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Central Indiana Dance Ensemble (CIDE) is led by the powerhouse team of Ashley Jacob and Suzann DeLay. But what makes this team even more exceptional and unique is that Suzann and Ashley are mother and daughter.
Suzann Siler DeLay began her early dance training under Deane and Barbara Crockett, founders of the Sacramento Ballet and visionary leaders of the Pacific Region of the National Association for Regional Ballet. She performed a wide range of classical and contemporary roles before continuing her career with Pacific Northwest Ballet. Unfortunately, an injury led to her early retirement from professional performance.
DeLay founded CIDE, and last year CIDE proudly celebrated its 25th season. Under her leadership, the organization has become a respected part of the national dance community, many alumni dancing professionally. She served in leadership positions in the regional dance movement for many years, furthering its advancement in not only the Midwest, but across the country.
She was featured on the cover of Indianapolis Woman magazine and was invited to attend the National Teachers Weekend at the School of American Ballet in 2010. Most recently, she was honored with the Outstanding Citizen Award from Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam and received the Distinguished Hoosier Award from Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb – one of the highest honors given to an Indiana citizen.
Suzann’s daughter Ashley began her ballet training under her guidance. Ashley was a founding member of CIDE and performed a variety of soloist roles, including the Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow Queen, and Rose in The Nutcracker, Alice in Alice in Wonderland, Cinderella in Cinderella and Wendy in Peter Pan. Ashley began her college studies as a ballet major at the University of Utah before transferring to Indiana University. At IU, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Dance Performance.
At IU, Ashley was awarded the Jane Fox Dance Scholarship through the Department of Kinesiology. She has taught at several studios, including Indiana University’s Pre-College Dance Program and served as an assistant instructor for IU’s freshman modern dance course. Most recently, she was a supervising teacher in Butler University’s Ballet Department for the Pedagogy major. She is an ABT certified teacher®, is certified in all three levels of Progressing Ballet Technique, and has completed the Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet Teacher Training Program.
Suzann founded CIDE when Ashley was just 12 years old and opened Central Indiana Academy of Dance to provide pre-professional training to support the Ensemble’s growing reputation. In 2020, Suzann transitioned to the role of Executive Director, allowing Ashley to step into the role of Artistic Director and continue her mother’s legacy. The following year, Suzann and Ashley became co-owners of the studio. Their shared vision and deep commitment to the school and company have led to continued growth and success – so much so that Suzann has joyfully postponed any retirement plans.
To learn more about CIDE, visit cidedance.org. You can also visit the website for the Central Indiana Academy of Dance at ciaodance.com.