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Suzanne DiVasto Citre
Suzanne DiVasto Citere is originally from New York City where she studied dance with some of the finest instructors in the country.
She has been on the faculty at Horizons Dance Company, Dance Theatre of Parkland, Dance Theatre of Broward and Broward Dance Academy.
Suzanne opened her school, RealDance, in 2003 in her community of Lighthouse Point, Florida. RealDance houses one of the finest faculties in the south and the intensive program has graduates studying dance at such esteemed universities as Florida State University, Texas Christian University, and the University of Alabama. Competitive dancers at RealDance hold various national titles and high score awards.
2012 marks her 30th year as a dance educator, and Suzanne's students can be seen performing in films, television, on the stages of Vegas and New York City and for various cruise lines.
Suzanne began teaching dance at North Broward Preparatory School in Coconut Creek in 2008. She is a graduate member of Dance Masters of America and she graduated from Dance Educator's of America's teacher's training school. Suzanne was a Director of Entertainment for Club Med Inc. for five years and has lived in the Caribbean, Israel, Switzerland and France, where she met her wondeful husband Pascal, and learned to speak fluent French.
Certified to judge dance competitions by the National Dance Council of America, Suzanne also travels around the U.S. and Canada adjudicating dance competitions.
Jenny Cairney
Jenny Cairney has always been a mover and shaker, having been involved with dance since her toddler years. While exploring all disciplines of dance in both the studio and school environment, Jenny focused on jazz through the Canadian Dance Teacher’s Association curriculum, completing her Jazz & Teacher Examinations.
Teaching became her strength as she continued her studies at the University of Western Ontario. Over the past 10 years, Jenny earned more qualifying certifications as a Fitness Instructor and Yoga Teacher and obtained more dance training through George Brown’s Continuing Education. Whether it was guest teaching at several studios, or holding dance workshops for the Board of Education, Jenny has an appreciation for teaching dance to all ages, levels, and abilities.
In 2009, alongside her sister, they opened their own studio, iDance, located in Newmarket Ontario. Since her studio’s infancy, Jenny has trained countless dancers and coaches both recreational and competitive students each year. Among some of the recognition Jenny has received at competitions, her choreography has been awarded “Adjudicator’s Favourite” and “Most Entertaining.”. Her Tap, Jazz and Musical Theatre routines continually receive praise and overall awards, and her dancers have won scholarships and titles including Mini Dancer of the Year.
Jenny continues to contribute in the development of dancers and dance teachers as a member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance.
Julie England
Julie England was born in England, UK and has been in the performing arts industry for 24 years. Over the years trained in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern Cunningham,/Horton, Graham/Limon/National , Musical theatre, Stage, Contemporary, Ballroom and Latin dance. A graduate from the London College of Dance, has a B.A. Honors in Dance, (A.I.S.T.D) Associate Imperial Society Teaching of Dance Certification and Bachelor of Applied Interior Design. Some of her professional performances: Hans Christian Anderson, Annie, Cinderella, The Snow Queen, The Nutcracker, Babes in the Woods, Pajama Game, Show Boat and the Opera Countess Maritza, Nexus Modern Dance Company.
Best known for her innovative and compelling choreography, Julie has won an abundance of awards all over the world: George Lon Memorial Choreography Award, awards for American Dance Choreographic Achievement, Memorial Choreographic Award for “outstanding artistic performance” in memory of Julian Paul Masi. Cathy Wade Ensemble Award in Division II at the “Dance under the Stars Choreography Festival in Palm Desert, California”.
In addition to her immense experience, Julie has had the opportunity to choreograph the 55th Oilman’s show held in Banff, and recently stepping into a new role as Artistic director in Canada and Germany.
Now a member of the Adjudicator Alliance, as well as the International Dance Council, she is hoping this will allow her to share her passion and love for dance to both dancers and audience members all over the Globe.
Cathryn Croft
Cathryn Croft was born in Edmonton, Alberta but has called Montreal, Quebec her home for the past 20 years.
She has an extensive background in Jazz, Tap and Ballet. Cathryn has taught and choreographed at various dance schools and companies throughout North America for the past 22 years. She is currently teaching and choreographing at St. Georges High School, Glee Club and Fine Arts Focus Dance Program at Heritage High School.
She has choreographed for The Colin Hunter Show at L’Astral Theater and The Quebec Jazz Festival and presented a dance musical with choreographer Debra Brown called Yes a Flying Dance Experience at the Rialto Theater. Cathryn is also an Artistic Coach at Cirque du Soleil where she has worked on the following shows, Saltimbanco, Kooza, Zarkana and La Nuba. For 14 years, Cathryn was the Mediator and Artistic Coordinator for Le Festival International de Danse Encore and Artistic Director for Dansez pour la Vie – Dance for Life a charity event for the Hemophiliac Society at The Corona Theater for the past 4 years.
Cathryn is a Judge and Adjudicator for various dance competitions and festivals throughout Canada and the United States for the past 20 years. She deems it an honor and a privilege to help the development of young artists.
Krista Cardwell
Krista Cardwell has over 20 years dance and teaching experience. She is a full member of the Performing Arts Educators of Canada (PAEC) in the Jazz and Ballet division. She is also a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Originally from Hamilton she has trained at an Elite level in styles such as Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, and Ballet. Krista has achieved excellence in her own dance career completing C.D.T.A and P.A.E.C dance examinations with Honours.
As a Performer Krista’s performances include, Juno Awards cast member, back up dancer for many Canadian artists, performed with Stars at Sea on Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and was a member of Steps Performing Arts Centre Dance Company for 11 years.
She began her teaching career as a “Tiny Tot” dance instructor and that is when her true passion for teaching began. As a fully certified dance instructor, Krista is best known for continuously striving to provide the best in dance education to prepare her students for a career in dance. Her students are continually recognized for their flawless technique and cleanliness. Krista’s outstanding choreography has led her to be the recipient of numerous choreography awards throughout Southern Ontario.
Her students have also earned countless Special and Cash awards, as well as overall titles such as Top Mark Junior, Intermediate and Senior division, Dance Off Finalists, Overall Division Winners, as well as Top Mark of the Session to name a few. Her students have been the recipient of numerous scholarships such as “Be Discovered” NYC & LA, OIP & FRESH Dance Intensive. Many of her students have gone on to pursue dance and theatre at a professional level.
Krista is currently teaching at The Turning Pointe Dance Studio in Burlington, Ontario as a senior competitive instructor/choreographer. She trains and choreographs dancers at both the Pre-competitive and Competitive levels. Krista brings excitement and charisma to her dance classes, and loves pushing the boundaries of dance and choreography.
Krista believes that dance should be fun and dancers should leave the stage knowing they accomplished something amazing.
Brandon Croisetiere
Brandon Croisetiere began dancing at the age of 11 in Gatineau, Quebec where he trained in all disciplines of dance (jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, acro, hip-hop and contemporary). He quickly fell in love with the art and competed extensively, traveling all over North America winning major titles and overalls at regional and national competitions. Brandon was a constant convention scholarship winner at The Pulse, Jump, Candance Convention, Coastal Dance Rage and Impact. He completed his competitive career with the Canadian School of Dance where he was trained with the Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers (ADAPT) syllabus created by Brian and Faye Foley as well as the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet.
Brandon was fortunate enough to work closely with New York City Choreographer Derrick Yanford (FOOTLOOSE, WEST SIDE STORY, BALLET HISPANICO) as a founding member of his company “Bridge Dance Concepts” in Ottawa. Shortly after, Brandon moved to Toronto to further his career in dance. He has had the privilege to study under well-known choreographers such as Eryn Waltman, Julia Cratchley, Stephanie Rutherford, Alvin Collantes and Shawn Bracke as well as many of the well-known choreographers on the US convention circuit. Brandon has also assisted New York City choreographer Tom Richardson (Faculty of Intrigue Dance Convention) on numerous occasions. He has performed in shows and events such as Toronto’s Original Choreographer’s Ball, Bazaar, Poetry Resurrected, Raise the Rhythm and Short Dances in Small Spaces to name a few. More recently, Brandon became a member of Point of View Dance Project, a contemporary company under the artistic direction of Amy Adams and Kylie Thompson.
Brandon is also an award winning choreographer and teacher. He is guest faculty at The Underground Dance Centre in Toronto and KaliAndrews Dance Company in Ottawa. He has taught many workshops, technique classes and at many summer intensives throughout Quebec and Ontario. Brandon’s unique sense of style, creativity, intricate movement, musicality and his power to create beautiful captivating stories within his choreography has won him multiple choreography awards at Regional and Nationals Competitions such as American Dance Awards, Kick It Up, Shine, Thunderstruck, Move, and Candance. Being recognized for his work starting at the tender age of 17, Brandon has grown into a creative genius and sought after by many competitive studios throughout Canada, giving them a unique, fresh edge to the dance scene.
Being a driven performer and distinct, unique, captivating choreographer has allowed Brandon to continuously push his boundaries and explore all sorts of movement and styles. His biggest wish is to continuously motivate and inspire his dancers by being a positive role model and sharing all of the knowledge he has gained since entering the dance industry.
Dana Flipsen
Dana Flipsen has been in the dance industry for over 20 years. She is a graduate of Associate level with the Society of Russian Ballet, and is presently a co-owner and director of CDE Dance Academy. She has become an established and reputable dance instructor in her area for studios, sports teams, and educational organizations.
She has trained extensively for close to two decades in Ballet, Jazz, Modern, and Contemporary.
Dana holds memberships and certifications with the International Dance Council, Canadian Dance Assembly, Dance Ontario, Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists, Society of Russian Ballet, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, and Cechetti Society of Canada. She has performed in three theatrical productions, and was a dancer for a Black Eyed Peas tour.
She has guest taught at The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, as well as The Alberta Ballet, and has studied at Giordano Dance Chicago, to expand her knowledge of other dance forms and techniques.
Allison Darling
Allison is the owner and Director of Allison Darling Dancers Ltd in Pickering Ontario. The studio was established in 1985 and has grown over the years as an awards winning and nationally recognized dance studio. Many of her students have gone on to study dance at university, become studio directors and have joined the performance stage.
She has been a Dance Educator since 1982. Allison holds many teaching certifications with the British Association of Teachers of Dancing. She is now a Life and Fellow Member with the BATD. She has studied Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Highland, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary and Modern. She has been an adjudicator with the Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing since 1990. In 2011 she obtained her Zumba and Zumba Kids license and shares her love of physical Fitness with her dance family.
Allison has won many choreography awards at competitions such as Star Catchers, Kick it up, and Star Beat. Her students have won scholarships at many Ontario competitions and gone on to be recognized at the conventions. She trains dancers at both the recreation and competitive level. Each year some of hers dancers are nominated for the BATD Scholarships in Jazz, Ballet & Highland.
She continues to take classes, attend workshops and conventions to stay current and strives to never stop learning.
