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Faculty and Staff
Margo Ruark, Studio Owner and Artistic Director
Growing up in South Dakota, I explored ballet, tap and acrobatics in private studios, but "It was during one extraordinary semester at South Dakota State University where contemporary dance found me and wouldn't let go!"
I received a Masters Degree in Dance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and went on to form my own dance company Margo Ruark and Dancers and toured regionally. The Capital Times reviewer wrote, "Ruark knows how to set it up, and play it for what it's worth. With her technical prowess she can accomplish virtually anything she imagines, and it's evident she does just that." One of the many highlights of my career was being invited as guest artist to The Black Horse Theater in Copenhagen, Denmark and teaching in Copenhagen's Adult Education system.
Margo Ruark is a member of the Dance Studio Owner's Association Inner Circle and the National Dance Education Association.
In addition to her dance education, Margo holds an MBA from DePaul University. You can read more about Margo Ruark's contributions to dance at margoruark.com
Margo Ruark is the Studio Owner & Artistic Director
Photo: Joel Gonzalez, story curator, weourstory
Itzel Duran, Mexican Folklorico
With over a decade of experience in Mexican Folklórico, Itzel Duran brings passion, grace, and cultural pride to every performance and class. “Dancing brings me closer to my Mexican roots,” she shares. “Every time I’m on stage, I feel like a different person—more confident, less shy, and completely alive.”
Itzel is a featured member of the La Academia Mexican Dance Academy Ensemble, a professional touring group performing throughout Mexico and Europe. This summer, she returns with fresh inspiration, vibrant music, and exciting ideas to share with her students—continuing her mission to connect others to the rich traditions of Mexican dance.
Itzel Duran teaches Mexican Folkloric classes.
Amy Gomez, Ballet and Acrobatics Instructor
Amy Gomez has been dancing since age 3, and has been a private student of Margo Ruark's in ballet, pointe and contemporary dance since 2016. She has developed into an award winning soloist, placing first in the Dupree Dance Competition October 2022, also placing third with her solo Riots, the solo My Body is a Cage and third with the New Beginnings Duet with Alexis Holmes at the Legacy Dance Regional Championships Spring 2023. Amy teaches Ballet I, Ballet II and co-teaches Acrobatics. She is in the nursing program at Loyola University
Amy Gomez, "My Body is a Cage". Amy teaches Ballet and co-teaches acrobatics.
Alexis Holmes, Acrobatics
Alexis Holmes is a Region 5 Level 10 gymnastics champion, and in summer 2024 was part of the team that competed in the National Championships. This Olympic hopeful is no stranger to the studio. Alexis heads up our acrobatics program. In addition to beginning and advanced acrobatics, she has introduced the combination class of acrobatics & hip hop, and teaches our youngest in the parent-tot tumbling classes. Alexis is in the Early Childhood Education program at Loyola University, Chicago.
Alexis Holmes, Acrobatics
Joi King, Hip Hop & Acrobatics
Joi King is a dedicated and versatile dance instructor with expertise in ballet, hip-hop, jazz, acrobatics and contemporary dance. She brings her professional experience as a company dancer with Winifred Haun and Dancers, teaching artist with the South Chicago Dance Theater, and former membership in Chicago’s Black Girls Dance®ensemble.
Known for creating inclusive and engaging environments, Joi fosters creativity, discipline, and passion among students of all ages. Her teaching and choreography have enhanced student growth and boosted class enrollment while promoting collaboration and artistry.
Joi King joins our faculty in 2025.
Carolina Lara, Mexican Folklorico
Carolina Lara is a passionate instructor of Mexican Folklórico, teaching both beginner and advanced levels with energy, authenticity, and heart. A proud cultural ambassador, she shares, “I love Mexican Folklórico because it allows me to express my heritage and where I come from through movement—and I simply love to dance!”
Carolina is an active member of La Academia Mexican Dance Academy Ensemble, a professional touring company that has brought her to stages across Mexico and Europe. She brings back vibrant music, new choreography, and inspiring ideas to her students, always keeping her classes rooted in tradition while infused with fresh creativity.
