Leea Rude

Leea Rae Rude is currently 8 years old and a second grader at Covenant Day School. A seventh-generation native Charlottean, she lives in Ballantyne with her parents, Jenna and Jake Rude, and her little sister, Remi.

Leea has fallen in love with both the art and athleticism of dance, while also enjoying art, cooking, singing, playing piano, building LEGOs, trading Pokémon cards, riding her bike, and spending time with her family and friends.

She has trained in most styles of dance since the age of two and is entering her third competitive season. Highlights of her dance career so far include three first-overall wins and earning the Premier Title of Petite Miss Dance America during this most recent regional season. At the 2026 Revolution National Championship, she placed second overall and was named 1st Runner-Up for the Premier Title of Petite Miss Dance America. Most recently, Leea was selected as a National Honored Dancer on full scholarship at National Dance Honors in Orlando this summer.

Leea is so excited to take the stage in support of Charlotte Center for the Arts, helping create future opportunities for generations to come while continuing her family’s legacy and relentless commitment to the visual and performing arts.