BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF
Artists
CULTURE FIRST.
When Ella Grace and Erika founded UC Stars Dance, they set out to create more than just a dance studio; they wanted to build a community where every dancer feels seen, supported, and valued. Through their own experiences in the dance industry, they learned that the friendships and mentorship found in the studio often become like family. That belief is at the heart of everything they do. Their goal is to cultivate an encouraging environment where dancers can grow in confidence, pursue excellence, and create lifelong memories alongside teammates, teachers, and families who genuinely care for one another.
Ella Grace Clopton is the founder and co-owner of UC Stars Dance. She trained in ballet and jazz and was actively involved in the local theatre community growing up. Ella Grace currently coaches the Prescott South Middle School Dance Team and choreographs for local dance teams and theatre productions. In addition to teaching, she oversees the studio’s marketing, communications, and account management, helping lead the growth and operations of UC Stars. She continues her education through Steps on Broadway classes, certifications from the National Dance Coaches Association, and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing.
Ella Grace is passionate about providing quality dance education and inspiring the next generation of artists.
@coachellagrace
Elise Jeanine has been dancing for nearly 18 years and recently completed her training at the CLI Conservatory, where she worked with world-renowned artists including Teddy Forance, Martha Nichols, Lucy Vallely, Billy Griffin, Chaz Buzan, Candace Brown, Blake McGrath, Robbie Blue, and many more. Elise is trained in ballet, jazz, contemporary, tap, hip hop, jazz funk, heels, house, and acrobatics. She has appeared in creative dance films with Miguel Zárate and Chris Scott, Martha Nichols’ viral Surf Rider, and even in a Bon Jovi music video. Elise is excited to share her passion for dance and inspire the next generation of movers here at UC Stars ️
Erika is a Mount Juliet native who has been passionate about dance from an early age. She began her training at Spotlite Dance Studio in Lebanon before joining the Wilson Central High School Dance Team, where she helped earn multiple state and national championships. During her time with the team, she also had the exciting opportunity to perform on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
After graduating high school, Erika attended the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where she was a member of the BOSS Dance Company. She later transferred to Tennessee Tech University, where she continued her collegiate dance career as a member of the Tennessee Tech Dance Team.
Today, Erika is the owner of UC Stars Dance and serves as the Assistant Coach for the Tennessee Tech Dance Team. She is dedicated to providing exceptional dance education and creating meaningful opportunities for dancers throughout the Upper Cumberland, helping each student grow both as a performer and as an individual.
Hayden Michaelson is a junior at Tennessee Tech University and a proud member of the Tennessee Tech Dance Team. Originally from Mount Juliet, Tennessee, Hayden was a four-year member of the Wilson Central High School Dance Team and trained extensively in hip-hop, jazz, and acro at her local dance studio.
In addition to performing, Hayden is passionate about choreography and mentoring young dancers. She currently serves as the choreographer for the Upperman High School Dance Team and creates routines for several other local dance teams throughout the Upper Cumberland.
Hayden is excited to be a part of the UC Stars Dance family and is committed to inspiring the next generation of dancers by fostering confidence, creativity, and a love for the art of dance.