About Danse Élan
Danse Élan is a dance and visual arts studio rooted in thoughtful, development-centered education. Our programs are designed for children at every stage of their artistic journey, offering strong technical foundations within a supportive, non-competitive environment.
Originally established in 1997, Danse Élan has been serving families in the Lake Norman area since 2020 under the direction of Artistic Director Jamie Roumayah. Since bringing the studio to Denver, North Carolina, Jamie and her husband, Christopher, have shaped a clear, intentional vision focused on quality instruction, artistry, and care for the whole child.
At Danse Élan, training emphasizes:
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strong technical foundations, including a solid ballet base
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age-appropriate choreography and costuming
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thoughtful progression that respects growing bodies
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meaningful performance experiences without competition pressure
Our approach is collaborative and personalized. Students are encouraged to grow at a healthy pace, build confidence through movement, and develop a genuine appreciation for the arts. Faculty guide placement and progression with care, ensuring that each dancer feels supported and challenged appropriately.
In addition to our dance program, Danse Élan offers a visual arts program for children ages 4–13. Weekly art classes explore a variety of mediums — including drawing, painting, clay, and mixed media — fostering creativity, problem-solving, and self-expression in a welcoming studio environment.
“Jamie is the most organized, knowledgeable and amazing dance instructor! My daughter was fortunate enough to sit under her tutelage for many years. During that time, my daughter grew tremendously both as a dancer and a young lady. Jamie was always firm, yet fair, honest and kind. Jamie is greatly missed at my daughter's dance studio and in the community in which she served!”
Debbie Summers - Parent of a Dancer
“My 13 year old dancer received a scholarship to participate in the Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive in New York City this past summer. She was among some of the best dancers in the country and she arrived very well prepared. Her technique was excellent and consistent with the other dancers. I give Jamie all the credit for that as she has always held her dancers to the highest standards and they are benefiting from that greatly. She has had an incredible influence over my daughter's training not only as a dancer but in all aspects of her life.”