MEET OUR TEAM
Alicia Norwood
Co-Owner/Artistic Director
Alicia Norwood’s dance training began at Jill Mallory School of Dance. She continued her studies at the Donna Lee Studio of Dance, dancing there until her graduation from high school. Alicia was one of the original members of Expressions Dance Company under the artistic direction of Donna Lee Roach. She went on to become Assistant Artistic Director of Expressions, and is now Co-Artistic Director of the dance company. She has been sharing her passion for dance excellence as a teacher of tap, jazz and ballet at the Donna Lee Studio for over twenty years.
In 1986, she became a member of Dance Masters of America and Florida Dance Masters (FDM). Alicia served on the board of directors of FDM for ten years and was the head of the jazz department at South Miami Elementary Magnet School for six years. Alicia has produced students who have been awarded the titles of “Miss Dance of Florida” and “Miss Homestead” and who have been awarded thousands of dollars in scholarships. Her students have become professional dancers with Walt Disney World, The Young Americans, and many renowned ballet companies. Currently, as the Co-Owner/Director of Donna Lee Studio of Dance, Alicia Norwood is continuing the tradition of quality dance education in the South Miami Dade community.
Vicky Gonzalez
Co-Owner/Artistic Director
I grew up right here at Donna Lee Studio of Dance, so being able to teach where my own love of dance began is incredibly special to me. Over the years I’ve taught dancers of all ages and in many different styles, and today I teach ballet and jazz while also serving as the Director of Expressions Dance Company.
After graduating from New World School of the Arts High School, I continued my training with the Schools of Hartford Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, and Princeton Ballet School. I was fortunate to tour nationally and internationally, performing works by legendary choreographers including George Balanchine, Lila York, Michael Uthoff, Septime Weber, and many others. Throughout my career, I’ve also had the opportunity to choreograph for community theatre productions, guest teach at studios across South Florida, and I am proud to be a member of Florida Dance Masters, Inc.
For more than 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of sharing my passion for dance with thousands of students. Watching them grow into confident young adults has been the greatest reward. Many of my former students have gone on to study at prestigious college dance programs, dance professionally with ballet companies and cruise lines, perform at Walt Disney World, teach the next generation of dancers, and pursue successful careers both in and outside of the arts.
My biggest hope is that every student who walks through our doors discovers a genuine love for dance and realizes that it’s something they can carry with them for the rest of their lives. Dance is about so much more than steps—it’s about confidence, discipline, perseverance, friendships, and finding joy in movement.
When I’m not at the studio, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family, hanging out with my dog, or relaxing by the pool.
Kaitlin Littlejohn
Dance Instructor/Enrollment Specialist
Head of Preschool, Kinder & Recreational Program
Hi! My name is Mrs. Kaitlin, and I’m so excited to be part of another wonderful season at Donna Lee Studio of Dance!
My dance journey began right here at Donna Lee Studio of Dance, where I trained from childhood until I graduated. During my years at the studio, I was a member of Expressions Dance Company and later danced on the Elite Dance Team at Robert Morgan Educational Center. I began my teaching journey in 2005 as a Student Assistant, progressed to a Teacher Assistant, and eventually became an instructor. It is truly a full-circle moment to now teach at the studio where my own love of dance first began.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Child Psychology from Florida International University, which allows me to bring an understanding of child development into every class I teach. I am Ballet Certified through Florida Dance Masters, Inc. (2023) and certified in the Acrobatic Arts Preschool Program. I believe in continuing my education so I can provide the best possible experience for every dancer.
Over the years, I have had the opportunity to teach dancers of every age and skill level. In addition to teaching, I oversee our Preschool, Kinder, and Recreational Programs, where I strive to create a positive, nurturing environment that helps every dancer build confidence, develop strong technique, and discover a lifelong love of dance.
When I’m not at the studio, you’ll usually find me spending time with my family. I’m married and have one energetic little girl who keeps us on our toes! I also love reading, all things Disney, and making special memories with my family.
Donna Lee Studio of Dance has been my second home for many years, and I feel incredibly grateful to now help shape the same positive experiences that inspired me as a young dancer. I can’t wait for another amazing season and to watch each of our dancers learn, grow, and shine!
