Celebrating 50 Years of JLDC: A New Season, New Faces, and a Legacy That Dances On

As Joanne Langione Dance Center celebrates 50 years of excellence, community, and creativity, we’re kicking off our most exciting season yet. From our humble beginnings to becoming a leader in dance education in New England, JLDC has always been about more than just great technique. It’s about family, tradition, growth, and joy.

This year, as we honor our past, we’re also leaping into the future with very exciting new faces on faculty. Each of these educators brings something unique to our dance floor. Passion, professionalism, and the kind of inspiration that fuels lifelong artistry. The JLDC 50th Anniversary marks a moment of reflection and renewed energy, welcoming both legacy and innovation into our studios.

As part of our JLDC 50th Anniversary celebration, we’re thrilled to introduce our 2025–2026 New Faculty and Guest Choreographers:

Sandi Duncan

A beloved name in the New England dance scene, Sandi is a veteran educator, choreographer, and mentor with over 40 years of experience. Her work spans conventions, intensives, and published writing. Including her children’s books Little Gladys Tutu and Mimi D. With her background in personal development coaching and deep industry knowledge, Sandi brings a heart-forward approach to teaching that nurtures both the dancer and the human being.

Eliza Schack

Eliza trained in the Royal Academy of Dance curriculum and went on to earn her BFA in Modern Dance from Point Park University. With experience performing works by celebrated choreographers and teaching students of all ages, Eliza brings both artistic depth and technical excellence to her classes. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in authenticity, individuality, and creating a space where dancers feel truly seen.

Michael Dascomb

A rising tap star and 2024 U.S. Presidential Scholar Semifinalist, Michael is known for his innovative rhythms and magnetic stage presence. A Jacob’s Pillow alumnus and YoungArts Winner, he has performed and choreographed across the country and brings a unique flair for musicality, improvisation, and storytelling through tap. JLDC dancers will be energized by his creativity and commitment to pushing the form forward.

Julia Dickey 

Guest Choreographer

Just finishing her BFA in Commercial Dance at Pace University, Julia is a fresh and vibrant presence in the industry. A proud alum of the Melissa Hoffman Dance Center, she blends strong technique with a commercial edge and a grounded, student-first mindset. Julia is passionate about sharing what she’s learning in NYC with the next generation of dancers at JLDC.

Billy Griffin

Guest Choreographer

Billy brings Broadway to JLDC! With credits including Mary Poppins, Young Frankenstein, and White Christmas, Billy has performed, directed, and choreographed across the country. A sought-after master teacher and adjudicator, he has worked with leading choreographers on NBC’s SMASH and the Fire Island Dance Festival. His classes promise to be as joyful and polished as his extensive stage career.

Peter Sabasino

You may recognize Peter from Season 6 of So You Think You Can Dance, where he made it to the Top 16. A powerhouse tap and hip-hop artist, Peter has worked in commercial dance, television, and theater. From choreographing for Disney to founding the Orlando Tap Company, Peter is a dynamic performer and passionate teacher who brings the energy of the industry into every class he leads. 

Summer Thorpe

A Michigan native now based in Boston, Summer is known for her musicality, discipline, and love of tap. She trained under some of the most respected tap educators in the Midwest and continued her training at Marymount Manhattan College and Broadway Dance Center. A member of Fourth Dimension Tap Company and a Barre3 instructor, Summer brings a multifaceted, upbeat style to our JLDC family. 

And a Very Special Guest…

✨ Teddy Forance 

We are honored to welcome Teddy Forance—international choreographer, Emmy-nominated performer, and co-founder of CLI Studios—as a guest choreographer this season. Teddy’s innovative movement, deeply emotional storytelling, and industry expertise will leave a lasting impression on JLDC dancers of all levels.

As we step into the JLDC 50th Anniversary season, we are more inspired than ever. With a legacy built on integrity, dedication, and love of dance, and a future energized by new voices and bold creativity, this is a moment worth celebrating.

We can’t wait to dance through this season with all of you. Let’s make it one to remember.

Welcome to JLDC’s 50th season!