Why choose us?
Bringing dance and cheer to your own backyard, Northern Lights Performing Arts now in Conrad. We are here to make dance, cheer, and movement classes available and affordable for everyone. No long drives, no big-city prices: just local instructors in your area, flexible schedules, and programs designed for all ages and abilities.
Why this matters:
Community-first: Classes held right here in town, so families don’t spend hours on the road.
Affordable options: Family discounts and scholarship spots keep participation open to everyone.
Inclusive programming: Recreational to competitive, tiny tots to adults, all skill levels welcome.
Local impact: Build confidence, teamwork, and neighborhood connections, one leap and cheer at a time.
Ready to dance down the street instead of up the highway? We’re here for Conrad and the surrounding communities, because arts and joy should be close, friendly, and for everyone.
Meet Your Instructors
Casaundra Putnam
With over a decade of dedicated experience in cheerleading and dance, I bring a comprehensive and highly refined skill set as both an athlete and coach. My background spans advanced stunting, and leadership roles, complemented by extensive experience coaching athletes at varying levels. I have successfully led and facilitated stunting workshops, equipping others with technical precision, safety awareness, and performances.
In addition to leading teams, I have co-run this program, growing it into a strong, connected community built on discipline, trust, and shared success.
I have a strong specialization in cheer, country western swing, and hip hop. My training also extends into additional dance styles, allowing me to bring a broader, more versatile perspective to movement, technique, and choreography.
Known for my attention to detail and ability to develop athletes beyond expectations, I am deeply committed to cultivating both skill and confidence in every individual I work with. I am passionate about continuing to elevate the sport, mentor athletes, and contribute at a high level within our program.
Hailey Zylks
I began dancing at the age of five and have continued to nurture that passion throughout my life. Over the years, I’ve trained in a variety of disciplines, including six years of ballet, three years of tap, and two years of hula at Elk Grove Dance Studio. This diverse foundation has shaped both my technique and my appreciation for different styles of movement.
After moving to Conrad, I discovered a love for cheerleading and proudly cheered throughout high school for the Conrad Cowboys. That experience sparked a deeper interest in leadership and mentorship, which led me to begin coaching cheer three years ago. Since then, I’ve found immense fulfillment in helping young athletes build confidence, develop their skills, and grow into leadership roles both in the studio and within the community.
In addition to my formal training, I have spent the past ten years immersed in country western swing, further expanding my versatility as a dancer and instructor.
As a mother of three and a dedicated member of the Conrad community, I am passionate about creating a positive, encouraging space where children can grow, express themselves, and discover their own love for dance. I’m excited to share my experience, energy, and passion with the next generation.
Aiyanna Gittins
Hello everyone, I’m Aiyanna Gittins, a 22‑year‑old mom of two, and I’ll be teaching the Pre‑K Tumbling class here at Northern Lights Performing Arts! I bring more than eight years of experience in gymnastics and tumbling, along with patient, hands‑on coaching and a big passion for the sport that I’m excited to share with your little ones. I can’t wait to help them build confidence, coordination, and big smiles as they learn and play.
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Love teaching dance? Ready to share your moves and personality? Join us.
You must be:
Certified dance teacher for any age
Clear communicator with strong classroom management
Joyful, positive energy
Any style: ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip‑hop, tap, adaptive, etc.
Available for weekly classes and occasional weekend rehearsals/performances
Ready to Take Center Stage?
Send us your details, and we’ll start choreographing a plan that fits your rhythm.