Who We Are...
Magnify School of Dance is a Christian dance ministry with locations throughout the North Houston area. With a passion for dance and a heart for worship Magnify was created in 2014. We believe that dance is for EVERYONE. We are passionate about the fact that God created beauty and expresses that beauty through people. We believe that artistic expression can be a powerful tool for worship and ministry. We strive for excellence through encouragement, community and friendship. We want our students to know that they are created uniquely by God and that He has a calling on each person’s life. We desire to share the joy of dance through positive instruction. Our instructors strive to live out their faith as examples of godliness, wholesomeness, worship and artistry. It is our goal to reclaim the arts for Christ, encourage our students and impact the community around us.
About the Director...
Lauren Reitzammer is married to her high school sweetheart, Ryan. Together they have four precious boys, Tristan, Maverick, Pierce and Nolan. Lauren has been teaching dance for over two decades and is a gifted choreographer. Among many others, Lauren has had the pleasure of choreographing the Christmas Spectacular at Champion Forest Baptist Church for the past 6 years. As a gifted singer, speaker & writer, Lauren loves sharing messages of hope through various avenues. Lauren graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Religion and is passionate about blending her love of dance with her love of ministry. She believes that art should be used to glorify God and it was this passion that drove her to begin Magnify School of Dance. Seeing what God was doing through Magnify School of Dance, God placed a desire on Lauren’s heart to begin a dance company for adults. Magnify Dance Company began in August of 2015. The dance company performs a wide variety of dance styles including lyrical, ballet, modern, swing, ballroom, hip hop, etc. The company is comprised of men and women who share Lauren’s vision to see the gospel spread through the language of dance, performing for churches and events upon request. The company also serves as an inspiration for young dancers who desire to use their gifts for ministry. This fall Lauren will be heading up the Magnify Creative Academy at Champion Forest Baptist Church. For more of Lauren’s story, visit withfearandtrembling.org
Magnify School of Dance Instructors
Jenny Moyado Ballet & Jazz Instructor | Troupe & Ignite Director
Jenny has been dancing for over 17 years and is passionate about sharing God's love with children and adults through dance. She has trained under Mrs. Lauren since she was a child and has taught with Magnify for the past 8 years. Jenny also serves as a choreographer for Joyful Sound and has choreographed multiple productions for National Youth Theater. Jenny directs two of Magnify's ministry teams: Team and Troupe. She is also the the lead Jazz instructor at Magnify and is a charter dance member for Magnify Dance Company. While Jenny’s teaching & performing talents are undeniable, it’s her heart that endears her to students and parents alike. We are so grateful to have Jenny as part of our Magnify team!
Erica Gallegos Ballet & Hip Hop Instructor | Aim & Crew Director
Erica has been dancing for over 19 years. She has loved dancing in the Magnify Dance Company since it began in 2015. She is passionate about seeing revival through the performing arts. She is the resident theatre director for Concordia Lutheran High School as well as a USFSA certified figure skating coach at Ice at The Galleria. Erica also has loved directing several productions with National Youth Theater. This season at Magnify Erica is teaching Musical Theater, Hip Hop, Flexibility/Conditioning and leading our AIM (Artists in Ministry) ministry team!
Abigail Gonzales Ballet & Pointe Instructor
Abigail danced for many years under Nancy Sulik at the Corpus Christi Concert Ballet. While with CCCB she danced in leading roles in The Nutcracker, Gaite Parisienne, & Alice in Wonderland. Abigail has also studied with summer programs including The Joffrey Ballet, Ballet Magnificat, Virginia School of the Arts, & the Atlanta Ballet. She attended Texas Christian University and graduated with a BFA in Ballet. Abigail pursued her Pilates certification with the Physical Mind Institute of New York while teaching dance in elementary schools. She is married with 4 children and loves teaching ballet and Pilates. Abigail teaches multiple levels of ballet at Magnify School of Dance and is the Programming Director for the Children’s Ministry at WoodsEdge Community Church.
