Our Staff

Mrs. Rebecca McCarthy-Owner

Educational Background

Mrs. McCarthy graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree.  In addition to her BFA from UW-Stevens Point, Mrs. McCarthy studied at the University of Michigan (ACDFA) and the University of Florida.  Mrs. McCarthy is also a Certified Pilates Instructor through Polestar Pilates.

Training and Performance Background

Mrs. McCarthy has the following training background::

  • Founded the national award winning “McDance Company” in 2000
  • Scholarship recipient for: University of Illinois, University of Iowa, Hope College Michigan
  • Polestar Pilates Trained under Brett Anderson and Dannielle Holder
  • Oov Trained under Daniel Vladeta
  • Honored in “Who’s Who Among Professionals” 2008 Who’s Who
  • Awarded “Best Dance Studio” – 2016 Algonquin Awards Program
  • Awarded “Best Irish Organization” – 2014 City of Chicago
  • McCarthy’s Choreography has been broadcasted on: WGN, ABC and CBS

Mrs. McCarthy has the following performance background::

  • Guest Instructor for Gabby Thompson School of Dance-Heidelberg Germany
  • Guest Instructor for Ausbildung Ballettschule – Munich, Germany
  • Guest Instructor for Orleans School –London, England
  • Guest Instructor for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Alaska
  • Rehearsal Instructor for “Moscow Ballet Company ‘The Nutcracker’”
  • Soloist for Kirchweihfest, Gersthofen Germany
  • Soloist in Irish Presentation for Capt. Richard Mahn, Aberdeen Maryland
  • Soloist in musicals: “Annie Get Gun”, “Can-Can”, “Guys and Dolls” – Chicago IL
  • Featured performer for “The Laurels” – Killarney, Ireland
  • Featured performer in “The Nutcracker” from 1990-2002

Personal Information

Mrs. McCarthy takes pleasure in working closely with the surrounding high schools, middle schools and local artist and venues. She enjoys choreographing musicals, plays, pom routines, variety shows and stage productions through Crystal Lake Strikers and guest artist through The Raue Center for the Arts.  She shares her love of Dance and Pilates with her husband (Steve) and two daughters (Estella and Tatum). During her free time she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.