Today we’d like to introduce you to Pam Gleason
Hi Pam, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey in dance started when I was just three years old. I grew up in the studio world, training in multiple styles and developing a deep love for performing. In high school, I continued my passion by dancing for my high school team- Benilde St. Margaret’s- which eventually led me to the University of St. Thomas, where I was a proud member of the dance team.
After college, I stayed connected to my alma mater by becoming an assistant coach for the St. Thomas dance team, a role I held for five years. Around the same time, I also took a huge leap and auditioned for the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders. I was fortunate to make the team and spent five incredible seasons with the organization—three of which I served as a captain. One of the highlights of my career was representing the team at the Pro Bowl in my final season.
Even as I danced professionally, I discovered another passion—choreography. I began choreographing for studios, high school, college, and professional teams, which allowed me to stay connected to the Minnesota dance community even after retiring from the Vikings. As my husband and I started thinking about growing our family, I knew I wanted a career that offered flexibility while still fueling my love for dance. That’s when the stars aligned—my sister-in-law, who worked at Dance Arts Centre, mentioned they were hiring a full-time teacher. It was the perfect opportunity, and I jumped right in!
Now, I’m not only teaching and choreographing full-time at the studio, but I also serve as the Director of Marketing and Social Media, blending my background in advertising and psychology with my passion for dance. Beyond that, I still choreograph for teams across the country, work on photoshoots and video projects as a choreographer for The Line Up- a local costume and apparel company, and this past year, I was part of the game-day staff for the Vikings Cheerleaders while choreographing multiple routines for them.
I feel incredibly grateful to do what I love every single day. Dance has shaped every stage of my life, and I’m so lucky to continue sharing that passion with dancers of all levels.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Right out of high school, I thought I wanted to go to a big school—I had spent my whole life in smaller schools, and I convinced myself I was ready for a change. Without much thought, I chose the University of Minnesota because I wanted to stay close to home. By July—just weeks before my freshman year was set to begin—I panicked. Deep down, I knew I wouldn’t thrive at such a big school.
Thankfully, I was still able to enroll at the University of St. Thomas and keep my scholarships. It ended up being the best decision for me. About a month into school, I realized how much I needed dance in my life. I started training to audition for the St. Thomas dance team that spring, and when I made the team, everything changed.
Being part of USTDT reignited my passion for dance. It shaped my journey in ways I never expected—it’s where I was asked to coach, and it’s where a former teammate encouraged me to audition for the Minnesota Vikings Cheerleaders. Looking back, I’m so grateful for the journey that led me exactly where I was meant to be.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a choreographer and dance teacher, and I have the privilege of creating movement for a variety of dancers and styles. At my studio, I choreograph for dancers ranging from 6 to 18 years old, helping them grow both in skill and confidence.
My strongest style and biggest passion is hip hop, with jazz as a close second. I also love choreographing contemporary, lyrical, and musical theater, but hip hop is where I found my niche. My style is often described as big, hard-hitting, and strong. I always strive to incorporate fun and humor into my hip hop routines when it fits, making them not only dynamic but also entertaining.
Music is one of my biggest inspirations for my choreography—it drives my creativity and sets the tone for everything I choreograph. I’m always thinking about what music will make my dancers feel like fire because when they feel confident, they push themselves to the next level. Watching dancers truly live in the moment, love what they’re doing, and grow through movement is what fuels my passion every day.
What sets me apart is my ability to tap into the energy of my dancers and bring out their best. It’s not just about the choreo—it’s about the feeling, the confidence, and the joy that dance can bring. Seeing my choreography come to life and witnessing the excitement on the dancers’ faces is what I’m most proud of. Dance is so much more than movement—it’s an experience, and I love being a part of that journey.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something that might surprise people is how much I overanalyze and critique my own work. I pour days into creating choreography, perfecting music edits, and planning routines—even for something as simple as a master class. While I can pivot and adapt quickly when needed, I actually struggle with creating choreography completely on the spot for a dance or workshop class.
That said, the funny part is that when I’m on set for a photoshoot, I have no problem thinking on the fly and adjusting to whatever is needed in the moment. It doesn’t make much sense, but that’s just how my brain works! I love being fully prepared when it comes to dance, but in other creative settings, I thrive in spontaneity. It’s a unique contradiction, but it’s part of what makes me, me!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: pamelamayy
