Mia Groff is a speech pathologist by profession who specialized in adult neurorehabilitation during her "working" days. She is now a homeschooling mom. Mia spent her childhood studying ballet with the Dance Theatre of West Chester and later the Bottsford School of Dance in Rochester, New York. Her adventures with jazz began only a few years ago right here in Jericho at the Bird's Nest with Jean Marie. She founded Vermont Youth Dancers, with 5 local children, in 2006, with the mission of providing local dancers with opportunities to perform. VYD remains a program run completely by volunteers. Mia is grateful to her wonderful husband whose constant support has allowed her to work on this show, and is indebted to her incredible co-directors, and all her loyal cast members and families who have believed in and supported the vision of Vermont Youth Dancers: "I love you all!"
Theresa Robinson
Theresa Robinson has operated her own preschool in Underhill for 20 years. She grew up in a theatre family, always loved dancing and performed in varied theatre productions throughout childhood and high school. She organized a dance program while attending Lyndon State College. After college, Theresa took classes locally and performed with Main Street Dance Theatre. She began dancing with Mia in their lyrical jazz class at the Bird's Nest.. Theresa has absolutely loves being a part of Vermont Youth Dancers. She is in awe of Mia and her ability to create this magic and this experience for kids in the community. She is so thankful for the opportunity to work with these amazing families, and particularly with her daughter, Saege. Theresa would also like to thank her husband Bob for his help and support during her involvement with Vermont Youth Dancers!
Berta York
Berta York is a professional flutist and a native of New York City. A graduate of Performing Arts High School and Juiliard Pre-College, she was a soloist in Alice Tully and Carnegie Recital Halls before she was 25 years old. She is a staff member of the VYOA where she directs their wind ensemble program. She also is principal flutist with the Burlington Chamber Orchestra and the Heliand Consort. Berta began her drama adventures with children 5 years ago when she directed her first play, an adaption of Shakespeare's "The Winter's Tale" with a group of children ages 7-12. Since then she has also directed "The Tempest." She also enjoys directing summer drama and film camps. She enjoys art education with children of all ages and especially enjoys infusing high level drama skills and performing skills while having a good time. Berta currently lives in Jericho, VT with her two children, two dogs and one husband.