COME TO DANCE,
    WALK AWAY INSPIRED!

    KAR Dance Convention 2026 | Experience the hottest new choreography styles this season at our convenient one-day event!

    Waitlist Only!

    Where
    Doubletree Hilton Cedar Rapids Convention Complex
    350 First Ave NE
    Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
    When
    October 11, 2026
    8am – 5pm
    View Event Schedule

    Faculty Members

    Kristin Farina

    Kristin Farina

    Contemporary
    George Lawrence

    George Lawrence

    Musical Theater
    Rob Rich

    Rob Rich

    Hip Hop
    Madeline Underwood

    Madeline Underwood

    Jazz
    Ryan Vettel

    Ryan Vettel

    Tap

    Kristin Farina
    Contemporary


    Kristin Farina is a multi-talented dancer and choreographer who has taken the industry by storm with her awe-inspiring moves and unparalleled talent. With over 15 years of experience in the dance industry, she's worked with some of the biggest names in the business, including Jennifer Lopez, Chris Brown, LMFAO and Khalid. She has been featured in numerous commercials with well known brands such as Coca Cola, Toyota, Six Flags, Under Armour, and more! You might also recognize her from Season 3 of World of Dance! 


    But that’s not all—Kristin has built a powerful and uplifting community of over 1.5 million across social media. Through her journey, she’s gained invaluable knowledge and now helps others expand their own reach. Her content doesn’t just entertain—it inspires people to chase their dreams, break past limitations, and believe in what’s possible.


    Her passion and dedication to the art of dance have taken her all over the world as an international adjudicator, teacher, and performer, leaving audiences mesmerized everywhere she goes. With a background in various dance styles such as hip hop, contemporary, breaking and jazz, Farina is known for her dynamic movement, flow and precision. Her ability to seamlessly blend different styles of dance sets her apart and is constantly pushing her to push the boundaries of her craft.


    "My love for dance is my purpose—it's about inspiring others, pushing creative boundaries, and building a community that shares this passion. I aim to help my students grow, achieve their dreams, and unlock their full potential, while continuing to chase my own.”


    George Lawrence
    Musical Theater

    George Lawrence II was Born in San Diego CA and raised in Atlanta, GA. He started his training where he studied Contemporary, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Ballet, and Hip-Hop. In 2010 he decided to further his technique at Dance Makers of Atlanta in in Atlanta Ga. 

    In 2011-12 he studied dance at the State University of New York Purchase Conservatory. After the completion of his freshman year, George made the hit show So You Think You Can Dance S9 and went on to be top 10 and do a 30 city tour. Once the tour completed, at a young age of 19 he moved to Los Angeles California to make a living for himself. 

    In the most recent years he has been featured in things such as: Lorde’s Dance World Tour, Valley Girl, Teen Beach 2, Ted 2, La La Land, Jersey Boys, DWTS, the VMA’s, the Emmys ,the Academy Awards, choreographing and dancing on the new fox show The Big Leap, and just recently danced in the movie Spirited with Ryan Reynolds, Will Ferrell, and Octavia Spencer. 


    Rob Rich
    Hip Hop


    Founder and creative director of the internationally acclaimed dance organization/training program RICHFAM, Philadelphian Robert Rich was introduced to the performing arts early in life and developed a love for education through dance. Now residing in California, he is faculty at various prestigious institutions of higher learning in dance such as American Musical and Dramatic Academy, Debbie Reynolds Dance Studio, and TMilly Studio. His experience as an educator is not limited nationally as he is a world renowned instructor and mentor to some of the most prestigious artists in the commercial dance industry globally.




    As a working creative for over ten years within commercial dance, he has performed for artists such as Lady Gaga, Jill Scott, Pia Mia, Ellen Degeneres and has choreographed for some of America's leading dance television series: So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With the Stars, and America's Best Dance Crew. Outside of television, his work can be seen featured on world tours and stages for Ginuwine, Ciara, and Mariah Carey. His true passion for the arts can be seen in the various productions he has creatively directed for his global community service project designed to jumpstart the careers of deserving dancers: RICHFAM. With sold out productions in Sweden, Italy, Spain, Peru, Israel, and Los Angeles his acquisition for knowledge of culture and the arts blends to bring a specific training style full of diversity.




    His love for stage and performance heavily influences his training technique as he will prepare you to work with a career full of longevity whether you are interested in the commercial industry or educational field of dance. The classroom environment he cultivates will ensure that you are comfortable while enjoying being pushed beyond your limits. With over 150 members worldwide maintaining successful careers in dance after having trained with his Richfam program the proof is evident: If you train with Rich you will achieve your dance goals. 

    Madeline Underwood
    Jazz



    Madeline Underwood is from Jamestown, North Carolina where she grew up a competitive dancer. She performed on stages across the eastern region of the United States. She was featured on Season 7 of Dance Moms as a member of the Candy Apple Team. She was also featured in Bloch dance wear’s “Dance with Confidence” campaign shot by Jordan Matter. 


    She moved to California her senior year of high school to train at the Brea Space in their Launch program under the direction of Krista Miller. Since moving to California Madeline has appeared on “This is Us”, toured the country with  “Hits the Musical”, is a member of Jaci Royal’s company Royal Flux and toured the US and Europe dancing for Lindsey Stirling. She is currently wrapping up the “Snow Waltz” tour with Lindsey and looking forward to many new projects in the new year!


    Ryan Vettel
    Tap


    Ryan Vettel, a seasoned dancer and renowned choreographer, is the newest addition to our esteemed faculty at KAR Dance Convention. Ryan’s dance journey commenced at the age of 3, exploring and mastering genres including tap, hip hop, contemporary, and ballet. With notable mentors such as Sam Weber, Parris Mann, Gregg Russell, Jason Janas, Sarah Reich, Mandy Moore, Dominique Kelley, Erica Sobol, Doug Caldwell, Kyle Hanagami, Nappytabs, Tyce Diorio, and Rosine Bena, Ryan has carved a professional dance career that enthralls audiences globally.


    In addition to his impressive performance credentials, Ryan boasts an illustrious teaching and choreography career. His pursuit of mentorship and continuous learning has culminated in him becoming an award-winning choreographer with over a decade of teaching experience. Ryan's exceptional pedagogy, marked by a deep passion for teaching, comprehensive knowledge of his craft, a love for sharing, and exceptional communication skills, sets him apart in the dance world.


    Ryan’s dedication to his students and his craft is evident in the high-quality content he consistently delivers, no matter the audience size or setting. His teaching footprint extends across the country and, more recently, onto the international stage, as he continuously strives to connect with and inspire as many people worldwide through dance and self-expression.


    At KAR Dance Convention, we eagerly look forward to benefiting from Ryan’s vast experience and unique pedagogical approach. His commitment to reaching out to the global dance community aligns perfectly with our ethos, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our team.


    Your Dancers
    Will Thank You!

    Convention Price List / 6 classes + showcase at only $255

    6 Classes

    $205
     Jazz
     Tap
     Contemporary
     Hip Hop
     Musical Theater
     Audition Workshop
    Register Now

    6 Classes +
    Protege Performer Audition

    $255
     Jazz
     Tap
     Contemporary
     Hip Hop
     Musical Theater
     Audition Workshop
    Register Now

    6 Classes +
    Protege Performer Audition +
    1 Parent Observer Band

    $275
     Jazz
     Tap
     Contemporary
     Hip Hop
     Musical Theater
     Audition Workshop
    Register Now

    $20 Parent Observer Band

    Register Now
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    • KAR Dance Convention offers dancers an inspirational one-day workshop in Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Musical Theater, taught by our renowned faculty of educators and industry professionals!