Who we are
The INnovate event was INspired by our mutual desire to foster a greater sense of community with dancers all over the Twin Cities and beyond. We all know what a robust and talented dance community we have here and we aspire to further that vision by gathering dancers in our area to focus on getting to know one another through dance performance, education, and service. From our experiences at other dance events and competitions, we find that feeling unified provides a richer experience for our dancers, teachers, and parents. The INnovate Dance event strives to bring dancers together in an INclusive environment and leave feeling INvigorated and INspired for their future dance journeys.
Jennifer Tell | Co-Owner
When Clair and I started brainstorming about creating a unique dance event, we both agreed that it should have a feeling of bringing dancers together to share the love of dance. We wanted to create a space where dancers could walk into and simply do what they love to do. Innovate is a place where dancers come to not only perform and learn, but to connect. Connect with other dancers, teachers, adjudicators, and most importantly, themselves. At Innovate, we dance together, learn together, and serve together for the good of others. I hope you can join us for an event and see what The Innovate Dance Event can bring to your dancers.
Clair Anderson | Co-Owner
I find myself consistently fueled by my passion to connect in this life. I enjoy connecting with new people and making new friends, but more importantly, I love to help others make meaningful connections that go beyond my reach to create new art and foster new possibilities. I truly believe that we are all more alike than different. We all get stronger when we pull together, lift each other up, and cheer each other on to greatness. To do this requires grace, courage, empathy and vulnerability. I don't aim to be perfect anymore, but rather to continue to reinvent and transform into a person that more closely aligns with these values. That is what compelled me to create INnovate with Jennifer.
Melissa Rose | INNovate Pro Lead
When the idea for Innovate Dance Event first emerged, Clair turned to Melissa and asked, "Is this a good idea?" Melissa's immediate, confident response? "It's absolutely brilliant!" Since then, Melissa has played various roles within Innovate Dance Event over the years. Since 2024, the launch of InnovatePRO marks a culmination of this journey—a full-circle venture. Melissa's passion lies in leading and nurturing our teachers and studio owners, and she is thrilled to witness how this extension of The Innovate Dance Event can propel our dancers to unprecedented heights.