Our Story
Dance has been a part of my, Cate Tallant's, life for many years. Over time, my love for dance grew beyond performing and into a passion for teaching and creating. Angelika saw that passion from the beginning and encouraged me to take a chance on something I had been dreaming about for years.
Back in late 2025, we decided it was the right time. Since then, it’s been a day-by-day labor of love—dreaming, planning, building, and figuring it all out along the way. Our goal was never to simply open another dance studio. We wanted to create a place in New Orleans where dancers could come to train, create, grow, and truly feel like they belong.
New Orleans is a city built on culture, creativity, individuality, and community. It’s a place where people come together, celebrate what makes them different, and turn their passions into something unforgettable. We wanted Shadeaux to carry that same spirit. A place that feels like more than just a studio—a place to make friends, build confidence, find your people, and create memories that last long after the music stops.
Shadeaux is our little piece of that vision, and we can’t wait to see what we build together.
And this is only the beginning.
Meet Our Owner
Cate Tallant, 24, has spent nearly her entire life dancing. She began dancing at the age of 4 and quickly developed a deep passion for performance, competition, and choreography. By age 6, Cate was competing with the Louisiana Association of Dance Masters, Chapter 6, and her dedication paid off when she earned the titles Teen Miss Dance of America 2018 and Miss Dance of America 2020.
Her love for dance has only grown, leading her to become a captain of LSU’s Golden Girls, one of the most prestigious collegiate dance teams in the country. As a Golden Girl, Cate has not only performed at LSU Tiger Stadium in front of thousands but has also taken on leadership roles in choreography, mentoring, and team coordination. Her time with the Golden Girls has been defined by discipline, creativity, and a commitment to excellence, balancing rigorous training with performances that captivate audiences every week.
In addition to her collegiate career, Cate recently started her 2nd season as a member of the New Orleans Saints Cheer Krewe, where she brought her energy, precision, and passion to NFL game-day performances and community events. This milestone represents her first professional-level performance experience, blending her training with the excitement and visibility of performing at the highest level.
Cate’s performance experience extends far beyond the stadium. She has been featured in countless productions, including:
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“The Nutcracker” – Clara, Sugar Plum Fairy, and other leading roles
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JPAS shows – “Tarzan,” “West Side Story,” “Mary Poppins”
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Ballets – “Cinderella” and “The Snow Queen”
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Alongside performing, Cate has taught and choreographed for studios across Louisiana, sharing her expertise and passion with dancers of all ages. She believes in building confidence, creativity, and joy in every student, fostering a love for dance that goes beyond the stage.
Cate’s journey—from competition stages as a child, to collegiate leadership with the Golden Girls, to her seasons with the Saints Cheer Krewe—is a testament to how dedication, hard work, and a love for performance can open doors to incredible opportunities. At Shadeaux Dance Company, she brings this same passion, energy, and creativity to every student, event, and community experience.