Arlia Barnes is a Springfield native, and has been dancing for 18 years. She recently graduated from a prestigious dance program, The CLI Conservatory under the direction of Teddy Forance located in Southampton, MA. Previously, she was a member of Royal Thieves, a professional hip hop company coached by Deshawn Hawthorne in NYC. You may have seen her in Boston’s very own “Urban Nutcracker” directed by Tony Williams in 2023. Arlia has taught at a multitude of dance studios and schools in Springfield and surrounding areas. Her experience with teaching, attending conventions and intensives throughout New England and LA has made her into a stronger person and dancer overall. She has trained with world renowned choreographers like: Martha Nichols, Robert Green, Blake McGrath, Candace Brown, Robbie Blue and Ashley Cruz just to name a few. Arlia hopes to encourage the next generation of dancers to follow their dreams, no matter the circumstances. Absolutely anything is possible when you believe in yourself!