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Meet the Team
Meet the talented team that drives the heart of Tiffany's Performing Arts Studio. With diverse backgrounds in dance and a shared passion for teaching, our instructors are dedicated to nurturing every dancer's potential. Scroll through to discover the unique expertise and vibrant personalities that make our studio a special place to grow and thrive.
Tiffany blansit
Owner/Team Director/Instructor
I'm Tiffany Blansit, the owner and director of our studio for the last 22 years. I trained and competed in all styles of dance growing up, but jazz will always be my favorite. I've had the pleasure of training many national champion dancers and winning routines over the years.
Jen hinshaw
Team Instructor
I’m Jen Hinshaw, a wife & mom of 4. I grew up dancing in the competition and convention circuit, as well as being cast in various ballet productions. I love teaching all styles of dance & all ages of kids! My passion is to facilitate growth in all areas: mind, body, and spirit!
abri effland
Ballet & Modern Instructor
I’m Abri Effland, a wife and mama of two. I have a BFA in Dance with an emphasis in ballet and modern. I understand the power of movement as an emotional release and potent form of communication; my heart is for my students to harness their own creative expressions in class.
sasha haynes
Instructor
I’m Sasha Haynes! I’m 16 years old and have been dancing for 12 years. Throughout that time, I’ve trained in many different styles and I’m especially excited to share my love for tap. Dance has introduced me to so many amazing people and has truly shown me the power of community. That’s why I’m really looking forward to this year’s theme: UNITY!
audrey bennett
Ballet Instructor
I’m Audrey Bennett! I am 20 years old and attend school at Missouri State University. I was raised locally in Springfield, Missouri and began learning various styles at the age of 9, primarily training in ballet. I love to come alongside dancers to foster growth both as people and as dancers!
Taryn Nidey
Tumbling & Acro Instructor
I’m Taryn Nidey, an instructor from Southern Illinois! Since I was 16, I’ve been teaching tumbling, a passion that began with me flipping on my bed and reading books about gymnastics. What started as a personal fascination lead to coaching and now I get to share my love with aspiring tumblers.
clara Burdick
Ballet Instructor
I’m Clara Burdick, an 18-year-old student at Missouri State University. I grew up in Overland Park, Kansas, where I danced competitively for most of my life and discovered my love for dance team. Now I have the opportunity to continue that passion as a member of the Missouri State Sugar Bears. At Missouri State, I’m majoring in Secondary Education – Mathematics and minoring in Religious Studies. Teaching is something I truly love, and I’m so excited for this new year at Tiffany’s!
sophia kirar
Instructor
I’m Sophia Kirar! I began dancing at the age of 4 and have been blessed to train under Tiffany and TPAS since I was 9. Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive a National title as well as the titles of True Performer and con10der for multiple years. While I enjoy all genres of dance, my heart is especially in contemporary and jazz. I look forward to helping nurture dancers, strengthening their technique, and passing on the strong foundations of TPAS. My goal is to further my dance career at the collegiate level or in the NFL.
allison meier
Rec Instructor
I’m Allison Meier, a dancer, choreographer, teacher, and LMT from the Kansas City area. After completing a BFA in dance, l pursued and passed the MBLEx to advance my passion for helping one find a better balanced mind-body connection. I value empowering others through education and love bringing artistic visions to fruition!
madelyn spell
Instructor
My name is Madelyn Spell and I’m a senior at the studio! This is my fourth year here, and I’m so excited to spend my final season not only dancing, but also joining the staff to teach and help other dancers grow in their craft. My dream is to pursue dance in New York City and one day become a Radio City Rockette. I’m grateful for everything this studio has given me and can’t wait to make the most of this year!
audri moses
Instructor
I'm Audri Moses, a seasoned performer fresh from the entertainment scene in Branson, MO! I have appeared in a variety of productions, including Silver Dollar Saloon, Yakov, MJ: The Illusion, and several other featured shows. In addition to performing, I coach and dance with the Ozarks Lunkers Lady Lures dance team. With over a decade of dance experience and six years of teaching in the Springfield area, I am beyond excited for this upcoming season!
delaney whatley
Instructor
My name Delaney Whatley! I am 17 years old and I have been dancing at Tiffany’s Performing Arts Studio for 4 years. I have developed an immense love for contemporary dance ever since I began my training at TPAS. My goal is to share my passion, care and vulnerability for the art of dance with each and every student who I get the opportunity to work with.
shannon curry
Office Administrator
I'm Shannon Curry; part front desk wizard, part costume mastermind — I’m the friendly face you see first and the messy bun behind the scenes. I help keep the front desk running smoothly and the costumes sparkling. Organized, imaginative, and fueled by coffee and glitter, I’m here to make every day a little more fabulous!
christy phillips
Office Administrator
I'm Christy Phillips, one of the TPAS office managers. I'm a proud mama and have been a teacher in the Republic community for the past 12 years. I'm one of the friendly faces behind the desk who keeps things running smoothly! I love connecting with our dancers and their families, making sure everyone feels welcome, supported, and part of our studio family. Whether organizing behind the scenes or sharing a smile in the lobby, I'm here to help make each day a little brighter.