Common Ground

Dance Festival

2025 ARTISTS AND STAFF

DAVID NORSWORTHY (Copy) (Copy) (Copy)

DAVID NORSWORTHY

David Norsworthy (he/him) is a Tkarón:to/Toronto-based dance artist, choreographer, producer, curator, and arts educator of mixed Japanese immigrant/British settler descent who is “an exceptionally lucid performer, impressive and articulate” (Globe and Mail). A graduate of The Juilliard School in New York City, he delights in asking questions, and is fascinated by the transformative power of dancing. David has performed with dance companies and collaborated with dance creators in Canada, USA, Sweden and Australia. Notable performance projects include productions with Dancenorth (Melbourne), Skånes Dansteater (Malmö), Peggy Baker Dance Projects (Toronto), and The Merce Cunningham Trust (New York City). His choreographic career has included independently produced full-length works, international tours, and commissioned projects for companies, universities and schools. David is the grateful recipient of the Ron Lenyk Award (2016) and was one of three finalists for the Toronto Arts Foundation’s Emerging Artist Award (2018). He is a Co-Founder/Co-Director of TOES FOR DANCE, and has recently served as a Board Member of CanAsian Dance, and a part-time Rehearsal Director for Norrdans, a contemporary dance company in Sweden. Between 2023 and 2025, he was a Co-Executive Artistic Producer for DanceWorks, a choreographic presentation platform in Toronto. Photo by Colton Curtis

TANVEER ALAM Tanveer Alam (he/him) started his Kathak training with Sudeshna Maulik and continued further nuanced studies with guru Sandhya Desai. Alam is a 2019 graduate of The School of Toronto Dance Theatre. Alam has performed in the works of

TANVEER ALAM

Tanveer Alam (he/him) started his Kathak training with Sudeshna Maulik and continued further nuanced studies with guru Sandhya Desai. Alam is a 2019 graduate of The School of Toronto Dance Theatre. Alam has performed in the works of Rina Singha, Lata Pada, Padmini Chettur, Brandy Leary, Harikishan S. Nair, Sashar Zarif, Lucy Rupert, and Peter Chin, to name a few. Alam is also invested within the dance sector as an Alliance Lead at The South Asian Dance Alliance of Canada, a guest curator alongside Nithya Garg at Dancemakers (2023 season), and was a guest curator/artistic associate with TOES FOR DANCE (2023 season). He has developed skills in the fields of curation and production by working as an independent artist in the city of Toronto, learning by lived experience. He produced Leher, his first full length solo in June 2023, as well as other smaller scale artistic endeavours. Photo by Brandy Leary

CHANTELLE GOOD Chantelle Good, originally from Toronto, Canada, is a performer, choreographer, and teaching artist, now based in Brooklyn, New York. She studied at Marymount Manhattan College, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a co

CHANTELLE GOOD

Chantelle Good, originally from Toronto, Canada, is a performer, choreographer, and teaching artist, now based in Brooklyn, New York. She studied at Marymount Manhattan College, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in choreography. To further her training, Chantelle also attended Springboard Danse Montreal where she performed repertoire by La Tresse Collective, Shumpei Nemoto, Stijn Celis, and Ohad Naharin. Past commercial dance credits include: H.E.R., Jennifer Lopez, Snoop Dogg, Daddy Yankee x Bad Bunny, iskwē, Haai x Jon Hopkins, Gary Clark Jr., David Byrne, Rothy’s “That’s More Like It” Global Campaign, Tyson, Volvo, and CNCPTS/PUMA. Concert dance credits include: Freddie Falls in Love (Joyce Theater), New York Fashion Week (A--Company), Still Motion Dance Company, Kate Harpootlian & Artists, Loni Landon Dance Project, The Forest of Arden, and Punchdrunk’s Sleep No More. Currently, Chantelle can be seen performing on Broadway in MJ The Musical. In addition to her work with TFD, Chantelle is also the Programs Director of Share The Movement, a non-profit dedicated to providing access and opportunity to young BIPOC dancers. She also enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for dance as a teaching artist and guest choreographer for institutions and programs across North America. She continues to deepen her learning around decolonizing practices, in order to foster inclusive environments for her students and cultivate community whenever possible.

