Founding Artistic Director/CEO

Mrs. Tuohy’s career has spanned over 60 years of professional dance, teaching and artistic direction. Her experiences have brought her to England, Europe and the United States with students of Indiana Ballet Theatre (IBT). She was trained the prestigious French Cecchetti classical ballet syllabus in England; dancing at the Volska Ballet Company as a young adult in London. She moved to America in 1973 and opened Imperial Dance Studio with 6 students in her basement in 1978. In 1997, she founded IBT as a 501(c)(3) non-profit ballet and contemporary dance company, and then incorporated in 1998 when merging the school of dance and the company later that year. Mrs. Tuohy has designed and sewn costumes and alongside fellow associate artistic directors throughout the years. She has choreographed nine full-length original ballets that have been staged over 50 times during the 42 years the organization has existed. Of these, 20 years were at the Star Plaza Theatre.

From six students in the basement, to building an IBT team that has helped reach and teach over 9,000 students and reach 600,000 audience members throughout the years, to successful schools in DeMotte, Merrillville, and Valparaiso, and a growing ballet and contemporary company – Mrs. Tuohy says, “It was all from the dreams of the children.”

Artistic Director

Amanda teaches IBT dancers and company members year-round, is an adjunct professor at Valparaiso University, on the board of directors of CNADM, and on faculty at the Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet.

She has choreographed and restaged historic, site-specific works for documentaries, IBT cruise ship productions, Disney, and international engagements. She stages performances for IBT, and is the founder of IBT’s modern dance programming and concert series, Kaleidoscope and Standing Room Only.

She dedicates her career to preparing students for professional careers and scholarship opportunities, including the Foundation of Arts Mentored in Entertainment (F.A.M.E.), Étoile Dance Competition, Icon Dance Awards, Youth Arts Awards, Italia Grand Prix (Italy), Youth America Grand Prix, and other pre-professional training programs. Students perform and train at institutions such as Milwaukee Ballet II, Ballet Des Moines, Missouri Contemporary Ballet, Brandon Ballet, Hubbard Street, River North Dance Chicago, Disney World, Broadway (New York), High School Musical, the Rose Bowl, the Academy Awards, Dance Chicago, industrials, and theater. Students attend prestigious universities and pre-pro traning nationally and internationally, such as Conservatorio Internacional (Portugal), Joffrey Ballet (New York and Chicago), Royal Winnipeg Ballet (Canada), American Ballet Theatre, The Royal Ballet School (England), Chicago Academy for the Arts, and more.

Trained at Joseph Holmes Dance Theatre, Ruth Page, Lou Conte, and more, Ms.Tuohy-Fuller studied Performance and Choreography at Columbia College and earned her graduate degree in Dance/Movement Therapy, emphasis in Bartenieff Fundamentals and Laban Movement Analysis and Observation. She is certified in Revolutionary Principles of Movement (RPM), ISTD, ATAP, and inspired by ABT’s Beyond the Barre, brought RPM training to IBT and launched Chasing Dreams (2019). Amanda is an Affiliate Teacher of the The Royal Ballet School (England).

Ms. Tuohy-Fuller develops programming for summer dance opportunities at IBT, such as workshops, intensive weekends, focus seminars, innovative classes, and children’s dance camps such as an upcoming KPOP workshop.

Prince Siegfried, Guest Artist

Born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Chattanooga, TN, Mr. Davis began his training as a TIP full scholarship recipient with Ballet Tennessee.

Mr. Davis was accepted by Dance Theatre of Harlem Ensemble to have the privilege to work with Arthur Mitchell and then was promoted Company member under direction of Virginia Johnson dancing numerous such as the “Pas de Deux” from George Balanchine’ s Agon, the “Pas de Deux” from Alvin Aliey’s Lark Ascending, “The Male Duet” from Ulysses Dove’s Dancing on the Front Porch of Heaven, the “Pas de Deux” from Darrell Grand Montre’s Vessels, Christopher Huggins “Pas de Trios” In The Mirror of Mind, “Four Men’s Variation” from Freddie Franklin’s Pas de Dix of Raymonda and Donald Byrd’s Contested Space.

He has performed with Dance Theatre of Harlem company on National and International tours, and was also a U.S. Ambassador for Dance Theatre of Harlem in Kingston, Jamaica, St.Thomas, and Honduras. Performed at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, has been a guest artist for Dallas Black Dance Theatre, Donald McKayle honors performance in Irvine, CA, The Kennedy Center and Honors in DC, The Paramount Theatre in Seattle, WA, danced the “Pas de Deux” with Emiko Flanagan from George Balanchine’s ballet Agon for Wendy Whelan’s documentary private presentation of “The Restless Creature” and has performed for Arthur Mitchell’s DTH Vision Gala with Ashley Murphy (Washington Ballet) alongside with Misty Copeland (ABT) and Matthew Prescott (International Freelance Artist).

