Ashley Palumbo – Founder & Head Instructor
Ashley Palumbo founded Open Barre with Ashley, LLC in 2020 after recognizing a growing demand for accessible online Barre classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Certified by the International Ballet Barre Fitness Association,1 she began teaching virtually and, for the next four years, led outdoor classes in warmer months while renting gym space during the colder seasons. In November 2024, she celebrated a major milestone by opening the first dedicated Open Barre studio.
A lifelong fitness enthusiast, Ashley has run the NYC Marathon, completed eight half marathons, and competed in CrossFit for over five years. She fell in love with Barre in 2015 and continued practicing throughout her second pregnancy—right up to the day before giving birth!
Ashley choreographs every class herself, creating fun, challenging workouts that focus on strength, balance, and flexibility. She’s proud to have built a welcoming community of strong, supportive women through Open Barre.
Originally from Connecticut, Ashley spent 15 years in New York City as an Emmy Award-winning television producer, working with names like Martha Stewart and Anderson Cooper. She now lives in Cheshire with her husband and two young children, bringing her creativity, passion, and positive energy to every class.
Marisa Lehner – Open Barre Instructor
Marisa is a certified barre and pre/postnatal barre instructor.2 With a background in elementary education, she brings her love for teaching and movement together in the studio.
Marisa began taking classes at Open Barre in 2022 after having her daughter. She loved the physical challenge of barre (as well as the results!), and the community of women and moms at Open Barre drew her in. Barre became an essential part of her daily routine for not only her physical health, but also her mental health. She continued taking classes through her second pregnancy and postpartum. She is thrilled to now be certified and bring the joy of barre to other women.
As a mom to two energetic toddlers, Marisa understands the importance of balance, strength, and self-care. When she’s not leading a class or chasing little ones, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors-whether it’s a family walk, a run, or simply soaking up the fresh air. Marisa is passionate about helping others feel strong, confident, and connected through mindful movement.
- Certifications: IBBFA Barre; IBBFA Level 2 Barre; IBBFA Pre & Postnatal Barre; IBBFA Ballerobica (HIITBarre, KickBarre, CardioBarre); NFHS Concussion in Sports; YCADA Y101 AYC; CPR AED ↩︎
- Certifications: IBBFA Barre; IBBFA Pre & Postnatal Barre ↩︎
Andrea Thompson – Open Barre Yoga Instructor
Andrea was introduced to yoga as a means to quiet her mind, strengthen mind body connection, and connect to her breath. Her first steps into a yoga class were for the mental and emotional benefits…and she was hooked.
After receiving her 200 hour yoga teacher certification in 2010 through Lotus Gardens Yoga School, she went on to further her studies earning certifications in Trauma Informed Teaching and Mindfulness.
As a mother, current Developmental Therapist, and former Special Education Teacher, Andrea is also a Children’s Yoga and Mindfulness teacher passionate about introducing yoga and its benefits to children.
In Andrea’s yoga classes, you can expect a nurturing and grounding experience that incorporates meditation, breath practices, and your traditional yoga postures. With your permission, Andrea also calls upon her Reiki training to offer deepened relaxation and healing.