Photo by Jon Taylor

BRIANNA CLARKE Brianna (Bri) Clarke is a performer, choreographer, teacher, and producer, based in Tkarón:to/Toronto. Her early training began in Ottawa at Leeming Danceworks, where she developed her voice as an artist and trained competitively

BRIANNA CLARKE

Brianna (Bri) Clarke is a performer, choreographer, teacher, and producer, based in Tkarón:to/Toronto. Her early training began in Ottawa at Leeming Danceworks, where she developed her voice as an artist and trained competitively in multiple styles of dance. While studying at Toronto Metropolitan University, Bri performed in full-length works by established choreographers such as Hanna Kiel, Alysa Pires, and Merce Cunningham. After obtaining her BFA in Performance Dance, Bri has furthered her training in Germany, New York City, North Carolina, Greece, Los Angeles and across Canada. She continues to be a freelance artist for multiple dance and theatre collectives. Bri has been fortunate to be on the TOES FOR DANCE team for many years, acting in various roles across the organization’s programming. Most notably, she associate produced and performed in the sold-out run of “Dinner is Served”, choreographed by Tony-winning choreographer Kristen Carcone. As well, Bri has enjoyed being on staff for Fresh Dance Intensive since 2015, carrying out roles as an assistant, a teacher, and now as Event Coordinator. Other credits include: Frog in Hand, Transcen|Dance Project, Dance Arts Institute, Near & Far Projects, The Performing Arts Project, and the Toronto Fringe Festival. Currently, Bri is the Dance Artist-in-Residence at The Heliconian Club, and she is on teaching faculty at The Fifth Dance. www.briclarke.ca @brianna_clarkee

Photo by Kendra Epik

SHANNON WIDDIS Shannon Widdis (she/her) is a Queer multidisciplinary artist with a strong focus on creative advertising and digital media. With nearly two decades of experience in dance and the performing arts, Shannon brings a unique, arts-info

SHANNON WIDDIS

Shannon Widdis (she/her) is a Queer multidisciplinary artist with a strong focus on creative advertising and digital media. With nearly two decades of experience in dance and the performing arts, Shannon brings a unique, arts-informed perspective to her work in marketing and communications. She holds a diploma in Advertising and Marketing Communications from Humber College in Toronto and previously studied Art, Performance, and Cinema Studies at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver. Her background in performing arts, art history, and film has helped shape a well-rounded and thoughtful approach to storytelling and strategy in the arts and culture sector. In addition to her work in advertising, Shannon is an experienced photographer and videographer, producing content that ranges from promotional campaigns to documentary-style storytelling. She has worked as both a freelance digital marketing specialist and Marketing Coordinator for professional theatres and non-profit organizations across the GTA. You can view Shannon’s portfolio at shannonwiddis.weebly.com or follow her creative work on Instagram at @shannonwiddis_.

Photo by Ceilidh Creative

KEIRA MARIE FORDE Keira Marie Forde (She/They) is a multidisciplinary artist and community arts producer who has worked in culturally relevant pedagogy and the arts for over nine years. Keira’s artistic practice focuses on amplifying stories fr

KEIRA MARIE FORDE

Keira Marie Forde (She/They) is a multidisciplinary artist and community arts producer who has worked in culturally relevant pedagogy and the arts for over nine years. Keira’s artistic practice focuses on amplifying stories from youth (under 30) in Toronto. Recent performance credits include The Sonkofa Trilogy with the Wata Theatre, NYC’s Richest Man (web series), Suitable Climate with b current at SummerWorks, The Christie Pits Riot with Hogtown Collective, What’s So Funny with Carousel Players, and her original digital work No More News for Nancy with Alberta-based company Major Matt Mason Collective. In 2023–2024, No More News for Nancy underwent further research through the Creative Catalyst Dance Program at Nia Centre for the Arts. In 2025, Keira completed a residency on the decolonization of bodies at HAUT in partnership with KRA/RAS in Denmark. In 2024, she produced and choreographed Generation Gentrified for the Paprika Festival, inspired by Toronto’s changing communities.

