Muddy Brook is a boutique creative studio blending dance, filmmaking, and storytelling into cinematic projects and creative experiences.

We bring together choreography, direction, and visual artistry to create dance films, portfolio-building work, training opportunities, and imaginative moments that feel personal, intentional, and unforgettable.

We are a mobile, on-location production team serving the Greater NYC area — transforming studios, homes, outdoor locations, and unique environments into cinematic spaces where dancers, children and families can shine.

Erika’s dance journey began at age five, and by nine, she knew dance would be her lifelong path. Growing up in Bergen County, NJ, she trained extensively in theatre jazz (Fosse style), tap, and ballet, and later continued her training in Manhattan at Broadway Dance Center and Steps on Broadway. She expanded her skills in jazz, tap, ballet, contemporary, lyrical, theatre jazz, and voice and acting.

At 19, Erika discovered her true passion: teaching. She spent over 25 years as a dance educator, choreographer, and mentor, shaping dancers of all ages through jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, ballet, and technique. She has prepared students for theatre productions, competitions, and major performance opportunities — including dancers who secured spots on Division I college dance teams and performed in productions at Lincoln Center.

As Assistant Competition Director, Erika developed a deep understanding of studio operations, scheduling, client relations, and creative programming — a combination that fuels her leadership at Muddy Brook today.

After stepping back for a short time, Erika felt called to return to creativity with renewed energy. Her detail-oriented nature, artistic vision, and love for mentoring inspired this new venture — bringing her passion for choreography, film direction, and creative storytelling into every project.

Whitney’s creative journey began at Brown University, where she discovered a passion for media and storytelling. From her early days as a news correspondent and music director at a radio station to interning with ABC’s Primetime and 20/20, she has always thrived in fast-paced creative environments. She later served as managing editor at a major social platform before earning her law degree from Washington University and gaining hands-on experience with CNN in New York.

Alongside her media work, Whitney spent 13 years in higher education, ultimately serving as President of a midwifery college—an experience that honed her leadership, vision, and ability to guide complex creative and organizational projects.

She brings this rare blend of production expertise, editorial insight, and executive leadership to Muddy Brook, crafting unforgettable experiences and overseeing the details that bring each project to life.

Masha brings expertise in video editing, camera work, graphic design, and digital optimization to the Muddy Brook team. With a background in marketing and a passion for technology, she helps ensure each production is innovative, efficient, and visually elevated. Whether behind the camera or refining content for online visibility, Masha plays a key role in delivering cinematic results with exceptional quality and care.

Catya is known for her exceptional organizational skills and calm, solutions-focused approach. With experience in travel planning and event coordination, she expertly manages logistics, and on-site support for our productions. Her passion for creating memorable experiences and her attention to detail help ensure every project runs smoothly from start to finish.

We’re beyond proud to have Julia as our brand ambassador. She embodies everything Muddy Brook stands for: artistry, authenticity, and a fearless commitment to bringing movement to life on screen.

Follow along with her journey: @juliachiola.dance