Stewart Iguidez (Hip Hop, House, Breaking,) aka Stuey Tellar, is an extraordinary, eclectic freestyle dancer and choreographer. He is greatly respected for his dance contribution within Canada. His dance style is the ultimate fusion of urban movement consisting of b-boying, popping, house, new jack swing, tutting, isolation and video dance. A natural entertainer, Stuey Tellar keeps his audiences mesmerized and inspires other dancers with fresh innovative movement.
Stewart started as a b-boy in the mid 90’s before taking interest in hip hop choreography. He has developed his style and skills over the years dancing across North America notably in battles for Rock Da House, Monsters of Hip Hop, and Battle Zone. He has won titles in World of Dance Seattle and Vancouver with his crew The Faculty, as well as Bodyrock San Diego and Artists Emerge Upper Division.
Stewart’s classes are high energy fun. He creates a comfortable setting for all levels to learn the latest of urban movement. His teaching philosophy is to create a fun and safe environment for students to develop their skills, offering tools to become more efficient learners, and to have a deeper sensitivity to body awareness and musicality.
Shyia Gray (Hip Hop, House, Krump, Popping, Dancehall, Locking,) is a Guyanese-Canadian dancer and instructor originally from Edmonton, Alberta. Born and raised in a competitive dance environment, they have been training in the art and sport of dance since the age of three. Initially training in a wide range of styles—including jazz, tap, ballet, lyrical, musical theatre, and hip hop—Shyia chose in 2015 to focus exclusively on their passion for hip hop and various street styles..
Shyia has trained in multiple street styles, including House, Krump, Popping, Dancehall, and Locking, alongside their foundation in Hip Hop and choreography. They have worked with esteemed crews such as Eye Candy, Cool Giraffes, and currently, TwoFourSeven Company.. Their performance experience includes competing at major events like World of Dance Seattle with Eye Candy and Hip Hop International with Cool Giraffes, in addition to Artist Emerge and Represent. They also have taken up more freestyle training with the group Higher Ground here in Vancouver.These experiences have shaped their approach to dance, emphasizing not just technical skill but also the importance of storytelling and authenticity.
Their passion for teaching began early, assisting beginner youth summer camps at the age of 13 and eventually leading competitive classes by 16. Since then, they have been committed to mentorship, striving to create a positive and inspiring learning environment for dancers of all levels. In 2021, Shyia moved to Vancouver to pursue a career in acting, dance, and the performing arts while continuing to build their presence in the dance community. As an educator, they focus on fostering confidence, discipline, and creativity in their students, encouraging them to connect with both the movement and its cultural significance.
Shyia continues to train rigorously to stay at the forefront of hip hop and street dance styles, ensuring they bring fresh knowledge and inspiration to their classes. Their goal is to empower dancers to not only master movement but also develop their own artistic voices. They are excited to keep growing as both a performer and instructor, deepening their knowledge of street dance and hip hop to further develop their choreography and create a strong foundation for their students.
Josh (Hip Hop & Breaking, FRENCH) is a 4th generation settler born in Surrey, BC on the unceded territories of the Semiahmoo, Katzie, Kwikwetlem, Kwantlen, Qayqat, and Tsawwassen First Nations. Josh began his dance journey in 2008, to be able to pursue Breaking, and overtime, a wide variety of Street Dance styles as hobbies. Later as a career, thanks enormously to the Black and Latinx pioneers who created these styles.
For the majority of his artistic practice, Josh has primarily focused on researching and developing his proficiency and immersion in Street Dance with emphasis on Breaking, Hip Hop, and House, as well as Hustle, Dancehall, Vogue, Locking, Popping, Litefeet and Waacking. He has a deep and long standing interest in immersing himself in the complex and diverse facets and cultural practices, gatherings and foundational roots including but not limited to battles, cultural dance parties, Ballroom events, and traditional knowledge transfer from Pioneers and Innovators.
Since February 2019, Josh has embarked on various avenues of training in Stage and Contemporary dance including Contact Improv, Gaga, Theatre work and Butoh, which have heavily informed his Street Dance practices, unlocking the creative potentials of his artistic and professional practices. This crossover has culminated in his involvement in the dissemination of work that utilizes the strengths of multiple methodologies of Street and Contemporary Dance to create work for stage and film.
Josh has been teaching dance since September 2012. He is passionate about delivering free programming to the community that bridges gaps between art forms and educative schematics, methodologies and languages by delivering collaborative multidisciplinary classes intersecting multiple dance genres with music theory education, voice and speech, and creative writing. Since January 2022, Josh has aligned his long-standing teaching practice with the grassroots, non-profit organization, Barangay Project Society where he works as an executive assistant. The organization highly prioritizes BIPOC communities of all ages in Western Canada with nurturing connections for safe and accessible art programs.
