In Loving Memory of Ms. Cheryl Van Metre
Founder of Van Metre School of Dance and Appalachian Ballet Company
Her vision shaped generations. Her legacy continues to move us.
Ms. Van Metre and her family have kindly requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Appalachian Ballet Company.
Gifts made in her honor will directly support the continuation of the artistic excellence, education, and community-centered mission that Cheryl Van Metre so passionately built.
Memorials may also be made, “In Memory of Cheryl Van Metre” sent to 215 West Broadway Ave.,
Maryville, TN 37801
A Life Dedicated to Dance
Ms. Cheryl Van Metre, founder of Van Metre School of Dance and The Appalachian Ballet Company, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2026.
Born in Maryville, Tennessee, Cheryl carried a lifelong vision of bringing visual arts and classical ballet to East Tennessee. That vision began to take shape in 1957, when she founded Van Metre School of Dance with a belief that ballet should be rooted in strong classical technique, artistic integrity, and meaningful connection to the community. From that foundation, Appalachian Ballet Company was born in 1971.
Cheryl pursued extensive training in both performance and instruction with The Chicago Ballet, The National Ballet of Mexico, England’s Royal Ballet Company, and The Kirov Ballet in the former USSR (now St. Petersburg, Russia). These experiences shaped the depth, discipline, and artistry that became hallmarks of her school and company.
Beyond her own company, Cheryl served the broader dance community with distinction. She held leadership roles as both Vice President and President of the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (now known as Regional Dance America/Southeast), contributing to the accreditation and advancement of ballet education throughout the region.
After directing Van Metre School of Dance for 39 years and Appalachian Ballet Company for 25 years, Cheryl retired to Edisto Beach with her husband, Col. Mitchell R. Van Metre II, where she remained closely connected to her family and the art she loved.
After moving to Edisto Island, Cheryl Van Metre continued directing, sharing her passion with the Edisto Players for more than 20 years. Her productions consistently sold out, reflecting both her talent and her dedication to enriching the community through the arts.
A Visionary — and a Force
Even early in her career, Cheryl’s theatrical spirit and determination were unmistakable. Her first local television appearance was on The Mary Star Show, where—despite being a twenty-something who had never cooked—she demonstrated how to make a broccoli casserole live on air. With flair and confidence, she mixed simple ingredients while speaking passionately about her newly opened ballet school and her dream of bringing classical ballet to Appalachia. That same casserole remains a beloved family tradition today.
Ms. Van Metre was a true force: bold, passionate, and deeply treasured. She built a company grounded in classical excellence and developed a repertoire of beloved works that would reach audiences locally, nationally, and internationally.
In 1989, Appalachian Ballet Company was accepted into Regional Dance America’s Southeast Region, achieving the prestigious designation of Honor Company just three years later — a testament to Cheryl’s unwavering commitment to excellence.
Mentor, Leader, Legacy
Cheryl Van Metre was not only a founder, but a devoted mentor. She personally mentored Ms. Amy Morton Vaughn, guiding her development as an artist, teacher, and leader. In 1997, Cheryl appointed Ms. Amy as Artistic Director of Appalachian Ballet Company — a decision that ensured the continuation of her vision with care, strength, and integrity.
Under Ms. Amy’s leadership, and built upon the foundation Cheryl created, Appalachian Ballet Company has continued its long-standing tradition of presenting The Nutcracker at the Knoxville Civic Auditorium accompanied by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra.
Six years ago, some of our dancers had the profound honor of performing for Ms. Van Metre in Edisto Beach, a moment that beautifully symbolized the living connection between her legacy and the generations she inspired.
Her Legacy Lives On
The artistry, discipline, and sense of belonging that define Appalachian Ballet Company today are a direct reflection of Ms. Cheryl Van Metre’s vision. Her influence lives on through the dancers she trained, the leaders she mentored, and the community she built.
Every rehearsal, every performance, and every step taken on stage stands as a tribute to her life’s work.
We honor Ms. Cheryl Van Metre with full hearts — grateful for her vision, her mentorship, her strength, and the immeasurable impact she had on generations of dancers. Her legacy will forever remain a guiding light for our company. We love you, Ms. Van Metre. Thank you.