Carolina Lara, Mexican Folklorico
Julia Patston, Ballet, Hip Hop and Baila Boos Instructor
Julia Patston has been dancing since age 3, and over the years has performed a number of lead roles in Oak Park local productions of The Nutcracker, musical theater productions, and at the College of DuPage. Julia is teaching Ballet I, Ballet II, Hip Hop I, and Musical Theater. She recently graduated with her degree in early childhood education from the College of DuPage, and is on the faculty of the Giving Tree Early Learning Center.
Julia Patston teaches preschool dance ages 2-6, ballet, and musical theater
Andrea Rivera - Contemporary, Folkloric, and Latin Fusion
We’re thrilled to welcome Andrea Rivera to our faculty team this fall! Originally from Dallas, she grew up as a studio dancer and went on to get her dance training at Smith College’s renowned dance program. There, she trained in folklorico, and honed her skills in contemporary, hip hop and Latin dance under nationally recognized mentors. She also completed summer intensives with Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Platinum National Dance Convention
As a teaching artist and choreographer, Andrea believes in using dance to tell stories and make the world a better place by building community and helping dancers grow. Praised for her stage presence and undeniable energy, she can’t wait to share her love for contemporary, folklorico, and Latin Fusion with our students.
Andrea Rivera teaches contemporary, Mexican folkloric, and Latin Fusion
Megan Murga - Social Media Intern
Hi, I’m Megan! I love helping young minds build confidence, creativity, and joy through new experiences. I focus on creating a supportive, fun environment where every child feels comfortable and excited to learn. I value strong communication with families and always want parents to feel informed and included. In my free time I love to play tennis and do lots of public speaking events. I’m excited to be part of the children's dance journey and can’t wait to meet each of them!
Megan Murga from Youth Crossroads
Edith Landeros & Pedro Arteaga Front Desk
Starting as interns through the Youth Crossroads Workforce Development program, front desk associates Pedro Arteaga and Edith Landeros have now become valued members of our dance community. Edith and Pedro assist with registration, marketing the studio's programs and working behind the scenes to improve operations. Pedro says "I take pleasure in lending a hand to those in need and enjoy entertaining kids." Similarly, Edith shares her excitement about joining our close-knit community: "I'm delighted to be part of this vibrant community. I love working with kids and meeting new people and excited to see our little dancers dance!"
Edith Landeros & Pedro Arteaga
Chloe Hernandez
We are beyond excited to welcome Chloe Hernandez back to our teaching team this summer! Chloe will be leading Hip Hop II, Ballet I, Ballet II–III, and Ballet/Hip Hop Fusion — and bringing her incredible versatility to co-teach our high-energy K-Pop Dance Camp.
Chloe brings both heart and serious credentials to the studio. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Dance from Columbia College Chicago and an Associate’s Degree in Dance from Harold Washington College. Her training includes multiple Ballet Summer Intensives with the Joffrey Ballet and four unforgettable years performing in the Joffrey Ballet’s Nutcracker Children’s Cast.
With a strong classical ballet foundation and years of contemporary and jazz experience, Chloe blends technique, musicality, and expressive artistry in every class she teaches. Her passion for dance is contagious, and we can’t wait for our dancers to grow under her guidance this summer!
Chloe Hernandez
Jahaira Rodriguez
We are thrilled to welcome Jahaira Rodriguez back to our summer dance faculty! Jahaira will be teaching our dance camps and bringing the heat to Latin Fusion this season.
A 2025 graduate of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign with a BA in Dance, Jahaira is a dynamic artist and leader. She served as Artistic Director of Dance 2XS Caliente from 2022–2025, where she choreographed original works, created music mixes, designed costumes, and produced vibrant stage performances that celebrated Latin fusion and urban dance styles.
Jahaira has a true gift for working with children. She builds confidence, creativity, and joy through movement, inspiring young dancers to express themselves boldly. Fluent in English and Spanish, she connects effortlessly with diverse communities. During the school year, she shares her passion for dance as an educator in Chicago Public Schools.
Jahaira brings rhythm, storytelling, and heart into every class — and we are so excited for our dancers to experience her energy and artistry this summer!
Jahaira Rodriguez