About Us
OUR MISSION
We’re here to guide and support you on your dance journey. Every dancer, every level, every style – we nurture potential, celebrate individuality, and cultivate a passion for dance.
A group of passionate, professional, and dedicated individuals who are committed to creating a positive and nurturing environment at The Dance Barre HTX.
From world-class dance instructors to our supportive administrative staff, each team member plays a vital role in ensuring you have an exceptional experience with us.
OUR TEAM
Chantell
Owner
Chantell Preston is the owner of The Dance Barre HTX, a community-centered studio where she empowers young dancers to build confidence, discipline, and self-expression. With over 25 years as a healthcare executive, entrepreneur, and growth strategist, she brings a unique leadership perspective to everything she does. Chantell is also the CEO of Preston Partners, a certified mental performance coach, keynote speaker, and host of the Get Real, Get Results podcast. Whether she’s at the dance studio or in the boardroom, Chantell is passionate about authenticity, mental resilience, and helping others—especially women and girls—embrace their strengths and lead with purpose.
Michelle
Artistic Director
Michelle Maldonado is a dynamic dancer, choreographer, and Artistic Director of The Dance Barre HTX. Trained in multiple styles, she holds a BFA in Dance from Sam Houston State University, where she won three NDA National Championships with the Orange Pride Dance Team. A certified educator with Dance Educators of America, she has earned numerous titles and choreography awards. Passionate about pushing dance as an art form, Michelle mentors and inspires the next generation of performers, fostering creativity and excellence in competitive dance.
Natia & Viktor
Ballroom Instructors
Natia Kuprava & Viktor Shumylo, International Latin Ballroom Champions, are ranked 3rd in the World Dance for International Latin Rising Stars. With multiple global titles, Viktor is a three-time Ukrainian Champion and WDSF Worlds Top 3 finisher, while Natia placed Top 10 at Blackpool and is a U.S. National Finalist. Originally from Ukraine, they moved to the U.S. to pursue their dance careers. Now based in Houston, they share their passion by mentoring students, who continue to achieve success nationally and internationally.
Sophie
Commercial Instructor
Sophie Chkaiban, a professional NFL cheerleader and dance instructor, blends her Lebanese heritage with her love for movement. While earning her MBA in Marketing from Texas A&M, she refined her skills in performance and instruction. Passionate about self-expression and mental well-being, Sophie excels in choreography and encourages dancers to find their unique voice through movement. She remains deeply involved in the regional dance scene, using her diverse background to inspire and uplift her community.
Kaylee
Commercial Instructor
Kaylee Mims, a dedicated dancer and instructor, has trained in competitive and drill team dance since childhood. Now a member of the University of Houston Cougar Dolls, she balances dance with pursuing a degree in Construction Management. Passionate about technique and choreography, Kaylee aims to try out for a professional dance team post-graduation. She believes in dance as both a sport and art form, using movement to build strength, confidence, and self-expression while keeping her classes fun and engaging.
Ali
Office Manager
Ali Harley-Majic is the Operations and Office Manager at The Dance Barre HTX, combining her expertise in business operations with her love for dance and childcare. Originally from Canada, she has trained in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Irish Dance, and Croatian Folk Dance. With experience as a children’s dance teacher and beauty pageant coach, Ali knows everything that goes on behind the scenes! Now in Houston, she thrives in an environment that nurtures both artistry and community.