Tara Forbes
Tara began her journey with dance very early in her life. She studied tap and jazz (A.D.A.P.T.), ballet (R.A.D), and modern (I.S.T.D.), and was a successful competitive student for many years in Canada and the U.S. Since then, her passion for dance has continued to grow and has become a way of life for her.
She has enjoyed over 25 years in the dance industry. Her experiences as a competitive dancer, professional performer, choreographer and teacher have taken her through many different areas of the dance world. Intensive classical ballet teaching studies, musical theatre, stadium concerts and music videos are just a few of these areas. Her diverse background has given her knowledge and experience with many different dance styles and performance platforms.
Tara's most recent projects include choreographing "SUDS: The Rocking 60's Musical" which won Best Production at Theatre Ontario in 2010, and "Cabaret" for which Tara was nominated for Best Choreography at the ACTCO festival in 2013.
She enjoys teaching a variety of dance styles including ballet, tap and jazz/contemporary. She is a certified ballet teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance, and is currently working towards her full certification with the exciting ADAPT tap and jazz syllabus. Many of her students have gone on to achieve successful dance careers either as performers or teachers. Tara is also a member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance as a dance judge.
Tara continues to take classes herself, and believes one should always continue to learn about their craft.
Taylor De Geer
Taylor is an accomplished Dancer, Teacher, Choreographer and Adjudicator well known in the dance community.
Her life-long love affair with dance continues to flourish in all aspects of the dance industry. Taylor is the successful owner and director of The Dance Element located in Milton, Ontario. With over 20 year’s experience teaching and choreographing, her love of dance and commitment to her students is her inspiration.
Taylor specializes in Jazz, Acrobatics, Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, and Gymnastics/Tumbling. Taylor has had the opportunity and the privilege to compete at regional and national levels of competition across Canada and the United States. Taylor’s training and innovative choreography have led her students to award winning results at local and International competitions.Taylor has been recognized for her many talents with a number of Special awards, Choreography Awards and Creative Concept Awards, including Petite Miss Dance of Canada & Junior Miss Dance of Canada.
Taylor is an active member of Canadian Dance Masters of America Ch.#38, The British Association of Teachers in Dance, The Royal Academy of Dance, and Performing Arts Educators of Canada to obtain accreditation in all areas of dance and to be a diverse and knowledgeable teacher. Throughout her training Taylor was fortunate enough to receive instruction with some of North America’s most renowned Choreographers, Tina Landon, Blake McGrath, Richard Kim, Mia Michaels, Brian Friedman, Napolian & Tabitha D’umo, Fatima, Peggy Baker and Stelio Calagias.
Taylor’s versatility and unique style have taken her around the world. She has toured the Caribbean Islands with Carnival Cruise Lines as dance captain and lead dancer in two highly acclaimed Broadway Revues. Taylor was also invited to perform at various events such as The Aloha Bowl in Honolulu, Hawaii and on The Canadian National Tap Team at The World Dance Championships in Reisa, Germany. Taylor’s distinguished career in dance also includes many appearances in television productions, movies and commercials. As a dynamic and creative choreographer she has choreographed opening numbers for Canadian Dance Masters of America and Dancefest, she was also
named choreographer for The Hamilton Tiger-Cats CFL and “Out of the Blue Dance Crew” York University’s dance team.
Taylor loves to share her passion and enthusiasm for dance with young artists across Canada and help them to develop their talents. Taylor not only takes great pride in her career as a dance educator, but she also takes great interest in her student’s progress and well being. Taylor is thrilled to be a member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance and hopes to continue to help educate and inspire dancers for years to come
Shari Coulter
Shari has been involved in the performing arts industry for over 30 years, teaching jazz, tap, ballet, musical theatre and drama. Shari started dancing at the age of 12 at Roland and Romaine’s School of Performing Arts in Toronto, and by14, she was teaching the children’s classes. At 18, Shari was the director of the children’s dance company, choreographing group performances at various venues in the GTA. When Shari was 21 she started her own studio, Shari Robinson’s School of Performing Arts, which she ran very successfully for 13 years.
Shari’s performing experience include-Canadian National Exhibition’s “The Time Machine” and the one woman show “Country and Western Barn Yard Band, Metro Convention Centre’s fashion shows and beauty pageants and Herongate Dinner Theatre’s production of “Stepping Out” and “How the Other Half Loves”.
Choreography credits include: Half time show for the Grey Cup Game at Toronto’s Sky Dome with Celine Dion, Weekenders Fashion Show at the Metro Convention Centre, Bicycle and Road Safety show at the CNE and the children’s TV pilot, «Ricky’s Room». Shari has choreographed a variety of musical theatre productions including: «Oliver» and «The Music Man» which earned her the THEA award for Best Choreography. Along with her diploma in Theatre Arts from George Brown College and certification by the British Association of Teachers of Dance, Shari is also a certified Fitness Instructor, Nutrition and Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer and Yoga Instructor.
Shari is currently on the faculty at Tj’s Dance Troop in Bowmanville where she teaches recreational jazz, tap and musical theatre. Shari also teaches all the competitive musical theatre and the competitive teams conditioning and yoga training. Shari’s competitive musical theatre routines are known for their creativity and authenticity. Shari won a special “Tony” award for “9 to 5” musical theatre group at Shine Dance Competition in London Ontario in 2012.
2013 successes include: Love to Dance competition in Peterborough musical theatre routines place 1st and 3rd over-all in the intermediate duet/trio category and 1st in the senior category.
Musical theatre group “Memphis” placed 3rd over-all intermediate group at Believe dance competition in Port Hope, Ontario
Shari is a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Shari wishes all the dancers a fantastic competitive season.
Always believe in yourself and dance from the inside out. When it comes from your heart and soul it can’t be anything less than authentically you.
Annie Chen
Annie Chen is a graduate of The School of Toronto Dance Theatre where she studied under well-established modern artists Allen Kaeja (Kaeja d’dance), Michael Trent (Dance Makers) to name a few. She is an interdisciplinary artist with extensive training and professional experience singing, acting, dancing, choreographing and teaching.
Annie has performed live with artists Lady Gaga at MMVA 2011, PSY at MMVA 2013 and Eric McCormack for Gilda’s Club hosted by Russell Peters. She choreographed and performed an opening number for a T-Pain concert, and choreographed for the Canadian Music Festival, and various music videos for Much Music.
TV/Film credits include ‘Carrie’ (2013), the spectacular series finale for ‘Warehouse 13’, and will soon be filming a speaking role on Guillermo del Toro’s upcoming vampire series ‘The Strain’.
Annie has been privileged to work with choreographers such as Laurie Ann Gibson, Luther Brown, Jeff Dimitriou, Lee Joo- Sun (‘Gentleman’, ‘Gangnam Style’), Christopher House (TDT Dance Company), and Elizabeth Auclair (Martha Graham Dance Company). She is a full member of ACTRA, Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists, and the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Annie is looking forward to upcoming projects and is very excited to continue her contribution to the world of dance and the performing arts in all mediums.
Gabriella De Bartolo
With over 18 years of dance experience in all genres, Gabriella De Bartolo found her passion in acrobatics and contortion. As one of the top contortionists in Toronto’s event industry, Gabriella has wowed audiences across North America and Italy. Ms. De Bartolo is currently an entertainment coordinator, choreographer and performer for TDC Entertainment, an entertainment company focused specifically on the corporate event industry. In her youth she’s studied Russian ballet at Pavlova International Ballet School & Company in Bergamo, Italy while on scholarship.
Ms. De Bartolo has been a teacher and choreographer for 8 years and currently teaches in the GTA. She has danced competitively for over 10 years across North America and is a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
As a dance instructor I do not only teach students new skills, but also to be confident individuals in and out of the classroom. Dance builds confidence, strength and a strong work ethic that students will take away for the rest of their lives
Jillian Coulis
Jillian’s passion for dance began at a young age and she has received extensive training in various dance forms, as well as having competed and toured across North America and Russia.
She is a graduate of York University and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance as well as a Bachelor of Education.
Jillian is a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance; and is currently on faculty at the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts in Toronto.
In 2011, she had the opportunity to work at St. Elizabeth Catholic High School in the Regional Arts Program. While there, she oversaw the entire dance program as well as choreographed ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ and was the artistic director for the year end dance show “And the Oscar Goes To…”. Jillian’s extensive dance education background has allowed her to develop and teach a dance course for Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie.
She has also worked with York University’s competitive and performance dance teams. No stranger to television, Jillian has also made appearances on The ‘Reppies Are Coming Home for Christmas’ (T.V. Special), and ‘Hands Up, Hands On’ for YTV. Her enthusiasm and love for dance inspire each and every student she teaches. She would like to wish all of the dancers the best of luck.
Marisa Falcone
Marisa was born and raised in Mississauga, Ontario where she recognized her talents as a performer at a young age. She has advanced training in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, modern, contemporary, musical theatre and hip hop, and continues to expand her dance knowledge by taking class wherever she travels. She also obtained certifications from the Cecchetti Association, R.A.D., and C.D.T.A. As a teenager, Marisa furthered her arts exposure and studied piano and vocal lessons, knowing that these talents would advance her career someday. She enhanced her dance training at Cawthra Park Secondary School in the Regional Arts Program for Dance, and also earned her Grade 8 RCM certifications in Voice and Piano. In 2008 she graduated from Ryerson University’s Theatre Dance Program under the direction of Nadia Potts, obtaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with Honours.
Marisa has competed throughout Canada and the United States and won numerous scholarships and awards. She is a proud member of the Canadian Actors’ Equity Association as well as the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. She is also a guest teacher for the Canadian Dance Teachers’ Association and has had the privilege to guest choreograph for Cawthra Park, St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, Unionville High School, as well as other dance studios throughout the GTA. Marisa is an active member of Mississauga’s Arts Scene as a dancer, musician, and singer, most recently being the recipient of the Meadowvale Theatre Award. She was also the recipient of the Theatre Dance Award from Ryerson University in 2006.
Upon graduating from Ryerson, Marisa set off to sail the high seas with Disney Cruise Line as Dance Captain, making magic and sharing the stage with some of the most famous Disney characters! Back on land, Marisa has had the opportunity to perform for a number of professional theatre companies all across Canada, including: Ross Petty Productions (Elgin Theatre), Drayton Entertainment, Stage West (Mississauga and Calgary), Rose Theatre, and Theatre Aquarius. She has also taken on the role of Associate choreographer for Drayton Entertainment, and Assistant to the Director at Stage West.
Marisa loves spreading her knowledge and passion for dance as an adjudicator. She looks forward to meeting new talent and giving every dancer a positive experience at each competition!
Kristin Dobby
A native of Brampton, Ontario, Kristin has advanced training in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary and hip hop, and continues to enhance her skills by taking class wherever she travels.
