At Silverton Ballet and Performing Arts Co., our mission is helping dancers grow, in skill and in life. We provide quality training in an encouraging, fun and supportive space where dancers feel safe, challenged, and inspired. Through classes, performances, and special experiences, our students learn more than just steps—they build confidence, friendships, and life skills like teamwork, responsibility, and time management that will stick with them no matter where life takes them.
Founded in 1989, we’ve created a space where dancers can thrive, mind, body, and spirit. SBPAC is much more than just a dance studio, it’s a place to belong, to build confidence, and to discover the joy of movement.
At SBPAC, we’re proud to offer top-notch training in a warm and welcoming environment. Led by founder, Paula Magee, our talented team of instructors combines years of experience with a genuine passion for the performing arts, bringing energy, encouragement, and expert guidance to every class. Every member of our faculty is certified in CPR and First Aid, so you can feel confident your dancer is learning in a safe, supportive space where they can truly shine!
Paula Magee
STUDIO OWNER | INSTRUCTOR | CHOREOGRAPHER
Thirty-six years ago, after years of teaching in L.A. and Texas, I made the life-changing decision to move to Silverton and open Silverton Ballet. It was one of the best (and boldest) decisions of my life. That nudge came from my mentor, Ms. Teta Smart, who said, “So you can move to heaven (Silverton) and open your own studio, or you can stay in L.A. and keep working for other people. Is there really a question?” I’m forever grateful for her wisdom, and her belief in me.
Since then, I’ve taught dancers of all kinds—tiny tots in sparkly tutus shouting “I want to be a dancer!”, quiet dreamers finding their rhythm, natural-born movers, and those still figuring out their left from their right. Whether they love Hip-Hop and play four sports, or know that dance is their art AND their sport, they each bring something special—and every single one has a place in my heart. For 25 years, I also had the honor of coaching the Silverton Foxes Dance Team, leading them to many state championships and earning a spot in the Coaching Hall of Fame in 2025.
These days, I get to work alongside an incredible team who bring passion, creativity, and heart to everything they do. Together, we’ve created more than just a studio, we’ve built a second home where dancers grow in skill, confidence, and joy.
Emily Sword
INSTRUCTOR | CHOREOGRAPHER
Faculty Member Since 2006
Emily Sword is a dancer, choreographer and teacher who holds a B. S. degree in Dance from Western Oregon University. She has performed for many years in the Silverton Area as a member of the Silverton High School Dance Team, and has been dancing under the instruction of Paula Magee since the age of 9. Emily has also had the opportunity to perform in Eugene with the University of Oregon Dance Department, and at the Western Oregon University Spring Dance Concert in Monmouth. She teaches Hip-Hop, Ballet, Jazz and Modern/Contemporary at Silverton Ballet and Performing Arts Co., and also became a certified Assistant Coach for the High School Dance Team in 2007. When not teaching or coaching, Emily and her husband Orion are busy raising their beautiful daughters Madi and Scarlett.
Alex Reese
INSTRUCTOR | CHOREOGRAPHER
Faculty Member Since 2012
Alex Reese began her dance training at the age of 8 under the instruction of Paula Magee and staff at Silverton Ballet. She was a varsity member of the Silverton High School Dance Team for four years starting in 2002, and won the title of OSAA All-State member in 2006. After graduation she attended the University of Oregon, and as a freshman became a varsity member of the nationally ranked U of O Dance Team, performing at many different venues and events across the state. In 2007 she placed 3rd in Hip-Hop with her team, at the USA Collegiate Nationals in Las Vegas. Alex has been on the Silverton Ballet and Performing Arts Co. faculty since 2012 and teaches Jazz and Hip-Hop. She became the certified head Coach for the SHS Dance Team in 2021 after assisting there since 2012. Go Foxes!
Michele Lynn
INSTRUCTOR | CHOREOGRAPHER
Faculty Member Since 2013
Michele Lynn has an impressive ballet resume with training in a variety of styles. She has danced professionally as both a corps member and soloist with Cincinnati Ballet, Ballet Magnificat, Jefferson Ballet Theater and Kentucky Repertory Dance Theater (KRDT). While dancing with KRDT Michele was fortunate to be able to tour with them in Moscow, Russia! Since retiring from performing, Michele has taught ballet and pointe extensively. We are excited to have Michele share her experience, artistry and technique with our SBPAC students!
Kimberly Brueckner