Meet the Creative Director
Elish’a McIntyre
Founder & Creative Director
Dance has always been more than movement to me it’s a way to inspire confidence, build character, and create opportunities for young people to thrive.
About Me
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I am a passionate and dedicated dance educator, choreographer, and creative director with 13 years of dance experience and 7 years of teaching and leadership experience. My journey in dance began at the age of nine, and what started as a love for movement has grown into a lifelong commitment to artistic expression, youth development, and empowering others through the performing arts.
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Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of dance styles, including jazz, contemporary, modern, ballet, hip-hop, majorette, and dance fusion. These experiences have shaped my versatility as a dancer and choreographer, allowing me to approach movement with creativity, intention, and an appreciation for different forms of artistic expression.
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My passion extends beyond choreography and performance. I believe dance is a powerful tool for building confidence, discipline, leadership, individuality, and self-expression. As an educator, I am committed to creating an environment where dancers feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. I strive to recognize the unique strengths of every dancer while encouraging them to explore their creativity, develop their technique, and embrace their individuality.
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My mission is to develop versatile, well-rounded dancers who understand that their potential extends far beyond the studio. I want every dancer I work with to know that their dreams are valid, their individuality is valuable, and their dedication can open doors to opportunities they may have never imagined.
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Through my work as the Creative Director of Royally Refined Dance, I am continuing to turn my passion into purpose by building a program that prioritizes artistic excellence, personal development, and a safe, empowering environment for youth.
My vision is to expand opportunities for young dancers throughout Florida while creating spaces where they can grow, lead, express themselves, and discover the power of their own potential.
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My philosophy is simple: Be you. Be great. Be different.
My Dance Journey
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My dance journey began when I was nine years old at the Joe R. Lee Boys & Girls Club. It was there that my love for dance began to develop under the guidance of my instructor, Mrs. Carol. She recognized my potential and dedication and offered me a scholarship to train at Nulook Performing Arts. That opportunity became a defining moment in my life, opening doors that helped shape my passion for dance and my desire to inspire others.
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Over the years, dance has taught me lessons that extend far beyond the studio. It has strengthened my discipline, perseverance, confidence, and ability to push through challenges. I have learned that growth requires dedication, that progress takes patience, and that believing in yourself is essential to achieving your dreams.
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Throughout my training, I have been fortunate to participate in numerous performances and artistic opportunities, including the Orlando Fusion Fest, Celebrate the Children, the Orlando Magic Junior Dance Camp, and performances at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. These experiences allowed me to grow as a performer, explore different styles, and develop a deeper appreciation for the impact of dance.
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As my journey progressed, my passion naturally expanded into teaching and choreography. I discovered that one of the most rewarding aspects of dance is helping others recognize their own potential. Being able to encourage young dancers, develop their skills, and watch their confidence grow has become one of the greatest privileges of my career.
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Today, I carry the lessons of my own journey into every classroom, rehearsal, and performance. I understand the importance of having someone who believes in you, provides opportunities, and encourages you to dream beyond your circumstances.
That understanding is at the heart of my work with Royally Refined Dance. I am dedicated to creating the kind of environment that helped shape me: one where dancers are encouraged to be themselves, pursue their dreams, and become confident, versatile, and empowered individuals.
Leadership Philosophy
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My leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that every dancer possesses unique potential, and it is my responsibility as an educator and creative director to help them discover, develop, and confidently express it.
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I am committed to building versatile dancers who are equipped with strong technical foundations, artistic creativity, discipline, and the confidence to embrace their individuality. I believe that meaningful dance education extends beyond learning choreography. It involves developing character, encouraging accountability, fostering teamwork, and teaching dancers how to persevere through challenges.
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I strive to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where dancers feel valued, respected, and encouraged to express themselves without fear of judgment. I recognize that every dancer learns differently, and I believe effective leadership requires patience, adaptability, consistency, and an understanding of each individual's strengths and areas for growth.
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My approach is to challenge dancers while providing the guidance and encouragement they need to succeed. I want them to understand that excellence is not about being perfect; it is about commitment, growth, and the willingness to continue learning.
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Ultimately, my goal is to develop dancers who are confident in their abilities, proud of their individuality, and prepared to carry the lessons they learn through dance into every aspect of their lives.
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I do not simply aim to teach dancers how to perform. I aim to inspire them to believe in who they are and who they have the potential to become.
