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2025 Fall Classes Open Monday, July 28th!
About Us
Located in Rhinelander, WI, our studio was founded in 1998 by the passionate and dedicated Karen Cook. With over two decades of experience, we take pride in teaching proper dance technique while ensuring that our students have a fun and enriching experience.
At our studio, we offer a wide range of dance styles to explore, including ballet, pointe, lyrical, tap, jazz, and hip-hop. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to expand their dance repertoire, we have something for everyone. Our class ages range from age 3 - 18! We encourage our students to try new styles and discover their unique interests and talents.
Our philosophy is centered on the joy of dance and the development of skills that last a lifetime. We hold two recitals each year, providing our dancers with the opportunity to showcase their progress and hard work. For those who are looking for even more, we have a competition team that allows dancers to challenge themselves and compete at higher levels.
We are committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every child can thrive. Join us and become a part of our dance family. Discover the love of dance with us!
Our Staff
Artistic Director, Owner & Instructor:
Karen Cook
Graduate of UW-Stevens Point with a degree in Speech Pathology and a minor in Dance. Has studied and taught dance for over 25 years. Studied ballet at the Makaroff School in Appleton. Studied and taught ballet and jazz in Appleton and Germany. Member of Dance Masters WI and Chicago National Association of Dance Masters.
Assistant Directors & Instructors:
Tanya Taylor
Graduate of Northern Michigan University, MI with a teaching degree in Elementary Education and MAE in Learning Disabilities. Has studied dance since the age of three starting with Karen Cook and also trained and performed as a company member of Allegro Dance Theater. Has been teaching for NWSD since 2013 and assisting for many more.
Jessie Phelps
Graduate of Nicolet College with a focus in psychology and business/marketing. Started studying ballet at the age of 3 and danced at NWSD for 16 years prior to transitioning to the role of instructor in 2015. In addition to ballet, started training in hip hop and jazz through her 4 years on the Rhinelander High School Dance Team and earned 2 National titles and many other awards for dance. Directs NWSD’s Competition Program and has lead the team to countless wins and overall placements, earning choreography awards and recognition numerous times over the past decade. Currently teaching competitive pieces, ballet/pointe, lyrical, and hip hop classes for all ages.
NWSD Teachers:
Taylor Pitlik
Was a student at Northwoods School of Dance for 15 years, beginning lessons at age 3. During her time at NWSD Taylor trained in ballet, tap, and jazz. She also participated in local musical theater productions where she gained choreography and teaching experience as a student assistant. While in college, she taught ballet for a local community program. She is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering.
Miriah Mannikko
Graduate of UW-Stevens Point with a teaching degree in Elementary and Exceptional Education. Has studied dance with Karen Cook as part of NWSD and was a member of the RHS Dance Team. Debuted as an assistant NWSD teacher in the 2012-13 school year.
Katelyn Shrock
Was a student at Northwoods School of Dance for 15 years, starting lessons at the age of three. She has studied dance at the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters, Wausau Academy of Dance, and Tap Into The Network. She was also a student dancer for a local performance of “An American In Paris” with the St. Paul Ballet Company. She has had six years of competitive dance experience as a dancer and experience as a choreographer. She has been teaching for Northwoods School of Dance since 2022.
Melissa Mishler
Will be teaching pre-ballet and pre-tap this fall. Melissa danced ballet with NWSD for 15 years, from the age of 3 until the age of 18. She has three beautiful children, two of which are current dancers at NWSD. As a dance alumni and a dance mom, she feels extremely fortunate to add dance teacher to her resume as well. Melissa is very excited to reconnect with her dancing roots and become part of the NWSD family once again!
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