CORA PAUL

Dance Instructor/Choreographer - Wilbraham & Windsor Locks

Miss Cora, a faculty member at The Dance Studio since 2015, began her dancing career at the age of 13 at her local studio in Ware, Massachusetts. While there, she played a fierce game of catch up and quickly joined the competition team. With each performance her love grew deeper, and she soon realized this is what she was meant to do. Throughout high school, Miss Cora juggled her academics, dance classes, as well as jobs to pay for her lessons. This soon paid off when she graduated valedictorian and was off to further her dance education at Bridgewater State University where she was a member of their dance company and hip hop team. In 2014 she decided to be closer to her family and transfer to Springfield College. It was there that she met Miss Angie, as well as fellow teacher Miss Jelli. In a school mainly focused on sports, Cora immersed herself in dance history, music theory, pedagogy, and numerous technique classes. She performed with their repertory company in various locations across New England, including the annual American College Dance Festival (fun fact: years later we found out that Miss Paige was there too!). She was also a member and choreographer for the Springfield College Dancers club, took master classes with renowned choreographers such as Fritha Pengelly, Paul Dennis, Bill Evans, James Morrow, Jen Polins, David Bovat, and performed during the college’s annual “Scholars in Action” day. Through her course work at Springfield College, Cora was given the opportunity to perform at, as well as teach at, several schools in the area, spreading the positive impact dance can have on an individual and a community. After graduating Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in dance, Miss Cora continued teaching at The Dance Studio and other studios in the area as a full time career. She currently teaches all age groups both recreationally and competitively in styles such as contemporary, jazz, and ballet, but enjoys and appreciates all genres. Her work has been recognized at Beyond the Stars for “Ultimate Emotional Execution”, in addition to receiving platinum titles, and many judges awards.
When she is not in the studio, you can find Cora with her dog watching Netflix, drawing in her sketchpad, or smelling candles at Marshalls. Miss Cora is the youngest of four girls, who all have children, making her an auntie to four nephews and two nieces (who also dance!). With no children of her own yet, she finds joy in creating bonds with her students and watching them grow in all facets. While dance requires discipline, respect, and hard work, she also believes that its main purpose is to have fun, which is reflective in her teaching style. Miss Cora is looking forward to another great year at The Dance Studio, and hopes you are too!