Photo by Eden Graham

VISAREE BRADSHAW-COORE Visaree is a Canadian film & theatre coordinator, and curatorial creative. She is known to be an active worker in delivering Canadian stories. Notably an AGO youth board, TIFF Next Wave and Fringe alumna Visaree is a promi

VISAREE BRADSHAW-COORE

Visaree is a Canadian film & theatre coordinator, and curatorial creative. She is known to be an active worker in delivering Canadian stories. Notably an AGO youth board, TIFF Next Wave and Fringe alumna Visaree is a prominent creative leader and production organizer in our city as she values lending a helping hand to creatives to make sure their stories get told. Welcome Visaree to the TFD team! More information about me for context: Pronouns: (She/Her) Instagram: @bradshawcoore Email: bradshawcoore@gmail.com

Photo by Yellow Studio TO

GABRIEL CROPLEY Gabriel Cropley is a Toronto based lighting designer and three-time Dora Mavor Moore award nominee. Recent credits include Cendrillon for University of Toronto Opera (Elgin Theatre), Wakati for NAfro Dance Productions (Winnipeg),

GABRIEL CROPLEY

Gabriel Cropley is a Toronto based lighting designer and three-time Dora Mavor Moore award nominee. Recent credits include Cendrillon for University of Toronto Opera (Elgin Theatre), Wakati for NAfro Dance Productions (Winnipeg), home for RAW Taiko Drummers, December Dances for Dance Arts Institute, RISE: Fall Dances for TMU Performance Dance, Empty Space Empty Time for Ottawa Dance Directive (Southam Hall, NAC), and Magic of Assembly for Toronto Dance Theatre. Gabriel has had the privilege of collaborating with the City of Toronto/Nuit Blanche, Ballet Creole, Victoria Mata Productions & Aluna Theatre, Coal Mine Theatre, dance: made in canada | fait au canada, Bicycle Opera, CanAsian Dance, dreamwalker dance, University of Toronto Opera, Sampradaya Dance Creations, Dancemakers, Humber Theatre, BoucharDanse, Sashar Zarif Dance Theatre, pounds per square inch performance, Avinoam Silverman Dance, Little Pear Garden Dance Company, Toronto Heritage Dance, Capitol Theatre Port Hope, Newton Moraes Dance Theatre, York Dance Ensemble, TOES for Dance, Danny Grossman, Sook-Yin Lee & Jennifer Goodwin, Theatre Gargantua, Peggy Baker Dance Projects, Hamilton Children’s Choir, Tracey Norman, Forcier StageWorks, JDdance, Art of Time Ensemble, the School of Toronto Dance Theatre, and more. gabrielcropley.ca

Photo by Alexandar Antonijevic

SHIVANI SHIVAKUMAR Shivani Shivakumar began her Bharatanatyam training at age 5 under Guru Smt. Padmini Achchi and continued under Guru Dr. Sanjay Shantaram at Shivapriya School of Dance. She is also trained in Kuchipudi and contemporary dance.

