The Dance Company’s owner Tiffany Michelle Runte has 39 years of dance experience. She danced for 21 years before becoming the Owner and Director of The Dance Company in Weslaco. She started her own business as a Sophomore in High School choreographing Quinceanera and Wedding routines. Tiffany was a member of the Weslaco Cheer team for 6 years. She received 2nd Place in a routine she choreographed for Hoctor Dance Caravan in Dallas, Texas where she also trained with Barry Youngblood. She attended International Modeling and Talent Association in Los Angeles, California and trained with Al Onorato HandPrint Entertainment, Jo Spiller of Upstage Center and Nikki Peterson of IMTA. Tiffany attended The University of Texas at Pan American majoring in Dance, while there she was a member of The Bronc Dance Team and Eternity Dance Troupe. She choreographed and directed dances for The City of Alamo, Mercedes and Weslaco Boys and Girls Club of America. She held a summer program to teach children the art of dancing. She was also an instructor at Champions Cheer and Dance and Melissa's Cheer and Dance Studio, where they received 1st Place at Regionals in San Antonio, Texas. Tiffany has choreographed dance routines for Weslaco East High School Starlettes as one of their Directors, which allowed them to receive many awards. She has had the opportunity to work with the  Weslaco High School Pacesetters, Nikki Rowe High School, Central Middle School where they received 1st at Regionals and 2nd at Nationals! She has also worked with Mercedes Little League Cheerleaders, Weslaco Little League Cheerleaders, Airport Elementary and Immanuel Lutheran School. She also choreographed dances for Med High and they attended a National Competition in Orlando, Florida and Tiffany had the opportunity to attend. Tiffany had the honor of working with Mercedes High School Debonnaires where they received 1st Place at Universal Dance Association with Tiffany's unique choreography. Tiffany has choreographed many routines for Tremaine Dance Competition, Pulse Tour and Conventions, American Drill Team and Dance Association and Showtime Dance Competitions, all her students have received many awards throughout the years. She was a Dancer for The Edinburg Coyotes Semi Professional Baseball Team, and she had a great experience with them getting to perform on top of the dug out and on the field. Tiffany attended a Dance Workshop featuring Dominic "D-Trix" Sandoval and Hokoto "Hok" Konishi from America's Best Dance Crew. She also trained with choreographers such as Mia Michaels, Chris Judd and Wade Robson from "So You Think You Can Dance". The Dance Company has hosted many workshops including Willy Shives from The Joffrey Ballet. Tiffany looks forward to continuing on working with the Miss Mercedes Pageant Organization choreographing the opening number routine for the contestants. She loves training students for auditions, whether it’s for cheer, dance or pageants. On her spare time she’s enjoys judging pageants , cheer and drill teams. Tiffany Runte is very blessed to work with students throughout The Rio Grande Valley. The Dance Company students have performed at many pageants, parades and events. She couldn't accomplish any of her goals without the help of students, parents, staff and her wonderful family. She can attest that dreams do come true and reminds her students to never give up on their passion for dancing and to trust in the Lord with all of their heart.

Co-Owner and Office Manager

Not only being an office manager for 25 years, Miss. Shirley has been side by side with Tiffany since the grand opening in 2008! Before this, Miss. Shirley graduated from Eves College of Hair Styling and worked at Mr. Leon’s Hair Salon for 4 years and later was a reporter and photographer for Frederick Daily Leader for 5 years. Shirley worked with Junior Service league and Girl Scouts of Weslaco as their President, Vice President and Treasurer! She's danced ballet, tap and was a twirler for 3 years! Miss. Shirley played the piano for 14 years and received a scholarship to The University of Kansas. She was also an active Cheer sponsor at WISD for 3 years. Miss. Shirley continues managing the office and providing a warm welcome to all the students and parents walking into the studio!

