
FACULTY
We take pride in our exceptional faculty, composed of experienced and passionate dance instructors & staff who bring professionalism, creativity, and dedication to every class. Our instructors & staff are committed to fostering growth and confidence in dancers of all ages and levels.
We believe in the power of maturity, experience, and mentorship, which is why we exclusively hire adult dance instructors. Each member of our faculty brings a unique background in performance, choreography, or teaching, ensuring a well-rounded and high-quality learning environment!
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*BFA Honours, Specializing in Dance
*BEd Primary/ Junior Division
*Special Education Part 1
*OCT Certified Teacher
*Acrobatic Arts Certified
Erin first discovered her passion and love for the art of dance at the young age of two. Erin has trained throughout her life in the disciplines of jazz, tap, modern, lyrical, contemporary, and ballet, including participating in her BATD Ballet Examinations. Erin was accepted into the York University Dance Program in 2007 and graduated in 2011 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours degree specializing in dance. During her time at York, Erin trained intensively in the disciplines of ballet, modern, and jazz, under the instruction of such professionals as Karen Bowes- Sewell (National Ballet of Canada), Claire Wootten (Alberta Ballet Company), Helen Jones (Martha Graham Company), Donna Krasnow, Annie Wood, and Julia Sasso. Erin has performed in pieces by choreographers such as Darcy Callison (Down the Road), and Megan Andrews, the Executive Director and founding editor of the Canadian dance magazine the dance current. Erin also actively participated in dance works choreographed by fellow York University dance students, in annual productions at York University entitled “York Dances”. Erin has been fortunate enough to take class from such artists as Christopher House (Toronto Dance Theatre), one of Canada’s leading modern dance choreographers, as well as perform at events such as the Pride Festival in Toronto, ON. Upon graduating from York University, Erin received her Bachelor of Education from Lakehead University, her Special Education Part 1 Qualification, and became a certified teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers. Erin has worked with children in a variety of education and arts based settings throughout the Greater Toronto Area. These include teaching in public and private schools, daycares, and dance studios. Erin has also worked for the City of Toronto teaching dance to students in various recreational facilities throughout the GTA. It is through these experiences that she has had the opportunity to apply her knowledge of child development alongside her keen interest in dance and safe movement practices. Most recently, Erin had the opportunity to choreograph for a local performance art group entitled Street Ballerinas. Erin has studied anatomy and motor development as it relates to dance, and believes in creating an inclusive, nurturing, and fun dance environment. She believes in ongoing professional development, and is excited to share her passion for dance with the community. She aims to create a space where children feel free expressing themselves, building self-confidence, and becoming well-rounded dance artists.
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*Developmental Services Worker
*30+ Years of Customer Service Experience
A lifelong resident of Eastern Ontario, Sharon has a strong background in customer service including having owned two businesses in the Brockville area, one being a successful dance school. Sharon has been involved with dance in a multitude of capacities over the past 25 years such as, studio owner, backstage director, as well as dance parent. She looks forward to being able to provide a positive and supportive atmosphere for both students and parents at Arabesque Academy of Dance. Sharon is excited to serve the AAD families, as well as to promote community involvement and service through supporting local events and charities.
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*B.Sc (Kinesiology)
*Diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion
*Artistic Gymnastics & Trampoline Certifications
*Risk Management Training
*Alixa Flexibility (Module 1 & 2)
*Acrobatic Arts Certified
Kristen started taking dance and gymnastics at a young age. She trained and competed in ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, musical theatre, hip hop, and modern dance, as well as vocal, theatre, and cheerleading; but found her passion specifically in acrobatics. She started assisting classes at the age of 12, and completed her ‘coach in training’ hours at a local gymnastic club at 13. From there, she went on to become a Certified Gymnastics Coach (artistic gymnastics: sport specific, theory, and trampoline through NCCP). Through this training she also completed her risk management training, and participated in spotting and coaching workshops. Kristen then began teaching her own classes, and choreographing numbers. By age 15 Kristen won a Young Choreographer's Award for her first competitive acro piece. Kristen has gone on to complete her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Guelph-Humber, as well as attaining a diploma in Fitness and Health Promotion from Humber College. From this, Kristen has gained a vast knowledge of the human body, biomechanics, proper training techniques, and injury prevention. Kristen has worked with a variety of athletes, and specifically dancers of all ages and styles, across Ontario. Kristen believes in ensuring a safe and fun learning environment, while providing new skills and techniques in every class. Most of all, she believes in connecting with each student she works with, and helping them to succeed as both a dancer, and as a person.
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*B.Sc- Kinesiology
Grace started dancing at 3 years old, and started teaching at age 14. She danced competitively beginning at the age of 8, until graduating high school in 2020. She trained in ballet, jazz, tap and lyrical. Her favourite styles to teach are ballet and tap. Grace has recently completed her Bachelor of Kinesiology at Queen's University. Through her studies she has gained knowledge of the human body and its biomechanics. She intends to become a paediatric health care professional one day. Grace loves being a part of the Arabesque family!