Janelle (Powwow Dance workshops, Performances and Indigenous Arts and Crafts,) is a proud Secwépemc (Shuswap) woman from T'exelc (Williams Lake Indian Band).
Her father is former chief Willie Alphonse Jr, and her mom is Cree from Horse Lake. She has been dancing fancy show and jingle dress since she was 2 yrs old and was also named the First Nations Role Model for School District #27.
Janelle also sings on the hand drum, teaches basic pow wow dancing, does indigenous crafts and Shuswap story telling. She follows the pow wow trail across all of BC and down into the USA in the summer and visits family for
traditional ways of life in the fall.
"Being able to share culture and dance has always been very important to me, especially to our younger generation."
Kyle Vicente (Hip Hop, Locking, House, Popping,) is a multifaceted performer, choreographer & Director. His humble beginnings started his dance career at the age of 13. Growing up in Vancouver, BC has exposed him to a lot of what the arts have to offer. He has trained in many forms of dance such as: Hip-Hop, Popping, Jazz, Locking, Contemporary, House & Dancehall to name a few. Work includes: Zapped, Rags, Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Red Riding Hood, Kickin' It Old School, Center Stage 2, Fantastic Four 2, Another Cinderella Story 2, Spectacular, Psych (American Duos), Kyle XY, Eureka & more. He has performed at events such as: Body Rock, Canadian Hip-Hop Championships, Opening for "Fabolous", Jayme Armstrong, Brock Zanrosso & has also performed at the annual event "San francisco Hip-Hop Dance Festival" alongside with the America's best dance crew "The Jabbawokeez". Kyle is a member of OTI (Over The Influence) Crew as well as 1st place winners in Artists Emerge 2011-2014 & World Of Dance 2011/2013 as well as 2nd and 3rd place winners at Body Rock, "The Faculty". He has also trained with "The SOULdiers Company", "The Source Dance Company" & has worked with Celebrity Cruise Lines. Kyle alongside with his partner Chris Wong, are the directors and founders of a hip-hop/dance training program based out of Vancouver called Culturally Defined. Kyle's desire is to motivate and inspire others to better themselves in their artistic fields & to see the passion that people put into their own creative interpretation.
The initial styles of dance that Annabelle (Afro diasporic styles, Dancehall, Hip Hop,) had been exposed to as a young mover were Ballet, Contemporary and Modern Jazz. During high school, Annabella took it upon herself to indulge in not only her school's dance company but the theatre company as well. She spent those integral years training in both disciplines and she was honoured to graduate with a legendary reward that reflected such dedication to the performing arts - Overall Artist of Grad Class!
Eventually, her desire to expand and practice the various hip hop styles she'd been exposed to became a reality. As she began her professional dance journey, she was gifted the opportunity to train with local choreographers and dancers specializing in African and Caribbean genres of dance. That is where her love for Afrodiasporic dance styles had been reactivated...
As a thriving artist, Annabella has been dancing and choreographing for numerous music videos, films and live performances within Canada. Annabella also works diligently to curate movement workshops and classes for the various levels of students she teaches around the city. She has had the pleasure of choreographing and dancing for Nigeria's very own artists, Wizboyy and Adekunle Gold. She continues to dance as a local talent and has successfully launched her directing expedition.
While pursuing her performing arts endeavours, Annabella has been attending University to complete her desired credentials and lifestyle master plan. She has had the pleasure of choreographing and dancing for Nigeria's very own artists, Wizboyy and Adekunle Gold.
Annabella continues to be enchanted by all of these work environments every day and she is excited to continue her growth as an individual, artist and woman.
Younathan (Youney) Terefe, (Hip Hop, Afro Styles, House,) began dancing in 2016 and immersed himself in the wider Vancouver dance community in 2020, with a particular passion for freestyling. He explored training in House, Hip Hop and Afro dance forms. Younathan then began competing with Trek of Arts, led by Jerome Esplana and has continued training with two of Vancouver’s Afro dance leaders Jay Musodi and Habi Clement. Younathan continues to challenge himself in new spaces. He dances professionally with The Vancouver Bandits and Vancouver Warriors and trains with companies KI & CO and thepushyvr . Younathan also teaches dance throughout Vancouver and loves spreading joy through movement.
