Dance studios typically focus on teaching students how to move on stage. But Michelle Soutier, founder of Miller Street Dance Academy, has a bigger vision for her students. Since opening her first studio in 1994, Soutier has been helping aspiring dancers learn not only the art of dance but also skills and values that help them thrive beyond the stage.
“From the beginning, I wanted to see my students be well-rounded in the arts as well as in school and in life,” Soutier shares. “So I created a wholesome environment where kids would have the training and opportunities to do anything they wanted to with dance, whether their dream was to become professionals later in life or just to enjoy dance as part of their childhood. Then I added our Service Society to teach the dancers about philanthropy and to inspire them to give back. And finally, I rewarded the kids for good grades.”
Over the past 32 years, Soutier’s vision has inspired and empowered countless students. Today, Miller Street Dance Academy boasts over 350 weekly classes serving more than 3,000 students.
Source: Magnific/Daniela Lupasco
Soutier is committed to raising the standard in dance education
Soutier began her journey in 1994 with 21 students and one dream: to raise the standard in dance education. Her students wouldn’t be simply taught dance moves. Rather, they would be offered purposeful training that empowered them to move across the stage and through life with integrity, grace, and confidence.
“My belief is that dance education should be both high-quality and uplifting,” Soutier explains. “Miller Street Dance Academy has been and continues to be built upon that belief. We offer tasteful dance instruction in a positive, encouraging environment.”
Soutier’s approach fueled notable growth for the academy. She was forced to seek out larger studios a number of times in order to accommodate her growing roster of students. In 2009, she began to see her legacy take shape as graduates from the academy began stepping into teaching roles.
But Soutier’s singular success wasn’t without challenges. In the early days, critics who felt her approach had flaws weren’t shy about letting her know.
“When I first opened the studio, I really thought I’d create a space that would be fun and easy, where there would be nothing to complain about,” Soutier recalls. “But I soon found out complaints come from every direction for every different reason. As I navigated those early days, I learned the value of being true to myself and sticking with my plan. I chose not to try to be everything for everyone, but to follow my vision and attract those who were interested.”
Soutier’s Service Society instills students with a sense of duty to their communities
A commitment to service is one of the values that sets Miller Street Dance Academy apart from the average studio. Through its Service Society, which Soutier refers to as the “heartbeat of the studio,” Miller Street’s dancers learn the joy of giving, the power of teamwork, and the impact one person’s efforts can make in the world.
“I grew up in a house full of philanthropists,” Soutier shares. “My father used to fly burn victims to their appointments for the Shriners, and my mom and my stepfather were equally involved in a variety of projects within our hometown. Their examples made serving others very normal to me and something I want to instill in our dancers.”
Miller Street carries out more than 300 Service Society projects each year, with dancers earning points for their participation. The program honors the most dedicated volunteers each year, but more importantly, all who participate experience first-hand the value of community service.
“I knew if I made it normal for the kids when they’re young, they’d take it with them into the rest of their lives,” Soutier says. “And that’s what they’ve done. So many of my alumni are out doing really great things in the community because of the experiences they had serving others at Miller Street.”
Soutier has expanded her vision to stages on Broadway
In addition to casting her vision for her students, Soutier embodies it by continually encouraging and empowering others in the artistic community. Her production work on the 2026 Broadway show “Beaches: A New Musical” is a prime example.
“I produced an off-Broadway production in 2015 called ‘Pageant: The Musical’ that got me excited about stepping it up a notch,” Soutier says. “It was unusual for me to step into a role in which I had no creative input, since I’m usually the one directing shows and events. But it was nice to find talent that I could put my money behind and support.”
Soutier’s vision has expanded over the past three decades, but her focus has remained constant. She and her team at Miller Street Dance Academy continue to raise the standard in dance education by inspiring and encouraging the next generation of dancers.
“Alongside choreography and performance, we emphasize respect for self and others, teamwork, and giving back to the community,” Soutier says. “It’s an approach that has allowed our academy to grow consistently over the years while also ensuring our students have the skills they need to dance, give back, and lead.”