Katie Davis
Lyrical & Certified Acrobatics Instructor
Head of Acrobatics Program
Hi dancers! I’m Miss Katie. At Donna Lee Studio of Dance I over see the lyrical and acrobatic classes for ages 6-18. I want to introduce myself and tell you how my dance world has come full circle. I grew up in Homestead and Donna Lee was my 2nd home from age 5 on. It was at Donna Lee that I grew to love dance; training in all genres, competing and assisting and participating in Expressions Dance Company. In middle school, I transferred to the dance magnet at Mays and continued dancing at Coral Reef, but graduated from South Dade High. My college years were spent along the Space Coast. I attended Florida Tech for my bachelors and grad school earring a degree in Civil Engineering, but craved something more artistic. Although I danced, competed, and taught all through college, I wanted to do something more! My journey led me to audition for the Walt Disney company. During my time at Walt Disney World I had the privilege of performing in the Lion King Show at Magic Kingdom, the light parade & Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween parade at Magic Kingdom, along with several special events and parades. My experience there taught me so much and I would go back to it in a heart beat. But life had other plans, and I moved back to Homestead in 2014 and was asked to join the staff at Donna Lee; full circle! I was back HOME!
Since my homecoming, I earned my certification with Florida Dance Masters in Acrobatics, and Module 1, 2, Aerial/Back Handspring, and Back Tuck/Layout certifications through Acrobatic Arts. It is my hope that every one of my students feels at home and safe to be themselves in classes. I make time to get to know them and how to relate to their interests and their character. Like myself, young artists need space to grow and better themselves. My classes revolve around safety, considering the longevity of my student’s athletic abilities, so we focus on strength building, control, and progression.
I love watching kids achieve new tricks or connect with a piece of choreography! I can’t wait to meet you on the dance floor!
Reena Attard
Petite, Kinder & Certified Acrobatics Instructor
Kaitlyn Kenney
Petite, Kinder & Primary Instructor
I started dancing at two years old at Donna Lee Studio of Dance. The studio gave me the opportunity to be part of the expressions dance company at the age of ten which allowed me to put on shows and performances for the community. I began assisting at the studio at 16 years old where i learned how to lead, take initiative, and be punctual. I have also attended and competed multiple times in the Florida Dance Masters Thanksgiving convention. I was part of the Westminster Dance program where I was awarded Dancer of the year as a freshman in high school. The Westminster Warriottes dance team gave me countless opportunities to compete in Florida Dance Competitions such as Inferno, American Dance Alliance, and Contest of Champions. I was even part of an Ensemble piece entitled “Cry me a River” which placed 1st overall at the states level of ADA.
I hope my dancers can learn how to be confident within their dancing. I feel my teaching style is unique because I am capable of getting on their level when it comes to communicating with one another. I am able to clearly see what kind of instruction each student needs in order to be most successful.
Megan Lyons
Certified Advanced Acrobatics Instructor
Megan Lyons has been part of the Donna Lee Studio of Dance family since she was just two years old. After growing up dancing at the studio, Megan began teaching after high school and has continued sharing her love of dance and acrobatics there for over 20 years.
As an Acrobatics instructor, Megan is certified through both Florida Dance Masters, Inc and Acrobatic Arts. She is passionate about helping students develop strong technique, confidence, discipline, and safe dance habits that will stay with them both inside and outside the studio.
For Megan, teaching is about so much more than dance—it’s about helping students build good habits that become life habits. She loves watching her students grow, overcome challenges, and discover what they are capable of. Having grown up at Donna Lee herself, Megan feels incredibly grateful to be able to give back to the studio community that has been such an important part of her own life.
Kevin Hernandez
Ballet Instructor
Kevin began his ballet training in 2007 at the Gustavo Franklin Foundation Ballet-Arte in Caracas, Venezuela, and joined the Teresa Carreño Ballet in 2010. In 2012, he won the gold medal at the International Ballet Competition in Caracas, and in 2013 was promoted to First Soloist. During his four years with the company, he performed principal roles in Don Quixote, Coppélia, The Nutcracker, Flames of Paris, and Flowers Festival, among others.
In 2015, Kevin was a finalist at the World Ballet Competition and a gold medalist at the Universal Ballet Competition. After moving to Miami, he danced with local companies, including Dimensions Dance Theatre of Miami, and performed at the Joyce Dance Festival in New York and Jacob’s Pillow Festival in Massachusetts.
As an instructor, Kevin believes every dancer is unique and that it’s never too late to begin or grow. Having started ballet himself at age 15, he understands the value of hard work, dedication, and self-discipline—and encourages his students to carry those qualities into both dance and life.
And a fun fact: Kevin also sings and creates music!
Christian Woods
Hip-Hop Instructor
Christian Woods is a powerhouse performer whose artistry blends movement, music, and energy into every project he touches. A dancer, skater, and all-around creative force, Christian’s passion for performance has taken him from the CLI Conservatory to international stages — and everywhere in between.
