporary dancers. He even got Mary’s famous giddy laugh! Damian is a rare talent whom excels in ballet, tap, acrobatics, jazz, musical theatre, hip hop, modern and lyrical dance styles. He travels across the country taking renowned teacher seminars and advancing his own repertoire. Damian is one of the only winning competition team directors that is also an advanced ballet instructor! He is the embodiment of the perfect teacher and dancer. His connections in the dance world help all of his students to advance. The most important part of Damian’s life is his wife and 2 little boys, Nicholas 6 years and Nathan 2 years old. His passion for family, work and God drive him to reach his goals and achieve excellence! Jamie Atkinson
Tina Kay
Amy ButteriAmy is a certified personal trainer and acrobatics instructor. Amy teaches dancers healthy eating habits, fitness regiments, acrobatics and flexibility exercises. Amy has been profiled by WTAE News for her outstanding success stories and reputation as the best in her field. Amy is certified to teach fitness, contortion, health and gymnastics. Amy has her CPR Certification. She is a fantastic motivational leader for young clients. Amy is a well known teacher in Pittsburgh and continues her education by seminars and workshops. She believes that a teacher's education should never stop! Calen KurkaElite's Main Master Guest Teacher/Choreographer from NYC
As an instructor Calen has taught across Canada, the U.S. and Japan, and more recently in Ireland at Dublin's Dance Jam '07. He is currently instructing for Dance Masters of America as one of their Master Faculty, and is also on faculty with Dance Educators of America. His choreography has been recognized as outstanding at many competitions throughout the U.S. and Canada, and has been the recipient of many awards. In addition to teaching in and around New York he's also assistant to choreographer, director, instructor, Michele Assaf. Calen's performing credits include being an original member of the first national tour of Jeff Amsden's widely acclaimed "A Few Good Men Dancin'," and performing with recording artist Carmella in a tribute concert to Cher. He's also worked closely with choreographer/instructor Chris Hale. As a featured performer, Calen's stage credits include having spent a year on contract with Tokyo Disney as a Main Stage performer, and taking on such leading roles as Capt. Von Trapp in "The Sound of Music" and Seymour in "Little Shop of Horrors" in regional stage productions. In addition he can be seen in "The Live! at Broadway Dance Center" video series "Turns and Turn Combos," dancing with choreographer Danny Herman, and "Floor Work with Calen Kurka and Chris Hale": A new addition to the "Live at BDC" collection. As founder and Artistic Director of :pushing progress a company, Calen hopes to continue his journey as an artist, instructor and choreographer. He wishes to inspire, and be continually inspired by those who so honestly give of their talent and themselves. He continues, with his company, to create work pushing new movement, strong technique, honesty, emotional commitment, and growth. It is an evolutionary journey with no boundaries, no limits, no ends. Matt Saffron (Tap Dog)Guest Master Tap Teacher/Choreographer
Elite MissionElite Dance by Damian Inc. is in operation to provide students with the highest quality dance education possible. Elite Dance is geared towards students who are training for recreational purposes as well as to students that wish to use the studio as training for a professional career in the dance field. Elite Dance by Damian believes that every child should be given the opportunity to advance and learn in a positive environment under the direction of educated professionals. “I don’t want people who want to dance , I want people who have to dance.” George Balanchine Class CurriculumElite Dance offers classes in all areas of dance technique for all ages and levels. Classes are first designated by age, but we do take the ability level into consideration when placing students. Students will be moved to a lower or higher level by the discretion of the instructor if need be. The following are descriptions of classes offered!Creative Movement - This class is designed for beginning dancers ages 2 ½ to 4 years old. Through creativity and imagination, the beginner dancer receives an introduction to the basics in ballet, tap, and acro/tumbling. Ballet Technique - This class focuses on the terminology, discipline, and foundation of classical ballet technique. Ballet is offered at various levels for beginner through advanced dancers. Ballet is This class will consist of structured barre exercises to learn posture, alignment, and balance. Center work includes adagio, petite allegro, across the floor, and grande allegro. Dancers will learn to turn, jump, and leap with emphasis on strength and control. Ballet is the single MOST IMPORTANT of all dance forms in order to establish a proficient technical dancer. Dancers who have a strong ballet background will be versatile in all dance forms and styles.