Nataly is TDC's '26-'27 Competition Team Director and one of our instructors and choreographers, specializing in Belly Dance, Flamenco, Folklórico, Worship Dance, and choreography for Quinceañeras, Sweet 16s, weddings, and special events. She has over 18 years of dance, teaching, and choreography experience. While training at The Dance Company since 2010, she attended a workshop with the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago and was one of only a select few dancers chosen by Peter Skylar to travel to New York for advanced training. Being part of the competition team herself, she was able to attend Tremaine Dance Convention in Forth Worth and was recognized by Tony Bellissimo. She competed a solo and group dances which brought back many awards. Recently, she was selected by Abby Lee Miller as a finalist during the casting process for the new season of Dance Moms. In addition to her extensive dance background and choreography in multiple genres, she has years of cheerleading experience, color guard/drill team experience where she lead as Captain and founded/directed a Worship Dance Ministry for three years. Through this ministry, she had the opportunity to perform alongside nationally recognized recording artists at concerts and special events. She also successfully founded a dance team and color guard program from the ground up at her alma mater. In her program's very first year, she led the team to a 1st Place Regional Championship at their first-ever dance competition, making school history! The following season, the team under her direction earned their first-ever Division I Rating at the ShowMakers of America Coastal Bend Competition and later went on to be named the 2026 FAME Dance National Champions. She has also been a judge for cheer tryouts, drill team tryouts and officer tryouts. In addition, Nataly also choreographs and instructs cheer camps for school districts and recreational cheer organizations throughout the RGV. She absolutely loves teaching, assisting Miss Tiffany, and choreographing for TDC, which is her second home and the place that helped shape her into the person she is today. 

Ney’D Zavala is the Competition Director at The Dance Company and has been dancing for 18 years. A member of The Dance Company Competition Team for over nine years, she has spent the last five years helping lead and mentor the program. This past season, she guided the competition team to numerous overall awards, including multiple first-place finishes. Throughout her competitive career, Ney’D has earned several top honors, including first-place solo and trio titles, and performed in routines that helped the studio achieve its first-ever Double Platinum award. She has also choreographed award-winning routines for both The Dance Company and dancers outside the studio.Ney’D is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in Dance at UTRGV. She also serves as the UTRGV Drill Team’s Social Media Manager and Assistant Manager. With additional experience in cheerleading and high school drill team, and collegiate dance and drill, she is passionate about inspiring the next generation of dancers.

Mercedes has danced her entire life and has competed for the past five years. With each year, her love for dance has continued to grow, strengthening her passion for the art. She is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to choreograph pieces that have been performed on stage in front of hundreds of people. She hopes that one day her choreography will inspire and impact others in the same profound way that dance has impacted her life. Looking ahead, she is excited for the years to come and hopes to continue building meaningful connections with talented students and fellow choreographers while sharing her passion for dance.

Mrs. Edna Mendiola, with 20 years of dance experience has had a passion for dance since the early age of eight. She has had the privilege of sharing her love for dance with dancers of all ages and skill levels. A seasoned performer and educator, she refined her skills at Tremaine Dance Convention in Dallas and comes with a background in cheer, tumbling, worship, tap and choreography. Her passion is building confidence in the students and inspiring them to reach their full potential. While building their performance skills, emphasizing in pointed toes, control, and movement. You will also see her behind the scenes as part of the backstage crew during our annual end year dance recital.

Clarisa brings over 24 years of dance experience and a lifelong passion for the art form, beginning her training at just 3 years old. Throughout her journey, she has taught and choreographed a wide range of dance styles, sharing her creativity, dedication, and love of movement with dancers of all ages. As a student at The Dance Company, Clarisa had the opportunity to attend the prestigious Joffrey Ballet Workshop and was one of the few dancers selected by Peter Skylar for a special training experience in New York. She also performed as a member of The Dance Company’s competition team, representing the studio at Tremaine Dance Convention & Competition and other regional events, where she gained valuable performance and competitive experience. The studio that helped shape her into the dancer she is today is now where she has the privilege of inspiring the next generation to grow in confidence, discipline, and self-expression through dance. As a proud mom, one of her greatest joys is passing down her love of dance to her son, and she is excited to watch him begin his own dance journey at the very studio where hers began. With a special love for folklórico and tap, Clarisa is passionate about helping every dancer build confidence, find joy in movement, and grow both on and off the dance floor.

Ashlynn Mendiola has danced for 13 amazing years with The Dance Company and dedicated four incredible years with the competition team. During her competition seasons she earned a Discovery Spotlight Scholarship and stood out as a Platinum Soloist. Beyond the studio, she has 3 years of Drill Team experience. Those years have led her to be selected as a member of the Jr. All American Dance Team, a Showtime International All-Star and was titled a Division One soloist. More than just mastering choreography, at a young age she prides herself with a strong work ethic and positive character development. Those skills have led her to be awarded the following recognitions; Perfect Attendance, Teacher's Choice, Most Ambitious, Best All-Around, Best Leadership and Most Admired.

