Gotta Dance Atlanta is run and lead by its current owner, Kim Thomas.  Kim began the Atlanta professional dance studio movement, with a dream and a mission, back in 1988.  It was her way of giving professionals, and dance enthusiasts alike, a place to call home... away from the tour buses and concert stages, the cubicles and the busy realms of corporate America, or the headaches of running a household and maintaining a family.



Kim created a studio offering training for the working dancer, instruction for the dance lover, and fitness for the non-gym-goer.  All at the same time, she developed an artistic environment encouraging new relationships and partnerships amongst those students who call Gotta Dance their home away from "every day life".

Kim has been dancing since before the era of the cassette tape, and she continues to dance; as, not only is she Gotta Dance Atlanta's owner, she is an instructor and student as well!



Kim Thomas received her BA in Performing Arts and Dance from Oklahoma City University where she was awarded a dance scholarship. Ms. Thomas has been actively involved with the Atlanta dance and arts community for over 40 years and has studied with many acclaimed choreographers and instructors. With an extensive background in jazz, ballet, hip hop, lyrical, tap and modern dance styles, Ms. Thomas has a solid reputation for excellence as an experienced professional dancer, instructor and innovative choreographer.



Among Ms. Thomas' many professional company appearances are featured performances with the esteemed Gotta Dance Atlanta Company and the American Spirit Dance Company in Oklahoma City. She has choreographed for several major corporations including, Macy's, Parisian's, Coca-Cola, Upton's, Don Pablo's and many others. Kim is owner of Gotta Dance Atlanta and has also directed, produced and performed in several major dance concerts through The Gotta Dance Atlanta Professional Company.

 

Kim is also a registered Yoga Alliance Instructor, RYT®.  She received her certification at the School For Allied Massage & Ayurveda (SAMA) in Newport, RI under the mentorship of Dr. Carlos Santos. Kim teaches an eclectic yoga sequence, drawing from her Hatha, Ayurveda and Ashtanga teachings. She believes yoga to be an effective method of self-discovery and positive change.

 

Ms. Thomas' teaching philosophy is based on presenting students with a well-rounded dance education. She feels that a student's encounter with dance should be a relaxing, fun and rewarding experience.