She recently completed an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in History at the University of Toronto, and continues to work as a professional dancer, dance teacher, choreographer, adjudicator and certified Zumba® instructor. Kristin has performed on both Celebrity and Princess cruise lines, at theme parks, in music videos and commercials, and as part of a documentary on Canadian women tappers, choreographed by renowned tap dancer Paula Skimmin. During the summer of 2007, Kristin worked as a dance captain in Ibiza Spain and choreographed routines for one of the world’s biggest nightclubs, Eden. Kristin also spent a contract disappearing as a magician’s assistant for world famous magician, Greg Frewin. As a young competitive dancer, Kristin was crowned Teen Miss Dance of Canada and Miss Dance of Canada for Dance Masters of America Ch. # 43. Back then, she loved sharing the stage with the talented dancers of Southern Ontario. Now, Kristin takes her role as a dance teacher and adjudicator very seriously. She loves to watch this new generation of dancers as they grow and evelove their artform.
Sarah Dowhun
•Honours BFA Performance Dance York University
•Member Professional Adjudicators Alliance
•Certified - Canadian Dance Standards Society
•Member of the Healthy Dancers of Canada and the International Association of Dance Medicine and Science
•Certified in Conditioning with Imagery Training Level 1
Sarah Dowhun is originally from the Niagara Region and has been dancing since the age of three. A competitive dancer until the age of 13, Sarah had great success winning special awards that focused on her technical ability and her musicality. As a teen Sarah participated in a number of dance companies working with such dance greats as Dave Wilson at McMaster Dance Company, Irina Aoucheva with the Inner City Ballet in Hamilton and Robert Desrosiers at the Hamilton Urban Theatre Company.
Sarah is a graduate of the York University’s Performance Dance program where she obtained her Honours BFA with a specialization in Ballet and Modern dance. Having embarked on a professional dance career Sarah has enjoyed some early success, as an inaugural member of Everett Smith’s company Bringing Tap Back as well as appearing in a number of music videos both for indie artists and top Canadian recording acts including Shawn Desman and Hedley. Sarah has also enjoyed working on a number of television and movie sets over the last couple of years with Toronto choreographers such as Jeff Dimitriou.
Sarah has been accredited in Conditioning with Imagery for Dancers levels I and II which can assist with injury prevention, improved training practices, and appropriate warm-up procedures. Sarah has also received her Fitness Instructor Certification from Can-Fit Pro and continues to educate herself participating in teacher’s workshops
Christine Campbell
Christine began dancing ballet at the age of 3 and quickly developed her love of dance. From there she began adding classes in tap and jazz. By the time she reached her teens she was fully engrossed with a full range of disciplines including modern, lyrical, hip hop, and musical theatre.
Christine has been teaching dance throughout various dance studios in Southern Ontario for the past 15 years, and has been running her own studio for the last 4 years.
Students she has taught over the past fifteen years have received various recognitions such as, winning competitive overalls at I Love Dance, Broadway Dreams, Kiwanis, Rhythm, Dance Canada, Ontario Dance Challenge, Bedazzled and Champions. Many of her students have also won the titles Jr. & Sr. Sweetheart/Hearthrob, along with numerous special awards.
Christine is an associate member of the Canadian Dance Teachers Association in Ballet & Tap and has completed her full membership in Jazz. Always continuing to educate herself, she has attended workshops and classes in Ontario and Las Vegas, Nevada. Some choreographers Christine has worked with recently are Mia Michaels, Mandy Moore, Nick Lazzarini and Kenny Wormald. Christine also enjoys choreographing numbers in major productions and has worked on "A Night of Broadway" in Mississauga, ON, Keeping Time School of Dance "The Nutcracker" in Barrie, ON, and Brantford Collegiate Institute's recent production of "Oklahoma"
Christine is currently a full member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance,
Nicole Cultraro
Nicole Cultraro is an award-winning dancer, gymnast, and choreographer from Toronto. She has trained extensively in a wide variety of dance genres, including jazz, tap, acrobatics, lyrical, hip-hop, musical theatre, and ballet through the Royal Academy of Dance (R.A.D.) syllabus. In addition to her fifteen years as a competitive dancer, she has also worked as an extra on television and in feature films. As current Artistic Director of Evolution Dance and Fitness Studio in Maple, Ontario, she brings with her ten years of experience as both a dance teacher and choreographer.
Nicole holds a Bachelor of Science, with a minor in Fine Arts from York University where she subsequently acquired her Bachelor of Education. Upon completing her teaching degree, she moved to Malaysia where she taught pre-university math and directed two musical theatre productions, A Night on Broadway and Living Legacies. Nicole also studies violin and is an active member of printmaking group the inPrint Collective. Her visual art has been showcased at Toronto’s Scotiabank Nuit Blanche 2012, as well as the Scarborough Museum.
Brittany Carter
Brittany’s boundless enthusiasm for dance is infectious, and she’s been spreading her passion to all her students both Competitive and Recreational. She has been involved in Dance and Arts camps during summer months and strived to spread the importance of The Arts. Brittany is also heavily involved in Fundraising for TJ's Dance Troop, where she currently teaches full time.
Having been trained in all areas of dance including Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Acro and Hip Hop, she was also a Dancer and Choreographer with the Brock University Dance Team, and a Dance and student choreographer with the Bowmanville High School Dance Program. She has trained under the direction of the notable choreographer Vlad Novitski. Brittany is trained in R.A.D, Vaganova and trained in B.A.T.D., completing her Ballet Exams to the Elementary Level. Brittany has taken many classes and workshops all over the GTA with Top Choreographers. She has grown up in the competitive world of dance, having travelled for various Regional and National Competitions.
Currently, Brittany is working towards her ADAPT (Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers) Teacher Certification. In addition, she’s started her Acrobatique Certification with ADAPT, in order to be a certified Acro Dance instructor.
Natalie Cultraro
Natalie Cultraro is from Toronto and began dancing at the early age of 3. She has been teaching and choreographing for over ten years, and has been trained in all dance genres. Her ballet training includes advanced level certification through the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus, as well as Russian Vagnova. As an ACTRA apprentice, Natalie has worked on set in several films and television shows including Mean Girls, Take the Lead, Step Up, Royal Canadian Air Farce, and the TV pilot for Save the Last Dance. She was a member of the Toronto Raptor’s Dance Pak for two years and has danced in many industrial shows in Toronto. She was also awarded National Senior Miss Candance and was given the opportunity to dance on a cruise ship that travelled around the Greek Islands with Euro International Performance Tours.
Recently, Natalie graduated from York University with a Bachelor of Education and enjoys teaching in York Region. She also has a Bachelor of Arts degree from York University in Kinesiology and Health Science, and a minor in Dance. Working with teachers across Canada and the United States have provided her with the opportunity to guest teach at several studios. She currently teaches at Evolution Dance Studio in Maple and continues her dance education through classes, seminars and workshops.
Brandon Fulford
Brandon was born to dance. At the tender age of three he started taking ballet which led to tap, jazz, lyrical and acro. All this after being exposed to dance by his mother who taught in a family owned studio in Brantford, ON. It wasn’t long until he was competing locally and internationally. Brandon was invited to perform on the Children’s Miracle Network Telethon, CFPL-TV, and earned his way to dancing with the Berkshire Ballet in The Nutcracker. He was the ‘Auditioner/Dancer’ in the Curtain Call Players version of “A Chorus Line” in Toronto.
After ten years of dance at the Phillips Dance Studio in Brantford he continued his dance training in Brampton at JoAnne Chapman School of Dance for 5 years.
Brandon performed in ‘Superstars’ at Canada’s Wonderland in the Paramount Theatre. Brandon’s musical and acting training involves vocal, piano and theory studies at Sue Marwood Taylor, B. Music in Toronto Musical Theatre/Performance studies at Sheridan College in Oakville, and Sears & Switzer TV & Commercial studies in Toronto. This also included a stop with the Sears Fashion Show as a dancer in Toronto, ON. and Vancouver, BC.
Brandon has 6 years of teaching experience at local dance studios involving pursuance of technical training, exam work, workshops and choreography. Brandon attends workshops and summits around the United States and Canada, including the Dance Teachers Summit in New York City. For the past 10 years Brandon has been working for Carnival Cruise Lines as a Professional Dancer and Dance Captain.
Brandon is a member of the PAA (Professional Adjudicators Alliance) and is also involved in adjudicating for dance competitions in Canada. He has adjudicated for Dance Star Productions 2008 and Jump Shout Boogie 2010 and 2012
Camille Dziewurski
Camille Dziewurski has been teaching and performing in many styles of dance for over 10 years. She has been trained under C.D.T.A., C.D.M.A., A.D.A.P.T., Cecchetti, Vaganova and Paula Morgan syllabus’ and continues her training in jazz, ballet, hip hop and contemporary, taking classes and workshops with the industry’s leading dance professionals such as LaurieAnn Gibson and Brian Friedman (to name a few). She is always trying to hone and perfect her craft as an educator and performer.
As a dance educator, Camille teaches jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop at both recreational and competitive levels and her students have won numerous high-score and choreography awards. She is a certified dance teacher with Canadian Dance Masters of America (C.D.M.A.) and is certified with Professional Adjudication Alliance (P.A.A.). She also teaches the curriculum dance unit in many school boards across Ontario and has taught Teacher Training workshops to help school teachers better understand how to turn ‘non-dancers’ into dancers.
As a performer she has worked all over the world, performing in shows from Latin America, Europe and Asia. She has also danced and choreographed for Toronto’s leading entertainment dance companies as well as numerous commercials, music videos, television shows and movies. Most recently, Camille is returning to Toronto after performing as a featured dancer onboard Princess Cruises and can be seen performing in various productions and shows across the GTA.
Her passion for continually striving to evolve as a dancer and dance educator is contagious with her students as she trains them to find balance with strong technique while emitting a passion for performance in their dancing.
Jason Franco
Jason is a choreographer/performer with almost 25 years of professional work. Having started performing at the age of 5 in ‘The King and I’, theatre and dance have always been a huge part of his life. He studied dance in various studios in Toronto as well as at the acclaimed Broadway Dance Centre and Steps in NYC. His work as a performer has taken him to many places across Canada including The Charlottetown Festival , to London England’s West End and in NYC where he was a part of Chet Walker’s (Fosse) company, 8 and ah 1 as well as around the world with Royal Caribbean. He has also appeared in several movies and TV shows including most recently the hit series ‘Hellcats ’and the soon to be released movie ‘Mirror Mirror’ starring Julia Roberts.
As a choreographer, his work as ranged from revue shows for Paramount Parks, musicals such as ‘Annie’ and ‘Can Can’ for TUTS in Vancouver, ‘The Wild Party’, ‘Grease’ and ‘Anything Goes’ as well as directing the musicals ‘Sunday in the Park with George’, ‘Lorelei’ and ‘Saturday Night’ for Applause Musicals in Concert. He has also been part of the musical theatre program Gotta Sing! Gotta Dance! for the past eight summers and has lead workshops at Harbour Dance Centre in Vancouver.
