Biography
About me
Amber Ulsh, a dedicated dancer from Schuylkill Haven, PA, exemplifies what it means to be a true artist. She brings creativity, discipline, professionalism, and a strong sense of collaboration to every aspect of her work. For Amber, dance is more than movement: it’s about joy, connection, and expression. Guided by this deep passion, she actively seeks every opportunity to grow, perform, and share her love for the art form.
Amber began dancing at the age of four, full of energy and enthusiasm at Evolution Dance, where she trained in tap and ballet. After two years, she expanded her training at Culture Shock, exploring hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, and continuing with tap and ballet. However, it was when she joined Schuylkill Ballet Theatre that her true love for dance, especially ballet, was ignited. Surrounded by dedicated dancers and inspiring instructors, she found not just passion, but purpose.
At Schuylkill Ballet Theatre, Amber began to take her training seriously and, by the age of 11, earned her first leading roles; roles that pushed her to grow as a performer. Around the same time, she joined Vivian’s Dance Studio, continuing her training in ballet and jazz, and studying tap and lyrical for several years. These experiences helped shape her into a versatile and committed dancer. Over the years, she has performed major roles including Clara, Sugar Plum Fairy, Snow Queen, Belle, and the Queen of Hearts. These roles deepened her artistry, stage presence, and storytelling abilities.
In eighth grade, a friend encouraged her to audition for the Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts). Although hesitant at first, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her motivation, she took a leap of faith and auditioned online. She was accepted, and that moment became a turning point in her journey.
At Charter Arts, Amber rediscovered her love for dance through a renewed focus on artistry, expression, and emotional connection. She began to feel like she was truly dancing again, not just performing steps but creating and connecting. Though often surrounded by dancers who inspired and challenged her, she used that environment as fuel to work even harder.
Her dedication and professionalism were recognized when she received the Dance Department Award at Charter Arts, honoring her artistry and professionalism as a dancer.
Throughout her time at Charter Arts, Amber commuted an hour each way; sacrifices that only deepened her commitment to the art form. The long drives were made worthwhile by the exceptional training, inspiring mentors, and meaningful friendships she found.
Looking ahead, Amber hopes to pursue a career as a professional dancer. Her dream is to perform on a cruise ship, combining her love for travel with her passion for performing every day. She is currently training in classes in New York City while actively seeking professional opportunities, ready to gain real-world experience and chase her dreams head-on. Amber is also under the mentorship of Menina Fortunato through the Business of Dance program, further preparing her for the professional world by learning the entrepreneurial and strategic skills needed to thrive in the dance industry. She also continues her love for teaching at Vivian’s Dance Studio.
When asked in a local newspaper interview what she wanted to be when she grew up, after being cast as Young Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty, her first lead role, she answered without hesitation: “A dance teacher.” That dream remains alive. Today, she aspires to become a professional dancer and, one day, pass on her passion by teaching the next generation. Dance has shaped every part of her life, and this is only the beginning.