Instructors

Lauren Vann Babb
Director

Lauren Babb, a native of Smithfield, Virginia attended the Governors' School for the Performing Arts as a Modern Dance Major. After being awarded the Governors’ School Scholarship, Lauren graduated and went on to receive her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts with a concentration in Dance and Choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Fine Arts. During her time at VCU, Mrs. Babb had the pleasure to work with artists Patrik Widrig, Judy Steele, David Dorfman, Scott Putman and more. Lauren was awarded the Joan Oats Teaching Scholarship her Freshman year at VCU and carried the scholarship until graduation.

Upon graduation, Lauren traveled to San Jose, Costa Rica to study Advanced Modern Dance technique, Choreography, and Lighting Design. There she had the opportunity to perform choreography by Scott Puttman as well as present her own choreography at the National Auditorium in San Jose. After returning to the U.S. Lauren performed and premiered with the modern dance company, Amaranth, under the direction of Scott Puttman in Richmond, VA and had the pleasure of dancing with Amaranth until 2008.

With 24 years of dance teaching experience and 13 years of owning Footnotes School of Dance in Smithfield, VA, Lauren’s choreography has earned numerous awards, including "most entertaining," "judges' choice," and "overall best choreography" at regional and national competitions. Her passion for dance and dedication to her students make Footnotes a nurturing environment where dancers of all ages flourish under her guidance.

In a testament to her commitment to both art and community, Lauren has embarked on a new chapter, co-founding the non-profit organization, 757 Head Space, alongside her dear friend Bellamy Eure. Lauren has also co-founded 757 Nutcracker with longtime dance friend Meredith Parks. Balancing the roles of educator, artist, and homeschooling mother of two, Lauren finds solace and fulfillment in the dance of life itself.

Megan Jay
Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Adult Ballet, Conditioning

Katrina Loheide
Ballet, Lyrical, Modern, Pointe, Conditioning

Rachel Delgado
Acrobatic Arts

Rashad Wiggins
Hip Hop