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Sparkling star detail symbolizing fairytales and enchantment

hello loves!

at dash of dust, we believe there's magic in the making

Tania Forsman, co-founder of Dash of Dust, bringing magic to children’s events in Downers Grove, IL

tania forsman

Tania Forsman is a Golden Apple Preschool Teacher of Distinction. She has been an educator for almost 20 years. Her favorite part of teaching is the little moments of joy and building sweet relationships with her learners. She believes in the relentless pursuit of dreams and leaning into the positive in all life brings.

Behind the magic: Julie Peterson, co-creator of Dash of Dust princess programs

julie peterson

Julie Peterson has been performing since 3rd grade, and her passion for storytelling has only grown over the years! She earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre from The Boston Conservatory and opened her own acting and voice studio in 2022. She is excited to bring her magic to the classroom!

Soft twinkling stars graphic – magical theme for princess events in Downers Grove

discover our

mission

We are committed to inspiring wonder, fostering connection, and developing confidence in all who engage with us.

& vision

Empowering the young at heart to harness their creative potential through the power of storytelling and the arts.  We spark joy by cultivating magical, immersive experiences where unforgettable moments lead to memories that last a lifetime.

talent artists

Young performer Ella brings stories to life – Clarendon Hills event

Ella

Ella embodies every bit of what Dash of Dust’s mission and vision are.

  • She is talented, yes, but also has incredible empathy and the world’s biggest heart.  She is passionate about creating incredible experiences for others and helping them grow their confidence.  She has been enamoured by story tale princesses since she first started to sing at the age of 1 and a half.   When she started reading at 2, she never looked back. Now, her life has come full circle and she could not be more excited to be a professional storyteller and talent artist for Dash of Dust.

Young performer Caroline brings stories to life – Downers Grove, IL event

Caroline

Caroline has loved singing and dancing ever since she could walk and talk.

  • With a deep passion for all things princess, she embodies an engaging spirit that makes children’s dreams come to life. Her warm personality and joyful presence create unforgettable experiences for young audiences. Caroline absolutely adores working with children, making her the perfect performer for any princess party.

Young performer Quinn brings stories to life – Hinsdale, Illinois event

Quinn

Quinn is a fun loving, free spirit who loves to sing and dance.

  • In his spare time, if he’s not acting or singing, you can find him making art or engineering new inventions. He is so excited to be part of Dash of Dust and can’t wait to bring magic to any of the characters at your special event.

Alex A.

Alex takes pride in making every child feel special and celebrated, ensuring they have a magical experience they’ll always remember.

  • With a heart that dances to the rhythm of joy, Alex brings vibrant energy and magic to every event. A passionate dancer with a natural gift for movement, she transforms moments into memories through graceful performances and engaging interactions.

    Having spent two years teaching preschool, she understands the pure delight and wonder that spark in children’s eyes. Alex thrives on creating uplifting experiences, whether through the artistry of dance or the warmth of connection. Blending creativity, enthusiasm, and heartfelt storytelling, she brightens every celebration, ensuring that each event is filled with unforgettable performances and enchanting surprises.

Kendall

Kendall is thrilled to step into the world of fairy tales for Dash of Dust.

  • She brings joy and a little bit of sparkle wherever she goes. She’s been performing in musicals since she was 7, and loves using those skills to create unforgettable, magical experiences. Storytelling has always been close to her heart, and she finds so much happiness in bringing characters to life for kids. Whether it’s singing a favorite song or acting out a beloved scene, she pours her heart into every performance. For Kendall, it’s not just about the costume—it’s about the connection.

Young performer Maddie brings stories to life – Downers Grove, IL event

Maddie

Maddie loves to sing and dance!

  • She has been performing as an actress and dancer for 8 years. Maddie is so excited to dress up in fun costumes and dive into new & exciting characters at Dash of Dust! She is super grateful for this opportunity, and can't wait to make so many new friends!

Peyton

Peyton has a ton of energy, is super bubbly, and has been performing for a long time!

  • Peyton has been a performer since she was 4 and has been in nearly 40 productions. She especially excels at singing and acting, and enjoys transforming into new characters.  Her bubbly, vibrant, and friendly personality makes her a great fit for your next children’s event!

Brynn

Brynn is thrilled to be combining two of her favorite things; her love for musical theater and children!

  • Brynn is a committed and engaging actor with a passion for bringing her characters to life. She is a fun-loving person, dedicated to creating happiness in others! With 9 years of experience in local musical theater, she excels in connecting with her audience through character performance. She is so excited to be working with the Dash of Dust team and can't wait to make your event truly special!

Alex M.

Alex brings fire and her unique spirit to every performance.

  • As a young, fresh, and vibrant performer who simply loves all things musical, Alex brings fire and her unique spirit to every performance. With a focus on musical theater, Alex has appeared in a variety of productions, showcasing her range and versatility on stage.

Young performer Liam brings stories to life – Hinsdale, Illinois event

Liam

Liam has been performing (and living his best life while doing so), for 5 years!

  • Some of his favorite roles include: Prince Eric inThe Little Mermaid, Specs inNewsies & Herb in Junie B. Jones. In Liam’s spare time, he enjoys teaching the next generation of young performers how to be confident on stage! Liam is absolutely THRILLED to be joining the Dash of Dust team, and he can’t wait for what’s in store!

Young performer Cannon brings stories to life – Clarendon Hills event

Cannon

Cannon brings energy and joy to his performances. 

  • He is sure to be an incredible role model to those at his events and personify his characters with passion and enthusiasm. He loves to make others laugh and smile.  Cannon is also an incredible electric guitarist - his favorite type of music is classic rock. When not performing, he loves to create (especially with Lego bricks and draw - particularly comics.)  He is a black belt in Taekwondo so he has a special kick to add to his superhero portrayals.

Jasmine

Jasmine has a passion for Musical Theatre and loves bringing joy to others.

  • Jasmine has been working with kids for 8+ years in musical theatre, academic areas, and caretaker roles. She has choreographed, performed, directed, program managed, stage managed, and been on crew: props & stage. I know what it takes to create an enchanting and captivating story, that brings an audience together. Jasmine also knows how to interact with an audience and stay in character. Jasmine loves to be apart of such a memorable and joyous moment, bringing kids face to face with some of their idols and favorite characters.

Alex K.

This opportunity is a perfect fit for Alex, who equally loves working with kids AND performing.

  • This opportunity is a perfect fit for Alex, who equally loves working with kids AND performing. She has been acting in musicals since she was 11 and also has backstage experience student directing plays at her middle school and serving on stage crews. Some of Alex's favorite roles include Miss Hannigan in Annie Jr. and Queen Aggravain in Once Upon a Mattress. Alex enjoys animals just as much as she does small humans, and spends some of her spare time volunteering at the Hinsdale Humane Society. Alex is extremely excited to work with your kids at Dash of Dust!

keep dreaming, loves!

join the team!

Join our team of talented characters and bring events to life with unforgettable performances and magical moments!

Microphone used in magical storytelling performance – The Dash Diaries Blog

podcast

coming soon

"The Dash Diaries" text with star illustrations - Dash of Dust Blog

businesses we LOVE

magic: (n.)

A “DASH OF DUST” THAT MAKES THE IMPOSSIBLE COME TRUE.