SHONI JAEGER
dance instructor & founder
Shoni opened the Academy of the Performing Arts in 1996, bringing her lifelong passion for dance to the Flathead Valley. Growing up in Iowa, she trained extensively in ballet, tap, jazz, and more, while also studying at Joffrey Ballet and attending intensive workshops and conventions in Chicago. Throughout her training, Shoni had the opportunity to work alongside some of the industry’s top dancers and choreographers. These experiences shaped both her artistry and her teaching.
Over the years, Shoni has become a true legend in the local dance community. She has inspired countless dancers with her knowledge, creativity, and dedication, while building APA into the thriving studio it is today. As director, she continues to pour her heart into creating opportunities for students to grow, shine, and discover a lifelong love of dance.
AURORA GRACHEK
dance instructor
Aurora has been sharing her love of dance for the past six years and can’t imagine doing anything else! She grew up training in all styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and musical theater and her passion for dance has only grown stronger with time. Always eager to keep learning, Aurora has studied at Broadway Dance Center, Millennium Dance Complex, and Arizona State University. She is certified in Tap Roots and is a two-time certified member of the nationally recognized Dance Teacher Web Association.
As a teacher, Aurora is hands-on, encouraging, and full of energy. She loves working with kids of all ages and strives to create a space where dancers can dream big, work hard, and discover their confidence both in and out of the studio. Her goal is not only to help students grow as dancers, but also to inspire them to carry the lessons of dedication, creativity, and perseverance into everyday life.
ELLERY BRUMBAUGH
dance instructor
Ellery grew up training at Ballet West Academy in Salt Lake City, Utah, under the legendary Bene Arnold. She went on to train with world-class companies like Ballet Chicago, Joffrey Ballet, and Los Angeles Ballet learning from some of the finest ballerinas in the country.
With a strong background in classical ballet, Ellery found her passion in teaching. She has taught at local ballet schools and became certified in barre fitness, leading classes all across Southern California. Now, she’s bringing her amazing barre fitness classes to APA and we couldn’t be more excited!
Ellery is known for being upbeat, kind, fun, and truly awesome. She brings energy, expertise, and encouragement into every class, inspiring dancers and adults alike to fall in love with movement.
LIBBY NEMES
dance instructor
Libby has been teaching dance in the Flathead Valley for the past five years, but her journey with APA began long before that. After moving to Montana at age six, she took her very first tap class at the Academy of the Performing Arts and was instantly hooked. She went on to train at APA for 13 years, studying tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, Broadway, and contemporary, and eventually discovered her passion for teaching.
Along with being a dedicated teacher, Libby is also a proud mom of three boys and one little girl. She brings the same patience, organization, and nurturing spirit she uses at home into the classroom, encouraging each dancer to grow in their own unique way. Libby is committed to helping dancers build both technical skills and confidence, all while making class a fun and inspiring place where students can fall in love with dance.