Hannah Mettler Modern Instructor
Hannah Mettler is a dance artist, educator, and creative based in the greater Houston area. Her training is rooted in Vaganova method ballet, rhythm tap, modern, contemporary, and jazz dance with her personal teaching philosophy emphasizing technical excellence combined with artistry.
Hannah joined Ad Deum dance company in 2017 as part of the second company directed by Shizu Yasuda, and was promoted to the main company directed by Randall Flinn in 2019. She has performed works by Randall Flinn, Steve Rooks, Durell Comedy, Jennifer Mabus, Caleb Mitchell, Shizu Yasuda, and Alicia Graf-Mack.
In addition to her love of performing, she is a passionate educator and is currently pursuing an MFA in Dance at Sam Houston State University. Her goals are to use dance as a means to connect and inspire the next generation of movement artists and use her gifts and talents for the glory of God.
Hannah joined Ad Deum dance company in 2017 as part of the second company directed by Shizu Yasuda, and was promoted to the main company directed by Randall Flinn in 2019. She has performed works by Randall Flinn, Steve Rooks, Durell Comedy, Jennifer Mabus, Caleb Mitchell, Shizu Yasuda, and Alicia Graf-Mack.
In addition to her love of performing, she is a passionate educator and is currently pursuing an MFA in Dance at Sam Houston State University. Her goals are to use dance as a means to connect and inspire the next generation of movement artists and use her gifts and talents for the glory of God.
Kirsten Hart Ballet & Pilates Instructor
Kirsten is a native of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania where she began her dance training at the age of 9. She is a
dancer, teacher, and choreographer, holding 14 years of training in the styles of ballet, jazz, lyrical, modern,
musical theatre, tap, hip hop, and acro. Kirsten received her training from several institutions including the
Joffrey Ballet School, Broadway Dance Center, and the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB).
Kirsten holds a B.S. of Biology/Pre-Medicine and a Dance minor from Messiah University near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Kirsten currently a member of Open Sky dance collective and a Pure Barre instructor. She approaches her dance classes with extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology to help her students become more informed, stronger dancers. Kirsten is excited to share her love for dance with all the students she meets at Magnify this year!
dancer, teacher, and choreographer, holding 14 years of training in the styles of ballet, jazz, lyrical, modern,
musical theatre, tap, hip hop, and acro. Kirsten received her training from several institutions including the
Joffrey Ballet School, Broadway Dance Center, and the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet (CPYB).
Kirsten holds a B.S. of Biology/Pre-Medicine and a Dance minor from Messiah University near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Kirsten currently a member of Open Sky dance collective and a Pure Barre instructor. She approaches her dance classes with extensive knowledge of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology to help her students become more informed, stronger dancers. Kirsten is excited to share her love for dance with all the students she meets at Magnify this year!
Nomi Mucha Ballet & Tap Instructor | Arise Co-Director
Nomi grew up dancing and trained in classical ballet for over 14 years where she gained an immense love and respect for the performing arts! Nomi is an accomplished dancer who joined Magnify Jr. Company three years ago, and from there grew her skills in other dance styles including Modern, Tap, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Partnering and more. She was promoted to Magnify Dance Company in 2023. This year Nomi will be teaching Ballet for Magnify School of Dance. She has a heart for children and is excited share her love for Jesus and the arts through dance!
Ashleigh Lutrick Ballet & Tap Instructor | Arise Co-Director
Ashleigh has been dancing for 19 years heavily training in classical ballet. She has completed her level eight exam in the American Ballet Theatre curriculum. She has also trained in and enjoys various styles such as, contemporary, lyrical, jazz, hip-hop, tap, and musical theatre, which has given her the opportunity to perform and do ministry in numerous places including Dallas, New York and Houston. She joined Magnify’s company in 2023 and also started teaching tap at Magnify School of Dance. Ashleigh is eager to see what the Lord has in store for Magnify and those perusing spreading the Gospel through the language of dance.
