Where teaching dance is more than just steps!!

About Tippy Toes Dance Studio Inc

Tippy Toes Dance Studio Inc is a top-notch studio for professional dance lessons in Princeton, NC. Our instructors are passionate about dancing and fully dedicated to sharing the experience with others.

Our philosophy is inclusive: we have classes to suit all tastes, and we're happy to accommodate students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're looking to explore an entirely new hobby or wish to refresh some long-lost dance moves – with Tippy Toes Dance Studio Inc you're always in good hands.

Learn more about our dance instructors, the classes we offer and some special events we're hosting this year. If you want to get moving, call us at 919-631-9941 or contact us to sign up today!

Our Team of Dance Instructors

Tippy Toes Dance Studio Inc has recruited some of the most accomplished dance instructors, each of whom brings their own personal approach to the dance floor. See below who they are:

Leslie Ingram
Owner/ Artistic Director

Let me tell you a little about myself. I started dancing when I was 4 years old and haven't stopped. I am a 1998 graduate of Princeton High School and a 2002 graduate from UNC-Wilmington with a BS in Business Management and a minor in Music. while in college I attended Mt. Olive College in Mt. Olive, NC and was a member of the Mt. Olive College Singers, a singing and dancing traveling group. I have performed in Washington, D.C. and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York. I am certified through Dance Masters of America, a dance educator organization , since 2002. I have taught dance classes for about 25 years which have included studios in Goldsboro, Wilmington and Beulaville.

In 2007, I was voted in as a director on the board of Carolina Dance masters (CDM). In 2012, I was voted at the treasurer of CDM. I have been a member of CDM and Dance Master of America (DMA) since 2002. I was the first high school senior to receive a college scholarship from CDM. I was a student of two CDM members. And I am Nationally Certified Examiner for DMA and CDM. CDM is very important to me and I hope to educate all of my students about CDM and what they can get out of the organization. DMA in 2019 honored me with the Zee Brown Aherin Award. This award is given to one member each year to demonstrating hard work and dedication to the organizetion.

Along with teaching my own students I enjoy guest teaching at differnt chapters of DMA and local studios. I have also judged for the Michigan, Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Louisana chapters just to name a few. Getting to see the amazing talent around our country and share my passion of dance is so rewarding. Thank you!!!

As a student I competed regionally and nationally wining many awards. I continue my dance education by attending annual conventions and workshops. I have trained with dance professionals such as Judy Bassing, Thommie Rhetter, Joe Tremaine, Rhee Golds, the Bad Boys of Dance , Greg Russel, and Mike Witmers just to name a few. I believe that hard work and fun can be done at the same time. Dance is my passion and I am glad to be able to share it with other people. This will be a wonderful year filled with fun and excitement

Michelle Hickey
Instructor:Ballet, Pointe', Jazz, Modern, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop

Michelle just graduated from East Carolina University in 2012 with a B.A. in Dance Education and Fine Arts in English. She has worked with many different age groups including South Central High School in Winterville, NC, the boys and Girls Club of Pitt County and Country Ballet Dance Studio in Bel Air, MD. Over the years Michelle has studied in the art forms of ballet, jazz, modern, hip hop, lyrical, contemporary and pointe'. She hopes to be a dance educator, which will allow her to instill her love for dance in the lives of her students, as well as offer the many educational benefits that come from a well rounded, arts-inclusive education.

Also in 2012 Michelle became a member of Carolina Dance Masters as a degreed member. This new adventure for her will continue to challenge and educate her for many years.

Not only does Michelle teach for Tippy Toes Dance Studio she is also a dance teacher for Sally B. Howard charter school in Wilson, NC.

Her choreography won the 2017 Star Talent National Championship title. Congratulations Miss Michelle!!!!

Heather Ballance Brow

Instructor: Clogging

Heather's passions for clogging stems back to her childhood. She continued to dance through college and continues to teach at several locations. Clogging is a NC based style of dance that you can't help but tap your toe to. Come join one of her classes on Wednesdays for children or ADULTS!!!

Brittany Hill

Instructor: Ballet, Tap, Jazz & Acro

Brittany started dancing at A Step of Class. In 2005 she became a student at Tippy Toes Dance Studio where she competed and graduated from in 2015. She continued her dance dreams by choreographing her sister's solos and while in college at Campbell came back to TTDS to teach our Pre Level and Level 1 students. We love having Miss Brittany!!!

Blake Hinnant

Instructor: Tiny Tappers, Lyrical & Office Assistant

Blake will be returning to TTDS this fall. She began dancing at Tippy Toes when she was 5 years old. She studied all styles of dance and competed them as well. Winning many awards and accolades. She will be helping with the Tiny Tappers classes this year and teaching lyrical. We are so excited to have her back!!!

Kelly Johnson
Instructor: Dance Fintness

Kelly is a native of Princeton and loves to work with children and adults. She is a high energy, spunky, motivating instructor. She helps move and grove all of the adults that join us for our NEW Dance Fitness program to sweat the calories away. We are so blessed to have Ms Kelly!!!

Dear Parents,

During this time of concern with COVID-19 in our country we want you to know we are still here for everyone. I'm sure many of you want to stay at home (and some don't) and we have found a way for you to do that and continue your child's dance education. If you have not received an email or person text message about this please contact our office (919.631.9941)ASAP so we can get you set up to not miss a beat!!!! We can't wait to see you next week (in person or virtually). #faithoverfear #washyourhands