Our Faculty

Makena Perry

Makena began dancing at just 18 months old and trained at various studios while growing up in Missouri and Arizona. At age 12, she joined Lifehouse Performing Arts Academy, where she trained in ballet, jazz, contemporary, modern, and tap, and began assisting teachers who inspired her love for both dance and teaching.

In high school, Makena danced with the Maple Mountain Dance Company, which allowed her to perform and take master classes in Los Angeles, New York, and Florida. She also choreographed pieces that were adjudicated at UDEO and the Utah Shakespeare Festival, deepening her appreciation for dance as a creative and expressive art form.

Makena is passionate about working with young dancers. She finds joy in their excitement, curiosity, and progress—believing that dance is not only about technique but about helping children feel safe, seen, and capable.

She is currently pursuing a BA in Elementary Education at Brigham Young University, with a Minor in the Arts (Dance emphasis). Her studies in child development and educational psychology enhances her teaching approach, allowing her to support each student both artistically and emotionally.