Heather Colletti

Owner, teacher and choreographer

Heather is part owner of The Studio for the Performing Arts along with Phyllis Mouton and JoAnna Mott. She is the credited director and principle choreographer of the following SPA ballet productions: Snow White (2011), Alice in Wonderland (2010), Hansel & Gretet (2009),Cinderella (2008) Peter Pan (2007), The Wizard of Oz (2006), The Dream (2005), Giselle (2004),

The Tales of Beatrix Potter (2003), Swan Lake (2002), Coppelia (2001), Sleeping Beauty (2000), and

The Nutcracker (1998-2008).
In the fall of 2006, Heather became the Artistic Director of the newly founded Studio for the Performing Arts Ballet Company.

Having begun her training at the age of five, it was not long before Heather realized her true love for ballet. Heather’s extensive classical ballet training coupled with the desire to educate others has brought her to the remarkable place she is today. As a teacher, Heather’s intent is to provide an enriching atmosphere in which her students feel free to be creative and express themselves through positive reinforcement and encouragement.

Providing a high quality program is paramount to Heather so her students can develop artistically, physically, emotionally and intellectually. “I dance, teach and choreograph with the intent to boost my students’ self-esteem and to assist at every opportunity the development of their imaginations.”

Heather is fueled by the love and support from her 3rd grade pen pal now husband, Jared, and their three children Isaiah, Sedessa and Leah.

Michele Lapresi Turner

Choreographer, Scenic Artist, Set and Prop Designer, Costume Designer

Michele is currently celebrating ten years as dance instructor with The Studio for the Performing Artswith her fourth production of The Nutcracker gracing the stage of The Smith Opera House. Favorite theater credits include Snow White (2011), Alice in Wonderland (2010), Hansel & Gretel (2009), Cinderella (2008), Peter Pan (2007) and The Wizard of Oz (2006).

A dancer since the age of three, Michele finds herself at home on the stage. Mostly self-taught in the theater arts, she indulges in every aspect of creative artistic expression. Around the studio, it is well known Michele can be the true “dreamer” of any given show stating her most excellent work is done while sleeping… “visions of sugar plums dance in her head.”

Creativity being her finest trait and tenacity her greatest attribute, Michele gives tirelessly of her time to enhance her students’ talents and her productions. To illuminate the essence of her creative ingenuity, Michele states it best saying, “Give me muffin mix and I’ll make soufflé.”

Outside the studio and theater, Michele stays active with her three daughters Milla, Sennett and Lissen. She also owns Lapresi’s Pizza Emporium in Phelps along with her husband, Larry.