RIVER VALLEY DANCE PROJECT
Dance - Yoga - Fitness - Capoeira - Movement For Life
RVDP Instructors
Linalynn Schmelzer
Owner & Instructor
Ballet, Modern, Fitness and Creative Movement
Linalynn Schmelzer, BFA Dance and MS Phycology is the owner of the River Valley Dance Project School. Her nearly two decades of experience as a performer, choreographer, and instructor have launched her into New York, Boston, Philadelphia, and throughout CT. Linalynn performed with many modern dance companies, including O’Brian Dancers, Sorvino Dance Project, Judie Clark Dance Theater, and La Claire Dancers. In 2014 Linalynn created and founded her own company, River Valley Dance Project. In 2021, Linalynn opened River Valley Dance Project School where she teaches classes in modern dance, ballet, improvisation, as well as corrective exercise. RVDP is a unique studio that offers classes for both children and adults. Linalynn bridges the art and science of dance and she is passionate about making dance/movement accessible to all people in a safe and supportive environment.
860-304-8459
Merly De La-Hoz Cookson
Colombian Dance
Merly De La Hoz-Cookson, BFA, is a Dance Instructor and choreographer born in Colombia, dedicated to promoting her cultural heritage all over the world. She was elected Queen of Colombian Folklore in 2005 becoming ambassador of her culture and traditions. She has performed in more than 400 local, regional, national and international dance showscases.
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As an active participant of Barranquilla's Carnival parades and the touring dance troup of The Corporación Cultural Barranquilla, for over 10 years, Merly became a passionate advocate for arts education and has developed several dance programs such as Twinkle Toes, a dance space designed to introduce children 3-6 years old to the intricate world of dance by providing creative movement classes in her community.
Maria Athena
Yoga Flow
In January of 2024, Maria decided it was time for her to share the joy of yoga with others. She had the privilege of completing my 200 hours Yoga Teacher Training at the Nereus Retreat Center in Costa Rica. She is now a (RYT 200) with the Yoga Alliance. Maria believes in the practice of yoga and each time you are on the mat is an opportunity to learn.
Kevin DeSheilds
Capoeria
Kevin DeSheilds is a Capoeirista with 15 years of experience. He started his journey with Mestre Efraim in New Haven, CT. In 2024 he graduated to a Professor level with Capoeira Esperanca CT and has taught Capoeira at River Valley Dance Project since 2022.​
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