Tonya Kay (Body Percussion, Musical Theatre and Jazz funk,) is a career dancer and choreographer who has toured in STOMP, been offered three Cirque du Soleil contracts and backed up artists like Rhianna, Panic At The Disco, Rob Zombie, Bruno Mars and Kenny Rogers. With Shirley Temple as her idol, Tonya Kay began tap dancing at age 4 and tap remains her favorite discipline. Tonya Kay has created/choreographed full length productions including Xtreme Rhythm Theatre, Anita Berber Is Dead and Pinup Show and has choreographed for Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, Perkins Restaurants and numerous music videos and films. Her latest dance effort is directing and producing High Heels movie. She’s taught dance, yoga, pilates and aerobics for 35 years at NYC, Chicago and Vancouver studios, has offered Master Workshops worldwide from Japan to Ireland, Canada to the United States with teaching tap for Hubbard Street Dance Chicago at inner city Chicago schools being one of her most rewarding teacher experiences yet.
Peter White (Powwow Performance & Keynote Speaking,) shares some of the oldest traditional Indigenous men’s dances of Turtle Island, including a war dance originating from the Sioux (Dakota, Lakota, Nakota) people. “Dance is medicine,” says Peter. He introduces his regalia, tells stories, and invites students into an experience of Indigenous culture through the long-banned but now-celebrated tradition of Pow Wow dancing.
Peter is from the Yaqan Nukiy tribe in Creston, BC, part of the Ktunaxa (Kootenay) Nation. Though he danced for a few years as a child, it wasn’t until he became a warrior himself — a survivor of addiction, homelessness, and cancer — that he was moved to immerse himself in the powerful culture of the Pow Wow dance.
Peter has travelled across North America learning and sharing this traditional dance. He has performed at Salmon n’ Bannock on the Fly in the Vancouver airport, as well as at Canada Day celebrations, on local news shows, and in a movie that showcased his dancing.
Serena Ten (Hip Hop/Commercial Choreography,) is a passionate and energetic dance instructor with over 5 years of experience teaching Hip Hop and commercial choreography. With a deep understanding of Hip Hop culture and love for dance, she brings energy, creativity, and joy to every class.
Known for creating a fun and supportive environment, Serena encourages students of all levels to build confidence, improve their craft, and express themselves through movement.
With her love of the art form and belief of being a good human first, she aims to foster connection and community to the next generation of dancers.
Tarisai (Hip Hop, Afro Styles, Amapiano, Afrobeats, Afro-Fusion,) is a dancer, DJ, and stand-up comedian who was born in Zimbabwe and began dancing from an early age. A big influence was his father and Michael Jackson. Music was always playing at home, hip-hop, kwaito, RnB then later South African house. He took ballet at a young age, which formed the foundation for his versatility. Along with acting in school plays, he took part in church dances and training began in high school with a hip-hop classes
After moving to Edmonton for university, he was properly introduced to Afrobeats, fell in love with it and performed on many stages. He was also performing stand-up comedy and hosting events around the city and at school events. Another love for house music was birthed from attending music festivals. He learned how to shuffle during university and after that was dancing everyday.
It’s only after his move to Toronto that he started teaching, after the global emergence of Amapiano. It’s a subgenre of Kwaito, which he grew up listening and dancing to. Combined with his love for DJing, he has a deep passion for music and expression through movement. Freestyling plus making choreograpy are both fun for him. Main styles include Afrobeats/Afro-fusion, Amapiano, House, Hip-Hop.
