Meet Dee
Dee Okoth (Often referred to as: Miss Dee, Miss D, Miss DeeDee, Mrs. O) is the founder and head Instructor of Rise Up Dance Community. Learning dance from a young age and dancing throughout many dance studios in advanced competition teams- her career in teaching began with working at a Non Profit after- school program for African Refugee students, teaching Hip Hop. She greatly enjoys watching her students build confidence within themselves, and helping them find the style and level of dance that makes them happy. Being a Dance Instructor for the past seven years in the Worcester and Greater Boston areas - in May 2021 she officially decided it was time to establish the ideal studio. Having years of experience with multiple dance studios, dance programs, and after schools programs- she has experienced the ins and outs - the pros the cons - and everything in between. Believing the average dance studio is overdue for a change- Dee has implemented these key points into RUDC. Adding Culture and History into her teachings, a community based atmosphere where all ages and levels feel welcome, and the strive to make RUDC the place where everyone has the opportunity to dance. Dee has also traveled globally - Uganda, Morocco, Ghana, and Haiti to name a few, spreading her love of dance as far and wide as she can. To learn even more, send us a message!
Meet Dennis
Mr. Dennis is a big help behind the scenes of RUDC. With everything from advertising, to popping into our Tuesday Hip Hop class for a game, or being Santa at our Winter Showcase.. he can do it all. Originally from Nairobi Kenya, Dennis has lived in Massachusetts for many years as a Tennis Coach. Did you know? Mr. Dennis and Miss Dee got married in 2020!
Meet Khadija
Miss Khadija is one of our Assistant Teachers. Khadija is a Highschool student currently in her Senior year. She loves working with children, and is excited to continue gaining experience in the dance studio working with some of our youngest dancers. Originally from Ethiopia, Khadija loves watching and learning all different dance styles from around the world. Khadija is full of love and positivity, and always makes class so much fun.
Meet Emily
Miss Emily is excited to be returning for Season 2, as our Saturday morning Tap/Ballet Assistant!
Emily is entering her Senior year of Highschool at FHS. She has a passion for dance, theatre, and making people feel comfortable with who they are. With over 10 years of dance experience in majority of dance styles- she plans to study Musical Theatre with a goal of opening her own Theatre Program for children. When not performing, you can find her playing with her dog, and hanging out with family and friends. Emily's goal is to continue to make our RUDC students feel they belong. You will love Emily's sweet personality and assisting skills! Did you know? She is the President of the Framingham Drama Company!
Meet Ashlyn
Ashlyn (they/them) is our Assistant on Tuesdays!
They have been dancing for 15 years, and are so excited to use everything they've learned, to help RUDC's students grow to be the best dancers they can be.
Ashlyn is currently studying at MCC, and is hoping to pursue a career in costume design. Catch Ashlyn at the Front Desk on Tuesday nights.
Ria is one of our Saturday Assistants! Ris is a Junior in Highschool, and has been dancing since she can remember.
As a child, she took Bollywood dance classes, and since has enjoyed learning other styles of dance. Ria made the High School Varsity Dance Team where she performed and competed last year. Now, she dances every chance she gets! Ria loves working with children, and hopes that every RUDC student can learn to share her love and passion for dancing. Motto: Keep on smiling.
Meet Ria
Meet Kim
Miss Kim is a part of the behind the scenes of the studio. Originally from Council Bluffs Iowa, she has lived in Massachusetts for the majority of her life. She enjoys spending time with her family and cat Zoey, crafting, and being a board member for a non profit organization helping those in need. Her favorite style of dance is Tap. You may catch Kim helping out with our Birthday Parties and other events at the studio!