The People Behind Mulford Dance Studio
Decades of dance education powered by dedicated instructors and staff.
Ariana Ferrari
Ariana has been part of Mulford Dance Studio since the age of two, eventually joining the Mulford Dance Company. She has trained at top conventions including The Pulse, Tremaine, Monsters of Hip Hop, NYCDA, and Jump, and has performed in parades, Disney World, Carnival Cruise Lines, and World of Dance. She has competed and choreographed at World of Dance and is also currently teaching at Power House. Ariana has taught for over ten years and became owner and director in July 2023. She is also the director of Kid Crew and Jr/Sr Crew.
Dana Raphael
Dana began at Mulford at age two and grew up as a company member, performing in parades, cruise shows, and Disney productions. In college she danced with Rider University and later directed our Kid Crew and Junior Hip Hop Crew. She continues her education at national conventions and is known for her boys’ hip hop class, a highlight of our recitals.
Devon Ficarra
On staff since 2004, Devon holds a BFA in Jazz Dance from the University of the Arts. She trained at Hartford Ballet and competed nationally as a soloist. Devon toured with Starpower’s Power Pack and studied with top choreographers. She now directs our Junior and Senior Companies, celebrating 20 years on faculty.
Heather Healey
Heather trained at Mulford from age seven, studying ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, and gymnastics. She continues her training through conventions and CLI Studios. Her choreography has earned numerous awards, including National Overall Champion at On Stage America (2018) and top choreography honors at Sophisticated Dance Productions (2022). In 2023 she was nominated for an Industry Dance Award.
Katie Emmerling
Katie began at Mulford at age three, later joining the company and performing in parades, Disney productions, and national events. She trained at conventions with choreographers including Travis Wall and Suzi Taylor. A Rowan University graduate, Katie teaches high school and choreographs musicals while continuing to teach at Mulford on Saturdays.
Lisa Evanich
Lisa holds a BFA in Dance from Temple University and has taught at Mulford since 2002. She is certified in fitness, yoga, pilates, barre, and nutrition, and recently added Progressing Ballet Technique and NASM CNC. Lisa continues her training in New York, Philadelphia, and CLI Studios, blending fun and discipline in every class.
Megan Schmidt Ferraina
Megan trained at Mulford and went on to dance professionally, performing with the Philadelphia 76ers Dance Team (captain for two years) and in commercials for major brands. She toured with Legends in Concert, performed in musical productions, and appeared in music videos with Will Smith and Destiny’s Child. Megan also judges for national competitions and brings extensive experience to her choreography at Mulford.
Susan Macdonald
Sue has been on staff for over 40 years, with training in gymnastics, ballet, and tap. Her progressive approach to acrobatics has led students to win awards and join professional teams. She also performs with the HiSteppers tap group and works as a school teacher in Gloucester, NJ.
Kristen Jacurak
Kristen is the friendly face at the front desk, ensuring the studio runs smoothly. Her hard work and enthusiasm make her a vital part of Mulford’s operations and a welcoming presence for students and families.
Joann Trout
Joann has been part of the Mulford community for many years, with multiple generations of her family dancing here. She is known for her warm personality, support of families, and boundless energy at competitions—often cheering with her signature cowbell.