Lauren (Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Litefeet, Popping, Some Break, Boogaloo, Locking, Tap, House,) is from small town Whitecourt Alberta, and right away found a strong passion for dance at the age of 5. Hiphop was the first form of dance Lauren was introduced to, but she soon began to train in a variety of styles. Lauren is very fortunate that her parents have always been very supportive of her training and would take her to different conventions in larger cities to be exposed to different teachers and styles. From going to conventions like Groove Street Production directed by Joanne and Alex Pesusich her need to dance only grew. Going into grade 7, she decided she would want to pursue dance as a life long career. Therefore, she moved her training to Edmonton Alberta, where she trained in even more disciplines of dance at Edmonton School of Ballet, through Vimy Ridge Academy’s dance program. There she trained in more fine tuned, and specialized forms of the arts, such as Cecchetti , and RAD(classical ballet), Graham and Horton(modern), tap, hiphop and jazz. The school opened up doors for Lauren, allowing her to assist and lead classes, teach workshops that represented the school at sister schools, set choreography on other dancers in the same program, and have access to take the schools own teachers training course, then becoming a certified teacher for young kids! Vimy dance also gave Lauren the chance to travel with Edmonton Contemporary Dancers to cities such as Toronto to train and explore different dance hubs in the world. Upon graduating form Vimy Ridge Lauren received a scholarship to train with Vancouvers Source dance company! The Source dance company, directed by Joanne Pesusich, is an amazing pre professional company where Lauren got to begin her career and build a platform for herself. Training in all styles, learning about the dance industry, having the chance to work with other amazing young artists and teachers/choreographers from L.A, Vancouver, Toronto, and London! She is now graduated from source and has shifted her focus to learning more about different street styles. Lauren has trained with Vancouvers best street style, freestyle training company lead by Natasha Gorrie, Higher Ground! There she practiced hiphop, popping, breaking, locking and litefeet! Lauren continues her freestyle training now under the wings of Chris Bonus in a company called Overryde, where dancers can incorporate any training they have into their freestyle. Lauren is a very loyal team player and is happy to continue to train with TwoFourSeven Company as well, which focuses more on competitive/creative choreography. In the past this crew is known to perform in LA, Boston and other cities, Lauren hopes to make it there one day as well! Within TwoFourSeven, Lauren has gotten to work closely with amazing choreographers like Roberta Bierman, has gotten to work on full productions, concept videos and much more. Since living in Vancouver Lauren has also had the pleasure to teach in different communities, she has experience teaching at community centres, schools, dance studios and in her company classes as well! Lauren is eager to learn and share. She strives to set a good example for her follow teammates, to create positive vibes in and out of dance class, and knows dance will take her far.
Bruce Bryant (Hip hop, Popping, Locking, Animation, Memphis Jookin',) also known as B_Almighty, is a hyper-passionate teacher approaching 15 years experience of instructing dance. An active member of several facets of the street dance community infamously skilled in providing high energy education on the movement, history, and philosophy of dance. As well as presenting it in a manner in which it can be well received and applied. Well versed in numerous styles; such as Memphis Jookin', popping, hip hop, & locking. Having had to work through extreme health circumstances as a childhood cancer survivor, Bruce has gained an immensely deep and unique understanding of human motion and expression capacity. As well as radiance from true appreciation for life and dance. He actively channels honed techniques to push the uplifting potential of rhythmic movement.
Beginning his dance journey in North Vancouver after having to quit playing percussion because of worries around hearing damage from the chemotherapy, he quickly became fascinated with this form of exploring music and had to venture into the city to learn what else was out there. He joined Make Your Mark dance company gaining industry exposure early on before discovering the freestyle community and battle scene. The choreography and performance opportunities were great, but that magical day Bruce attended his first battle ignited everything. Fueled with a passion unlike anything he'd known before every possible opportunity to learn more about any street dance style was taken after that day. Then, becoming the youngest member of SOULdiers was when everything transcended. Getting mentored by the best in the city led by Kim Sato and Christina Bucci he was ushered into the street dance scene holistically and with extremely strong values. As the type to always have a question, the vastly rich culture and history of dance, paired with this beautifully nurturing community was a goldmine. Teaching all throughout his youthful journey, blessed with opportunities to gain experience with everything from leading 150+ student summer camps to the prestigious Flying Steps Academy in Berlin by the age of 18. Later he joined Higher Ground (which is a company that he now instructs), refined his own style, and began battling at a high level internationally. Bruce has now grown up with well over a decade of experience practicing diligently in the heart of the Vancouver street dance community, and is doing everything he can to mentor others and answer any questions they may have.
Currently he is studying to be a personal trainer, group exercise, and corrective exercise specialist. With the aspirations to innovate the empowering potential between fitness and dance. He also is at the forefront of the Memphis Jookin' communities of both Canada and the Pacific Northwest. Pioneering the appreciation and study locally of the under appreciated part of Hip Hop culture that it is. Pushing the hybridization of Memphis Jookin' and Popping with science based workout principles and the ongoing study under the most highly regarded experts in every field. Throwing events, hosting workshops, and community building. Always seeking ways to shine brighter, uplift further, and give back for the life he's gotten to dance through.
Randa Barett (Hip Hop, Jazz, Acro,) is a Dancer, Choreographer, Teacher and Mentor, born and raised in Calgary, Alberta Canada. Randa moved to Vancouver, BC in 2008, after being accepted into an intensive training program and now travels between Canada and the US. Randa holds her O1 American Visa, which allows her to work as a dance professional in the United States.