He is grateful for his many years as an adjudicator where he has the privilege to share his experience and love of dance with so many talented young people.
Maria Cavazzon
Maria has over 30 years teaching experience. She is a Life Member of The British Association of Teachers of Dancing (B.A.T.D) in the areas of Ballet, Jazz, Stage, and Modern Jazz and has recently been certified in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT). In addition, she is certified through Acrobatic Arts (Module 2) and has also obtained Acrobatic certification through the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (C.D.T.A). Maria is a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Originally from Toronto, Maria trained in the areas of Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobatics and Musical Theatre since the age of 4.
She began her teaching career over 30 years ago by teaching recreational dance at the local community center. From there she went on to teach at various studios throughout the GTA and Durham region. She has been teaching recreational and competitive dance to ages 3 to adult at a Durham region dance studiio for the past 22 years. Maria also carefully prepares her students for annual B.A.T.D exams up to and including Professional Examinations.
She has inspired many of her students to follow their passion for dance and continue on as dance educators, studio owners, theatre and dance performers, and choreographers in Canada and around the world. She continues to expand her knowledge and training by attending workshops, seminars and courses each year to continue to grow as a teacher and pass along her knowledge to her students.
Maria has adjudicated throughout Ontario and British Columbia. She is excited to adjudicate and hopes to inspire and encourage all dancers to work to reach their full potential and show their love for dance.
Shena Cameron-Prihoda
Shena is the Assistant Director of her family run “Cameron School of Dance” in Greenfield Park, Quebec. She has been dancing since she could walk and teaching for over 22 years at the studio her grandmother opened 75 years ago. Shena has been the Head Coach for their competition dance team for the last 22 years. She began her own competitive dance career at the tender age of 4 and has not left the “competition” milieu since. Her experience as a competition dancer, choreographer and adjudicator has allowed her to travel all over Canada and the United States. Shena is a certified B.A.T.D. associate teacher (British Association of Teachers of Dancing), accredited P.A.A. adjudicator (Professional Adjudicators Alliance), a certified Acrobatics Arts instructor (A.A certified) as well as C.I.D member (International Dance Council). She has trained in, taught and choreographed: Ballet; Pointe; Jazz; Highland; Lyrical; Musical Theater; Street; Stretch, Acrodance and Tap dance. Her students have won many national and international competitive awards and bursaries and they have as well gone on to professional careers in dance.
Shena has worked with artists from the Cirque de Soleil, École National de Cirque, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens as well as many other Nationally recognized organisations. She has been a dance instructor and choreographer for many International level figure skaters, gymnasts and Miss Fitness Contestants.
Shena also spent over 10 years working as a Certified Athletic Therapist (C.A.T.C) and Strength and Conditioning Coach (C.S.C.S) for many artistic athletes such as dancers, figure skaters, gymnasts, acrobats etc… She was a member of the medical teams for the 1998 Canada Winter Games, 2001 Jeux de la Francophonie as well as many other international athletic events. Shena dedicated over 10 years of her career educating dance professional s all over North America on dance injury management and dance injury prevention.
Shena has worked with artists from the Cirque de Soleil, École National de Cirque, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens as well as many other Nationally recognized organisations. She has been a dance instructor and choreographer for many International level figure skaters, gymnasts and Miss Fitness Contestants. Shena would like to wish all dancers and choreographers, the best of luck.
Shena also spent over 10 years working as a Certified Athletic Therapist (C.A.T.C) and Strength and Conditioning Coach (C.S.C.S) for many artistic athletes such as dancers, figure skaters, gymnasts, acrobats etc… She was a member of the medical teams for the 1998 Canada Winter Games, 2001 Jeux de la Francophonie as well as many other international athletic events. Shena dedicated over 10 years of her career educating dance professional s all over North America on dance injury management and dance injury prevention.
Mindy DeRose
Mindy is an accomplished dancer, teacher and choreographer for over 11 years who has taken the dance world by storm. She received all of her dance training at Annemarie’s Dance Academy, and brings with her many years of experience specializing in Jazz, Tap, Acrobatics, Lyrical and Ballet. During her years of training Mindy has had the opportunity and the privilege to compete at regional and national levels of competition across Canada and the United States. Mindy has won many Special Awards and overalls including the opportunity of dancing on the nationally televised Showstopper Finals in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Mindy’s passion and love for dance combined with her constant enthusiasm and charisma towards her students creates a positive and successful classroom environment. Her students have competed and have won numerous awards across Canada and the United States. Mindy has had the opportunity to work with a number of highly respected teachers and choreographers. Mindy has been recognized for her many talents with a number of Choreography Awards and Creative Concept Awards, she also choreographed a piece for the Dance Dance Canada show dance team which travelled to Greece and did multiple performances.
Mindy is very excited and honoured to be apart of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Stephan Dickson
From Toronto to New York & LA, Stephan Dickson has done it all: Swing, Latin Groove, Hip-Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Acrobatics, and Break-dancing.
Film/TV credits include: Mean Girls, Cheetah Girls, The Prince and Me, Big Voice, Making It Big, & Celtic Thunder's Storm. Stage credits include: The Doodlebops Together Forever Tour, High school musical, Beauty & the Beast, Footloose, & Into the Woods.
Starting his career at the Canadian Dance Company, Stephan went on to train at the Randolph Academy Triple Threat Program, where he added singing & dancing to his dynamic repertoire. He is also a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance, co-founder of JKS Entertainment, and is the Director of the boys program at Performers Dance Studio. Stephan was a choreographer on The Rocky Horror Show (The LOT), the award winning production Ragtime, and has won several choreographic awards for his work on "Titanic" (CCMP), and " Peter Pan" He is also the choreographer for the world premiere of Tweed-The Musical (IANA).
Nicole Dymianiw
Nicole, originally from Burlington, Ontario, has been performing for over 20 years where her love of dance began at the young age of 3. Her training has included many styles; jazz, tap, ballet, hip hop and lyrical. She has competed across North America being honoured with many awards and scholarships along the way. Nicole has had the opportunity to work with and take master classes from many professional choreographers including: Blake McGrath, Danny Davalos, Everett Smith, Trey Armstrong, Lane Alexander, Shawn Byfield, and many more.
Nicole is sought after for her unique and innovative approach to dance, which she currently instills in the classes that she instructs. As a dance instructor for both competitive and recreational students she is able to bring with her, her passion of dance and instill in her students what she has learned. She has been recognized for her excellence in choreography in regional and national competitions and her students have been recipients of many overall awards
Since its’ inception in 2010, Nicole has been a member of ‘Bringing Tap Back (BTB) which is dedicated to bringing tap dancing back to being presented on the main stage, under the direction of Everett Smith! Being a part of BTB has allowed Nicole to develop her tapping style further and to embrace her true passion of dance.
Nicole has recently become a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance and looks forward to sharing her knowledge and love of dance on the other side of the stage! Through her passion and love for dance, Nicole continues to motivate and inspire her students to become the best that they can be. It is her goal to instill positive and healthy attitudes in young, aspiring dancers for many years to come.
Keri Clark
Keri has been performing and teaching for over 20 years and brings with her an extensive knowledge of the Performing Arts, both in dance and drama. As a dancer involved in acrobatics, gymnastics, ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop, lyrical and musical theatre, she has had the privilege of training in New York City, Los Angeles, and Toronto. As an actress Keri has also had the opportunity to perform in television and film.
As a certified teacher with the British Association of Teacher’s of Dancing (Member B.A.T.D.), Canadian Dance Teacher’s Association (Associate C.D.T.A), and a former member of Dance Masters of America (D.M.A.), Keri has been involved with numerous dance schools across the Greater Toronto Area before Owning Rhythm Makers Dance Studio. Her extensive teaching experience is evident in the success of her students. Keri’s students have been the recipients of many honourable awards, winning numerous top marks in solo, duet and group categories. Keri’s sound knowledge is highly respected, where her students are routinely ranked above average in examinations. Her continuous involvement in teacher training programs, including Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers (A.D.A.P.T, )The Royal Winnipeg Ballet Summer Intensive, Dance Fuzion , O.I.P., and 509 Dance Collective, to name a few, ensures that all her students are taught the latest style and techniques in dance. Keri is also a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance and a Zumba Instructor.
As an award winning choreographer, Keri’s work has been featured in “CINDERELLA” (adaptation by John Foote), as well as “YOU-UNIQUE DANCE COLLECTIVE” (Toronto Centre for the Arts) a four-year running show. Keri’s passion for the art of dance allows her to share her knowledge and experiences with her students. Keri believes that dance is the truest form of self expression and acts as a positive outlet for the endless energy and emotion that today’s young people possess.
Joseph Corella
Joseph Corella has been seen on stage in many productions, including Broadway's All Shook Up, West Side Story 50th Anniversary Tour, Altar Boyz, Mr. Mistoffelees in CATS, and Guys & Dolls to name a few. He was dance captain for the 1st Broadway national tour of Grease and then became assistant choreographer/director for the 2nd national tour that recently went out on the road. In December he shot an episode for Disney's hit television show Wizards of Waverly Place, dancing with Selena Gomez. As well, he can also be seen in Walt Disney's film Geppetto with Usher & Drew Carey, choreographed by Jerry Mitchell. Joseph judges and teaches master classes all over the US and internationally. Look for Joseph in Bench Seat, a musical short film choreographed by Cris Judd, slated for release in 2011
Christina Digiuseppe
Christina Digiuseppe is an accomplished performer, dance instructor; choreographer and adjudicator, who loves to share her passion for the arts. Christina’s twenty years of dance training experience include, Broadway Dance Center, Quinte Ballet School, Edge for the Performing Arts, West Coast Dance Festival, and Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts where she majored in dance studies. As a performer and choreographer some of her credits include, Sears Canada, THE BAZAAR, Talent Defined, The Mike Bullard Show, Various Canadian fashion shows, The Orange Bowl Parade , Paramount Canada’s Wonderland, Hypnotiq Liquor, Benson and Hedges, and Swatch Watches. Christina has been a judge for several dance competitions across Ontario. As a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance, Christina believes that striving to encourage and inspire dancers artistically and intellectually can truly bring out the best in any individual who is passionate about the Arts. Throughout her ten years of teaching, Christina has become well known for her innovative choreography. She has won numerous choreography awards, overall awards, and her students have been recognized as Regional and National High score winners, Title winners, Scholarship Recipients as well as continued dance professionally. Christina is constantly striving to bring out the best in all of her students, helping them grow a strong foundation and a love for dance that will last a lifetime
Jennifer Campbell
Jennifer Campbell holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honors) Dance Degree as well as a Bachelor of Education (Dance and Social Sciences) Degree both from York University. She is a certified Acrobatic Arts Instructor and a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. She has successfully completed ten dance examinations in Ballet (R.A.D.), Jazz (C.D.T.A.), Tap (I.S.T.D.), and Modern (I.S.T.D.). She is the proud recipient of the York University Dance Education Award and is an active member of the Ontario College of Teachers.