Clarissa has been dancing for 16 years and has built a strong foundation in performance, leadership, and choreography. She was a member of her high school drill team for four years, serving as a Major for two years, where she developed valuable leadership and team-building skills. Throughout her dance career, Clarissa has earned numerous honors, including All-American, All-American Dance Company, Outstanding Performer, and Kick Company recognition at American Dance/Drill Team camp. In addition to performing, Clarissa enjoys sharing her passion for dance with others. At TDC, she assists with teaching classes and helps choreograph routines, allowing her to mentor younger dancers while continuing to grow creatively. She is currently taking dance classes at South Texas College, where she is further expanding her technical training and artistic development. Through dedication, leadership, and a love for dance, Clarissa continues to strive for excellence both on and off the stage.

Alixani has danced with The Dance Company for 11 years, and within these amazing years she has received Dancer of Year, Most Ambitious, and Perfect Attendance. Furthermore, she has been a hard working staff member for 2 years, been a part of our incredible competition team for 3 years where her contribution helped recieve numerous group awards such as Elite Gold, Platinum, 1st place overall, Creative Concept award, Style and Sensational award, Soft and Elegant Award,NY invitation and more! She also helps assist in quinceañera practices. She is hard working and dedicated and she strives in making dance a positive and welcoming space for everyone!

Maridee has  been dancing 10 years with TDC and has won our Most Dedicated dancer award. She’s been a staff member going on 3 years now! She’s on her high school dance team the Weslaco Dreamettes where’s she’s learned determination and the meaning of teamwork. That allowed her to attend the Showmakers of America line camp and earned 3 superior performance ribbons. She’s in the Hidalgo cotillion court and NCL, a charity league both serving our community , and has assisted quinceañera practices! She is also part of her high school's folklorico team. She’s a dancer who loves to help other dancers get to where they wanna be, she loves being a role model and inspiration for the younger girls and is very committed to TDC!

Destiny Nicole Soto has proudly called The Dance Company her second home for the past 7 years. In 2023 she received Youth Dancer of the Year. For the last 4 years, she has poured her heart into being part of our competition team, where she has earned numerous awards and honors for group dances, duets and solos. Dance is more than just steps and music to Destiny—it is where she feels free, where she expresses her heart, and where her hard work, determination, and love for performing shine brightest. Every rehearsal, every competition, every challenge, and every moment on stage has helped shape her journey. With a heart full of dreams and a passion that continues to grow, Destiny is excited to keep dancing, keep striving, and keep doing what she loves most. 

Zoe has been dancing with The Dance Company for six years and in the competition team for the past five. Throughout her dance journey, she has earned several group and duet awards at competitions and the prestigious TDC  Youth Dancer of The Year award. Zoe proudly placed 8th Overall for her solo performance during the 2025–2026 season! Zoe loves to dance, perform, and continues to grow her passion for the art with every opportunity.

Elizabeth Cano has proudly trained with The Dance Company for 8 remarkable years, spending the last 7 years as a dedicated member of its competition team. Her passion, determination, and commitment to excellence have allowed her to grow into a versatile and accomplished performer. In 2024, she was co-selected alongside her twin sister as The Dance Company’s Dancer of the Year, an honor that reflects their dedication, talent, and positive influence within the studio. Elizabeth is a 3-time ADTS All-American Dancer and was recognized with the coveted 2025 ADTS Ms. High Kick Award during summer camp. She is also a proud member of the Mercedes Debonnaires Drill Team, where she has earned the distinguished leadership position of Co-Captain through her character, dedication, and leadership. Throughout her competitive dance career, Elizabeth has earned numerous prestigious honors, including Top Performer, Elite Dancer, Double Platinum Winner, Best Overall in Category, Diamond Award, Extreme Voltage Award, Overall Winner, and the prestigious Gussie Nell Davis Dancer Award. She is admired for her strong work ethic, grace, and commitment to continuous growth, always pushing herself to reach new levels while encouraging and supporting those around her. Elizabeth’s love for dance extends far beyond competition; it has instilled confidence, discipline, resilience, and a genuine appreciation for teamwork. She continues to embrace every opportunity to learn, lead, and inspire, making dance an integral part of who she is both on and off the stage. 