Jazz Technique - This class is offered for beginner through advanced level dancers. Jazz technique incorporates various turns, jumps, and leaps that give the dancer a variety of skills that can be utilized in many jazz styles. Through choreography and combinations the student will gain a knowledge of different styles and forms of jazz technique. Warm up preparation focuses on stretching, flexibility, conditioning, and toning of the body. Progressions across the floor and combinations are the premise of jazz technique. Performance skills and stage presence are important aspects that will be incorporated into the class.
Acro/Tumbling - This class is strongly encouraged for gaining flexibility, strength, and endurance. Warm up consists of core work, strength and toning exercises, and cardiovascular stamina. The acrobatics portion of the class touches on basic contortion to gain flexibility. The chore of the class focuses on tumbling. Beginners learn basic gymnastics skills that are further developed as they advance. Gymnastics is based on a system of progressions. Once students master a skill they will then move on to more difficult level of tumbling.
Hip Hop - Hip Hop is a fun and high energy form of dance that requires no formal dance training. Students will learn a variety of hip hop styles through choreography and combinations. East Coast, West Coast, Street, Pop, Krump, and Funk are just a few of the different styles of hip hop that the dancers will explore in this class. Hip Hop helps to develop coordination and rhythm for any level of dancer. It is s freestyle form of dance that is not based on a codified system like most other dance forms.
LevelsRecreationalRecreational level classes are first determined by age. Students will be evaluated during the first month of the dance year. If the instructor feels the student needs to be moved up or down a level, the parents will be notified. Creative Movement - Ages 2½-4 Level 1 (Combo) - Ages 4-6 Level 2 - Ages 7-9 Level 3 - Ages 10-12 Level 4 - Ages 13 and up (See Class Schedules for detailed list of classes offered, days, and times) CompetitiveCompetitive Level technique classes are determined by an evaluation audition. All current and prospective new competitive students MUST audition for placement each year. Class levels are separated by age, but students may be moved at the discretion of the instructors. Technique placement is separate from competitive group selections. Tiny Tots - Ages 3-4 Mini - Ages 5-7 Petite - Ages 7-9 Junior - Ages 10-13 Pre-Teen - Ages 11-13 Teen/Senior - Ages 13 and up (See Class Schedule for detailed list of classes offered, days, and times) Private LessonsPrivate Lessons are available upon request. A competitive level student can learn choreography for competition to compete a solo during their private lesson. Recreational students can either focus on technique during their private or learn a solo for recital. Private slots open at 2pm daily.
Registration FormDownload the 2007-2008 Fall Registration Form
PoliciesAll policies subject to change at any time without notice. Studio Rules
Parent & Student EndorsementsMr. Damian Kush Jr. is an Alumnus of the La Roche College Dance Department and was a student of mine of whom I am proud to say was a very hard working and conscientious student, as well as a very dedicated performer. Damian not only exhibited talent and strength as a versatile performer, but also exceptional talent and insight as a teacher, choreographer and coach. My staff and I are very proud of the accomplishments of Damian.
