Stage Door Arts Academy was founded on the belief that the arts build not just talent, but character. We offer a safe, joyful, and challenging environment where students take risks, lean in, and shine — both on stage and in life.
Amy Toresco has been dancing for as long as she can remember, growing up on the competition circuit before continuing her passion at Bucknell University. While there, she danced with the Bucknell Dance Company, performing in both fall and spring productions and earning a minor in Dance. Her love for movement took her around the globe. While studying abroad in New Zealand, Amy joined a local hip hop crew and performed throughout the city of Auckland.
After graduating, Amy brought her energy and expertise to the world of fitness, becoming a certified instructor for Les Mills programs, kickboxing, and, for the past five years, serving as a cycle instructor at Society in Mt. Pleasant. She also co-founded Hip Hop Mamas with Erica, creating a welcoming and empowering space for moms to have fun, build confidence, and reconnect with their love of dance.
Amy believes that every student has the power to dream big and push their own limits, and she is passionate about building a studio where hard work, joy, and self-belief are at the heart of every class. She feels truly blessed to work alongside an amazing leadership team and is thrilled to inspire the next generation of performers at Stage Door Arts Academy.
Jen has been a teacher for 24 years. For most of her career she has brought her love of theater arts to kids in both NY and SC. At the opening of Carolina Park almost 9 years ago she asked to bring a musical to the school. The next year she was asked to continue the tradition and become the theater teacher to all grades. With 8 years of amazing productions she is excited to share her knowledge and passion for the theater to the community. She is currently still teaching at CP and getting ready for her production of Frozen in the spring. She promises to make your child fall in love with stage and give them the confidence she needs in everyday life.
With over 13 years of experience teaching and choreographing, Laura brings a dynamic blend of artistry, versatility, and passion to her role as Artistic Director. Raised in a ballet studio, Laura developed a strong classical foundation before expanding her training in high school to embrace every style she could, from contemporary and jazz to hip-hop and improv.
Her choreography has earned top awards at competitions, and she worked as Talent Development Director for an international talent seeking agency. Her professional work includes projects for HBO, showcasing her ability to blend technical excellence with compelling storytelling. Known for her creative vision and ability to inspire dancers of all levels, Laura is dedicated to fostering a supportive yet challenging environment where students can grow as artists and performers.
Laura is thrilled to bring her expertise to the studio’s vocal, theater, and dance programs, working to create innovative productions and cultivate well-rounded performers who are confident on stage and in life.