Victoria Cano has been dancing for 8 incredible years with The Dance Company, including 7 years as a dedicated member of the competition team. Throughout her dance journey, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent, commitment, and passion for the art. In 2024, she was proudly co-selected alongside her twin sister as The Dance Company’s Dancer of the Year, recognizing their outstanding dedication and achievement. Victoria is a 3-time ADTS All-American Dancer and was honored with the coveted 2026 ADTS Ms. High Kick Award during summer camp. She is also a proud member of the Mercedes Debonnaires Drill Team, where her leadership and dedication earned her the distinguished role of Captain. Her competitive accomplishments include numerous top honors, such as Top Performer, Elite Dancer, Double Platinum Winner, Best Overall in Category, Diamond Award, Extreme Voltage Award, Overall Winner, and the prestigious Gussie Nell Davis Dancer Award. Beyond the awards, Victoria is known for her unwavering work ethic, positive attitude, leadership, and genuine love for dance. She approaches every rehearsal and performance with determination, humility, and enthusiasm, inspiring those around her while continually striving for excellence. Dance is more than a hobby for Victoria, it is a lifelong passion that has shaped her character, strengthened her confidence, and fueled her desire to always give her very best both on and off the stage.

Selima is The Dance Company's new Technique Coach and brings elite level training, performance experience, leadership, and passion to our dancers. She is a former Donna D’ette First Captain, of which team she was a part of during her four years of high school. She is also the 2023 Showmakers of America State Champion and a former Showmakers of America Staff member! She is also a recent Texas A&M University graduate! 

Brianna Villarreal has proudly called TDC home for many years, first as a student and now as an instructor for more than eight years. Growing up in the studio shaped her love for dance, performance, and mentorship, and she is honored to now help the next generation of dancers grow in the same place that helped shape her. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy. By combining her education with years of teaching experience, Brianna creates classes that emphasize strong technique, injury prevention, confidence, and artistry while helping each dancer develop a lifelong love for movement. Throughout her career, Brianna has trained dancers of all ages in a variety of styles, choreographed award-winning routines, and mentored countless students both in and outside the studio. Her teaching philosophy centers on creating a positive, encouraging environment where dancers feel challenged, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. As both a lifelong member of the TDC family and a dedicated instructor, Brianna is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to give back to the studio that has given her so much. She looks forward to another season of inspiring, learning, and celebrating every dancer who walks through the TDC doors.

Nomely Z. Castillo has been a dedicated part of The Dance Company since 2008 as Office Manager Assistant and Backstage Manager. If she’s not assisting Miss Shirley, then she’s measuring our students for costumes, she’s busy getting everything in order back stage or organizing our parades.  Nomely loves to sew all our pointe shoes for class. Her journey with dance began in 7th Grade. Over the years, she has worn many hats—dance mom, supportive team member, and now proud dance grandma. Nomely’s love, commitment, and encouragement have made her a special part of our dance family.

Miko Martinez is a dedicated cheerleader with five years of experience, including two years as a Weslaco High School Panther Cheerleader and three years on the UTRGV Vaquero Cheer Team. He also assists with tumbling lessons at The Dance Co., where he enjoys helping young athletes build confidence as they develop new skills. One of the most rewarding parts of coaching is celebrating their progress and watching them accomplish skills they once thought were impossible. Having trained at The Dance Co. himself, Miko credits TDC with helping him earn his spots on both cheer teams. He is passionate about giving back to the place that played such an important role in his journey and takes pride in inspiring and encouraging the next generation of athletes to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.

Celeste discovered her love for dance at the age of six, and from her very first class, she found a passion that continues to inspire her every day. Through years of dedication, hard work, and perseverance, she has grown into a confident and versatile dancer who loves performing and expressing herself through movement. In addition to her studio training, Celeste was a member of the award-winning Weslaco High School Pacesetters, where she refined her technique, built lasting friendships, and represent her school with pride and excellence. She is a proud 2024 Graduate of Weslaco High School. Dance has taught Celeste the importance of discipline, teamwork, and determination. She is grateful for every opportunity to learn, perform, and grow as an artist, and she looks forward to continuing her dance journey while creating unforgettable memories both on and off the stage.