Jennifer is an accomplished studio director since 2008, now serving over three-hundred dancers with eight instructors on staff. Her studio has been awarded Best Dance Studio in Southern Georgian Bay 2014, 2015, and 2016 and Best Summer Camp 2016. Jennifer is fluent in teaching and choreographing Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Acrobatics, Tap, Ballet, Jazz and Modern. Her choreographies and students have received numerous first overall awards, choreographic awards, best in style awards, and scholarships. Jennifer is contracted regularly by schools across Simcoe County to deliver an effective and engaging dance curriculum to students. She is frequently requested to perform and choreograph for community and corporate events in the Southern Georgian Bay region. Jennifer stays current in her field by hosting and attending master classes and seminars with North American dance professionals.
Heather Davies: BFA, BEd, S.R.B. Associate, PAA
Heather is a diverse choreographer, dance educator and adjudicator specializing in classical and contemporary ballet. She is a graduate of the York University BFA Honours Program, focusing on choreography and dance education as well as a graduate of The University of Ottawa’s BEd program specializing in elementary education.
Heather is an accredited dance teacher through the Society of Russian Ballet and presents students annually for Vaganova exams. Her knowledge of ballet is diverse and includes training in Vaganova, Cecchetti and RAD methods allowing her to critique aspiring dancers with an intelligent and knowledgeable eye. Her training also includes years of jazz, lyrical, modern, contemporary and hip hop training. Heather is a strong believer in continuing education and continues to train as a dancer and educator to stay fresh and up to date with the ever-changing industry.
Heather has worked as a choreographer and teacher throughout Canada. She currently resides in Vancouver, B.C. where she works with many local, passionate dancers of all ages. Heather is currently choreographing a local ballet production of The Wizard of Oz.
Cassandra Caccioppoli
Cassandra Caccioppoli began dancing at the age of 4 at Bojangles Dance Arts in Kitchener, Waterloo. She is a very versatile dancer being trained in various styles such as Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Pointe, Hiphop, Musical Theatre, lyrical and contemporary. Throughout her 13 years of competitive dancing she competed across North America winning numerous overalls and National Titles including Mini Miss Dance of Canada Chapter 43, Pulse National Elite Protégé and Break The Floor’s National JUMP VIP. She has trained with some of the best in the Industry, working close with Gil Duldulao, Brian Friedman,Tyce Diorio, Luther Brown, Dave Scott and Jeff Dimitriou. Cassandra has worked and performed in several music videos and live performances with artists such as Janet Jackson, Demi Lovato, Victoria Duffield, Shawn Desman, Cascada and MATTEL. She has also has landed feature dance roles in the feature films Bravetown starring Lucas Till and Carrie starring Julianne Moore and Chloe Grace Moretz. In 2014 Cassandra had the privilege to perform in front of thousands for the World Pride Closing Ceremonies. Most recently she has been working as one of the Assistant Choreographers to Gil Duldulao for the Janet Jackson Unbreakable World Tour. Cassandra is thrilled to share her love of dance with the next generation.
Theresa Di Meglio
Founder / Artistic Director FAME School Of Performing Arts, BFA, PAA
Theresa Di Meglio is the artistic director and choreographer of FAME School Of
Performing Arts, a musical theatre school she founded in 2000. For the past 16 years she has taught all ages and levels of dance and musical theatre. As a dance and performance educator she believes in the artistic potential of every student. In the studio Theresa
emphasizes creative expression as well as challenging her students to perfect their
technique during classes and rehearsals. She has managed the creative vision of the company, bringing full length musicals to the stage 3 times a year where her triple threat students have the opportunity to act, sing and dance a full length musical.
Theresa received a BFA honours degree in Dance from York University. Her early dance training was through the Russian society of ballet. Under the artistic direction of Gilly Chaplin, she trained in the professional program at The Woodbridge School of Dance, where she completed her ballet exams. In addition to ballet, Theresa has trained
extensively in Musical Theatre, jazz, modern, and contemporary. Theresa is also a
qualified dance adjudicator with the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Theresa’s work on set includes dance choreography for a Barbie commercial, a Much Music Video Dance Party commercial, choreography for YTV station ID’s and The Blue Smarties promotions for the Much Music Video Awards. Most recently Theresa has done the choreography for Royal Wood’s music video Good To Be Young.
Theresa maintains private classes where she coaches students on audition techniques, monologue reading and delivery, and preparations for auditions for fine arts programs at high school and post secondary levels. For more information and bookings visit
Nicole Clinton
Born and raised in the small town of Ayr, Ontario, Nicole began her dancing career at the age of 3 in Paris, Ontario. Across the years, Nicole travelled wherever her love for dance took her, from Burlington to Kitchener and ended her competitive career where she started, in Paris, Ontario. Over the years, Nicole gained experience and completed exams both in Russian and RAD Ballet. Nicole has also trained under the professional hand of Miss Paula Morgan of L.A. Miss Paula has her own technique which consists of three levels and Nicole has been training and working with this technique since the age of 10. Miss Nicole has attended many workshops and training classes to improve her passion for dance and along with that she has travelled to New York City and taken classes at Steps on Broadway and has also travelled with Carnival Cruise Lines and performed with them. Miss Nicole has also performed with the Toronto Raptors at half time and is looking forward to similar opportunities in the near future. Currently, Nicole gives her teaching time to both CORE Dance Project in Paris, Ontario, and Innovative Dance in Baden, Ontario. In 2015, Nicole received the Young Choreographers Award from Shine Dance Competition receiving a score of 95 in the senior category. Nicole’s students have gone on to compete for 3 consecutive years at both Shine and Bedazzled Finals, winning 1st runner-up all 3 times. Nicole is currently a part of the Wilfrid Laurier Brantford Campus competitive dance team and is looking forward to teaching a university competitive team. She looks forward to sharing her love for dance with those up on the stage and wishes everyone competing the best of luck!
Michelle Crossman
Michelle has had a passion for dance ever since she can remember, and was fortunate to grow up as a classically trained dancer in the styles of ballet (RAD), jazz, tap and acro. The more she immersed into the world of dance and performance the more styles she fell in love with – now also trained in and focused on hiphop, contemporary and burlesque. Her professional dance career started when she joined Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. After that Michelle focused more on the commercial side of the dance industry where some of her credits include Mariana’s Trench, Kardinal Official, Fito Blanco, Keshia Chante, Hedley, Nelly Furtado, and touring with the musical theatre cast of Aladdin put on my Creativiva Inc.
Teaching and breaking into the choreography world was a natural next step, having the pleasure to choreograph for Canadian recording artists Craig Smart, Foxx Williams, Andrea Godin, and young musician Sebastian Ellis. Michelle has been teaching part time for the past 4 years in hip hop, jazz, and contemporary. Michelle continues to explore in her career in as many fascists as possible, enjoying every minute of it
Meaghan Dietrich
Meaghan is no ordinary Ballerina! Beginning her dance training locally, Meaghan was a competitive dancer earning various Titles and Scholarships. Accepted to the National Ballet School of Canada at age 12, she studied with leading ballet professionals for 6 years. Graduating with honors and the need to see the world, Meaghan joined the cruise life, traveling as a lead dancer with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Lines. Hungry for more, Meaghan moved to Los Angeles where she studied at the Edge Performing Arts Centre on a full year scholarship where she studied Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Hip Hop Jazz Funk, Voice and Comedy Improve. Meaghan has always had a passion for teaching. Wanting to inspire the next generation of dancers, Meaghan returned back home and began teaching and choreographing all styles of dance. Her choreography has received various awards, with many of her solos and groups receiving Overalls and Titles. Her strong belief in a classically trained dancer has lead to a creative and inspiring teaching method based on the marriage of artistry and technique. Meaghan is an accredited Ballet teacher through the Society of Russian Ballet and annually presents students for Vaganova Examinations. Her knowledge of ballet is vast and includes Vaganova, RAD and Cecchetti methods. While her forte is Ballet, her diverse training allows Meaghan to critique all styles of dance with accuracy. There is no doubt she was born to inspire others to reach their fullest potential. Meaghan brings her passion for performance into her daily endeavors, always leaving a lasting impression with her graceful walk and electric smile.
Catina Duscio
Catina Duscio has devoted the past eleven years to encouraging and training young artists. She is recognized as an outstanding technician in all dance genres. From pointe shoes to hip hop, her strengths have proved to have no boundaries as a performer, instructor and choreographer. Miss. Duscio’s true joy is bringing her creativity, experience and technical skill to the stage for an audience to enjoy and into the classroom where she can challenge and excite her students. By focusing on the technique that stems from the base of ballet to encouraging students to push artistic boundaries, there are no limits in the classroom.
Miss. Duscio is endlessly striving for new inspiration and creating unique work exuding passion and emotion. Miss Duscio has directed, instructed and choreographed for many studios, workshops and respected educational institutions over the years with great success and continues to pass on her love for the art. Over the years as a performer as well as a teacher and choreographer her competitive work has received numerous entertainment, choreography, high score, and overall awards at competitions across Canada and the USA. She also choreographs live shows and music videos including the pop duo HighDiamond. Catina is one of the lead singers of the duo, performing alongside artists such as Vita Chambers, LMFAO, Red Foo, Fito Blanko, etc. The duo’s single ‘Broken’ making it to the Top 100 charts in Canada.
Her demand for quality alongside her very approachable personality gives her the ability to encourage and motivate her students at every age and level and push them beyond their comfort zone to be the very best they can be.
Miss Duscio feels in order to keep current, in shape and prepared, she must continue to train in dance, vocal and acting. Catina believes in experiencing as much as possible to enrich her life and feed her passion for the art of dance and music. Catina is always excited to share everything she knows in hopes of inspiring others.
Patricia (Wegg) Coulter
Patricia (Wegg) Coulter is the Director of Dance Techniques, Clinton, Ontario. Patricia has over 15 years experience teaching classes in ballet, pointe, acrobatics, tumbling, flexibility, contortion, tap, jazz, hip hop, beginner musical theatre and beginner ballroom. Patricia’s unique style of instruction keeps her students interested and engaged.
Dancing from the age of four, teaching and performing for over 15 years, Patricia has developed advanced skills and training qualities through both professional certification and involvement in the industry. She has obtained her teacher’s licence through the BATD (British Association of Teachers of Dancing) in the Acrobatic, Ballet and Freestyle branches, as well as certified in Acrobatic Arts. She is a proud member of the PAA (Professional Adjudicators Alliance).
Many of her students have successfully completed their teacher certification with the BATD, have been selected to speciality dance High Schools, attended Summer programs at National levels, been selected into the tv show “The Next Step” and partook with Team Canada.
Patricia has a natural warmness and nurturing quality which she shares with all of her students. She partakes yearly in a non-profit fundraiser “dancing with the stars of Huron County” where she is the pro dancer and has placed in the top three many times.
