Valerie Renee Heckel

Valerie Renee Heckel was born in West Point,NY. She began dancing at the age of 3. Over the next fifteen years, her technique improved as she expanded into several different styles: ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical, modern, contemporary, and hip-hop. In addition to the annual Winter Concerts and Spring Recitals, she performed in an Off-Broadway production of Cinderella, the Moscow Ballet's production of The Nutcracker, the Cultural and Tourism Festival in Beijing and Shanghai, China, and at Universal Studios and Walt Disney World. To further develop her skills and technique, she participated in summer programs at the Universal Ballet Academy in Washington, D.C., the Virginia Governor's School in Richmond, VA, and the Alvin Ailey Summer Intensive in New York, NY. Upon graduating from high school, she pursued her dreams by attending the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, PA and received her Bachelors of Fine Arts majoring in Dance Performance with a minor in Musical Theater. During her four years at the institution, not only did she develop her craft in the classroom and on stage, but she also gained invaluable experience through independent films, local photoshoots, and music videos. Her enthusiasm and natural talent in dance and performance was evident from childhood, while her love for acting truly flourished during her university endeavors. This coupling provides for a strong dynamic as she pursues a career in dancing, acting, and modeling.