About Us
The Virginia Cotillion is run by Maura Burchette and Gillian Rice Maupin with dance instruction by the wonderful Miss Penelope Norton. Mrs. Burchette and Ms. Maupin are both native Alexandrians, alumna of St. Mary’s in Old Town and former students of the Virginia Cotillion (class of 1996). They took over the program they love from the original Virginia Cotillion founders who started the classes over 30 years ago. As the next generation of hosts, they have updated and modernized the program, while remaining devoted to maintaining the longstanding tradition and reputation the Virginia Cotillion has earned over the years.
Our Goal
Mrs. Burchette and Ms. Maupin loved participating in Cotillion and want today’s students to have the same great experience! They strongly believe that learning fundamental etiquette and social dancing has served them well throughout their lives and that it can do the same for your children.
Please reach out with any questions about the program – and spread the word to friends!
Penelope Norton
Miss Penelope Norton is a local who is happy to still call Alexandria home. Growing up in the Mount Vernon area, Miss Penelope studied ballet and tap for 12 years at The School for Little Swans under Grace Mechanic. Having attended Cotillion in the Mount Vernon area during junior high, she went on to assist in the ballroom dance portion throughout her high school career and returned to be their dance instructor just after graduating from James Madison University. Work took her to Guatemala where she made sure to learn both the Salsa and Bachata, adding Latin flare to her repertoire of dances.
Miss Penelope completed her Masters degree at George Mason University in International Conflict Analysis and Resolution and works at Intergra Government Services International, LLC. She spends what little free time she has traveling.