About JAWS

Jo Ann Warren Studio (JAWS) is the studio choice for many of today's finest dancers. JAWS' mission is to continually provide a broad spectrum of dance education for dancers of all ages and of all levels, all within a nurturing and professional environment. Beginning with "Tiny Tots" and continuing through adults, JAWS offers a variety of classes and levels in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, acrobatics, musical theater and hip-hop. JAWS boasts an impressive roster of dance educators. JAWS provides students with an opportunity to explore dance and enrich their appreciation for the various forms of the art.

• Jo Ann Warren Studio 1979
• JAWS 80’s Style
• JAWS 90’s Style
• JAWS Present

Jo Ann Warren Studio 1979

Jo Ann Warren opened JAWS Worcester in September of 1979 at 321 Grafton Street. With over 100 students enrolled, Jo Ann began the journey... her dream was now a reality. Almost in­stantly, JAWS was a major contributor in the community. The JAWS performance group quickly became a staple at almost every local event... and so the "JAWS" Jr. Dance Company was born. The 14 members were hand picked by Jo Ann and invited to the challenge of re­hearsing long hours, perfecting routines and sacrificing weekends to serve as studio represen­tatives, entertaining and sharing their talents throughout Worcester County. Two of the original members, Cybill Warren and Paula Hackett, were later awarded Keys to the City of Worcester by Mayor Jordan Levy for their contributions through dance to the less fortunate.

The JAWS Jr. Dance Company is still in existence today, rehearsing in the same dance room at 321 Grafton Street, opened 25 years earlier. Membership still requires dedication, commit­ment, loyalty to JAWS and a true love of dance. The tradition continues thanks to its original director Jo Ann Warren, but is now managed by her daughter Cybill Warren, who not only brings years of experience to her students, but also the bond of knowing how special it is to be a part of the JAWS Jr. Dance Company. The experience of dancing at JAWS Worcester is extraordinary. There is a feeling of history and an understanding that those who pass through its doors, and dance from the heart are forever a part of the family tree. Jo Ann Warren Studio was started by a family, is run by a family... is a family. Welcome to the journey, your dream is now a reality.

JAWS 80’s Style

Jo Ann Warren joined Dance Masters of America (DMA) in 1981. Jo Ann played an active role, serving as Secretary for the New England Chapter for several years. The students of JAWS were exposed to workshops, competitions and students from all over New England who shared their same passion for dance. Forever looking to broaden the minds, spirits and talents of her students, Jo Ann added voice and theater to the JAWS schedule in 1982, with the addition of acrobatics in 1984. JAWS was quickly becoming a true mecca for the performing arts. The opportunity to thrive in all aspects of the arts under one roof with only the most qualified staff was and still is what makes JAWS one of the most sought after educations for the per­forming arts in the North East.

With an ever growing enrollment and an impeccable reputation, a second storefront was needed in 1989 to accommodate the large increase in classroom time and scheduling. Since then, JAWS has expanded to the 2^nd floor of its original building, which houses the studio office and voice/theater classroom. Students, teachers and alumni of JAWS are constantly bombarded with opportunities, the possibilities are endless. Jo Ann Warren has been the key to opening so many doors for those who share her passion for the arts. JAWS is a breeding ground for future performers, teachers and community leaders. Jo Ann Warren offers all who come to JAWS a life long support system. Her door is always open, and the sign that hangs reads "OPPORTUNITY".

JAWS 90’s Style

1990 marked the debut of JAWS' very first professional performer. Throughout her high school years, Kristi Mancini would commute 45 minutes, with her mother, from Palmer, MA to JAWS Worcester. Following graduation, Kristi continued her education at the Boston Conser­vatory while still training with Jo Ann. After receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance, Kristi began auditioning in NYC. In just a short time the talented JAWS alum was cast as dance captain in the National Tour of "42^nd Street". Since that time dozens of JAWS students have gone on to professional dance careers. Jo Ann's students are currently traveling the globe on cruise ships, at theme parks, in national and international tours and as back up dancers for such artists as Gloria Estefan and Shania Twain.

A JAWS education and the support of its owner is immeasurable. Jo Ann has taken so many under her wing, encouraging each student to be proud of who they are, the talents they possess and to always stay true to their individual unique style and sense of self. The same held true for the guidance and management of her own daughter's personal goals and aspirations. Jo Ann was excited to announce Cybill's decision to follow in her footsteps as a full time JAWS staff member in 1996. Together the two have formed and unstoppable team. JAWS moved into a new century with not only one but two passionate, powerful, talented women at the helm. JAWS is forever moving forward and continues to be a performing arts POWER HOUSE.

JAWS Present

JAWS now attracts students from all over New England who have the desire to train with the best. From beginner to professional, young to old, recreational to competitive level, JAWS serves them all and serves them well. The students at JAWS are appreciated and constantly encouraged to keep reaching for their dreams. Anything is possible at JAWS. The proof... students like Michelle DiTerlizzi and Jennifer Garza who began their training at age 2 with Jo Ann, graduated in 2001. Both Michelle and Jennifer were hired as professional dancer/singers at Busch Gardens, VA while still in high school. The two still continue to train at JAWS when in town. Thanks to their hard work and dedication to JAWS these two dancers have seen the world all while doing what they love to do most, perform.

In 2000 the addition of a second location, now in Whitinsville, and a website, www.joannwarrenstudio.com, brought the power of JAWS to so many more dreamers. After 25yrs. JAWS operates like a well oiled machine. The atmosphere, although friendly and inviting, is always professional. Many of the alumni have begun to enroll their own children at JAWS. The feeling of pride is overwhelming. To have a second generation of JAWS stars such as Brittany Melo and Kayla Gualdarrama strutting their stuff at the 25^th anniversary, on the same stage their mothers once performed on is amazing. This is what Jo Ann Warren Studio was built on... trust, loyalty, commitment, talent and family. JAWS has made its mark and is here to stay!