Gerard W. Holt Dancing at Elite Dance By Damian has made such a positive impact on my life. It has allowed me to meet so many friends from all over the Pittsburgh Area and develop lasting friendships. I know when I come to dance I will continue to be challenged and learn new skills. The teachers at Elite Dance always give everyone the opportunity to learn and push everyone to do their personal best! Rachel Butteri I just wanted to "thank you" for being such a good role model for me! Not only are you an awesome dancer and teacher, but you teach me how to be a gentleman when we are at competition. I almost quit dance last year, until I met you that is. Thank you for showing me that a boy doing dance is a gift and not weird. I love you Dame. Josef Hartman Elite Dance is the best place to learn and dance in the world! The teachers care about you and help you get tricks, learn technique and do a good job at competitions. They teach you to have a good attitude. The dancers are nice to each other and we care about each other and have a lot of fun together! EDBD....YOU KNOW!! Alyssa Rein Our family loves Elite Dance! We feel blessed to be a part of such a wonderful group of children, parents and teachers. Elite Dance delivers excellent dance instruction while instilling strong values in our children. The friendship and support that the children share with one another is a direct result of the example Damian, Tina, Jamie and Amy set for them. I enjoy the time shared with the other Elite parents. Thank you Damian, for making us Elite! Amy Rein Elite Dance by Damian is a dance school for children and teens who want to excel in the dance field. Whether just starting out as a beginner or as an advanced dancer, Elite can guide each student to achieve their dance goals. The beauty of Elite is that there is a balance between taking classes to enjoy or, for the serious dancer, a more intense program that helps a dancer advance into the professional level. The teachers are supportive and well trained and continually educate themselves to keep up with today's dance world. Rosemary O'Neill "Damian Kush and Tina Kay are 2 of the most creative and diverse choreographers in the area. Their training and skills will per-fect your young dancers technical execution in all areas of dance. Technical perfection mixed with the most current and cutting edge choreography is what sets Elite Dance by Damian apart from all the others." Jen Sebes As a parent, in life, I want my daughter to be confident, be determined, be surrounded by great friends, be a mentor to others, and most importantly have fun and laugh; Elite Dance by Damian provides an atmosphere for all those things. Our experience with this dance studio far exceeds our goals. Damian is a world class teacher and choreographer. Those attributes are very important, but in my book, it's the other qualities that set him apart. Damian is man of integrity. He treats the students fairly and with respect. He applauds their accomplishments and doesn't demean a student or set them a part if they struggle. The studio is a family, a team....we may be competitive, but, it is truly in a healthy, balanced way. Our children have enough pressures in life, dance is meant to be fun.....Damian accomplishes that goal. Janice Owens FacilityConveniently located in the heart of Cranberry with shopping and restaurants in walking distance. Nearby Shopping & RestaurantsSuper Wal-Mart, Toys R' Us, Best Buy, Barnes & Noble,
Dicks, State of the Art Facility
|
||||||
|
|
Jamie is a fresh, young choreographer who brings new
styles of hip hop to the Elite. She is known for working in
west coast, east coast, stepping, krump and street hip hop
styles. Jamie has choreographed for several cheer
organizations and was the captain of LaRoche College's dance
team. Jamie has also worked with the Slippery Rock
University dance team. She is a technically trained dancer
in various styles of dance but especially enjoys hip hop,
tap and jazz. Jamie judged the Seneca Valley dance team
auditions and is working with that organization this year.
Jamie has worked at many studios and travels to attend
conventions and audition opportunity.
Raised
in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada, Calen Kurka
started his training in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Musical Theatre,
Modern, and Chinese Dance. He then later moved to Edmonton,
Alberta, furthering his training competitively.
Matt
Saffron is a Native of Morgantown, WV and has been dancing
since the age of six. He has had extensive training in tap,
jazz, ballet, and hip-hop. He won world honors as a member
of the 2000 USA Tap Dance Team, as well as individually.
Matt has been the feature dancer and dance captain in the
stage productions of Guy and Dolls, Will Rogers Follies,
Oklahoma, 42nd Street, Mame, Beauty and the Beast,
Thoroughly Modern Millie and A Chorus Line. Matt had the
pleasure of touring with the 10th Anniversary Tap Dogs 2006
as a dancer and musician. Recently, in Montreal, he
performed as an original member of Tap' d Out in their
premier show. He has been an instructor for the past 7
years.
Home Prospective New Students Elite Students Class Schedule Summer Intensive
Elite Competitive Company Why We Are “The Elite” Photo Gallery Articles Contact Us
|