Mr. Davis was a Guest Principal dancer with Ballet Tuscon casted in roles as The Sugarplum Fairy Cavalier in the “The Nutcracker” Don Quixote 3rd Act Grand Pas Deux, Balcony Pas de Deux in “Romeo and Juliet” and Solor in Kingdom of Shades from “La Bayadere.”

Fredrick has been a Guest artist with Dance Theatre of Harlem, San Jose Dance Theatre Company, New Jersey Ballet Company, Connecticut Ballet, Guest Choreographer for Neville Dance Theatre and Guest Artist and Choreographer for American Midwest Ballet Company.

Fredrick has a documentary by WTCI-PBS production from Chattanooga, TN based on his life being homeless child on the street to transcend to be a world class ballet dancer.

“From the streets to the stage the Journey of Fredrick Davis” that also won an Emmy last January at the 31st Midsouth Regional Awards in Nashville, TN.

Odette

Kristy is an energetic instructor and rehearsal assistant working with IBT’s Company and student dancers. She is a talented performer and began her dance studies at the age of three with IBT. She continued on to study in ballet at CNADM workshops in Chicago, the Las Vegas Dance Teachers Expo, and completed her ISTD advanced-level examinations with highest distinction in London, England, and is a three-time state champion in gymnastics consecutively in balance beam, floor exercise, and all around. She danced for student-led dance groups, In-Motion Dance Company, Indiana University, and performed with ABT in their ballroom scene in Chicago. She was Head Cheer Instructor for the National Cheerleaders Association for 10 years, a seven-time All-American cheerleader, and a two-time top All-American cheerleader. She currently choreographs and rehearses IBT dancers, provides a refreshing and positive atmosphere while encouraging students to work hard and lift performance in class. She has danced in all of IBT’s ballets including Cinderella, Firebird, Gaite Parisienne, Sleeping Beauty, Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Coppelia, Peter Pan, Kaliedoscope, and Standing Room Only. Kristy enjoys spending time with her family. She is the Executive Director at Northwest Cancer Centers and owner of Refresh Med Spa in Dyer, Indiana. Kristy is excited to bring the magic of ballet to the 2026 stage as Odette.

Odile, Guest Artist, Alumna

Fayeth began her training at Indiana Ballet Theatre at the age of three, where she studied until moving to Wisconsin at 17 to join the Pre-Professional Program at Milwaukee Ballet. After two years in the program, she was promoted to the company’s Second Company. 

During her time with Milwaukee Ballet, Fayeth has performed excerpts from Le Corsaire, Swan Lake, Pharaoh’s Daughter, Le Conservatoire, La Bayadère, and Cinderella. She has also performed in Michael Pink’s productions of The Nutcracker, Giselle, and Sleeping Beauty, as well as Kenneth Tindall’s Casanova and Mauro de Candia’s Something I Had in Mind. 

While training and performing with Indiana Ballet Theatre, Fayeth danced leading roles including Princess Aurora, Clara, the Sugar Plum Fairy, Sapphire Fairy, Autumn Fairy, Dew Drop, and Cygnet. She was also a Top 12 Finalist at Youth America Grand Prix, winning the Senior Ballet Division at the ICON Dance Awards Chicago Regional in 2022, being named a 2022 Finalist at FAME Performing Arts Competition, and receiving the 2022 Youth Arts Award from the Northwest Indiana Regional Arts Council. 

Fayeth has also attended summer intensives at The Joffrey Ballet School Chicago, A&A Ballet, and Milwaukee Ballet. Fayeth is honored to return and perform with IBT, the company that trained her and inspired her to work hard and pursue her dreams. 

Von Rothbart

Grace, a senior in high school, has danced for 15 years, and has been an IBT member for over four years, after training with the Civic Ballet for 11 years. She has previously enjoyed performing roles such as Harlequin Doll, Spanish, Waltz of the Flowers, and Snowflake. Grace has participated in Kaliedoscope and performed for the larger NWI community area. Outside of dance, Grace participates in robotics, bowling, unified sports, and orchestra. She would like to thank her family for always being her biggest supporters, as well as to thank the IBT staff for creating amazing shows and performance opportunities.

Benno, Guest Artist

Evan Howard is a freelance dancer based in Chicago, IL., and grew up training with DC’s Washington School of Ballet. While a student, they performed with the Washington Ballet Company, including originating the role of the Nutcracker Prince in their 2007 colonial reimagining. They received a BFA in dance from New York University where they worked with Lucinda Childs on the premier of her “Lollapalooza” in 2011, and while in New York, they also had the opportunity to restage multiple historic works with the Charles Weidman Foundation. Upon moving to Chicago they joined Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre, where they were a company member for 4 years. Though they retired from dancing full time, they love to return to their classical roots in productions with IBT.

