AMBER MITCHELL
OWNER & DIRECTOR
Growing up in central North Carolina, Amber Mitchell fell in love with dance at a young age. She began training and competing in all styles of dance including ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip hop, tap, musical theater, etc. while attending and competing with CC & Company Dance Complex. Under the instruction of Christy Curtis, she had many amazing opportunities to work closely with world-renowned choreographers such as Sonya Tayeh, Mandy Moore, Al Blackstone, Martha Nichols, and more, beyond the walls of a convention ballroom. Amber also received mentorship from Melissa “MJ” Jackson, who offered invaluable knowledge and support through her adolescent training. From the age of 16, Amber has taught and choreographed for children of all ages and abilities. More recently her choreography has been seen at prestigious regional and national competition stages nationwide, going on to win choreography, technique, and overall awards. Amber favors choreographing “contemporary fusion” movement, and prides herself in her ability to showcase each dancer’s individual strengths. After teaching in Wilmington, NC and its surrounding areas for the past 8 years, Amber is now the proud owner and director of Moving Different Dance—Wilmington’s newest dance studio. Amber hopes that along with her amazing faculty, she can continue to shape young dancers into not only preprofessional artists, but also outstanding human beings in whatever future they choose to pursue.
CARLI BATSON
Carli Batson is a graduate of Appalachian State University where she earned her BS in Communication, minor in Theatre Arts and served as Co-Captain for the App State Dance Team. That same year, she represented North Carolina at the 100th Anniversary Miss America Competition where she competed en pointe in talent. Carli was one of the youngest double preliminary winners at the Miss North Carolina Competition in 2018, winning both the Talent and Fitness award. She then won both preliminary awards and the coveted crown in 2021. Carli also was honored to be crowned the 2022 NC Azalea Festival Queen. Through pageantry, Carli promoted her personal initiative, Carolina Cares, which raised over $30,000 for underfunded arts programs in North Carolina. Prior to college, Carli studied at the Joffrey School of Ballet in New York City and was a competitive dancer in the U.S. for almost 10 years. She now finds her creative outlet in Wilmington, performing at Historic Thalian Hall where she also met her fiancé, Jon. Carli is thrilled to share her love for ballet and technique at Moving Different and she can’t wait to see you in class!
ALEXIS RIVENBARK
Alexis Rivenbark grew up dancing in her hometown of Wilmington, NC where she first fell in love with the art of dance. Alexis trained extensively, and this helped shape her into the skilled instructor she is today. She has continued to influence the local dance scene by teaching in the area for several years. With her keen eye for detail and ability to clean choreography, she insures every routine reaches its highest potential. This is apparent in the work she has contributed to recreation performances and national winning competitive routines. Her true specialty lies in perfecting technique, whether it be in class or in rehearsal. Also known for her exceptional versatility, Alexis teaches a wide range of dance styles and ages, including lyrical, jazz, hip hop, and more with toddlers all the way to seniors. Her work ethic, choreography, and technical emphasis will prove to be an asset to the growth of Moving Different dancers.
ALYSSA LOGAN
Alyssa Logan’s journey in dance began in Wilmington, NC, where her passion for performance was nurtured from a young age. Since the age of 11, Alyssa has worked under Amber’s guidance and honed her skills that she is lucky to now be able to pass on to the next generation of movers. This formative training laid the foundation for her distinctive choreography and teaching approach. Specializing in jazz, Alyssa brings a fresh energy to her classes where she emphasizes technique, confidence, and texture, while also encouraging dancers to embrace their unique styles. With her bubbly personality, Alyssa creates an inclusive, motivating environment for dancers of all ages. She connects effortlessly with young dancers, making their learning experience both fun and educational, and she inspires older, more advanced students to push their boundaries and refine their craft. Alyssa is thrilled to join Moving Different, bringing a youthful perspective to the team. Her enthusiasm and creativity promise to be a valued addition to the company’s bright future.