KDM Mission
We empower young dancers through creativity, community, and core values like perseverance, teamwork, and self-discipline—building confidence, character, and life skills for success in dance and beyond.
KDM Vision
Our vision is to nurture a dance community where every dancer—whether recreational or competitive—feels seen, valued, and supported. We believe in creating an environment rooted in care, where technical excellence and personal growth go hand in hand.
Through intentional instruction and meaningful mentorship, we empower our dancers to challenge themselves, support one another, and grow both as artists and as confident, compassionate individuals. Whether stepping into class for fun or training for the stage, every dancer is encouraged to reach their fullest potential—on and off the dance floor.
Meet the Team
Our instructors bring decades of experience and share a passion for teaching dancers of all ages
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Owner, Director & Heart Behind Kay’s Dance MovementMeet Kay Worthington—the sparkly soul behind Kay’s Dance Movement! Kay started teaching dance at just 14 years old in her hometown of Stillwater, OK (yes, she’s been choreographing kick-ball-changes since before she could drive). From local musicals to packed studios, her love for dance only grew stronger.
She took that passion to the University of Central Oklahoma, where she studied Dance Education and performed in countless productions, working alongside nationally recognized choreographers. With more than30 years of experience, Kay brings a dynamic blend of ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, modern, musical theater, and contemporary to the dance floor.
Kay’s choreography has earned both regional, state and national awards, but what she’s most proud of is the community she’s built—where every dancer feels seen, supported, and inspired. She’s also a proud member of the International Tap Association, Julie Kay Studio Owner Mastermind (JKSOM), and the National Dance Education Organization.
When she's not in the studio, you might find her dreaming up recital themes, organizing glitter, or cheering on her dancers like their biggest fan (because she is).
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Instructor/Aly has called Broken Arrow, Oklahoma home her whole life and started dancing at the age of five. Seventeen years later, her passion for movement is as strong as ever. She's trained in a variety of styles including hip hop, contemporary, jazz, ballet, and lyrical—and her choreography has earned multiple awards along the way.
Currently pursuing a degree in computer science, Aly blends artistic expression with a love for problem-solving, bringing both creativity and structure into the classroom.
“I believe dance is a fantastic way to stay active and burn energy,” Aly says, “but more importantly, it helps kids find their own voice and feel comfortable being themselves.” Her favorite part of teaching is watching her students’ confidence grow while they have fun—and she’s proud to help create that joy-filled space at KDM.
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InstructorChloe Johnson brings passion, precision, and a whole lot of heart to the studio. She's trained extensively in a variety of styles and has worked under some of the industry's best through elite programs like GoPro and TOPStars Her well-rounded background gives her the tools to push dancers technically while keeping class fun, encouraging, and full of energy.
A gifted choreographer, Chloe has earned choreography awards and numerous judges’ choice honors over the years. But what truly sets her apart is her ability to connect with young dancers. She’s a natural mentor who leads with kindness and knows how to bring out each dancer’s inner sparkle.
Whether she's refining technique, building confidence, or celebrating small wins, Chloe is here to help dancers grow both on and off the stage—and she’s beyond excited to be part of their journey.
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InstructorKara Menellea began dancing at the age of two, training in tap, jazz, and ballet under Lyndi Van Zandt at Dance Corner in Chicago. As she grew, so did her passion for the stage—leading her to train in Broadway jazz, hip hop, musical theater, lyrical, contemporary, and modern. She was selected for the BISI Chicago Dance Company’s junior competition team, where she competed in jazz and contemporary and performed in several full-scale productions.
One of her most memorable moments was dancing a featured tap duet and performing a modern senior spotlight in the production Sail Away before relocating to Tulsa. Kara recently graduated from the University of Tulsa with a degree in psychology, bringing a thoughtful and student-centered approach to her teaching.
“To me, the best part about teaching dance is seeing my students grow in their abilities and gain an even greater passion for dance,” she shares. Kara is thrilled to be part of the KDM team and looks forward to helping dancers thrive both in and out of the studio.
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Instructor/Asst Co DirectorRuby Robison brings a unique mix of artistry, experience, and heart to every class she teaches. With 18 years of dancing (on and off the stage) and a shelf full of choreography awards, Ruby is known for creating movement that means something—choreography that tells a story, stirs emotion, and leaves an impact.
She’s passionate about helping dancers find their voice through movement, and she sees every class as more than just technique—it’s a chance to grow, explore, and connect. Whether she’s refining a routine or encouraging a dancer to dig deeper, Ruby brings thoughtful creativity and genuine care to the studio.
For Ruby, dance isn’t just steps—it’s a language. And she’s here to help every dancer learn to speak it with confidence and soul.
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InstructorChristianna Thrutchley is a dedicated dance educator and choreographer from Tulsa, Oklahoma, with over a decade of competitive training in styles such as lyrical, contemporary, jazz, ballet, musical theater, acrobatics, and tap. She’s also pursued advanced hip-hop training both internationally in South Korea and stateside with the Abstrakt Mindz commercial dance company.
In addition to her dance experience, Christianna holds a Bachelor of Education in Linguistics and Theology from MBI in Chicago—bringing a thoughtful, well-rounded perspective to her teaching.
Christianna believes dance is about more than just movement—it’s a space for creativity, curiosity, and confidence to grow. She’s passionate about creating a classroom where students feel safe, seen, and supported as they explore who they are through dance. Whether it’s a high-energy combo or a quiet moment of growth, Christianna brings purpose and passion to every class she teaches.
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InstructorMiss Michelle is a classically trained dancer with over 19 years of experience in a wide range of styles including ballet, pointe, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and Broadway. Her approach to teaching is rooted in patience, discipline, and care—helping each student build strong technique while encouraging their artistic expression.
Michelle holds an Associate of Arts degree in Theatre with an emphasis in stage management, and her love of the performing arts extends beyond dance into writing and theatrical production. Her choreography is thoughtful and detailed, often blending her background in theater with her deep understanding of movement.
In the classroom, Michelle creates a calm and focused learning environment where dancers feel supported as they grow. She is passionate about developing not just skilled performers, but confident, capable individuals who carry their training with them beyond the studio.
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Why KDM?
Technique Meets Heart
Your child will receive solid technical training in small, focused classes — guided by nurturing instructors who encourage creativity and self-expression.
We Communicate With You
We keep you informed about your dancer’s growth and progress, every step of the way.
Classes for Ages 2 up to Teens
From first-time Creative Movers to experienced Teens, our programs grow with your dancer.
Opportunities to Shine
With multiple performance options throughout the year, every dancer gets the chance to feel proud and celebrated.
We would love for you to join our dance family.