Our Staff
Our teaching staff consists of creative performers and choreographers who are dedicated to educating, motivating, and inspiring our students. Juliart requires its faculty to stay abreast of the latest dance techniques and teaching methods by attending many local and out-of-state conventions and workshops year round.
Kellie Lopiccola—Owner and Director
With a specialized degree from Oakland University in Dance, Business, and Communications, Kellie’s goal is to create an environment that provides all students with not only superior dance training but also a positive dance experience. Kellie has studied dance locally for over twenty eight years and has also studied in Los Angeles, New York City and Chicago. Kellie was also a founding member of the LaFave Dance Theatre in Grosse Pointe. With many years of competitive dance experience as a dancer and choreographer, Kellie’s dancers have won several awards both in state and nationally. Some of Kellie’s former students have gone on to receive dance scholarships with several major universities including Pointe Park, Western Michigan University and Oakland University. Former students have also gone on to accomplish performing careers with Six Flags Amusement Parks, Detroit Pistons Automotion dancers and several other performance groups. With sixteen years teaching experience, students find Kellie’s classes to be both challenging and enjoyable.
Nicole Steele—Ballet Instructor
Nicole has been dancing her entire life and has danced at the competitive level both locally and nationally. Throughout her career she has received several dance scholarships, including The Edge in LA, Broadway Dance center in New York City and The San Francisco Ballet School. Nicole is a graduate of Western Michigan University where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Business. Nicole has thirteen years teaching experience.
Roberta Varon—Pre-Ballet, Ballet and Tap Instructor
Roberta’s relationship with Juliart goes all the way back to Juliart’s inception. Roberta is not only a Juliart alumnus but also the mother of a Juliart dancer. Roberta is a graduate of Oakland University’s Communications department and has been teaching young students at Juliart for many years. Roberta’s unique ability to teach students the basics of dance technique while instilling a love of dance and fostering friendships among both students and parents makes her an integral part of the Juliart Family.
Kristy Tessoff—Tap Instructor
Kristy has danced at Juliart since the age of 3 and was a member of the Juliart Company Dancers for 8 years. She is currently a student at Oakland University majoring in Elementary Education and studying Dance as a minor. Kristy’s excitement to teach inspires and motivates her students. Kristy is a valuable asset to Juliart both as a teacher and mentor; we are proud to have her as part of our staff.
Debbie Tessoff—Business Office Manager
Debbie has been part of the Juliart Family for nearly 21 years. Her expertise managing and running the front office make her an invaluable asset.