Our Beginning

SW Dance AZ was founded in September 2023 to help

students grow their bravery and confidence through a love

of dance. We are dedicated to providing accessible and

affordable dance lessons to students throughout Arizona.

Our Philosophy

Dance is an expressive language, like any other art form, that has no boundaries. We’ve seen firsthand that dance has a remarkable ability to bring people together, transcending any differences and creating a sense of unity and belonging. At Southwest Dance AZ, we believe in the transformative power of dance and are truly dedicated to making the arts inclusive for every child, we like to call it - THE ART OF YOU!

We believe that dance is a true wonder because it celebrates differences and diversity. Regardless of background, culture, or ability, our studio provides a platform for self-expression and creativity. We embrace and celebrate the unique qualities of each child, fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and included.

Founder & Director

Trisha Shaffer-Stanneart

She started her first dance class when she was four years old. Her passion leaned towards competitive gymnastics. Previously a member of Dance Masters of Arizona, Trish has won many awards for both Regional, National and title dancers. She is an Arizona native and studied Law enforcement at GCC. Trish then became a Physical Education teacher. Her specialty is Acrobatics (flexibility) Jazz and Technique. Trish started her new path as a owner in 2023. Her emphasis on discipline and technique has changed the lives of many students.

Teachers

Aubrey Nicholson

Aubrey Nicholson has a passion for sharing her love of dance with others by teaching and choreographing. She graduated from Hussian College In Studio in Los Angeles, CA where she studied and received her BFA in commercial dance. All of this started at the age of three in Phoenix, Arizona. Training at Spisak Dance Academy, Tempe Dance Academy, and Royal Dance Works, Aubrey had the privilege of studying all types of dance including ballroom and acrobatics. Sunny Arizona and busy Los Angeles have provided her with the honor of working with Scott Fowler, John Corella, Liz Imperio, Albert Cattafi, Ambrose Respecio, Jason Coosner, Jonette Swider, DJ Marv, Jaci Royal. These people in the industry provided her with the encouragement to become a dance instructor and the ability to inspire her students to pursue their dreams.

Miss Morgan

Morgan Gatchell is a dance instructor with 19 years of dance experience under her belt and a dedication to helping students reach their full potential. Morgan began her dance journey at 2 years old and started competing at 7 years old. She has trained extensively in a variety of dance styles, including ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, tap, hip-hop, acro, and pom. She was captain of her pom team where they placed top 3 in the nation two years in a row and multiple regional level 1st place wins. Outside of teaching, Morgan attends Arizona State University where she is majoring in Speech and Hearing Sciences. She has been teaching for 4 years but began assistant teaching at just 12 years old! As a teacher, she aims to create an encouraging and inclusive learning environment where students of all ages and skill levels feel empowered and motivated to explore their creativity and express themselves through dance. Morgan looks forward to inspiring and mentoring the next generation of dancers!

Miss Harley

Harley is from Denver Colorado and has been dancing since she was three. She trained at Belliston Academy of Ballet completing multiple levels in Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and Ceccechtti. She also took classes in jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical and hiphop as well as danced competitively. Harley attended Broomfield High School and competed with their Varsity Pom team for her four years there winning two Hip Hop state championships. She began teaching dance at the age of 16 including tap, ballet, jazz and hiphop. After high school, she moved to Phoenix to attend Arizona State University to study Social Work. While in Phoenix she taught competitive dance for two years. She is so excited to be apart of the SWDAZ family.

Mrs. Kelsi

Kelsi Griffin is an Arizona native. Growing up in Arizona she began her dance journey at the young age of two. Kelsi has trained at Take Five Dance Academy and Spisak Dance Academy. Although she trained in all styles of dance, tap has been a favorite. After high school Kelsi had the opportunity to travel with a non profit company to promote keeping the arts in schools. Given that opportunity Kelsi traveled and taught students in Germany and Japan. After her travels Kelsi attended The University of Arizona where she received her Bachelors in Sociology. Shortly after graduating she made the move back to the valley and got back into teaching dance. In 2022 Kelsi got married to her best friend and they had their daughter in 2023. Kelsi is happy to continue to share her love of dance with the students.