Trained by some of the most respected names in the industry including Teddy Forance, Jeremy Strong, Marlee Hightower, Tyce Diorio, and Brian Friedman, Christian has mastered a wide range of styles — from hip-hop and street styles to contemporary, jazz funk, and theater jazz. His diverse training shines through in every performance, with a presence that commands attention and leaves a lasting impression.
Christian’s credits speak for themselves: he’s danced in CLI Creative Film, Slidin’, Kill the Lights, One Night Ting, and more, and brought his talent to major live events like Rolling Loud Miami, the TikTok Tailgate in Phoenix, and even Coca-Cola Stadium in Dubai. Whether in front of the camera or live on stage, Christian brings versatility, professionalism, and raw talent to every project.
Beyond dance, Christian is a skilled roller skater, beatboxer, and tenor singer, making him a true triple threat with a unique artistic edge. His work is a reflection of his drive, discipline, and love for storytelling through movement.
If you’re looking for a performer who blends technical excellence with undeniable charisma — get to know Christian Woods.
Amanda Carter
Studio Manager
Amanda Carter has been a part of the Donna Lee Studio of Dance family since she was just 5 years old! Her journey with our studio has truly come full circle.
Amanda was a member of Expressions Dance Company for 8 years and, after graduating, began assisting Ms. Alicia and Ms. Donna in classes before teaching dancers of her own, working with students ages 3-10.
She then took her talents on the road, performing as a dancer and singer for Carnival Cruise Line, Holland America Line, and Anita Mann Productions. During this exciting chapter of her career, Amanda had the opportunity to travel throughout the Caribbean, Central America, the Panama Canal, and South America.
In 2016, Amanda returned home to Donna Lee Studio as our Office Manager. Today, she loves meeting new dance families, watching our dancers grow and progress each year, and, of course, being part of the best dance family there is!
Amanda is also a proud dance mom to two daughters who are growing up right here at Donna Lee Studio, making her connection to our studio even more special.
Fun Fact: Ms. Donna is Amanda’s stepmom! Talk about a true family business!
We are so lucky to have Amanda as such an important part of the Donna Lee Studio family!
Tammy Triana
Office Assistant
Tammy Triana is a familiar and beloved face at Donna Lee Studio of Dance, with a connection to the studio that spans generations. A Homestead, FL native, Tammy grew up dancing at Jill Mallory Studio of Dance under the instruction of Donna Lee. Years later, she watched her own daughter follow in her footsteps, dancing at Donna Lee Studio of Dance and becoming a proud member of Expressions Dance Company.
Tammy is especially proud that her daughter carried her love of dance with her to college. She went on to attend the University of Central Florida, where she majored in Marketing and minored in Dance—continuing to make dance an important part of her life and who she is. Watching her daughter continue her dance journey beyond high school was something Tammy cherished and remains very proud of today.
After her daughter graduated from high school, Tammy returned to Donna Lee Studio as a member of our office staff. Coming back to the studio felt especially meaningful to her, as it allowed her to remain connected to a place that had played such an important role in her daughter’s life—and in her own.
Tammy loves traveling, spending time with her family, and enjoying every moment with her new granddaughter.
Her favorite part of working at Donna Lee Studio is witnessing the excitement and joy that dance brings to our students—from the wide-eyed excitement of a young dancer on their very first day to the pride and confidence of our older dancers as they take the stage to perform. Tammy loves being part of the special moments and memories that make a dancer’s journey so meaningful!
Ily Wenzel
Office Assistant
I am a member of the office staff at Donna Lee Studio of Dance, where I help support our dancers and their families and make sure everyone has a clear understanding of what is happening at the studio. I assist with communication, answer questions, and help create a welcoming environment for all of our dance families. As a Spanish speaker, I also help translate information so that every family feels informed, included, and supported throughout the season.
While I do not have a dance background myself, I have been a dance mom for over 20 years. Through those years, I have gained a deep understanding of the commitment, excitement, and support that being part of a dance family requires. My experience has allowed me to connect with parents and understand their perspectives, helping me better support the families at Donna Lee Studio of Dance.
What I love most about being part of Donna Lee Studio of Dance is the strong sense of community. I enjoy getting to know our families and helping make their experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. My hope is that every parent and dancer who walks through our doors feels welcomed, supported, and like they are part of something special.
A fun fact about me is that I am bilingual and love spending time with my family. In my free time, I enjoy reading and hiking, and I love watching my daughter dance and seeing the confidence and friendships she has built throughout the years at Donna Lee Studio of dance.