Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Hamm.
Taylor, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Honestly, I’ve been dancing for as long as I can remember. I started at 3 years old, and from that moment on, there was just no other path for me. Dance wasn’t just something I did… it became who I was. I fell completely in love with everything about it. I spent my childhood and teen years training seven days a week, completely consumed by this passion that only seemed to grow stronger with time.
Right after high school, I was beyond ready to jump into the dance world headfirst. I started auditioning in New York City and ended up booking my very first professional job dancing at Walt Disney World during their Magic Kingdom Christmas event — a total dream come true. That moment lit a fire in me, and from there, things just started to unfold. I’ve had the chance to perform at corporate events, on screen, and in so many magical Disney shows — each experience reminding me why I love this so much.
But even while performing, I never stopped being a student. I trained at Broadway Dance Center, studied ballroom (both Latin and Standard) with my partner, and somehow, in the midst of it all, managed to complete my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at the University of Florida.
And through all of it, every rehearsal, every performance, every late night in the studio… I knew in my heart that one day, I’d open my own dance studio. I didn’t know when or how, but I’ve carried that dream with me for as long as I can remember.
When the opportunity finally came, it felt like the universe just… aligned. The timing wasn’t what I expected, but it ended up being exactly what it needed to be. I took the leap, and opening Ace Dance Project has been the most incredible, emotional, and fulfilling journey of my life.
Even though we’ve only been officially open for 3.5 months, this studio has been over 20 years in the making. Every class I’ve taken, every performance I’ve done, every student I’ve taught — it all led to this. I want every single dancer who walks into our space to feel the love I have for this art form. I want them to feel inspired, challenged, supported, and above all — seen.
I started teaching at 16, and even then, I held my students to a high standard. Some would say I’m intense — and honestly, they’re right — but it’s because I see their potential, and I refuse to let them play small. For dancers who are truly passionate and ready to grow, we thrive together. I don’t want perfection, I want progress, commitment, and that fire in their eyes when they finally nail something they’ve worked so hard for.
Ace Dance Project isn’t just a studio, it’s my heart. And every single dancer who comes through our doors becomes part of that story. I can’t wait to keep building this dream, one passionate dancer at a time.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Was it easy? -Of course not. The journey of an artist never is.
There have been so many moments, especially after auditions, when I’d come home, drop my bag on the floor, and just sit there asking myself, “Is this even worth it?” You put everything you have into your craft — your heart, your time, your energy, your body, and sometimes, you still walk away with a “no.” And that kind of rejection doesn’t just sting… it shakes you. It makes you question if you’re good enough, if you’re on the right path, if you should just give it all up and find something “easier.” But artists don’t choose the easy road, we choose the one that keeps us alive inside.
There’s a silent struggle that comes with being a dancer, the constant pressure to be better, to train harder, to stay in shape, to stay relevant. You’re judged not just on your talent, but on your appearance, your energy, your “look,” your timing. And yet somehow, you have to keep showing up, smiling, performing like your heart isn’t breaking behind the scenes.
But those tough moments… the rejections, the injuries, the exhaustion, the self-doubt, they were all part of what made me ready to open my own studio. I’ve lived what my students are dreaming of. I know what it feels like to pour everything into this art, to be told no, and still get up the next day and try again. I’ve worked in rooms full of magic and I’ve sat in bathrooms crying after auditions that felt like they broke me. And I wouldn’t change a single second of it — because all of it prepared me for this.
Opening Ace Dance Project at a young age wasn’t part of some perfect plan, it was a leap of faith, built on years of passion, heartbreak, hustle, and resilience. It’s hard opening a studio when you’re still building your own career, when people assume you’re “too young” or “too new.” But I leaned into that, because I’m not just a business owner, I’m still a working artist. I know what it feels like to want it so badly it hurts.
And that’s what I bring into the studio every day — that raw, real love for dance, and a deep understanding of the journey these young dancers are about to take. I want them to feel seen not just for their talent, but for their fight. Because I see them. I am them. And I’ll be the teacher who reminds them, even in their hardest moments, that it is worth it — and that their struggles will shape their story in the most beautiful way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Ace Dance Project is more than just a dance studio, it’s a dream in motion, a passion turned purpose, and a place where excellence is not only expected but deeply nurtured.
