Our Teachers

Kelly Gagliardi-Dieguez — Artistic Director

Kelly’s love affair with dance began at a very young age, originally training under the guidance of her mother, Joan Distin Gagliardi. Dance has been not just a passion but a lifelong journey of growth, exploration, and teaching.

Her early training included music, tap, ballet, and pointe, and she expanded her skills through studies at renowned institutions such as Broadway Dance Center, Alvin Ailey, and Woodpeckers in New York City, as well as pre-professional programs in Gainesville, FL. Kelly’s unique approach to dance is deeply informed by her musical background, she studied music at CT Music Company and even played trumpet in a jazz ensemble, where she honed her skills in musical improvisation alongside the late Sonny Costanzo.

Kelly holds a BA in Communications and Theater Arts and is a graduate of the American Tap Dance Institute. Throughout her career, she has choreographed and performed in countless local and regional theater productions, pageant troupes, show choirs, and dance teams.

Before founding Velocity Dance Works in 2006, Kelly taught in a variety of settings, including recreational, competition, and pre-professional programs. Her students have gone on to achieve success in pageants, professional dance careers, college dance teams, and even teaching themselves. Kelly’s commitment to dance as an art form, and her nurturing teaching style, have helped shape a vibrant community of dancers who continue to inspire.

In 2015, Kelly is always willing to expand her dance repertoire. She joined The Raw Fest Hip Hop for Hunger initiative, serving as a judge for The Raw Fest II battle, further connecting with the broader dance community.

Kelly created Velocity to offer Central Connecticut a dance program focused on artistry, technical excellence, and a welcoming environment for dancers of all levels.

The Velocity Team

At Velocity, our teaching team is a vibrant mix of seasoned pros and fresh creative energy. Our faculty blends time-tested technique with modern artistry, and plenty of sparkle.

Our teachers bring a wide range of experience to the studio. Their backgrounds include professional certifications, college dance studies, and work with dance companies. Many have choreographed or performed for musical theater, show choirs, off-Broadway productions, and music videos. With experience in collegiate dance and cheer teams as well, our faculty is as versatile as they are inspiring.

It’s a team that knows how to break down technique and bring the fun! At Velocity, we believe great dance education should be both challenging and joyful. Together, we create an environment where dancers of all levels feel supported, inspired, and ready to shine.