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ASPIRE BUSINESS
SPOTLIGHT
AMANDA
NIXON
OWNER,
LE ROSE DANCE
ACADEMY
Photo by Aspire photography
Passing the Torch, Inspiring the Next
Generation of Dancers in Johnson County
When Amanda Nixon took ownership of what was
then called Verna’s School of Dance/Dance Institute in
Franklin, Indiana, she wasn’t just starting a business, she
was building on a legacy.
“I purchased the studio from my teacher and mentor, who
ran it for over 30 years,” Nixon said. “It meant everything
to me to carry that torch forward and keep that tradition
alive.”
A Johnson County native and graduate of Franklin
Community High School, Nixon brings deep local roots
and a lifelong love for movement to her work.
“I was a four-year varsity athlete and an All-American
cheerleader,” she said. “After graduation, I spent six years
on staff with the National Cheerleaders Association,
which gave me a foundation in performance, instruction,
and leadership that I still draw from today.”
That foundation is evident in the thriving dance
community she’s built at Le Rose Dance Academy. Over
the years, her students have danced in high-profile
events like the Indy 500 Parade, the Circle of Lights, and
the Evansville Philharmonic Peppermint Pops.
“I’ve taken our competitive team, the Rosettes, to perform
at Walt Disney World and attend workshops with Disney
choreographers,” Nixon said proudly. “Some of our
dancers have gone on to collegiate teams and even to
professional cheerleading and dance careers with the
NFL and NBA.”
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ASPIRE JOHNSON COUNTY, IN | 2025-26 BUSINESS GUIDE
But beyond the accolades, Nixon’s focus remains on
providing a welcoming and supportive space for dancers
of all ages and abilities.
“We offer specialized classes for students with special
needs,” she explained. “It’s about helping them improve
motor skills, express themselves, and build confidence.
Every dancer deserves to feel seen and celebrated.”
With a staff of 15 and a commitment to community
engagement, Nixon ensures the studio stays connected
to the heart of Johnson County by participating in local
outreach events, parades, and festivals.
Looking ahead, Nixon sees Le Rose Dance Academy
continuing to grow while staying grounded in its mission.
“We want to keep building con昀椀dence through
dance and serving the families of Johnson
County,” she said. “We’re not just teaching
choreography. We’re shaping lives.”
