Our Team
Julissa Connelly
With a diverse background in dance, Julissa began her journey in middle school as a member of a competitive show choir, combining her love for both dance and singing. After relocating to a school without a show choir, she continued her dance training through three years of ballroom dance, building a strong foundation in partner work and musicality. In her senior year of high school, Julissa joined Orchesis, a student-led dance club, where she explored different styles. She had already grown to love Latin dance through what she learned in ballroom training, and expanded on this love by co-choreographing a Latin fusion piece featuring bachata and merengue.
Since discovering the social Latin dance scene over 5 years ago, Julissa has been an active and passionate member in the community. In 2023, she was introduced to Brazilian zouk and immediately fell in love with the style. She was specifically drawn by the fluidity, intricate connection, and improvisational creativity in the dance that allows for playful expression. She has been devoted to zouk ever since, continuously training and evolving as both a leader and follower.
Julissa continuously seeks out opportunities to further her dancing, connect with others from all different backgrounds, and find community. She regularly attends congresses and weekenders across the country and even seeks out socials when traveling abroad. When teaching, she focuses on connection and having fun because she believes dance is an expression of joy! Come take a class with Julissa today!