Studio K is so fortunate to have the absolute best instructors on our team, not only in talent but with big hearts for their craft that they each possess. Mandy is nothing short of amazing – incredibly gifted in her field and a true pro in every sense of the word. However, what also makes Mandy so special – her ability to make everyone who walks into Studio K a fierce fighting Jedi! Also, a fun fact about Mandy, she recently gave birth to her very own little Jedi and she continued teaching to the minute he was born, and then began again soon after proving she is as strong and as motivated as they come! We just adore her, so read below and learn more about Mandy and her time so far with Studio K!
SK: Why did you choose to be an instructor at Studio K?
MSP: I have always had a passion for teaching and stage combat, and of course a great love of Star Wars. So, when I was asked to share my love and passion, I could not resist the opportunity to help others learn and enjoy both Star Wars and stage combat in a safe judgement free zone.
SK: What classes do you currently teach at the studio?
MSP: I currently teach Lightsaber Fitness at the studio and I am an instructor on our Studio K Mobile Class Team where I teach both adults and children at hotel properties and local schools!
SK: In your opinion, what makes Studio K different from other dance/fitness options?
MSP: You are given the chance to take a variety of classes you will not normally find in any other studio. Not only that, Studio K (Kristin) goes out of her way to make sure students are given the best and most talented teachers out there. Including having Broadway Choreographers come out who are currently on tour to teach the Musical Theater workshops. Studio K makes sure you have the best of the best. Also, new or old students are given the chance to walk into any class at any level and grow with that class based on their current skills and abilities. Doesn’t matter what you could or couldn’t do before, what matters is how much fun you are about to have and what you’ll be able to do after.
SK: What do you love about teaching at Studio K?
MSP: My students and the ability to continue my trade. If anything, I keep coming back for them. Watching them grow, the way their eyes light up the first time they see the glow of a lightsaber, the excitement they have when they accomplish a workout milestone or perform their first self-choreographed piece.
SK: What do you think makes our members the best ever?
MSP: Their dedication to keep coming back to learn, grow, and feel good about themselves. I have never seen a disappointed student or member.
SK: Is there a class that you haven’t taken yet, but would love to try in the future?
MSP: YES!!! I would love to try Ballet Pop, the Musical Theater Workshop, and Rock n’ Box!
SK: What advice do you have for people who want to try Studio K, but are afraid to walk in the door?
MSP: “Just Do IT!!!” Trust me you will not regret the decision to walk through that door. Going to Studio K is one of the best things you will do for yourself emotionally and physically.
SK: In a few words, what does Studio K mean to you?
MSP: Never having to stop being me… I’m a woman, teaching a stage combat class, that involves glowing “light swords” and no one questions me or my ability to do so. I am honored, thankful, and blessed that Studio K lets me, be me and giving me the opportunity to keep doing just that, me.
SK: What do you do for work during the day?
MSP: I work in the hospitality industry in entertainment as a supervisor, and Jedi/Super Mom to my little man Logan.
SK: Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself, your time with Studio K, or anything you would like people to know about the studio?
MSP: I grew up in a social environment where I was told I would not amount to much because I was female, weak, and dumb. My love for the fantastical and sci-fi did not help my situation either. Even so, I never stopped loving those things and trying to prove people wrong.
I want to thank Studio K and Kristin for having a class like this, and other classes where people can grow, have fun, and feel safe in a judgment free zone while just being themselves. Getting to be Jedi or Sith, rocking it out in heels, getting to be a pop ballerina, and so on. You and Studio K’s story is inspiring and makes you a role model anyone would gladly like to follow and teach for. Thank you for everything you do and the opportunity you have given me to be a teacher and do what I love, Thank You!
Thank you so much for everything!!
Mandy, congratulations from all of your students and everyone at Studio K! Come out to meet Mandy every Wednesday at 7:30 PM for Lightsaber Fitness. All levels are always welcome and if you don’t have a lightsaber, we will provide one!