Randa has gained the recognition of the dance community as one of Vancouver’s sought after dancers and has had the opportunity to dance in popular TV shows, movies and networks such as Paramount +, Hallmark, Netflix, 4 Seasons of CW’s 'Riverdale', Nickelodeon's “J Team”, NBC’s “Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist” and Motion Capture projects for video games. Her live performance credits include 2 contracts with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines’ ‘Anthem of the Seas’ where she toured internationally, performing as a dancer/aerialist. In addition to her performances in, Step Up 4:Revolution and BMW.
Randa has begun stepping behind the lens, having the opportunity to work alongside Emmy Winning Choreographer Heather Laura Gray, on a TV series and 2 Nickelodeon Movie Musicals. Randa has found great success working as an assistant choreographer for the movie ‘Monster High', which recently won the Emmy for Outstanding Choreography, as well as the popular TV series “Riverdale” Season 6. Randa recently wrapped as assistant choreographer on the upcoming movie sequel 'Monster High 2’.
Randa has a true connection to teaching and mentoring. She believes in giving back to the community and helping the younger generations pursue their dreams. Randa recently launched her own Mentorship Program for young artists to join. The mentorship program provides a thorough understanding of the industry, how to prepare and what it takes to work as a professional dance artist.
Jhaymee “Eloquence” Hizon (Hip Hop & Breaking,) is known and respected throughout the Lower Mainland as a dancer, teacher, choreographer, and as one of the members of the infamous Now or Never Crew. Jhaymee and his crew are one of the top bboy crews in Canada and becoming highly regarded worldwide. His style is a fusion of the traditional way of bboying and his own original movements. With the, “it’s not what you do, it’s how you do it mentality”, he ads style into every movement. Jhaymee has been teaching dance for over twenty years. Some of his accomplishments include Massive Monkees Day (Champions), Battle of the year International (Germany), IBE (2011 Europe World Battle), and Closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics at BC Place. His goal is to promote the positive side of hip-hop, while preserving this powerful art form and its strong cultural presence. Jhaymee is also certified as an Adjudicator through WDSF/CDS which enables him to judge Olympic Breaking events.
Originally from Japan, Ikue (Hip Hop, KPop, Jazz, Contemporary, Ballet, Voguing, Waacking, House,) is a multi-disciplinary artist, dancer, performer, choreographer, certified fascial maneuvers coach at Human Garage, and educator. She has been dancing for over 20 years, with extensive experience in Waacking, Voguing, Hip Hop, House Dance, Contemporary, Jazz, Modern, and Ballet.
Her dance training began in Japan, and since moving to Canada, she has studied at the University of Alberta Orchesis, Harbour Dance Centre, the Source Dance Company, Modus Operandi, Lux Dance Company, Training Society of Vancouver Working Class, Vancouver Circus School, and more. She holds an education degree from Japan and is passionate about sharing her love of art while performing, competing, battling, and teaching students of all ages and levels at various dance studios, schools, special workshops, and events.
Ikue was a semi-finalist at the House dance battle of the Vancouver Street Dance Festival 2017 and has won three titles as the best voguer from the Opulence Ball, the Amaze Ball, and the Celebs Ball held in Vancouver. She was also awarded the title of Vancouver Nightlife Award's Best Performer of the Year in 2011 along with House of La Douche, Vancouver’s premier Voguing and Waacking dance collective, where she is ‘the mother’ of the house. The collective was documented in CNN’s Great Big Story - Voguing and Waacking Through Vancouver in 2019.
She has worked with numerous artists, events, and organizations including: Visa Card with Simone Biles for Tokyo 2020, CNN’s Great Big Story, Lush Cosmetics, K-OS, Aaron Carter, Snow, Zebra Katz, DJ Mike Q, Amanda Lepore, Victoria Anthony, KO by Katherin Olivos, RUKUS by Yasuhiro Tomita, Quanah Style, BESTiE, Small Stage, Vancouver Fashion Week, Vancouver Alternative Fashion Week, Vancouver Art Gallery FUSE, Bass Coast Festival, Vancouver Pride, Strut, Wiggles, House of Celebs, Aurora fundraiser, Blim, Waacouture, and the Closing Ceremony of the Vancouver Olympics 2010, where she was a featured Hip Hop dancer along with Now Or Never b-boy crew and Fresh Groove Productions dancers.
Her newest passion is helping people reduce stress and trauma from their bodies through a self-healing technique called fascial maneuvers. She incorporates these fascial techniques into her dance so her students can move their bodies better and have longevity in their dance careers.
Her biggest interest is health and wellness through movement. By spreading the love of dance and keeping the culture alive while understanding how the body and mind work as one, she enjoys learning and continues to evolve as a dancer.
