NCDTA
North Carolina
Dance Team Alliance
Define the Future.
Dance the Difference.
BEDHIND THE MOVEMENT
Tess Liantonio
Co-Director
A powerhouse in the dance world, Tess Liantonio brings unmatched passion, experience, and creative vision to everything she does. After five seasons as Head Coach of UNC Charlotte’s Dance Team, Tess is known for building not only strong athletes but strong individuals—guiding dancers with a balance of encouragement, skill, and high-level performance training.
Her choreography has been featured in film, television, and music videos, with credits including Hallmark’s A Nashville Christmas Carol and work for country artists like Raelynn and Sara Evans. With a performance background that includes roles as a Rockette and appearances alongside The Jonas Brothers, Tess blends industry-level expertise with a deep love for
mentoring the next generation of dancers.
She has taught at institutions like UNC Charlotte and Broadway Dance Center, using her platform to empower young dancers to find their voice, build confidence, and elevate their craft. Through every opportunity, Tess remains driven by her mission to advocate for dance as a respected and recognized sport.
Tricia Rana is a seasoned marketing and advertising executive with over 25 years of experience in television advertising, entrepreneurship, and podcasting. For more than a decade, she’s immersed herself in the dance industry as a devoted dance mom to two competitive dancers, gaining invaluable insights into the field. Recognizing the disconnect between dancers and their high school communities, she was inspired to launch a high school dance team for the top athletic program in the state of NC.
As the co-director of Weddington’s dance team, Tricia brings her wealth of knowledge and boundless energy to nurture young talent and drive excellence. Renowned for her strategic acumen and commitment to quality, Tricia has left an indelible mark launching many iconic advertising campaigns both regionally and nationally. She has also crafted compelling content
for many local auto advertisers and negotiated deals for esteemed sports franchises like the Chicago Cubs and Detroit Red Wings.
Beyond her professional achievements, Tricia’s adaptability shone through during the pandemic when she spearheaded the creation of a successful virtual dance competition. As a valued member of our team, Tricia brings unparalleled expertise and dedication to every endeavor.
BEDHIND THE MOVEMENT
Tricia Rana
Co-Director
Behind the Movement
Tricia Rana
Co-Director
ABOUT
The North Carolina Dance Team Alliance (NCDTA) is dedicated to elevating high school dance by
providing opportunities for competition, training, and program development.
Our mission is to establish dance as a recognized sport in
North Carolina and
ensure dancers receive the resources and recognition
they deserve.
We support high school dancers, coaches, and schools looking to grow or establish dance teams.
Whether you're an athlete preparing for college auditions, a coach seeking to
develop your program,
or a school looking to start a dance team,
NCDTA is here to help.
College Dance Team Combines
Connect with college coaches, showcase your skills, and explore opportunities to dance at the next level.
Regional Competitions
Compete against top teams in North Carolina and take your performance to new heights.
State Championship –
Qualify for the ultimate title and compete for awards, NIL opportunities, and more.
Developing a Dance Team –
Get access to our proven system for launching and growing a successful dance program at your school.
PROUD SPONSORS
BEDHIND THE MOVEMENT
College Dance Team Combine
College Dance Team Combine
NCDTA