Judges
Knoxville TN | April 24–26, 2026
Abby Griffin
Abby Griffin has been dancing since the age of 4 and since then has trained in ballet, pointe, jazz, lyrical, contemporary and hiphop. She grew up training with Elizabeth Williams School of Dance, the Nashville ballet, and at Debbie Reynolds during the summers.
From 2014-2019 she was a part of the Tremaine performance company and traveled to multiple cities assisting classes with Tremaines faculty teachers. In 2018, Abby was on So You Think You Can Dance Season 14 and was top 3 on Allison Holkers team. She currently lives in Nashville working full time as a studio director/choreographer and working with multiple country artists.
Konner Cooke
Konner is a seasoned entertainment professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry. Starting his dance journey at the age of 12, Konner immersed himself in various styles, including jazz, ballet, lyrical, tap, modern, musical theatre, contemporary, and hip-hop. His passion for performance led him to the world’s biggest stages including various theme parks, theaters, and cruise lines where he was a Dancer, Aerialist, Dance Captain, and Company Manager. In his dance career, Konner also taught at numerous studios and dance teams across the Midwest, sharing his expertise and love for dance with the next generation of performers. Now based in Atlanta, he combines his flair for storytelling and entertainment as an Unscripted Casting Producer, contributing to hit shows including American Idol, MasterChef, and LEGO Masters. Thrilled to be part of the NexStar family, Konner aims to empower and uplift dancers, helping them reach their highest potential in artistry, performance, and technique. Konner’s extensive background and passion make him a fun and engaging judge who brings both warmth and wisdom to every competition!
Mandy Arroyo
Mandy Arroyo, is a dedicated dance educator with over 25 years of teaching experience, began her dance training in the Tampa Bay Area and continued her studies at Howard W. Blake School of the Arts and the University of South Florida. Her passion for the arts and commitment to cultivating confidence and artistry in young dancers has led many of her students and apprentices to successful careers in various genres of dance and the performing arts worldwide. Currently serving as the Dance Department Director at a performing arts school, Mandy has received numerous accolades, including Outstanding Choreographer by Youth America Grand Prix and Dance Teacher of the Year for Hillsborough County Public Schools. She also served as Head Coach of the Plant High School Danceros Dance Team. She is known for her ability to instill technical excellence, artistry, and performance skills in her students.