Education & Certifications at a glance:
Cameron has been a student of movement since her first ballet class at age 2. Having mostly trained in Cecchetti Ballet, Cam began teaching ballet, jazz, contemporary and tap in 2014. She has taught dance in a multitude of capacities including at Dovercourt Recreation Centre, and Loyalist Township Recreation Centre. Currently, Cameron is the Executive Director of Blue Canoe Productions and a staff member at Mulberry Waldorf School where she continues to nurture her passion for a holistic approach to developing youth artists and movers.
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*Obtaining Honours Bachelor of Science (BScH); Specialization in Life Sciences
*BATD Associate Member in Stage Craft
Deonna Ranger first discovered her passion for dance at the age of three, and has been moving and creating ever since. She has trained in both recreational and competitive tap, jazz, contemporary and hip hop dance styles, and refined her technique through the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet syllabus at the Intermediate Foundation Level. Deonna attended Mayfield Secondary School in Caledon, Ontario, where she was a student in the Regional Arts Program (RAP) in Dance. There, she deepened her foundation in traditional styles, while also exploring cultural dances such as Tinikling, Flamenco, Jive and more. While pursuing her Honours Bachelor of Science (BScH) in the Life Sciences Specialization at Queen’s University, Deonna has nurtured her love for dance through electives and extracurriculars. She completed a course in Dance for Music Theatre, which emphasized performance, storytelling, and style integration across genres. She also participated in a semester with the Queen’s Spanish and Latin American Association (QSalsa), where she enjoyed taking Cuban Salsa and Bachata dance lessons. Deonna has earned her Associate Membership with the British Associations of Teachers of Dancing (BATD) in Stage Craft. Today, she channels her passion and credentials into choreography and dance education that nurtures the holistic growth of dancers — both in rhythm and soul.
Education & Certifications at a glance:
*Obtaining Bachelor of Commerce
Bella describes dance as her creative passion, and a fundamental part of her identity. She fell in love with dance as a toddler, and has been dancing ever since. Bella began dance classes at the age of three, and continued her training throughout high school. She is trained in acro, ballet, contemporary, hip hop, jazz and lyrical dance techniques. Bella was a competitive dance team member for seven years. Beyond being an excellent creative and physical outlet, dance, Bella believes, nurtures valuable skills including collaboration, perseverance, time-management and self-discipline. Currently in her fourth year of the Bachelor of Commerce program at Queen’s University, Bella has several years of experience as a dance instructor and loves creating a fun environment that supports young dancers’ energy, learning, confidence, and self-esteem. Bella is excited to be returning to the Arabesque dance family for the 2025/2026 dance season.
International Dance Teaching Standards
Assistant Dance Teacher Certification
Meleena started dancing at the age of four, and has been dancing at Arabesque since 2016. Meleena has trained in acro, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and ballet. Since joining AAD Meleena has gained strength, perseverance , and confidence in her dancing. When Meleena first began dancing, she absolutely fell in love with it. She not only fell in love with dance itself, but also fell in love with it because of the amazing bonds and friendships she has made along the way. This is Meleena’s second year of assisting, and her 7th year of competitive dance. Meleena loves to push herself to gain new skills, even if she doesn’t think she will get in on her first try! Meleena loves assisting, and building a connection with other dancers and students!
Ava is a remarkable 14-year-old dancer who has been passionately dancing since she was just 5 years old. Ava's journey in dance has been nothing short of inspiring, as she has been competing in dance competitions since the age of 8. Ava's heart truly belongs to ballet, but her talent doesn't stop there. She also practices acro, lyrical/contemporary, and jazz, showcasing her versatility and dedication. What truly sets Ava apart is her love for dance, which goes beyond just the movements. Through dance, she has learned invaluable life lessons such as self-discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and so much more. These lessons have shaped her into the amazing individual she is today. In addition to her own dancing, Ava has a deep passion for assisting and sharing her love of dance with younger children. She finds immense joy in helping them discover the beauty and excitement of dance, and she is always eager to lend a helping hand.
International Dance Teaching Standards
Assistant Dance Teacher Certification
Ivanna is a passionate teen dancer who began her journey at the age of four and has been dancing with AAD since she was ten. Now entering her second year as a class assistant, she continues to support younger dancers while sharing her love of movement and expression. Ivanna has trained in styles including acro, ballet, and lyrical, and has grown in many ways since joining Arabesque. Ivanna has become a bold, expressive performer and learned how to work as part of a team, while also gaining confidence to be more independent. Through her time in the studio, Ivanna has formed meaningful friendships with dancers across all age groups. She looks forward to continuing to inspire others and grow within the supportive and creative community at AAD.












