Meet the 2026 Cover Models
Kara’s love for performing continues to grow as she explores her artistry and her unique perspective as a young dancer. After graduation, she aspires to dance in college and hopes to one day compete at UDA. Holding the title of 2025 Encore Cover Model is a dream come true for Kara—she is deeply honored to be chosen and will represent Encore DCS with integrity and relentless joy to share the cover with the talented Juliana Montrella. Kara would like to thank Rhonda Marchant and everyone at Encore for this incredible opportunity.
Kara Burgin
Kara Burgin, a 15-year-old dancer from Sherrills Ford, North Carolina, has been captivating audiences since she first stepped into a studio at just three years old. Now training and competing with Expressions Dance Studio in Denver, NC, Kara shines in every style she performs, bringing versatility, passion, and artistry to the stage.
For the past ten years, Kara has been a standout on the Encore stage, earning major honors including multiple Regional Titles, Super Solo Champion, Petite Encore Extreme, Junior National Title Winner, and multiple National Photogenic awards. One of her proudest achievements is receiving the coveted Boatwright-Kirkland Scholarship in 2022. Kara has also been a dedicated member of the Encore Dream Team for four years, where she loves the creativity and collaboration of the annual video shoot. The friendships formed during Dream Team weekend are truly never-ending.
Off the stage, Kara is equally accomplished. She is a freshman at Bandys High School, where she serves as Freshman Class President, is a member of Pep Club, Key Club, and Fellow Christian Athletes, and is a Junior Varsity Cheerleader—all while maintaining A Honor Roll.
To be chosen to represent Encore DCS as one of the 2026 cover models has been a dream come true for Juliana. This wouldn’t have been possible without all of the Encore DCS staff and of course Miss Rhonda and Miss Susan. Juliana is so thankful for this opportunity and can’t wait for another amazing season creating memories with her Encore DCS family!
Juliana Montrella
Juliana Montrella is 17 years old and began her dance journey at age 2. She trains in all styles of dance at PBR Dance in Altoona, PA.
Juliana loves attending Encore Extreme and Encore DCS Grand Finals each year, where she has participated in the incredible Grand Finals opening number. She is also so honored to have earned a spot on the Dream Team again this year.
Many of Juliana’s favorite dance memories have been on the Encore DCS stage, such as her team winning the Elite 12 & Over Standing Ovation this past year. She is so thankful for all of the friendships and mentorships that have been created as a result of attending Encore DCS events.
Want to be the next Encore DCS Cover Model? Attend Grand Finals this summer for your chance to be our next featured dancers!