Joy Crissmon Contemporary Instructor
Joy Crissmon is a University Scholar from Stephen F. Austin State University, where she earned dual Bachelor’s degrees—one in Dance, with a concentration in Performance and Choreography, and the other in Theatre, with an emphasis on Acting and Directing. Joy is passionate about the integration of movement, theatrical expression, and athleticism; believing that powerful concepts are best conveyed through the synergy of dance and acting. She currently performs professionally with Deeper Than Dance Company, The Black Angels Collective, and a range of independent projects. In addition to performing, she is equally passionate about teaching and sharing her love for movement and storytelling with the next generation of artists!
She is so excited to be teaching at Magnify this season! The love, openness, and genuine eagerness for growth in the Magnify environment make it a truly special place. She’s especially grateful for the freedom to teach boldly and authentically—uncensored in her love for Jesus—as she grows alongside her students and continues to explore more deeply as a teacher.
She is so excited to be teaching at Magnify this season! The love, openness, and genuine eagerness for growth in the Magnify environment make it a truly special place. She’s especially grateful for the freedom to teach boldly and authentically—uncensored in her love for Jesus—as she grows alongside her students and continues to explore more deeply as a teacher.
Livia Kuepker Tap, Tumbling & Jazz Instructor
Livia Kuepker joined Magnify in 2019 with no prior dance experience and has learned so much in the five years she has been here. She was promoted to Jr. Co. in 2022 where she gained tremendous love and admiration for dance as a ministry. This is her first year teaching and she has loved getting to know and minister to the students in her class. She is currently a junior at Houston Christian University where she is studying Biology. She loves cooking, singing, playing the drums, spending time with her family, and playing with her dogs. She hopes to continue learning and growing in every avenue possible but especially dance.
Ashley Pawlak Ballet Instructor
Ashley has been dancing for 16 years and began her journey at Magnify at the age of 12—making this her 7th year with the studio. She has loved every moment, from refining her technique to being part of the ministry that makes Magnify so special.
For the past 5 years, Ashley has served as a teacher assistant, and she is thrilled to step into a new role this year as the Beginner Ballet instructor. She holds an Associate of Arts degree and will be continuing her education at Sam Houston State University this fall. In addition to teaching at Magnify, Ashley will begin teaching Pre-K at Early Excellence Academy in Tomball ISD.
Ashley is passionate about continuing to learn and grow in her own dance journey while pouring into the lives of the little ones she teaches. She is excited to see all that God has in store for this season!
For the past 5 years, Ashley has served as a teacher assistant, and she is thrilled to step into a new role this year as the Beginner Ballet instructor. She holds an Associate of Arts degree and will be continuing her education at Sam Houston State University this fall. In addition to teaching at Magnify, Ashley will begin teaching Pre-K at Early Excellence Academy in Tomball ISD.
Ashley is passionate about continuing to learn and grow in her own dance journey while pouring into the lives of the little ones she teaches. She is excited to see all that God has in store for this season!
Ashtyn Thiebaud Hip-Hop & Jazz Instructor
Ashtyn Thiebaud has been dancing for 14 years, and for her, it’s always been more than movement—it’s the most honest expression of who God created her to be. She trained for nine years at Dance Dynamics and is now entering her fifth year with Magnify Dance Company.
Over the years, Ashtyn has studied a wide range of styles including All-Star Competition Dance, Contemporary, Lyrical, Jazz, Hip Hop, Pom, and Ballet. Each style has taught her something new—about grace, humility, and perseverance. While she doesn’t claim a single favorite, she feels most at home in grounded movement, where meaning and motion meet.
This year, Ashtyn will be teaching Hip Hop and Jazz, and she’s excited for another amazing season at Magnify Dance!
Over the years, Ashtyn has studied a wide range of styles including All-Star Competition Dance, Contemporary, Lyrical, Jazz, Hip Hop, Pom, and Ballet. Each style has taught her something new—about grace, humility, and perseverance. While she doesn’t claim a single favorite, she feels most at home in grounded movement, where meaning and motion meet.