Tutor, Guest Artist

Joseph started dancing at 13 in Augusta, Georgia. He studied Commercial Dance at Martinez-Evans Dance Studio, Dance as Art at John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School in high school. In college, obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Dance from the University of Georgia while performing as a member of the pre-professional modern dance company CORE concert dance, and dancing in the jazz dance company, DanceFX. He trained during this time in Circus and Aerial Arts by former Cirque Du Soliel performers The Gemini Twins. Joseph furthered his studies in dance with a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Illinois, where he experimented with avant-garde and experimental performance art, creating award-winning works. In Chicago, he joined Mordine & Company for several seasons, performed in several notable works with contemporary Chicago dance artists and taught classes for various schools and dance companies over the years in many styles.

Spanish Princess, White Swan Act 1

Amanda has been dancing since she was five years old and has performed with IBT since the age of nine. She has appeared in leading roles with IBT such as Cinderella, the Snow Queen, and Clara in The Nutcracker, as well as the Diamond Fairy in Sleeping Beauty. Aside from dancing, she is currently completing her Master of Physician Assistant Studies.

Russian Princess, Black Swan, White Swan Act 1

Naomi has been studying multiple styles of dance since the age of 12. She danced with Hubbard street dance in the youth program, Winfred Hauns Third coast contemporary program, and has also done competitive dance in the contemporary and modern styles. Now dancing with IBT, she has participated in productions including Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia, and The Nutcracker. She is now working to her goal of becoming a Certified Dance Educator and a Member of CNADM. Thanks to IBT, Naomi has also choreographed Highland High School’s Wonka Jr., Shrek, and Highland Middle School’s Frozen Jr.

Romanian Princess, Stage Manager, Rehearsal Assistant

Lindsay has been a dedicated dancer with IBT for 20 years, performing in several lead roles in various performances. She began dancing at the age of four and in addition to IBT intensives, she has trained over the summers with several renowned institutions, including Faubourg Ballet School, Milwaukee Ballet, and Joffrey Ballet. Lindsay is passionate about teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers in IBT’s youth programs. She has completed her certification in the Revolutionary Principles of Movements Dance Teacher Training Program and is a proud member of the Chicago National Association of Dance Masters (CNADM). Beyond her work as a dancer and teacher, Lindsay also serves as a stage manager for IBT’s productions, ensuring that each performance runs seamlessly behind the scenes. The discipline, focus, and commitment she has developed through dance have been integral to her work in the healthcare field. Lindsay’s multifaceted career demonstrates how the principles of dance extend beyond the studio, influencing all aspects of her life.

Sister Swan, Costume Mistress

Dance alum of Northern Illinois University, Amber joined IBT in 2005, is IBT’s Costume Mistress, and has performed feature roles in Nutcracker, Coppelia, Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Thumbelina, and Kaliedoscope. Amber is also a registered nurse, IBT’s rehearsal/audition assistant, and substitute teacher. Formerly an integral dancer, costume mistress, and director at Central New Jersey Ballet Theatre, she currently owns the costume company “Amber Rae Mack Designs.”

Sister Swan, Mazurka

Sophiana received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with a Contemporary emphasis from Lindenwood University in 2022. As an undergraduate, she performed in Lindenwood’s dance concerts and the American College Dance Association Conference in addition to setting original works. Prior to attending Lindenwood, Sophiana trained with Terrence Marling, John Magnus, Elain Bauer-Brown, Ethan Kirschbaum, and with other faculty at Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, The Ruth Page Civic Ballet, and Portland Festival Ballet. As an alumna of Indiana Ballet Theater, Sophiana has performed in Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and The Nutcracker in a variety of roles, in addition to teaching, assisting with rehearsals and classes, and setting original works in the Company. Sophiana currently resides in Lake County, IN and is the Coordinator of Programs and Education for Phi Sigma Sigma where she supports collegiate chapters’ recruitment efforts.

Sister Swan, Mazurka

An outstanding National Honors student, athlete, and participant in IBT’s chapter of the National Honors Society in Dance Arts, Lily began dancing with the Civic Dance Center before training extensively with IBT and attending Butler Ballet’s Summer Intensive. Her lead roles at IBT have included Clara, Red Rose, Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, Princess Aurora in Sleeping Beauty, and Autumn Fairy in Cinderella. She enjoys performing modern and jazz dance in Kaliedoscope. Lily plans to double major in dance and history at university. Her favorite IBT memory is “the magic of watching my friends from the side of the stage as they step into the spotlight, completely transforming: confident, powerful & beautiful, as if they were always meant to be there.”