Tzinquaw (Indigenous Performance,) is a Coast Salish dance group from Cowichan Tribes in Duncan, BC. They are the Quw'utsun Tzinquaw dance group who originally belonged to the Tzinquaw opera that begun in the 1940's. Tzinquaw – a full opera based on a Quw’utsun (Cowichan) legend, sung in English with the melodies of ancestral Quw’utsun songs created by Abel Joe. After the Tzinquaw opera died down, Ron George & Late Ray Peter wanted to continue on Tzinquaw along with elders' acceptance and revised Tzinquaw songs and dances. Since then they brought the songs and dances down, Tzinquaw has traveled to Holland, Beijing China, California, Mexico, all over Canada. Opening ceremonies for the commonwealth games in 1994, aboriginal hockey championship, aboriginal peoples choice awards. Their hopes and dreams as a dance group are that these songs and dances don't die down and will be continued through our youth for what Late Ron George & Late Ray Peter have done for them.
Makéna Blais-Ventura (Hip Hop, Jazz & Contemporary,) was born and raised in Grande Prairie Alberta. Since her youth, Makéna always had an interest in activities that challenge her creativity. Her dance journey began by learning more about her indigenous culture. Throughout her youth she got the opportunity to travel to Pow Wows across Canada where she was a Jingle Dancer and Fancy Shawl Dancer. Her passion for dance didn’t stop there. At the age of 11, Makéna enrolled in Hip-Hop at her local dance studio.
Throughout high school she trained and excelled quickly in Cecchetti method Ballet, Hip-hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical and Tap. Makéna quickly fell in love with Hip-hop and contemporary, her interest in these styles led her to take a leap of faith to Vancouver to pursue her dance career. Since making the move, Makéna has been a part of numerous teams and training programs such as Harbour Dance ITP, Quill Collective, Twofourseven and Team Canada Hip-Hop. With this training she has been exposed to multiple street styles and dance opportunities. Makéna dedicates her time to always learning something new and creating challenges to ensure that she can become the best artist she can be.
Throughout the years, Makéna’s passion for dance has opened up many opportunities. Through experience, she has found her love for teaching. Creating a welcoming and safe space to explore one’s own creativity is Makéna’s motto. Dance taught Makéna that self expression is a gift and through dance she hopes to inspire others to create their own artistry. She strongly believes that every leader should continue to learn and challenge themselves in order to keep elevating and design a safe space to learn. Makéna pulls inspiration from the many amazing mentors who have always encouraged her to be authentically herself. She hopes that one day she can be that for others. Makéna can not wait to start this new chapter and keep elevating her dance while sharing and inspiring the next generation!
Darian Mark (Contemporary,) is an international performer and artist based out of Vancouver, Canada. Originally from Toronto, Darian has trained extensively in a variety of styles, as well as in the circus arts. He is a proud Stage Associate Member with CDTA (Canadian Dance Teachers Association) and has completed all of the Acrobatic Arts modules. In addition, Darian holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Ryerson University, is a Reiki Level II Practitioner, and a 200HR RYT. Darian is also on faculty with FRESH Dance Intensive and Liberum Dance Project and frequently teaches, choreographs and adjudicates across Canada. With vast experience performing on stages, TV and film, Darian is excited to continue sharing on projects that allow him to showcase his full mind, body and spirit.
Performance credits include: GCC Opening Ceremony 2022 (Cirque Eloize), Monster High (Nickelodeon), The J Team (Nickelodeon), Honor Society (Paramount+), Riverdale (Netflix), Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist (NBC), Zombies 2 (Disney), Julie and The Phantoms (Netflix), Ginny & Georgia (Netflix), PEARL (North American and China Tour), Starwater (Royal Caribbean), The Next Step (Temple Street Prod), The Strain (FX), The Expanse (Expanding Universe Prod), CARNE (Cora Kozaris), EXYST & Love Project (Christina Digiuseppe), Limitless (Scott Fordham), Wireless Connections (POV Dance Project/ Amy Adams & Kylie Thompson), Survival (EmiMotion), DABDA (Project DABDA/ Alvin Collantes & Hayley Paone), Fill Up and Get Out (Emma Portner & Jade Whitney), Ascension (Rutherford Movement Exchange/ Stephanie Rutherford), Checkmate (Bridge to Artists/Vlad Novitski & Linda Garneau) TV Land (OTFDance, Mitchell Jackson & Derek Piquette).
