Makayela Burton-Banks

Makayela Burton is a dedicated dance professional, educator, choreographer, and adjudicator with extensive training and performance experience across ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, hip-hop, acro, pointe, and pom. A former competitive and collegiate dancer, she brings a comprehensive understanding of technique, artistry, and performance quality to both her teaching and evaluation.

A certified member of Dance Masters of America in Ballet and Jazz, Makayela has extensive experience working with both recreational and competitive dancers. Her choreography has been recognized with award-winning routines, and she has contributed to numerous opening numbers and successful pageant talent performances.

Makayela’s adjudication experience includes Dance Masters of the Bluegrass, Distinguished Young Women programs, and Miss Kentucky preliminary competitions. She is known for delivering fair, insightful, and constructive critiques that support dancer growth while maintaining high standards of excellence.

In addition to her instructional work across multiple styles, Makayela is recognized for her professionalism, attention to detail, and ability to foster a positive and motivating environment. Her judging philosophy emphasizes strong technical foundations, confident performance, and authentic artistry, encouraging dancers to perform with clarity, passion, and purpose.

Committed to the development of well-rounded performers, Makayela strives to inspire dancers to reach their full potential both on and off the stage.