MEET THE TEAM
Lacey Simoneau, Owner and Director
Lacey was born and raised in the lakes area of Minnesota until she married Jason. They moved to Thief River Falls 25 years ago. They have 3 children and 2 dogs. Family life is very important to her. She finds joy in providing a warm home full of life and good food for her family and anyone who stops by. Music, dance, and the arts have always been a big part of Lacey’s life as well.
As a child she would watch old musicals over and over just to learn the dances. When she was a young teen she found the theatre and never looked back. Lacey has been performing on the stage for 30+ years. While participating in theatre productions, she had the chance to study under some incredible drama coaches and choreographers. Lacey has had the opportunity to choreograph multiple musicals and direct as well. Lacey loves to teach, especially her Adaptive Students. Her favorite styles of dance are jazz and contemporary. Dance is an expression and she loves to help everyone learn how to express themselves through it! “Dance is a language everyone can speak.” - Miss Lacey
Sarah Dyrdal
I grew up in Crookston, where I met my husband, Brent. Athletics played a significant role in my life, and I was fortunate to learn the art of coaching from some of the very best. Brent and I lived in the Twin Cities and the Brainerd Lakes area before returning home to the Thief River Falls area to raise our family.
We now live just outside Plummer with our two daughters, who both love to dance. I work for the Red Lake County Central School District, and our family is grateful to be part of a small town and community that supports us.
Our oldest daughter, Bree, began dancing with Inspire Dance Academy when it first opened. The dance world was completely new to us, but it did not take long for our family to fall in love with it. Three years ago, I was asked to coach a competition team under Lacey's guidance. With a mix of fear and excitement, I said yes. Since then, Lacey has mentored me and helped shape the coach I am today.
I also became a licensed dance fitness instructor, which has been the perfect way to combine my passion for athletics and dance. You will find me coaching in the studio and teaching Shine and Uplift classes alongside my dear friend Heather.
Every new season, dancer, and special moment changes and inspires me. I coach with passion, discipline, and grace, and I am excited to continue working with our talented dancers, supportive families, and amazing coaching staff.
Anna Simoneau
Hi! I’m Anna Simoneau, and I’m so excited to be one of the coaches at Inspire Dance Academy this summer!
Anna Simoneau has been dancing since she was 3 years old and has grown up right here in Thief River Falls. Dance has taught her confidence, discipline, and so much more, and she loves getting the opportunity to pass those lessons on to the next generation of dancers.
When she’s not at the studio, you can usually find her teaching classes, spending time with family and friends, or enjoying a good cup of coffee. Her favorite part of coaching is watching dancers grow—not only in their technique, but in their confidence and love for dance. Her personal favorite style of dance is Contemporary.
She can’t wait for another amazing season and all the memories we’ll make together. See you at the studio!
Emilee Lane
Emilee was born and raised in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, and has been dancing since the age of three. At 13, she began competing in dance competitions and quickly developed a passion for the dedication, artistry, and excitement of competitive dance. She started assisting and teaching classes at 18 before moving to Augusta, Georgia, at 19 while her husband served in the United States Marine Corps. There, she trained and taught alongside a respected studio owner and former Atlanta Hawks NBA dancer, gaining valuable experience in technical training and competitive dance. After returning to Thief River Falls, Emilee is excited to share her knowledge and passion with the next generation of dancers. She is committed to helping students build strong technique, confidence, discipline, and a love for performing, both on and off the competition stage. Outside of the studio, Emilee enjoys spending time with her husband and their dog, Daff.
Jason Simoneau, Owner
Jason was born and raised in a very small town in North Dakota. He and Lacey have been married since 2001 and have 2 children. His faith and family are priorities in his life. He also enjoys hunting, golfing, and training bird dogs.
His handy-man and do-it-yourself skills have been utilized by the studio and he enjoys spending time with all the kids. His day job is at Digi-Key Electronics and this requires him to travel fairly often. The arts - especially dance - were not understood or appreciated until he met Lacey. He now sees how dance can change peoples' lives for the better and enjoys being a part of our dance studio.