Hearts That Never Stopped Twirling: Meet the Owners of Tutu School Arvada

A Magical Mission in Olde Town Arvada

At Tutu School, we believe that every child should know what it feels like to dance. It’s a founding principle that twirls through everything we do—from the first notes of Tchaikovsky in our Baby Ballet classes to the final bow at a Bravo Bash. We aren’t just teaching pliés and tendus; we’re making space for creativity, joy, and the pure magic of finding oneself in music and movement.

But who are the faces behind the sparkling spaces and smiling faces here in Arvada? Our school is led by three owners—Elise, Nicole, and Kate—whose unique journeys all led them to the same whimsical dream: bringing a boutique ballet experience to the families of Colorado.

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Nicole: The Teacher’s Heart

Born and raised in Sacramento, Nicole began her own twirling journey at just three years old! Her passion for nurturing young minds led her to earn a degree in Elementary Education, and she has spent years teaching everything from 4th grade to adult Barre fitness. Nicole actually began her Tutu School journey as a teacher in Reno, Nevada, and danced with a local company before deciding to bring that magic to the Rockies. You can often find her twirling through our studio or exploring the charm of Olde Town Arvada.

Kate: The Dream-Maker

Kate joined us from Chicago with a background that blends a love for athletics with a serious knack for business. With an MBA in Finance and Operations and experience in Economics, she keeps our school twirling smoothly! But don’t let the spreadsheets fool you—Kate has been a dancer and athlete since she was a young girl, performing in showchoir and college dance groups. As a mother of three young children, Kate knows exactly how important it is to provide a formative, enriching experience that serves as a foundation for whatever big dreams a little dancer might follow.

Elise: The Whimsical Visionary

For Elise, opening Tutu School Arvada is a literal dream come true. Before she was an owner, she spent a decade as a Speech-Language Pathologist and special education coach. That deep love for supporting children to be their “best selves” is the heartbeat of her leadership. A natural performer since childhood, Elise transitioned that energy into dance, gymnastics, and figure skating. She connected immediately with Tutu School’s mission to provide a whimsical, high-quality introduction to ballet for the very youngest of students.

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Join the Magic

Whether they were born with “hearts that never stopped twirling” or discovered the magic later in life, our owners are dedicated to ensuring that your child’s experience at Tutu School Arvada is nothing short of enchanting.

Our carefully crafted curriculum is designed to introduce technique at exactly the right time—never earlier than a young imagination or little body is ready—so that the focus remains on confidence and joy.

Are you ready to see your little one find their own rhythm? Join us anytime for a free trial here. We can’t wait to welcome you into our studio. From Nicole, Kate, and Elise: we’ll see you at the barre!

Tutu School exists to make space in the lives of children for creativity and joy.