About Andrea
Andrea Kolbe, originally from Maryland, began her dance journey at Ballet Arts of Potomac under the guidance of her godmother, Susan Wolfarth, who trained with the Washington Ballet. She continued her studies at Ballet 106 with Linda Miller, formerly of the Eliot Feld Ballet Company, before advancing to the American Dance Institute, founded by former American Ballet Theatre dancer Pamela Booth Bjerknes and former Joffrey Ballet principal Michael Bjerknes.
Andrea went on to attend Hofstra University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Dance. During her time there, she performed works by notable choreographers and artists, further shaping her artistic voice and passion for performance. After graduating in 2010, she became the very first employee of the newly established Arts in Motion Dance Center (AIM) in Melville, New York. Her dedication and talent helped grow the studio, and in 2019, she became co-owner when a second location opened in Northport. Andrea was a versatile and passionate instructor, teaching a wide range of styles including ballet, contemporary, modern, lyrical, hip-hop, and jazz. She was also an accomplished choreographer, earning numerous top awards—especially in contemporary dance—at competitions across the region.
Andrea met the love of her life, Chazz Fenner-McBride, while they were both part of the dance program at Hofstra. Their shared passion for dance brought them together, and they were married on June 26, 2020. Chazz, an accomplished dancer and teacher himself, has performed with several respected dance companies. Together, they built a life rooted in love, creativity, and shared purpose.
On August 24, 2023, Andrea and Chazz welcomed their son, Harbor, into the world. His name was inspired by the beautiful harbors they explored during their travels—places filled with peace, reflection, and connection. In a moment that would forever remain close to her heart, Andrea learned the gender of her baby while enjoying a meal at one of their favorite restaurants along Huntington Harbor.
Andrea’s tragic passing due to postpartum depression left an immeasurable void in the hearts of her family, friends, and the dance community she so deeply impacted. In the face of this heartbreak, those who loved her have come together with a shared mission: to raise awareness about maternal mental health, advocate for better care and support systems, and break the stigma surrounding postpartum depression. Her story now serves as a powerful call to action—one rooted in compassion, education, and hope.
Andrea was sustained by the love of her family—a sentiment she once shared in her own words. She was an extraordinary woman, filled with warmth, passion, and a deep appreciation for life. She found immense joy in teaching and inspiring her students, and she treasured the relationships she held with her parents, sisters, nephews, and friends.
She was captivated by the beauty of the world around her—the quiet magic of sunrises and sunsets, peaceful walks through nature at Caumsett State Park, and moments spent by the ocean. These simple yet profound experiences reflected the depth of her spirit and the sensitivity that made her so special.
Andrea’s legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched—with her kindness, her artistry, and her love. She will forever be remembered, deeply cherished, and never forgotten.
“Hand in hand, on the edge of the sand, they danced by the light of the moon.” 🌔