Joy received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1979 and taught kindergarten at London Elementary School in Walnut Cove from 2006-2007. She has been involved in dance since age 4 and taught tap, ballet, jazz and tumbling for 2 years at the studio she owned in Walnut Cove in the early 80’s.

After the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, Joy turned ownership of The Dance Loft over to her daughter, Malia. Joy is still very much involved in the behind-the-scenes tasks that make the studio possible and can often still be found working behind the front desk!

Malia’s love for dance began at 4 years old and she hasn’t missed a chance to dance since then. One of her favorite things about being a dance instructor is witnessing the transformation that happens as students fine tune their skills year after year. Malia is a competition dance instructor for Jazz, Lyrical, Modern/Contemporary, and Hip Hop and a recreational dance instructor for Jazz, Lyrical, Tumbling, Hip-Hop, and Combo classes.

Kendall’s passion for dance is evident. From the thoughtfulness and beauty of her routines, to the way that she connects with her students. She danced competitively for several years before becoming an instructor and is a competition dance instructor for Jazz, Lyrical, Modern/Contemporary and Hip Hop and a recreational dance instructor for Mommy & Me, Jazz, Lyrical, Tumbling, and Hip-Hop.

Allison developed a passion for dance at a young age and holds several regional and national titles in competitive dance. She is a member of the TDL alumni and is currently a student at High Point University. We are thankful to have her back as an instructor for recreational Jazz, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, and Tumbling classes. Allison also offers technique private lessons.