Our staff
We’re excited to bring our passion for dance to you.
STUDIO DIRECTOR
Mariia Donets
Mariia started to dance at age 4, and since that time Dancing become her passion. She started as a professional Ballroom dancer. Mariia is the winner of Ukraine, Polish and Slovenian Open Championships, finalist of the biggest world dance competitions such as Austrian Open Grand Slam, among others. Mariia graduated with honors from the St. Petersburg University of Arts and Social Sciences - majoring in Classical and Contemporary choreography.
During her dancing career as a contemporary dancer Mariia was a part of one of the best contemporary dance companies: “Bye Bye Ballet” in St.Petersburg, BDDC, “Far For” in Moscow. Mariia led and participated in many workshops with some of the greatest dancers and choreographers, such as Netherland Dance theater and Batsheva Dancing Company.
Her biggest inspiration among all is the beauty of body and mind transformation through the motion. Watching her students improving their dance technique, realizing their artistic and emotional potential is Mariia’s most cherished part of being a teacher.
Sama Mammadova
Meet Sama Mammadova, our esteemed new dance contemporary and ballet instructor. Sama's passion for dance began at an early age and led her to pursue a 12-year classical ballet education at the renowned Baku Academy of Choreography. During her time at the academy, she specialized in the classical department, honing her skills and technique to become the accomplished dancer she is today.
Sama's dedication and talent have been recognized at prestigious competitions, including events in Russia (Astrakhan) and Kazakhstan (Almaty), where she secured third and fourth place honors, respectively. Her commitment to her craft has taken her to renowned venues such as the Opera and Ballet Theater, Heydar Aliev Palace, State Song Theater, and the Azerbaijan State Academic Musical Theater, where she has graced the stage in captivating ballet performances both domestically and internationally.
Following the completion of her studies, Sama broadened her horizons by joining a modern dance group, where she spent two years as an integral member. Together, they performed alongside famous singers at prominent concerts, captivating audiences on some of the biggest stages.
Sama's wealth of experience and expertise make her an invaluable addition to our team, and we are excited for her to share her knowledge, passion, and artistry with our students.
Joey Bowler
Meet Joey, a seasoned acrobatics instructor boasting years of coaching expertise in tumbling and artistic gymnastics. With a diverse skill set that spans tumbling, handbalancing and other circus arts, calisthenics, yoga, stretching, and weightlifting, Joey's extensive experience reflects his versatility as a coach. Armed with an undergraduate degree in child and adolescent development and a master's in curriculum and instruction, he seamlessly integrates physical prowess with a profound understanding of developmental needs, delivering a unique and comprehensive teaching approach.
Beyond his extensive background, Joey is a certified parkour coach, injecting dynamism into his training methodology. Fueled by an unwavering commitment to excellence and a deep passion for acrobatics and movement arts, he consistently stays at the forefront of the industry.
Joey's coaching journey spans over two decades, guiding beginners through foundational skills to honing the abilities of advanced athletes. His commitment to holistic growth is evident in his work with students of all ages, prioritizing not only physical prowess but also nurturing mental and emotional well-being. Embark on a transformative journey with Joey, where the beauty of movement and the pursuit of excellence converge under his expert guidance. Whether your child is a novice beginning their acrobatic journey or an advanced practitioner seeking refinement, Joey's wealth of experience and steadfast commitment to each student's development will elevate their acrobatics journey to new heights.
Nicole Belov
Nicole has an extensive dance history of over 15 years in various types of dance including but not limited to hip hop, contemporary, and ballroom. She trained under Mariia for 5 years before attending university. Nicole was an active member of her university’s competitive open-style hip hop dance team, Cruz Ctrl, which specializes in fostering all dancers’ growth with an emphasis on family and freestyle hip hop values.
On Cruz Ctrl, Nicole was the Artistic Director for one year and Executive Director for another. In both of these roles, Nicole was one of the primary choreographers of the team and her choreography was featured in sets for competitions like Prelude NorCal and World of Dance Bay Area, as well as Cruz Ctrl’s home showcase, Mainstay. She has also previously taught community classes and workshops for Cruz Ctrl as well as masterclasses for Deep Dance Studio.
Nicole hopes to introduce dancers of all ages to the possibilities of hip hop and inspire them to develop their own unique style through unconventional combinations of dance genres.
Dallas Manson
Dallas has been dancing since he was in the fourth grade. His journey began in his church’s Easter production at Cathedral of Faith. Ever since he has enjoyed dancing and performing. He grew up doing productions and even went to school for dance at San Jose State University. Dallas began teaching at his martial arts school and at his church where he became a leader and main choreographer for the ministry. Dallas loves performing and choreography but teaching holds a special place in his heart as he believes if someone enjoys it enough and workshard enough, anyone can learn to move, groove and dance.