Patricia continues to be extremely passionate about dance, with ongoing study of modern teaching methods, choreography and technique training. She
believes there is always room for growth and improvement. “A dancer or a dance teacher is never finished learning.”
Kirstie Cameron
Kirstie Cameron is a Canadian professional dancer who has trained and performed in Canada, NYC and LA. She is very passionate and adores what she does. She is trained in many different styles including jazz, hip hop, contemporary, ballet, tap, musical theatre, urban styles, etc. Kirstie trained at studios in both Nova Scotia and Ontario, and has competed in many competitions in North America. After graduating high school she moved to NYC where she obtained her Certificate of Excellence with Honors in Commercial Dance from Peridance Capezio Center. Some of her performing credits include: an official dance video for Enrique Iglesias, Good Morning America, up and coming artists Nathan Davis Jr. as well as Greg Marks, and Carnival NYC & LA.
Kirstie is always excited to share her love for dance through teaching and choreographing. She teaches workshops at various studios in Canada and the United States, in places such as New York, New Jersey, Atlantic City, Nova Scotia, Calgary, and more. She guest choreograph's competition routines for studios and teaches at summer intensives, the majority of these being in Nova Scotia. Kirstie has also taught at conventions/competition workshops such as at Millennium Productions. She has had the chance to learn a lot as an assistant choreographer on events and performances such as the Miss California Pageant.
Kirstie loves to help dancers grow, help them achieve their goals, and spread the happiness of dance. She excited to be a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance so she can motivate dancers, encourage performance and technique, and give tips/advice to advance their dancing.
She appreciates the opportunities she has received so far and can't wait to keep doing more!
Shine Bright.
Genevieve Fullerton
While growing up in Georgetown, ON, Gen discovered her love for
movement and for all things music-related. She began dancing at the
age of 4 and taking piano lessons at age 5, and still continues her
training to this day. Gen possesses over 14 years of leadership
experience and training, “Associate” certification (Tap, Jazz,
Acro [stage]) from the British Association of Teachers of Dancing,
“Intermediate” ballet certification from the Royal Academy of Dancing,
Piano (Grade 10) & Music Theory certification (Grade 2) from the Royal Conservatory of Music, and she is a graduate of the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts’ Triple Threat college program. Gen can most often be found tap dancing, teaching, and training throughout the Greater Toronto Area. She can also be seen on stage in plays, musicals, and multi-disciplinary performances, and she is
currently venturing into the Film & TV industry under the representation of
The Bella Agency.
Gen has set out on a mission to reach as many people as possible;
her goal is to inspire joy and creativity, encourage critical thinking,
and emotionally connect with those around her. She believes that this
is possible both from the stage and in the classroom.
Visit her website,
genfullerton.com, to stay up-to-date with news and events.
LISAN DINGMAN-NAGY
Lisan has been dancing since the age of 7, studying the Cecchetti ballet method under Beverley Feder with The Niagara Civic Ballet Company in Niagara Falls, New York and Jean Spear with the Sarasota Ballet in Florida. She was successful in passing all of her Cecchetti Ballet Exams from Grade 1 to Advanced 2, as well as receiving her Grade 9 Piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music, Toronto. Lisan continued her studies at the State University of New York at Purchase, receiving her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Dance in 1984. Some of her teachers in New York were Ivan Nagy, Betti-Jane Sills, Roseanna Seravalli, Kazuko Hirabayashi, Mel Wong and Larry Clark. She performed in various ballets such as Balanchine's Serenade, Petrouchka, Les Sylphides, Les Noces staged by Nijinsky, Nutcracker and numerous original modern dance pieces. In her senior year, at the request of the Dean of Dance at SUNY Purchase, Lisan was asked to teach ballet to the actors and actresses for their degrees. Her love of teaching ballet was discovered. She continued her training at several summer schools at The National Ballet School, Toronto and The Royal Winnipeg School of Ballet, Manitoba, obtaining her teaching certification from the Cecchetti Society of Canada in both her Associate degree (1988) and Licentiate Degree (1992). Lisan is a proud member of the (P.A.A.) Professional Adjudicator's Alliance.
For the past 33 years, Lisan has been the Owner, Artistic Director and Dance Instructor at The Dingman-Nagy School of Ballet Arts, in St. Davids, Ontario. She has been successful in teaching her students the art of Classical ballet (Cecchetti Method) as well as different styles of Modern Dance (Horton, Graham, Limon styles). She has successfully entered students in the Cecchetti Ballet exams from Grades 1 - Advanced 2, as well as coaching senior dancers for their teaching degrees. She has choreographed many ballet, modern and lyrical dance groups as well as solos, duets and trios over the years which have received top awards at Competitions and Festivals throughout Ontario. As well as teaching, Lisan has been a dance adjudicator for dance festivals in Ontario.
Lisan has shared her love of ballet to not only dancers, but gymnasts, figure skaters and hockey players. Many of her students have been accepted into professional ballet programs at the National Ballet School in Toronto and the Royal Winnipeg School, in Manitoba. Graduates of her studio have continued on with their dance training at Ryerson University, York University, George Brown College and Sheridan College, as well as jobs dancing at Disney World, Florida and on Cruise Ships. Some have been successful in landing a spot on the Cheerleading Squads for The Hamilton Tiger Cats, The Toronto Argonauts and also the BC Lions, in Vancouver BC.
Although Lisan's career has been strongly into ballet and modern dance, she also has a love for the other dance genres such as jazz, tap, hip-hop and musical theatre. She understands the dedication and hard work it takes to become an excellent dancer, performer and professional
In the dance world. She strives to give all students the guidance and instruction it takes to reach their highest potential.
Leah Cameron
Leah Cameron began dancing at the age of four and has continued to enhance her career ever since. After focusing on classical styles of dance in prestigious training programs such as the Joffrey Ballet School and Pacific Dance Arts, she made the move to Toronto. From performing in the MMVA’s with LMFAO to guest appearing in a production of Giselle, Leah’s versatility is letting her explore multiple venues of dance. While in Toronto she has had the privilege of working with Jasmyn Fyffe Dance as an apprentice for ‘Pulse’ where she has performed at the Next Stage Theatre Festival, Dance TO Showcase, and more, BOSS Dance Company where she competed in the Choreographer’s Cup in LA, Diamond Dancers Entertainment where she was the opening performance for Elton John (Hot Pink Party – NYC), Breakaway Entertainment, Sonder Dance Collective and other freelance work such as Jully Black’s music video “Do You Love Me” choreographed by Hollywood Jade. As a choreographer she has had the opportunity to choreograph for Pacific Dance Arts’ Mexico tour, Diamond Dancers’ samba and disco shows, and Sonder Dance Collective’s Pride set and Video Diaries. Most recently she choreographed ‘Perception’ for New Blue’s Un, Deux, Trois festival. With 10 years of teaching experience in every age level and being a part of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance, Leah is very excited to share her knowledge as a dance adjudicator.
Margarita Camera
Margarita was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. Her versatility in dance stems from exploring different genres throughout her life. She has trained extensively in Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Lyrical, Contemporary, Acrobatics, Highland and Greek Dancing. She competed at a National and International Level with her competitive dance team, winning numerous overalls and national titles.
Her love of the arts allowed her to excel in the dance program at Wexford Collegiate School for the Arts. She participated in the Special Olympics opening ceremonies and was a member of the Canadian International Tap Team. After completing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University, Margarita went on to open her own dance studio in Courtice, Ontario in 2004. She continues to oversee her growing dance studio and now coaches and mentors over 300 students. Her students travel to multiple competitions yearly where she receives overall awards, special awards, dance-off championships and choreography awards.
She owned and operated her own dance competition – GLiTTER Dance Competition for 1 year. Margarita took her love of dance into schools, where she volunteers her time as a judge for the local school competition called “Durham’s Best Dance Crew”.
Margarita’s credentials are far-reaching and extensive. She has trained since the age of 3 with the British Association of Teacher’s of Dancing in Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Highland. She holds an Elementary Diploma in the Ballet Division, Associates and Member’s Diploma in the Stage Division, and an Associates Diploma in the Highland Division. She is a fully certified Zumba Instructor and just recently completed her Level 1 Acrobatic Arts Certification.
Margarita has worked for many organizations teaching dance across the city including U Got Dance and The City Of Oshawa. She has volunteered her time and choreographed routines for many benefits and functions. Margarita believes that knowledge is power and continues to improve and learn by attending workshops, conventions and master classes in order to progress in dance. She is proud to be a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Kieren Day
Kieren Day’s passion for the arts started at the young age of five and he has since turned that passion into his career. Kieren attended York University for their BA Program in Dance and has extensive training in Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, Musical Theatre, and Tap. He has successfully graduated from the four year teaching program with Dance Masters of America, doing his exams in both Ballet and Jazz, and most recently working towards his certification with CDTA in Jazz. Currently, Kieren teaches in Barrie, Ontario at Moving Art Centre for Performing Arts and has done so for over eight years now. He also works with the Mariposa Skating Company teaching some of their off-ice programs, and has been lucky enough to be a guest teacher/choreographer in places such as North Carolina and Michigan. Kieren has won various awards at dance competitions around Ontario and the United States for his creativity and unique choreography. He is proud to have received other notable awards such as “Artist of the Year” from Simcoe County's LGBTQ+ Community, as well as a THEA award for his role as Choreographer for a local production “Honk!”. Outside the classroom, Kieren is very involved in the theatre community, from choreographing several musicals to even performing in a few himself! One of Kieren’s favourite performance experiences was dancing down Main Street in Disney’s Magic Kingdom for a parade celebrating dance around the world. Kieren strongly believes there is always room to learn and grow in one's craft and is absolutely thrilled to now be a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance to do just that.
LAYLA CORNACCHIA
Layla Cornacchia has been apart of the dance community since the age of 5. She began her dance training in Ballet, Jazz, and Tap at the age of 5 and eventually went on to find a passion for many styles such as Hip Hop, Modern, lyrical, contemporary, acro, and musical theatre.
Layla’s successes in the competitive dance world inspired her to continue her education at the prestigious Randolph Academy For The Performing Arts in Toronto where she trained in Acting, Dancing, And Singing and landed principle roles in productions such as The Last Days Of Judas Iscariot (The Annex Theatre) and Legally Blonde: The Musical (The Randolph Theatre) Layla has been teaching since the age of 15, and teaches dancers from ages 3-18. Layla has pursued a professional career in both acting and dancing, and has worked professionally in both film, and television.
Layla is an Acrobatic Arts certified teacher, a graduate of Associated Dance Arts For Professional Teachers (ADAPT) Program, and has most recently completed her Alixa Flexibility courses from module 1-3. Layla is an award winning choreographer and has created unique and successful routines for reputable studios across the durham region. Layla is a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance, and Above all Layla aspires to uplift and inspire the dancers she works with.
