Meet the Dance Team:

Artistic Director/Dance Instructor - Sam Potter:

Sam began his dance career in the cheerleading and drama programs at Philipsburg-Osceola Area High School. At Clarion University he studied dance technique, performance, and choreography while getting his degree in sociology and psychology. While at Clarion he was also a member of the cheerleading squad and an acro instructor for the local dance studio. Sam is currently a member of the Pittsburgh based contemporary dance company Exhalations. He is an assistant cheerleading coach for the Philipsburg-Osceola Area School District and Cheer Central All Stars. Sam has choreographed many performance pieces and full theatrical productions such as Clearfield High School’s production of You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown as well as Ignite Youth Theater’s productions of Freckle Face Strawberry, Hairspray, Mulan, West Side Story, Annie Jr, and most recently Mary Poppins.

Dance Instructor - Erica Hanes

Erica Hanes is currently studying Secondary Education at Penn State University.  She studied ballet, tap, and jazz for 14 years at The Dance Co. in Clearfield, Pa.  Erica was also an assistant teacher for 5 years at The Dance Co.  She has attended an intensive dance program at the Grier School in Tyrone, Pa and spent a week in NYC dancing in an off Broadway show.  Erica has performed in multiple shows with Front and Centre Productions and the Clearfield High School, where she has also helped with choreography.

Dance Instructor - Alayna Schmeider:

Alayna began dancing at the age of 5 with Dance Center Studios in Slippery Rock, PA. During her 15 years at the studio, her passion and commitment were rewarded with a Dance Dedication Award and full scholarship to the studio. She was also able to advance to a teaching position and choreograph several showcase routines before graduating high school. Alayna left the studio to attend Penn State where she took some dance classes to satisfy her artistic side while earning her degree and joined Volé, the ballet club. Her experience includes tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, ballroom, and even some can-can. She is very excited to return to dance after moving around the last few years. Above all, Alayna believes that dance not only gives the student the ability to improve strength and flexibility, but it builds character, confidence, and a positive self-image.