Olivia Mann

Olivia’s dance career began the same as many young dancers: in her living room. She first took the stage in local theater productions and quickly found that while she loved acting and singing, her heart was firmly in dance. From these early experiences, Olivia was captivated by choreography and inspired by all things dance. 

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She began extensive training in ballet, tap, modern, jazz, lyrical, and contemporary during her formative years. Beyond competitive dance, Olivia participated in dance throughout the community: competing with her high school’s varsity dance team, choreographing for youth theater productions, and implementing and leading an Orchesis program at her school. 

Olivia attended Grand Canyon University to study Dance Performance and Dance Education. In her studies, she took courses in choreography, early childhood education, dance technology, and dance technique. When transferring to online instruction amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Olivia joined the Communications program to further develop her skills in communication, leadership, and marketing.

After moving back to the suburbs of Chicago, Olivia taught at multiple studios and most recently served as Assistant Director at a competitive dance studio. In addition to growing a strong competition program and implementing a rich dance curriculum, Olivia focused on developing a supportive and motivating studio culture. Olivia is grateful for the mentorships that dance has provided her along the way and aspires to be a similar mentor for each of her students. 

Olivia is driven to choreograph both visually and musically unique dances that challenge her dancers technically and artistically. She aims to create intentional, moving choreography that is fresh and dynamic. Her recent pieces have received choreography recognition, numerous special awards, and overalls at both local and national dance competitions. 

Olivia is a lifelong learner and has continued her education by attending dance intensives, conventions, and online seminars in both dance pedagogy and leadership. She participated in training to become a certified Giordano Jazz Instructor. Olivia is also passionate about social-emotional learning and its importance in dance education. She is a certified Danscend Mental Wellness Dance Educator, committed to building confident and resilient dancers.

As she steps into the role of owner and artistic director of Vision Dance, Olivia looks forward to further investing in a studio culture that fosters creativity, relationships, and teamwork. While providing high-quality dance instruction remains a top priority, Olivia is also committed to creating long-lasting relationships with her students and guiding them in following their dreams, achieving their goals, and finding their paths in life.