Sydney Faulkner
Sydney found her passion for dance at age five, training extensively in a variety of dance styles including classical ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, modern, musical theatre, and acrobatics. She competed with the Longlade Dance Company for twelve years in both Canada and the United States receiving many overall awards at Regional and National competitions. During this time, Sydney received full scholarships to Dance Educators of America’s Summer Ballet Seminar at the University of Nevada, as well as Sheer Elite International’s Summer Ballet Intensive. Sydney graduated from Cawthra Park’s Regional Arts Program as a dance major where she was a member of the auditioned Dance Repertoire Ensemble, performing and training both locally and in the United States with a focus on modern dance. Throughout this time she also performed in Cawthra Park’s production of Sweet Charity as well as Etobicoke Musical Productions’ 42ndStreet. Sydney continued on to receive an Honours Bachelor of Science from Wilfrid Laurier University where she was a Captain and Choreographer of the Competitive Dance Team, leading and training with a team that was highly recognized and awarded at varsity-level competitions across Ontario. Sydney received an Award of Excellence in Dance Instruction from Laurier Athletics & Recreation. Sydney is an Associate Member of the Canadian Dance Teacher’s Association certified in Classical Ballet, and a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. She has been a teacher, choreographer, and guest instructor at a variety of studios across Ontario for the past seven years, and has been recognized for her innovative choreography at competitions across North America. Performance opportunities have taken Sydney to several notable locations including Downtown Disney World’s Mainstage, the 2014 Miss Universe Pageant, and Boots & Hearts Music Festival.
Colleen Dingeldein
Colleen Dingeldein is a graduate of York University School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with Honours specializing in Choreography and Performance. Since graduating Colleen has become a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. In addition, she has teaching and choreography experience in many different styles of dance. Colleen continues to work for many reputable dance studios throughout the Greater Toronto Area. She has also been a guest teacher at many dance intensives and workshops throughout Ontario.
During her final year at York University, Colleen studied under Modern dance artist, Julia Sasso, participating in choreography and performance intensives. Prior to her University dance career, Colleen trained for fifteen years in Ballet, Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary and Hip-Hop. During this time, she achieved her Royal Academy of Dance Ballet examinations to level Advanced Two and successfully completed her Royal Academy of Dance Tap and Jazz examinations with honors.
In Colleen’s second year at York University she co-founded the York Lions Dance Energy competitive dance team. While acting as co-captain of York Lions Dance Energy, she was chosen as a choreographer and received numerous recognitions and special awards for her choreography. In addition to performing and choreographing for the York University Department of Dance productions, Colleen has performed in the Bazaar Dance Showcase, Ray-Dance Choreographer’s Ball and the Ignition Choreographer’s Showcase. In the past, Colleen has worked closely with Echo Dance Company, an Urban/Contemporary dance company in Toronto as a performer and assistant stage manager for their productions. She was also chosen to perform at Playground 2016, a devised theatre production at York University under the artistic direction of Victoria Gubiani. Over the past year Colleen has developed a pre-school dance syllabus, where she teaches young children the fundamentals of ballet. In the past, Colleen has participated in various master classes from professional dance artists and choreographers such as Greta Hodgkinson, Mia Michaels, Mandy Moore, Twitch and Blake McGrath.
Colleen continues to learn and grow as a dance artist and choreographer and hopes to share and explore her love and passion for the art of dance with her students and others. She is excited and motivated to share her knowledge, experience and training in dance to instill the foundations of dance and creativity with other dance artists.
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Katherine Clarke - BFA - Dance, SRB ADV. Examiner, RAF-BBATI, PAA
After graduating from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School and attending the Alberta Ballet School, Katherine went on to pursue her classical ballet career with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company. She was also a member of ProArte Danza under the direction of Roberto Campanella and Robert Glumbeck, Cadence Contemporary Ballet Company and can be seen in the Paramount Pictures film Save the Last Dance. Katherine is a graduate of Ryerson University holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance and most recently holds her advanced teaching diploma and is an examiner for the Society of Russian Ballet in Canada. Miss Katherine has taught ballet, contemporary and modern syllabus and choreography at studios across Canada, primarily in Stratford and the GTA, and her students have gone on to dance with ballet schools and companies around the globe. She has won numerous choreography awards for her creative and innovative routines and has brought students to International Ballet competitions across North America. She has also completed The Bolshoi Ballet Academy Teacher training program in New York city and is one of the few teachers in Canada to have completed this prestigious program. Katherine is now a proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance and will continue to judge at competitions across the country.
Amanda Ferras
Amanda began her dance career over 20 years ago. She trained competitively at Carol Kitchen’sDance Center in Brantford, ON and Lisa Naves Dance Company in Simcoe, ON. Her extensive training was in many genres including Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, Acro and Contemporary.
She was twice given the opportunity to attend workshops with Debra Brown where her talent was quickly recognized and was invited to perform in a large production with the Cirque Du Soleil performers. She has also dabbled in the modelling and film industries.
She has continued to grow and nurture her passion for dance as a teacher and choreographer where her choreography has been recognized at many competitions. She is a member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance (P.A.A), she has completed the Junior Segments of ADAPT and Acrobatique Teacher certification, and is looking forward to becoming a member and continuing her education with Dance Masters of America and Acrobatic Arts.
Most recently, Amanda has continued sharing her love of dance by organizing and running her own annual Summer Intensive Program, performing in the Toronto Argonauts Opening Ceremony and the Toronto World Pride Parade.
Amanda is passionate and strives to encourage her students to reach their full growth and potential as well as continuing to learn herself and pass on her knowledge of the ever-changing art that is dance.
Samantha Ryan Campbell
Samantha Ryan is a natural performer and engaging teacher who embraces all dance has to offer. A former gymnast, turned dance entertainer, hails from Windsor, but not before stops in LA, Michigan, and NYC in an effort to discover what a career in dance might look like.
Samantha Ryan completed the Broadway Dance Centre International Student Visa Professional Program in NYC before she made her decision to move to Toronto and explore opportunities as an aspiring professional and hasn’t looked back. She has gained certification as an instructor in Acrobatic Arts and Cecchetti ballet. She is on Faculty withDance Attack and is a qualified dance adjudicator with the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. Samantha Ryan continues to teach in studio, at workshops and on contract for schools within the Toronto District School Board. In addition to teaching, Samantha Ryan is often contracted to create choreography for competitive soloists, teams and school play ensembles. Choreography for school stage productions have so far included Annie, Shrek, Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan, The Lion King and for this year Frozen. In addition to teaching and doing choreography, Samantha is a professional entertainer as well. She a member of ACTRA and Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists. She has experience on stage and in front of the camera, having only recently wrapped up filming in Toronto as a dancer for the movie Work It, a coming of age dance comedy scheduled for release on Netflix in 2021.
When not training at The Underground Dance Centre, City Dance Corps and DanceLifeX, you can find Samantha performing as a lead dancer with Dark Dance Company, Unapologetic Dance Collective and also by invitation with some of Toronto’s most revered dancers at the industry’s most celebrated events including Toronto’s Choreographers Ball and Fever after Dark.
Madison Dal Bello
Born and raised in Guelph, Ontario Madison Dal Bello is an energetic dancer and choreographer. Since the age of four Madison has had a passion for entertaining an audience and creating a fun loving atmosphere. She has been furthering her dance career in both Canada and the United States. She has recently graduated from Centennial College Dance Performance Program in April 2019, currently in her third year of Dance Masters of America’s teacher training school and is also a proud member of PAA! Madison recently has opened up her own studio in Guelph in hopes to produce working dancers into the dance industry. She is trained in all genres of dance but excels in her clean and unique jazz choreography. Madison loves to travel and experience the world of dance and culture, she is looking forward to train at Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles California for their certificate program during the summer.
Nancy Floreani
Nancy has been involved in dance all of her life and has over 30+ years teaching experience in all styles and genres. She is a Life Time Member of The Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA), Fully Certified in Acrobatic Arts, a Fitness Instructor, and trained Instructor of Stotts Pilates Matwork Elementary through Advanced. Nancy is also proud member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Nancy hails from Northern Ontario and has lived there all her life. She studied Russian Ballet along with Tap, Jazz and Modern with Lisa Ciccone and the Society of Russian Ballet and began her teaching career over 40 years ago teaching for her hometown studio. She founded her own studio NDAD (Nancy Delmonte Academy of Dance, now called Northern Diamonds Academy of Dance) in Timmins Ontario in1991. Throughout her extensive teaching career, Nancy annually prepared and entered her students in ballet and stage exams with the CDTA in all levels with excellent result, and over the years has won multiple choreography, entertainment and overall high score awards at various competitions throughout Ontario. In 2013 Nancy handed the reigns of her studio over to one of her former students. Nancy continues to teach classes and coach privately at a variety of dance and fitness studios in the area, and is a sought after teacher, choreographer. She has always inspired her students to follow their passion, and many of her former students are currently working professionally as dance educators, or currently working and performing in theater, stage and television. Nancy continues to expand her knowledge and training by attending workshops, seminars and a variety of courses to continue to grow as a teacher and trainer. Nancy is also a former Registered Nurse, and as she has grown both older and wiser, she has devoted these last few years to studying the science of movement. She works to encouraging proper alignment, safe stretching and proper strength training to her students to prevent career ending injuries. She teaches private and open rehabilitation and strength training classes to dancers and anyone no matter what fitness level. She is excited to adjudicate and to share her years of experience and knowledge with the talented dancers on stage. She hopes to inspire and encourage all dancers to reach their full potential and follow their passion.
Athena Ethier
Athena is a small town teacher/choreographer with a big passion for the art of dance. Athena hopes to Instil her love for the art in all dancers she comes across. Throughout the last decade, Athena has obtained teaching qualifications from many highly esteemed organizations. Athena holds an Associate teaching certificate from the ISTD, trained in modern theatre and tap dance faculty. A special interest in Acrobatics led Athena to gaining qualification from Acrobatic Arts (AAC2), Aerial Dance Academy and Alixa Flexibility. Athena has gained certified adjudicator status from both Acrobatic Arts and Acro Dance Teachers Association, as well as being a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance. Athena is a certified instructor with Progressing Ballet Technique, and a Certified Instructor with International Dance Teaching Standards. During her early training, Athena grew up training in RAD ballet, completing graded and vocational examinations, as well as completing all her ISTD tap and modern graded and vocational examinations. Athena competed through many competitions. Due to her history of being a competitive dancer herself, Athena loves to watch her students along the same path she grew up with. Athena continues to train and choreograph for students ages 2-adult for examinations and competitions with great success. Aside from dance teaching, Athena has a career in health care and loves that her knowledge of anatomy and physiology passes along to her students and helps keep them safe in their training.