From the moment we opened our doors, we’ve been committed to raising the bar. This isn’t a space for mediocrity. This is where serious dancers come to train like professionals, to find themselves, and to grow into the most powerful version of who they are both on and off the stage.
We specialize in high-level, technique-driven, performance-focused training across all major styles: jazz, contemporary, ballet, ballroom, hip hop, lyrical, musical theater, tap, and more. But what sets us apart isn’t just what we teach — it’s how we teach it, and who we are.
I, along with my sister Tori Hamm and our incredible staff, who are truly some of the best in the business — have poured every ounce of our knowledge, energy, and heart into this space. Our team brings professional experience, unmatched passion, and a deep understanding of what it takes to make it in this industry. Together, we are shaping a new generation of dancers who are trained not just to perform, but to lead.
From the beginning, we made it a point to bring in top-tier educators and talent from across the country, connecting our dancers with current, working professionals who are active in the industry. The goal? To expose them to the real world of dance and prepare them for it now — not later. And it’s already happening.
Even in just 3.5 months, our dancers have shown tremendous growth — not only technically, but mentally and emotionally. They’re stronger. They’re sharper. They’re more driven, more focused, and more inspired. We’re watching them evolve in real time — and it’s only the beginning.
At Ace Dance Project, we’re not just building dancers, we’re building disciplined, determined, and dedicated young people who will carry these values into every aspect of life. We train our dancers to value time management, show up with strong work ethic, and hold themselves to a high standard…because the habits they develop here will shape the trajectory of their future, whether on the stage, in college, or wherever life leads them.
Brand-wise, what makes us different is that we’re rooted in both professional experience and genuine mentorship. I’ve walked the path. From audition rooms to professional contracts, from tears in the wings to standing ovations, and I bring all of that into the studio with me. Our dancers aren’t just being trained, they’re being mentored, coached, and prepared for whatever future they want to chase. Whether it’s the professional stage, college dance, or becoming the best version of themselves.
We’re not just aiming to be a “good studio” — we’re building what will be one of the top studios in the country. And we’re doing it with integrity, vision, and heart.
If you’re ready to work, to grow, and to be part of something different, Ace Dance Project is where you belong.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
I rely on a mix of tools and inspiration to keep everything flowing, both creatively and professionally. Running a dance studio, training dancers, and staying connected to the dance world requires balance, organization, and a strong mindset, and these are some of the resources that help me stay at my best:
Apps & Tools:
Skylight Calendar – This has been a total game-changer for managing my busy schedule and keeping everything visually clear — from rehearsals and classes to meetings and personal time.
Canva – I use Canva almost daily for branding, marketing materials, flyers, and social content. It lets me keep the Ace Dance Project brand looking clean, creative, and professional without needing a full design team.
Apple Music – I live on this app! It fuels my creativity, helps me discover new music for choreography, and sets the tone for both class and life.
Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty – This is one of my absolute favorites. He dives into mindset, purpose, emotional health, relationships, and success in a way that really grounds me. I always finish episodes feeling clear, connected, and re-centered.
Books
“Atomic Habits” by James Clear – This book completely reshaped how I think about structure and discipline. I apply these tools in my own life and with my dancers, because real growth is built on consistent, small wins.
“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero – A reminder that trusting yourself and taking bold action is the only way to truly level up, especially when fear tries to creep in.
But honestly, the greatest resource I have is the people around me — my sister Tori Hamm, my mom Shawna, as well as those who have helped me build this dream… my partner in life Christan, my brother Shane, and my dad. Additionally, our incredible staff (who are truly some of the best in the business), and our dancers. The energy, work ethic, and passion inside Ace Dance Project keeps me inspired daily. Watching our dancers already grow in just a few short months not only as technicians, but as people, has been the most rewarding part of this entire journey.
These tools and resources help me stay grounded and driven, but it’s the why behind what I do that keeps me going. The vision is big, the goals are clear, and we’re just getting started.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.acedanceproject.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acedanceproject_/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Ace-Dance-Project/61575931499001/
Image Credits
Photo Credit: Chloe Nguyen @Chloenguyen20 or chloestudioorlando.com
Stage Photos: Ryan Kirkpatrick @Ryan1photo
