Brooke McCarthy

Studio Assistant Director  

The Company Executive Director

ADA Senior Instructor

 

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Brooke McCarthy’s passion for dance began at an early age at DeFrances Academy of Dance. There, she trained extensively in all genres and competed nationwide as a member of their elite company. At just 18, Brooke began her teaching career at her childhood studio, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to dance education.

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Brooke earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Southeastern Louisiana University. Her academic background gives her valuable insight into working with children with speech and language disorders, as well as those on the autism spectrum—expertise that enhances her ability to connect with and nurture dancers of all learning styles.

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While in college, Brooke danced with the nationally ranked Lionettes Dance Team and served as a staff member for the Universal Dance Association (UDA), where she taught and adjudicated for high school and collegiate dance teams across the country. These experiences sharpened her skills in performance, choreography, and leadership on a national level.

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After moving to Houston in 2010, Brooke taught creative movement and dance to preschool-aged children, further expanding her versatility as an educator. In 2012, she found her home at Alisa’s Dance Academy in Austin—and this season, she proudly embarks on her 14th year with the studio.

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Brooke was recently promoted to Studio Assistant Director and Executive Director of The Company, roles that reflect her dedication, experience, and leadership within the ADA community. Over the years, she has served as the original Company Director of Momentum Dance Company, ADA’s former intermediate company, and as Co-Director of the elite-level Austin’s Dance Elite. These leadership roles have allowed her to mentor dancers at all stages of their development, from aspiring performers to seasoned competitors.

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Outside the studio, Brooke is a devoted wife and proud mother of two adorable boys. Her experience as a parent adds depth to her teaching philosophy, allowing her to connect with families on a meaningful level and support her students with care, empathy, and perspective.