UHS DANCE
MAGNET

  • Oranssi carpenter using bench saw

  • Oranssi technician working on a roof project

  • Oranssi previous project

The
Magnet

  • Our Mission

    We aim to nurture young dancers, fostering their artistry and technical growth, providing professional opportunities, and empowering them to become their best selves.

  • Our Curriculum

    Dancers move beyond the surface and embrace dance through creativity and critical thinking with a diversified dance curriculum designed for students serious about studying dance for its athletic and artistic elements.

  • Our Opportunities

    Opportunities include seasonal concert performances, student choreography, masterclasses and residencies with industry professionals, community events, dance team & spirit performances, dance festivals, and more!

Dance Director

Elise Mele is the full-time Performing Arts Magnet Dance Director and Teacher at University High School. Elise has a deep-seated passion for dance and is committed to nurturing the next generation of performers, artists, choreographers, and educators. She possesses a Bachelor’s degree in Dance from Drexel University, a Master's in Fine Arts in Choreography from Temple University, and a multitude of years as an experienced dance educator and choreographer. Prior to education Elise has performed professionally throughout several areas of the country and has worked with renowned choreographers and dance companies. Elise’s choreography has premiered at Temple University, Drexel University, the Philadelphia Fringe Dance Festival, Orange County Dance Assessments, Florida Dance State Assessments, School Showcases, Musicals, and has been awarded with “Outstanding Choreographer” in the Dr. Phillips Center Applause Awards. Elise also serves on the Orange County Public Schools Dance Board as the High School coordinator for the OCPS Dance Performance Assessments.

As a dance educator, Elise aims for a learning environment that challenges students to employ their creativity as they build upon their technical skills. Dance provides the platform for us to share our stories, and Elise prioritizes passive and active modalities that enable each student to find their artistic voice. Teaching dance is not just about imparting technique; it is about inspiring a love for the art form and fostering an environment where creativity and self-expression can flourish. Elise believes in the importance of connecting dance and the student to discover their inner artist and best self through dance techniques, professionalism, performance, and creative voice through self-expression