This year, Ashtyn will be teaching Hip Hop and Jazz, and she’s excited for another amazing season at Magnify Dance!
Magnify Creative Academy Staff
Ryan Reitzammer Director of Operations
Ryan has been in ministry most of his adult life and is currently serving as the Director of Operations and Outreach for Magnify Dance Company. Ryan is also a charter member of Magnify Dance Company and loves nurturing healthy team building through real connection. After graduating from the University of Houston, Ryan spent 5 years in the financial service industry and over 10 years in student ministry before stepping away to focus his efforts at Magnify. Ryan is so grateful to do life with his high school sweetheart (Lauren) and their four boys (Tristan, Maverick, Pierce & Nolan)!
Magnify Creative Administration Staff
Angel Pawlak Costumes
Angel and her daughter, Ashley, have been a part of our Magnify family since 2019, and she has been so active as a parent volunteer that we just had to have her here on staff! Angel oversees all things costume-related, including ordering, organizing, maintaining, and repairing costumes for performances and events. She ensures each dancer is stage-ready with care and creativity.
Angel is one of the hardest workers we know and does it all with a smile on her face. She loves Jesus, her family, and Magnify - giving her all for each. Angel has been a huge blessing, and it would not be the same here without her support and servant heart!
Angel is one of the hardest workers we know and does it all with a smile on her face. She loves Jesus, her family, and Magnify - giving her all for each. Angel has been a huge blessing, and it would not be the same here without her support and servant heart!
Nomi Mucha Administrative Assistant
We’re excited to welcome Nomi Mucha to our Magnify staff! In addition to dancing on Magnify Company and teaching Ballet and Tap, Nomi is stepping into a new role as our Administrative Assistant. She’s grateful for the opportunity to serve behind the scenes and is eager to grow and learn more about all aspects of the dance studio experience.
Jennifer Bolston Front Desk & Customer Relations
My name is Jennifer Bolston, and I am a dedicated wife to a passionate dance dad. Together, we are the proud parents of three talented dancers: Gabe, Isaac, and Jessa Grace. For the past six years, we have been fortunate to be a part of Magnify Dance, cherishing every season and the invaluable experiences it has provided.
In my role, I am responsible for Customer Relations. With a background as a retired elementary teacher, I find great joy in engaging with children and their families, fostering a supportive and thriving dance community.
In my role, I am responsible for Customer Relations. With a background as a retired elementary teacher, I find great joy in engaging with children and their families, fostering a supportive and thriving dance community.
Magnify Creative Academy Music Staff
Emily Haverkorn Voice Teacher
Emily began training as a vocalist when she was 9. She participated in vocal competitions through
high school and college, and has received numerous awards for her work. Emily holds a B.S. in Vocal Performance as well as an M.B.A. in Business Management. She has been teaching voice for 12 years. Emily is passionate about helping each student find and hone their unique voice, and does so by focusing on healthy vocal techniques as well as performance skills. With experience singing in a range of genres and languages, she is equipped to teach any student with a desire to cultivate their gifts.
high school and college, and has received numerous awards for her work. Emily holds a B.S. in Vocal Performance as well as an M.B.A. in Business Management. She has been teaching voice for 12 years. Emily is passionate about helping each student find and hone their unique voice, and does so by focusing on healthy vocal techniques as well as performance skills. With experience singing in a range of genres and languages, she is equipped to teach any student with a desire to cultivate their gifts.
Hector Torres Guitar Teacher
Hector Torres is a dedicated guitar teacher with a passion for music education, having started his teaching journey in 2016. He has shared his expertise at various schools in the Houston area, including Armonia, Kingdom Symphony Orchestra, and Magnify, and remotely in California at IEL Music School. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Hector Torres has been playing guitar since the age of 11 and has toured across the U.S. In addition to teaching, he is also a talented music producer and audio engineer, continually enriching his students' learning experiences with his diverse musical background.
Carolyn Gibbens Piano Teacher
We love partnering with our home church, Champion Forest, if you do not have a church home we would highly recommend you come join us!
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