Damarise Ste Marie (Contemporary, South African Gumboot, Samba, Afro-Fusion, Ballet, Creative Dance, FRENCH) completed formal dance training at York University (Toronto, 2006-2009) and L’École de danse de Québec (Québec City, 2009-2012. For the past decade she has constantly expanded her artistic skillset and community through study and exchange in Africa, Brazil, Europe and North America. She has directed and produced residencies and retreats with guest artists in Québec City, Toronto, and Vancouver. Damarise has years of experience as a dance and creative arts teacher for all ages. She has taught in studios, community centers, and schools across Canada and in Western and Southern Africa. Her teaching and community-building work include programming with Saint James Music Academy (Vancouver’s DTES), and Painted Turtle Arts Camp (in partnership with indigenous nations throughout Canada). She brings her eclectic experience to her work as a joy-filled dancer, teacher, and choreographer.
Damarise Ste Marie a complété ses études en danse à Université York (Toronto, 2006-2009) et à L’École de danse de Québec (Ville de Québec, 2009-2012). Au cours de la dernière décennie, Damarise poursuit sa formation artistique et développe sa communauté par le biais d’études et d’échanges en Afrique, Brésil, Europe, et Amérique du Nord. En tant que productrice et directrice, elle a réalisé plusieurs résidences et retraits avec des artistes invités à Québec, Toronto, et Vancouver. Damarise enseigne la danse et les arts créatifs depuis plusieurs années. Son enseignement l’amène à diverse contextes : des studios privés, des centres communautaires, et des écoles à travers le Canada et en Afrique occidentale et astrale. Son travail inclut de programmation avec Saint James Music Academy, au Downtown East Side de Vancouver ; et avec Painted Turtle Arts Camp, en partenariat avec des communautés autochtones au Canada. Elle amène son expérience éclectique et joyeuse à son travail en tant que danseuse, professeure, et chorégraphe.
Leo Thomas (he / him) (Hip Hop & Street Jazz,) is a Jamaican / First Nations Indigenous (Plains Cree) professional actor, dancer and choreographer. Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Leo realized his passion for the arts as a young boy. He began training in acting at the age of 12, and his career began when he visited Vancouver to participate in the talent competition Faces West, winning multiple awards such as Best Monologue and Top 8 All Around Talent.
Leo also began training in dance in his late teen years, focusing on jazz, ballet, contemporary and hip hop. He traveled to New York City multiple times a year where he trained intensively with Candace Brown and Keenan Cooks among others.
Credit highlights include recurring roles on Riverdale and iZombie (CW), as well as principal roles on A Million Little Things (ABC), and Prom Pact (Disney+). He also had the honour and opportunity to work as a dancer on the Emmy nominated series Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist with choreographers Mandy Moore and Luther Brown.
Being raised by a single mother of two, Leo deeply values hard work, authenticity, and the inclusion of all. Though he is also an educator, he intends to continue to learn as much as possible, for as long as possible. He strives to obtain as many tools as he can to become the best version of himself not only for himself and his career, but to share with, educate, and inspire others as well.
Keisuke "Kay" Abe (JD Assistant for Hip Hop, Popping, Salsa Dance,) started street dancing in 2015, and this year marks his 10th anniversary. His styles cover HIPHOP, POPPING, and SALSA, and he is particularly known for his smooth, groovy, freestyle—with winning experience in dance battles. He is also active in solo performances.
Since 2022, he’s been teaching dance, offering detailed guidance—from body control techniques to the mindset for dancing—for students from kids to adults.
Teresa Riley (Westcoast Swing, Foxtrot, Jive, Waltz Salsa, Bachata, Rhumba,) originally from Medicine Hat, Alberta, is a ballroom dance teacher. As a young child Teresa started out in ballet and jazz and did musical theatre. As a young adult, Country swing and two-stepping was the norm in Medicine Hat, and Teresa fell in love with the connection and teamwork of partner dancing. When she moved to Vancouver, she discovered the swing dance world, especially the Lindy Hop, and now that is her specialty. Through learning connection, Teresa is now able to teach in all forms of partner/ballroom dancing including salsa, waltz, bachata, rhumba, foxtrot, jive and Westcoast swing to name a few.
