The Studio

Coles Shining Stars Dance Studio is where movement meets magic—for every age, every stage, and every kind of dancer.

Founded in 2024 with just fifteen passionate performers, our studio has blossomed into a vibrant community of toddlers, teens, and adults who share one thing in common: a love for dance and self-expression.

Whether you're three or thirty, stepping into our studio means stepping into a space where you’re celebrated. No experience? No problem. We welcome beginners, seasoned dancers, and everyone in between. From playful wiggles to powerful leaps, every move matters here.

Our classes are designed to grow with you—starting with imaginative, joy-filled sessions for little ones, building confidence and coordination in tweens and teens, and offering expressive, energizing options for adults who want to reconnect with rhythm or try something new.

At Coles, we believe dance is more than technique. It’s storytelling, community, and joy. It’s where friendships form, creativity blossoms, and every dancer finds their own spotlight.

So whether you're chasing a dream, trying something for the first time, or just looking for a place to move and belong—come dance with us. Your star is already shining.

Karleigh Coles

CEO

Karleigh, the visionary founder and director of Coles Shining Stars Dance Studio, has been enamored with the art of dance since she took her first steps at the tender age of three. With an impressive 13 years of diverse dance training and experience, her repertoire spans a wide array of genres, including the expressive movements of liturgical dance, the energetic rhythms of hip-hop, and much more. Throughout her dance journey, Karleigh has showcased her talent as a choreographer, creating captivating routines for various churches and community youth groups, where she has inspired countless young dancers.

Deeply passionate about empowering children, Karleigh firmly believes that each child possesses a unique brilliance—like a shining star waiting to be discovered. She recognizes that engaging children in the arts at an early age can have a profoundly positive impact on their overall development. Through the medium of dance, children not only unleash their creativity but also cultivate essential cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and critical thinking. Furthermore, participating in dance helps enhance their emotional intelligence, allowing them to express their feelings and connect with others in meaningful ways. In her studio, Karleigh fosters an environment where every child is encouraged to shine and flourish on their artistic journey.

Qiara Barnett

Assistant Director

Qiara hails from the vibrant city of Columbus, Ohio, where her passion for dance ignited nine years ago. Currently, she is embarking on her first year at Columbus State Community College, where she’s immersing herself in a two-year program filled with opportunities for growth and exploration before making her way to Kent State University to pursue her dream of a degree in dentistry.

In the world of dance, Qiara thrives in the energetic realms of hip-hop and is deeply engaged in dance ministry, combining her love for movement with her desire to inspire others. She is thrilled to join the Coles Shining Stars Dance Family, where she eagerly anticipates sharing her enthusiasm for both dancing and teaching in Combo 2, hoping to ignite the same passion in her students that has fueled her own journey.

Our Staff

All of our teachers are professional dancers who have a passion for dance and teaching others to dance. In addition to being highly accomplished in their fields, they are also energetic, positive and caring people.

Ayanna Shaw

Teaching Assistant

Harold Coles

Human Resources

Nick Gilbert