Chanhassen, MN

Jill Rieken’s love of dance began at just two years old in her mother’s studio, located in the basement of their family home. She quickly discovered her passion for the art form and later expanded her training by studying at professional schools and attending conventions. One of the highlights of her dance journey was being accepted into the Minnesota Jazz Dance Company, where she immersed herself in daily classes and rehearsals while performing throughout the Midwest.

With the mentorship and encouragement of her mother, Jill opened Dance Arts Centre 46 years ago. What began as a single studio has grown into a thriving home for dancers of all ages, offering both a strong recreational program and a nationally recognized competitive program. Over the years, Jill has proudly watched thousands of dancers come through the doors of DAC, growing not only in their technique and artistry but also in their confidence and character.

In addition to leading DAC, Jill and her ballet director, Julia Levina, founded La Danse Fatale 23 years ago—a nonprofit, pre-professional ballet company designed to provide young dancers with performance opportunities and a deeper appreciation for the art of ballet. LDF has become an integral part of the studio’s legacy, inspiring dancers to reach new levels of excellence.

This past season, Jill celebrated the 45th anniversary of Dance Arts Centre, a milestone that honored the studio’s history while looking ahead to its future. Alumni from across the years returned to perform in the recital, reflecting the community, artistry, and lifelong connections that DAC continues to foster.

Jill’s greatest joy comes from mentoring both students and teachers—guiding them as artists, leaders, and individuals. She is deeply honored to receive Tremaine’s Teacher of the Year award and to be part of an organization that has inspired her and her dancers for decades.