At just 28 years old, Ivan Touko (Afro Styles, Afrobeats, FRENCH,) is an award-winning multidisciplinary and bilingual dance artist, social impact entrepreneur, and visionary leader who is redefining the intersection of arts, culture, and technology in Canada. Recently recognized as one of Edmonton’s Top 40 Under 40 by Edify Magazine, Ivan has made significant contributions to community-building and social impact, focusing on empowering marginalized voices and fostering cultural inclusivity. His achievements include being named a Top 30 Under 30 SDG Leader by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation, a testament to his dedication to social sustainability and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
As a multidisciplinary artist, Ivan’s work spans dance, film, and community engagement. He is an accomplished dance artist who has taught at numerous schools across Alberta, sharing his passion for movement and storytelling. Ivan is also the producer of the multi-award-winning documentary “The Rise of Afrobeats in the Prairies,” which highlights the impact of Afrobeats culture in Alberta and its role in connecting the African diaspora. This groundbreaking documentary, supported by TELUS STORYHIVE, The Edmonton Community Foundation, The National Screen Institute of Canada, and Media 21, has gained critical acclaim and brought awareness to the vibrant Afrobeat scene within the Canadian Prairies.
With a portfolio that spans both artistic and entrepreneurial ventures, Ivan is a trailblazer in the cultural sector. His dedication to community impact has led La Connexional to reinvest over $100,000 back into Alberta’s creative community, particularly among Black, Afro-Caribbean, and Latin artists. Ivan’s work has not only empowered over 100 artists but has also cemented La Connexional as a leading force in cultural programming with large-scale experiences like the Pour Me Water Festival at West Edmonton Mall World Waterpark and The Afro x Latin Festival.
Elders, Healers, and Residential School Survivors from the Musqueam nation, Thelma and Arthur Stogan, are well-respected and knowledgeable elders within the nation.
The Musqueam (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm) people have lived on our traditional territory, Vancouver and its surrounding areas, for thousands of years. The Musqueam nations ceremonial tradition includes sweeping with cedar to clear away negative energy. The morning before each ceremonial session, cedar boughs are gathered in the forest and the room is swept along with each guest as they enter the room.
Thelma and Arthur Stogan begin their performance with a historical talk about the Musqueam nation and its surrounding lands, followed by a territorial welcome and ceremonial blessing. Thelma and Arthur will then share with the audience the Musqueam traditions and practices which includes cleansing of space and/or individuals with Cedar Bows. Their ceremony also includes a school or staff-wide healing, followed by a drumming and singing performance by their granddaughter, Felicia Stogan.
Alexa is a multi-disciplinary performing artist, arts educator and choreographer living in Victoria, BC. She grew up studying ballet, jazz, contemporary, theatre styles and tap, and continued her artistic training at the Canadian College of Performing where she studied dance, voice, acting and creative process. Since graduating from the college, Alexa has taught dance in Victoria at children's and adult studios, and now at the Canadian College of Performing. She also teaches dance and theatre workshops in schools around Victoria with Arts Reach. Alexa specializes in Arts camps for children aswell. She has worked with Painted Turtle Arts Camps, delivering camps in Indigenous communities throughout BC, and has created her own Dance Theatre camps for St. Michael's University School.
As a choreographer and performer, Alexa has worked on productions with local theatre company Atomic Vaudeville, CCPA, and in music videos and short films with local and Vancouver based indie film producers.
Alexa loves to teach, but most of all she loves to learn alongside her students. She approaches all her artistic endeavours with a curious mind, a joyful spirit and a grateful heart.
Mark Siller (Breakin’, Hip-Hop, Popping & Creative Movement,).
bio under construction
Natalie (she/elle) is a dance artist, producer, teacher, curator, performance maker and mother of a preschooler and teenager, originally from Lheidli T’enneh (colonially known as Prince George), now living on unceded xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and səlil̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Territory (colonially, Vancouver). She studied at L’École supérieure de danse du Québec in Tiohtià:ke (Montréal) and since 1994, has performed with companies and artists across Turtle Island including, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens de Montréal, Coleman Lemieux & Co. and The Vancouver Opera. Since 2003, she has the privilege of co-imagining and collaborating in the projects of plastic orchid factory as Artistic Producer and has been active in her bilingual teaching practice for over 20 years, leading a range of classes from contemporary ballet to seasoned professionals to creative movement to aspiring young creatives. http://www.plasticorchidfactory.com
Jess, the creative director of Jess Dance, began pursuing her passion for dance 40 years ago in Vancouver. She designed and implemented a dance program for secondary school students by age 17 and has been teaching in schools ever since. While living in Los Angeles, she trained extensively in two performing dance companies and completed her Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology with a focus on Secondary Physical Education. Some of her on-camera credits include music videos with Pink, Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, and Pras from the Fugees. As a choreographer, she directed Blu3 in an MTV World Top 10 video "Where You Are" which was shot in East Africa. More recently, she choreographed "Burn Again" by Canadian Artist Tristan Thompson. In June 2022, after 24 years, Jess Retired her teaching dance hat and continues to love teaching hot yoga.