ASSISTANT DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER BIOGRAPHY

Melissa Kocur as the "Sugar Plum Fairy"
with Clayton Bubeck (Melissa's Fiance`)

in the 1998 production of "The Nutcracker"

Melissa Kocur began dancing in 1976 at the age of two at Dalinda Dance Studio in St. Clair, Pa, under the direction of Dale Shanoskie and Linda Simmendinger. In 1982 she began to study at the Schuylkill County Ballet Company, which is now known as the Schuylkill Ballet Theatre, under the direction of Florence Geise. She started to study privately with Ms. Geise in 1982. In 1986, Melissa became a student teacher at the Dalinda Dance Studio, and was promoted to Assistant Director of the studio in 1994. She also became Assistant teacher in 1991 and then promoted Assistant Director of Schuylkill Ballet Theatre in 1994.

Melissa continues to instruct at both Schylkill Ballet Theatre and Dalinda Dance Studio. She also taught at Wyomissing Institute of Fine Arts until December of 1997. Also, assisted many Girl Scout troops in Schuylkill County receive their Dance Badges. Melissa has performed with Berks Ballet Theater and various charity events. Also included are performances at are nursing homes, telethons, and elementary and high school assembly programs.

In 1987, Miss Kocur won the Snayberger Award, this award is awarded to young students of ballet for outstanding work and dedication.

Miss Kocur has performed many starring roles in numerous productions of both the Schuylkill Ballet Theatre and Dalinda Dance Studio, such as:

"The Nutcracker"-Clara, Dewdrop, Snow Queen, and Sugar Plum Fairy.

"Coppelia"-Swanilda.

"Carmen"-Carmen.

"Pas de Quatre"

Melissa and Clay embracing after a great performance.

From "Coppelia"

Melissa and Clay posing with "Cupid" and the "Angels"