This fall the Merc Playhouse is offering dance classes for all ages and abilities, taught by choreographer Missi Smith.

Preschool Dance, Intro to Dance, Dance 1 and Musical Theater Dance classes will be held Thursdays and Saturdays starting September 13. See the Merc website - www.mercplayhouse.org - for details on schedule and fees.

Missi Smith started her dance and choreography training in Indiana where she studied tap, ballet, jazz, and musical theater. She trained and performed with Jordan College Academy of Dance, the Indianapolis Ballet Theatre, and her local school's dance team and performance choir.

After completing a bachelor’s degree in education with a minor in dance performance at Ball State University, she went on to teach ballet, jazz, and tap to various age groups in Pendleton, Indiana. She also choreographed local cheerleading squads and show choirs. While completing a master’s degree in English at Oakland University, Michigan, she taught tap, ballet and jazz.

Since she moved to Washington in 2003, Missi has been a board member for the The Merc Playhouse and the Methow Valley Theater. She choreographed local productions of Guys and Dolls, Godspell, Annie Get Your Gun, The Taffetas, You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown and A Midsummer Night's Dream.