About Dance to the Stars Project Staff

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Shanta Thorpe’s passion for dance and performance began at an early age. Gifted with natural talent and determination, she won her first dance contest held by the Frank Chapman Memorial Institute at age six. She has appeared in regional performances with the New York State Theatre Institute, Park Playhouse, and the Albany Civic Theatre.

Shanta has extensive training as a dancer and performer. She has studied at the Sherry’s School of Dance, Albany Berkshire Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Broadway Dance Center, Alvin Alley, and Harlem School of Dance.

A graduate of Bishop Maginn High School, where she was a National Cheerleader Association All-American, she earned her undergraduate degree in communications and leadership from Marist College. She is a trained and certified Mental Health and Substance Abuse Professional.

Shanta believes dance and movement promote joy and reinforce self-confidence and esteem.

Supporting Music Engineer

Videographer & Photographer

Assistant Videographer

Events & Performances Coordinator

Communications  Research