meet our teachers
Madison Shelley brings over 23 years of teaching experience to the dance floor, having trained and inspired dancers at a local studio across a wide range of styles including ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, acrobatics, musical theatre, and hip hop. A seasoned performer herself, Madison has appeared on stages throughout the Kansas City area, including renowned venues such as The Theatre in the Park and Starlight Theatre.
Her award-winning choreography has been recognized at both regional and national dance competitions, and she has also created dynamic pieces for theatrical productions at The Theatre in the Park. Madison is also an experienced judge for local dance team competitions and is known for her eye for performance quality and technique.
For the past three years, Madison has successfully led a thriving dance program in the Blue Valley area, where she serves as the coordinator for the recreation program and director of the competitive dance team. Madison has developed and implemented a comprehensive dance curriculum for dancers ranging from age 2 through adult, ensuring that each age group receives thoughtful, level-appropriate instruction that supports growth and passion at every stage. She continually sharpens her craft by attending national dance teacher trainings, ensuring her instruction stays fresh, effective, and inspiring.
Madison is passionate about creating a fun, supportive, and loving environment where dancers not only grow in skill but also fall in love with the art form. She is excited to open a brand-new studio in Shawnee, Kansas with her sisters, a community she has proudly called home for over 30 years. Her goal is to build a lasting dance legacy, one dancer at a time.
Madison shelley
studio owner
With over 13 years of teaching experience, Holland is a passionate and accomplished dance educator known for inspiring dancers of all ages and skill levels. Trained in tap, ballet, jazz, and acrobatics, Holland has choreographed award-winning routines for regional competitions and local performances, and has helped students achieve success in elite dance programs, scholarships, and professional performance opportunities.
In addition to her dance career, Holland has two years of experience directing and organizing a children’s program at her church, where she also planned events and coordinated community functions—further showcasing her leadership, creativity, and ability to connect with families and young performers.
Helping students reach their personal goals—whether mastering a new skill, gaining confidence, or preparing for performance—is at the heart of Holland’s teaching philosophy. By combining strong technique, creativity, and encouragement, Holland fosters a positive and disciplined environment where every dancer can thrive and grow in their love for dance.
holland baker
dance instructor
Pandia brings over 26 years of dedicated experience in dance instruction to Legacy PAC, infusing the studio with her wealth of knowledge and passion. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, she combines her academic foundation with her love of dance, creating a welcoming and engaging environment for students of all ages and skill levels.
Trained in a wide array of styles including ballet, tap, jazz, modern, musical theater, and acrobatics Pandia has performed at various venues throughout the city and has received accolades for both her performances and choreography.
For the past six years, she has served as the acrobatics program director at a local dance studio. Focused on safety, skill progression, and confidence-building methods, her students have experienced remarkable growth. Pandia is dedicated to nurturing a love of dance and fostering a growth mindset in her students. Looking ahead, she aims to become a certified acrobatics instructor through the Acrobatic Arts program.
PANDIA GRAVES
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Cameo’s passion for the performing arts began at just 3 years old, when she first stepped into a dance studio. Over the years, she trained extensively in tap, jazz, ballet, acrobatics, musical theatre, and hip hop, developing a versatile and dynamic style. Her love for performance naturally extended into music as well, Cameo has received extensive vocal training and is a frequent performer at local venues on weekends.
As she progressed in her training, Cameo earned multiple scholarships to prestigious summer intensives, allowing her to deepen her technique and broaden her experience alongside other dedicated dancers. She grew up not only as a student but also as a mentor, teaching at the very studio where her journey began. There, she discovered her passion for working with young dancers and helping them grow both artistically and personally.
After taking a brief hiatus from the dance world, Cameo is thrilled to return this time with even more to offer. She is proud to be joining the team at Legacy Performing Arts Center, where she will not only return to the classroom as an instructor, but also take on the role of Studio Manager. With a strong background in administration and a deep understanding of studio operations, Cameo brings both artistic passion and organizational expertise to her new position.
Her goal is to help create an environment where students, families, and staff feel supported, inspired, and at home. Cameo is excited to bring her energy, experience, and love for the performing arts to Legacy and looks forward to this bright new chapter in her dance journey.
cameo penichet
Studio Manager / Dance Instructor
Ciara has been in the world of dance for over 25 years, and her passion for the art form continues to grow with each passing year. Her training spans multiple styles including tap, jazz, ballet, and acrobatics giving her a well-rounded foundation and a versatile teaching approach.
Over the past 10 years, Ciara has dedicated herself to teaching students of all ages and skill levels, helping them build strong technique, confidence, and a deep appreciation for dance.
In addition to studio teaching, Ciara served as a dance team coach at a local high school for five years. There, she not only choreographed routines but also mentored young dancers, fostering discipline, teamwork, and creativity. Her teaching style combines strong technique with a supportive, fun atmosphere that encourages students to thrive.
Outside the studio, Ciara has built a strong foundation in administrative work, which now plays a key role in her position as Studio Manager at Legacy Performing Arts Center. She is thrilled to combine her organizational and leadership skills with her passion for dance, and is excited to see where this new chapter will take her. Ciara looks forward to continuing to grow both professionally and artistically with the Legacy Performing Arts Center community.
CIARA walahoski
Studio Manager / Dance Instructor
Ainsley Davis is a first-year student at Johnson County Community College, where she continues to pursue her passion for dance as a member of the nationally recognized JCCC dance team. With over 16 years of dance experience, Ainsley discovered her love for Hip Hop while performing on her high school dance team. Her dedication and talent have earned her multiple awards, including “Best Hip Hop Technique” two years in a row, and even becoming a national champion this summer.
Ainsley began her teaching journey at her home studio, Johnson County Dance Center, and is excited to return to teaching and inspire the next generation of dancers. She brings energy, precision, and a deep love for the art of dance to every class she leads.
ainsley davis
dance instructor
Morgan Grote Paulno is ecstatic to be joining the faculty at Legacy Performing Arts, bringing a love for both music and performance and a commitment to nurturing the arts in the next generation.
Morgan graduated from Kansas State with a degree in Vocal Performance and Theatre. She studied classical music under Dr. Patricia Thompson, participated in Collegiate Choirs, as well as Musical Theater and Opera productions.
Since graduating, she has been teaching Voice as well as Music Directing, as well as Musical Theatre, Acting, Acrobats, and Group Voice classes.
Her favorite part of teaching voice is witnessing her students’ personal growth lesson by lesson and to get to see the lightbulb moments happen! She incorporates music theory, aural skills training, and teaches proper diaphragmatic breath support during her lessons.
When Morgan isn’t teaching, she is either leading worship at her church, writing her own music, or spending quality time with her husband. She has several of her own songs out and has hopes to release an album by the end of the year. Morgan also enjoys gigging with a local Kansas-City Band.
She is thrilled to join the team!
