Instructor - Dance (Youth Division)

Laura Reese is a multi-disciplinary dance artist and educator whose career is rooted in a lifelong commitment to Chicago’s vibrant arts community. A South Side native, Laura’s journey began as the Salutatorian of Hyde Park Academy HS and led to an illustrious academic career. She holds a B.A. in Theater and Dance from Spelman College, where she graduated cum laude, and a Master of Science in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern University.

With over 17 years of experience in creative movement and artistic delegation, Laura possesses a deep
technical mastery of West African, Latin (Salsa, Cumbia, Merengue), Ballet, and Jazz. Her performance background is extensive, ranging from the Spelman Dance Theater and Deeply Rooted Productions to featured roles in musical theater productions such as Black Nativity and Purlie. As a seasoned choreographer, she has developed original works for collegiate organizations, community centers, and specialized programs like the True to Life Foundation’s C.A.S.H. initiative.

Laura is the visionary founder of Danceful Soles, where she explores the intersections of dance therapy,
fitness, and performance. Furthermore, she is ecstatic to have the opportunity to share her love of dance
with the youth of the ETA Creative Arts Foundation. Whether training in the International Baccalaureate
curriculum or mentoring youth leaders, Laura remains dedicated to using dance as a tool for
social-emotional growth and community empowerment.