Madeline DeLuca
Madeleine DeLuca has been involved in the dance community since she was three years old. From Hamilton, Ontario she grew up training under the instruction of Christine Laska at CM Dancing. Madeleine trained and competed in all styles and has won various overall awards throughout her competitive dance career. As well as competing, Madeleine was able to experience the dance scene in various metropolis cities such as New York, and Los Angeles where she was able to learn from and train under world renowned choreographers at various conventions, festivals, competitions and other dance events. Along with being involved at her studio, Madeleine also had the opportunity to perform with her high school dance team. The team traveled to Miami, Florida to perform in the 2010 Orange Bowl Halftime Show with Kool and the Gang.
Upon graduating high school, Madeleine attended Brock University in St. Catharines Ontario, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts with a concentration in Dramatic Arts, and a Bachelor of Education. During her five years at Brock University, she became heavily involved in Brock University’s Dance Team. She became a member, choreographer and instructor within her first year. In 2016, Madeleine took on the role of the teams’ President where she was able to learn leadership strategies which eventually brought her team to victory at the varsity level competitions.
Madeleine now works as an OCT certified teacher and dance educator for the Hamilton Wentworth Catholic District School Board at both the Elementary and Secondary level. She has worked at various high schools within the board allowing her to teach and inspire students at all different levels. She has organized and choreographed various shows and performances and has become heavily involved in each school’s individual dance teams. Madeleine also continues her passion for dance by working as an instructor/choreographer at CM Dancing. Madeleine loves to see the growth in her students and strives to create a positive environment for her students to learn. Madeleine is proud to be a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance.
Kalene Corcoran
Kalene Corcoran is an accomplished dancer, award-winning choreographer and educator. She found her love and passion for dance at a young age and quickly began training in an array of styles ranging from classical to modern dance. She has been trained in many art forms, specializing in contemporary, hip-hop, acrobatics, and jazz, as well as lyrical, tap and ballet.
She has also been professionally trained in the Cecchetti art form of ballet. Kalene is a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance (PAA) and is certified in the following dance curriculums:
*Acrobatic Arts PreSchool
*Acrobatic Arts Module 1
*Alixa Flexibility
*Progressive Ballet Technique
Kalene is a Seneca College Graduate, where she obtained her Honours Business Diploma, after having specialized in Contemporary Dance at the Conteur Dance Academy, allowing her to deeply explore the beauty of art through dance, under the Direction of Eryn Waltman and Dani Matte.
Kalene has danced in several shows at York University, performed as a background dancer for local Toronto based artists, as well as made appearances in several Shawn Desman music videos. Kalene has been a guest choreographer all over Muskoka and the GTA, as well as participates in Mental Health and Wellness Conferences in local Elementary and Secondary Schools. Kalene created and lead the formation of Seneca College’s Dance Team and was asked to join the Canadian National Dance team 3 times to travel to Germany and Austria to compete in the World Dance Championships, placing third in the world.
Kalene has choreographed alongside several professional dancers and choreographers and takes what she has learned from them and applies it to her own methods of teaching. Her love of dance and passion for learning never stops. Kalene continues to travel to California and New York city to expand her depths of creativity and artistic voice. Kalene continues to perform and teach and will always encourage her students to push for their dreams and greatest potential.
She uses her life experiences when choreographing and encourages her dancers to search for the same. She is always eager to expand her teaching syllabus and find unique things to apply to her own work. Kalene is very excited to teach and adjudicate this season and wishes all dancers the best of luck!
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Angela Chandrapal
Angela Chandrapal is an accomplished dancer, actor, singer, instructor and adjudicator. Her passion for dance has led her to continue her education where she graduated with a B.F.A in Performance Dance with honours from Ryerson University. Angela is a current Actra Apprentice member working in the television industry, and has had the opportunity to work with notable choreographers such as Amy Wright. Within her professional dance career, she has performed in the full length theatre production “Follow Your Heart” with Evolution Dance Theatre, the Mary Kay Convention with Toronto choreographer Jeff Dimitriou, FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola, the Official Tree Lighting Ceremony in Dundas Square, the opening ceremony of the Pan Am Games by Cirque Du Soleil and renowned choreographer Luther Brown, and much more. She has also toured internationally to Dubai on contemporary contracts with Creativiva. As a company member and choreographer of TDC Entertainment, Angela performs at many high profile corporate events throughout the year. In addition, she has toured with an outreach program that brings musical theatre to those in need. Angela loves teaching children and engaging their imagination through storytelling, singing, and dance. Her experience includes singing and dancing at children’s events for Rogers Communications, McDonald’s, and Home Depot.
Angela has been teaching dance for over 10 years in the styles of Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, and Tap. She has also worked as a guest artist in schools across the Greater Toronto Area instructing, choreographing, and curating final presentations. As an adjudicator, Angela has facilitated and judged auditions for high school Arts programs. Angela continues to train and expand her knowledge so that she can share more of her love and passion for dance and the arts.
Justine Fraser
Justine Fraser is a professional performer, choreographer, and dance educator. Originally from Vancouver BC, she began her professional training at Pacific Dance Arts, under the direction of Beijing Dance Academy’s Master Teacher: Li Yaming. Here, Justine trained in all styles of dance, with a pre-professional focus on both classical ballet and contemporary dance styles.
As a student, Justine spent her summers training at a variety of ballet schools on scholarship. Some of these included Boston Ballet School, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Alonzo King Lines, and the Banff Centre for Performing Arts.
In 2009, Justine represented Canada as a finalist dancer in both the (NYC), and as a semi-finalist soloist in the 2008 .
Upon graduation, Justine received a scholarship to begin her B.F.A. at the Alonzo King Lines Dance Centre, in San Francisco, CA. Here, her training broadened to include Modern Dance Technique (HORTON), Commercial Jazz, Percussion, Gyrokinesis work, Choreographic Process, and Neo-classical Ballet. As an emerging artist, she has had the pleasure of performing contemporary dance works, originally created on dancers of Alonzo King Lines, KIDD PIVOT DANCE, MOVE: the company, and Ballet X, to name a few. Since completing her studies, Justine has gone on to perform with multiple contemporary and classical ballet companies, throughout North America. In 2012, she became a soloist dancer with Ballet Jörgen Canada and has had the pleasure of performing soloist roles on both international and national stages.
Currently, Justine has found a passion for both choreography and dance education. She is an accredited ballet teacher, with the and has been a full-time Ballet and Contemporary dance instructor for the past 8 years. She currently stands as the Director of the Ballet and Contemporary Dance Program for , in Kelowna BC. Here she works with students from ages 5-20 years old, in both the recreational and professional divisions. In addition to teaching, she is also a reputable dance adjudicator. As a member of the Professional Adjudicator’s Alliance, Justine enjoys sitting on panels for many dance organizations and festivals throughout Western Canada.
As a commissioned choreographer, she has had her work performed on professional stages, throughout North America. Most recently, she had the pleasure of setting original choreography for the dancers of both Coastal City Ballet (BC) and Ballet Concierto Cancún (Mexico).
In 2016, Justine founded Reforming Art Productions – a Contemporary Dance company that provides innovative training, networking, scholarship, and performance opportunities, to Canadian dance students. Justine is passionate about mentoring the next generation and continues to guest teach and choreograph for various dance studios and companies across North America.
Alexandra DeLory
Alexandra DeLory is an experienced dance instructor, creative choreographer, and certified adjudicator. Primarily, she serves as the Co-Director of the Sandra Amodeo Dance Studio, managing the studio’s dance curriculum and day-to-day operations as well as instructing and choreographing for their recreational and competitive teams. Over the course of her 15 year teaching career, she has been recognized for the outstanding technical training of her students and her award winning choreography.
Alexandra’s inter-disciplinary expertise and dynamic teaching style make her a sought after adjudicator, teacher and choreographer throughout Ontario. She can regularly be found instructing, choreographing and sharing her passion with dancers at conventions, competitions and studios across the province. As a dancer, singer and actress, Alexandra has performed in both theatrical and commercial productions. She has been in feature films, numerous commercials, television, industrial shows and musicals.
Alexandra has been a student of dance for 30-years and counting. She has trained extensively as a competitive dancer in many disciplines, including, Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Acro, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary and Musical Theatre. Alexandra is a member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance and currently in the process of becoming a certified ABT Ballet Instructor. She has completed ballet exams under the Royal Academy of Dance as well as Jazz, Tap and Acro exams with BATD.
Utilizing her knowledge, expertise and love of dance, Alexandra's goal is to ignite a lifelong passion for arts within each of her students.
Christopher Duarte
Christopher specializes in Hip Hop, Commercial and Street Styles (Locking, Popping, House, Breaking). He has trained with some of Toronto's top choreographers and experts and danced as part of companies such as The Male Initiative, Footnotes and The Vibe. He also has considerable training within Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet and Tap.
He has been fortunate to perform live with various artists such as Keisha Chante, Girlicious's Chrystina Sayers, Canada's Drag Race's Tynomi Banks, and The Launch's Jayd Ink. Christopher also appeared in Rhianna’s “Work” music video. He has performed in industry showcase events such as Toronto's Choreographers Ball, New York's Carnival, and Club Jete in Los Angeles working with choreographers such as Mark Samules, Tuch, Shavar Blackwood, George Jones Jr. and Leon Blackwood. Recently, he had the opportunity to present his own choreography in events such as Articien in Montreal, Fever After Dark and Elevate Choreographer Showcase in Toronto. He was also selected to present “Inconflict,” a short film of his own creation, as a part of RT Collective's Screen:Moves Film Festival.
Christopher has 10 years experience teaching and choreographing at various competitive studios in award winning routines. He has been on the faculty of the pre-professional program Inhayle Dance Company, providing students the connection between artistry and technique while developing full length productions.
Kelsea Fitzpatrick's
Kelsea is the Owner and Director of The Dance Compound in Calgary, AB, where she has cultivated a dynamic and forward-thinking dance community. With over 25 years of experience in both local and international dance training and teaching, Kelsea has earned a reputation as a sought-after instructor, mentor, and choreographer renowned for her expertise and innovative approach.
A graduate of Queen’s University with a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, Kelsea seamlessly integrates her academic background with her passion for dance. At Queen’s, she was a dedicated member and co-Captain of the Queen’s University Dance Team, leading them to compete at the NDA College Nationals in Daytona, FL, and receive numerous accolades at the Terpsichore UDC in Guelph, ON.
Kelsea’s interest in merging dance with biomechanics led her to pursue a master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Calgary. This unique combination of academic and professional experiences has enabled her to develop and implement groundbreaking dance programs that blend STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) principles with traditional dance techniques.
Kelsea is currently launching the TrueWest Dance Invitational, a new initiative focused on competition, education, and community. This venture aims to provide adult and collegiate dancers with renewed opportunities to pursue their passion with enthusiasm and commitment.
Certified with RAD, ADAPT, Al Gilbert, Acrobatic Arts, and more, Kelsea is committed to delivering comprehensive training and performance experiences. Her mission is to inspire and engage dancers of all ages and skill levels through innovative programs. Additionally, Kelsea is a certified member of the Professional Adjudicators Alliance, reflecting her dedication to excellence in the field of dance adjudication.