Holly (Allwein) James (former Dance Director 2000 – 2011)  has been teaching since the age of sixteen and here at the Yocum Institute since 1999 where she began her dance training with Cheri Noble, of Pennsylvania Ballet.  Holly  was an original member of Berks Ballet Theatre where she was a soloist, guest artist, ballet mistress and teacher.  Her roles include: Sugar Plum in their first Nutcracker production; Snow Queen, and Fairy Godmother in Cinderella.  She has an extensive background as a performing ballerina, dancer and instructor in ballet, modern and jazz dance.  She started her BFA in Dance / Ballet at  Point Park University in Pittsburgh; completed her degree at The University of Cincinnati, College Conservatory of Music in 1983, and pursued her MA Dance there as well.  She has trained with numerous teachers including:  David Howard, Melissa Hayden, Luigi, James Truitte, Nicholas Petrov, Gus Giordano, Oleg Sabline, Joe Lanteri, Maryland Ballet, among many others.  Holly’s accomplishments include: DMA 1985 Chapter 25 Contestant for Miss Dance of America where she finished in the top ten finalists; performing semi-professionally with The American Dance Ensemble (Pittsburgh, PA) and professionally with The Cincinnati Opera Ballet (AGMA Union).  Holly holds her PA certification as a Special Education Paraeducator and facilitates inclusion in the arts whenever possible.