SHIVANI SHIVAKUMAR

Shivani Shivakumar began her Bharatanatyam training at age 5 under Guru Smt. Padmini Achchi and continued under Guru Dr. Sanjay Shantaram at Shivapriya School of Dance. She is also trained in Kuchipudi and contemporary dance. Shivani has won over 200 competitions across India and completed her Rangapravesha in 2010. She holds over 30 prestigious titles including Bharata Ratna Prashasti and Vishwa Kalaaratna. She has performed on several Indian TV channels and was runner-up in Zee Kannada’s Kuniyonu Bara. Shivani has performed across major cities in India and internationally in Sri Lanka, Australia, Bahrain, Malaysia, USA . In 2019, she founded Tattvartha Dance Studio in Bangalore. Since moving to Canada in 2022, she has performed at Kannada Sangha, Purandara Dasa Aradhane, Taste of India Festival at Nathan Phillips Square, and the Toronto International Dance Festival, and many more prestigious events showcasing Indian classical dance on global stages.

CARMEN ROMERO Carmen Romero is a dynamic and award-winning flamenco dance artist, captivating audiences with her electrifying performances and innovative choreography. With a rich background in performance, education, production, and adjudicatio

CARMEN ROMERO

Carmen Romero is a dynamic and award-winning flamenco dance artist, captivating audiences with her electrifying performances and innovative choreography. With a rich background in performance, education, production, and adjudication, she is a true luminary in the dance world. Notably, she coached global sensation Shakira in 2010 and proudly represented Canada at the prestigious 9th Annual Certamen de Coreografía in Madrid. Carmen is renowned for breaking barriers and creating dance that pulsates with passion and relevance.

Photo by Denise Grant

BEANY JOHN Beany is a 2 Spirit champion Grass dancer and in March 2022 she won 2nd place at the National Hoop Dance Championships in Arizona. She is currently the only woman in Canada initiated into the Grass Dance and was initiated when she was

BEANY JOHN

Beany is a 2 Spirit champion Grass dancer and in March 2022 she won 2nd place at the National Hoop Dance Championships in Arizona. She is currently the only woman in Canada initiated into the Grass Dance and was initiated when she was 10 years old. Beany has been dancing and teaching Hoop Dance throughout Canada and the U.S. since 2004. Beany shares about her 2 Spirit journey, her family and the importance of her dance.

Photo by Josie John

GISELE ARDOSA Gisele Ardosa (she/her) is an Asian Canadian artist from Toronto, currently based in Alberta as a professional dancer with the DJD Company. A 2024 graduate of the BFA program at Toronto Metropolitan University and recipient of the

GISELE ARDOSA

Gisele Ardosa (she/her) is an Asian Canadian artist from Toronto, currently based in Alberta as a professional dancer with the DJD Company. A 2024 graduate of the BFA program at Toronto Metropolitan University and recipient of the Lipson Family endowment award, Gisele has performed repertoire by renowned choreographers such as Lea Ved, Kim Cooper, Guillaume Côté, David Norsworthy, Roberto Campanella, and Robert Glumbeck. As an emerging choreographer, her work has been showcased at events including Fall For Dance North, Toes For Dance CGDF, Innovative Ballet Theatre, and most recently at the Solocoreografico Festival in Frankfurt, Germany. Passionate about innovation and collaboration she continues to explore her artistic boundaries, creating new works and continuing to learn about movement languages within the umbrellas of Jazz and Contemporary dance.

Photo by Trudie Lee

NATASJA JORDAN Natasja Jordan (she/her) is a versatile dancer, emerging choreographer, and multidisciplinary artist based in Tkaronto/Toronto. Natasja grew up in Burlington, Ontario, training in local studios with a hobby of drawing and painting

NATASJA JORDAN

Natasja Jordan (she/her) is a versatile dancer, emerging choreographer, and multidisciplinary artist based in Tkaronto/Toronto. Natasja grew up in Burlington, Ontario, training in local studios with a hobby of drawing and painting. Over the years, she fell in love with many different movement styles. Now, her favourite way to express herself is through dance fusion. After recently graduating from the Performance Dance BFA program at Toronto Metropolitan (formerly Ryerson) University, Natasja is working toward further developing her choreographic process and performing with professional contemporary companies within Toronto and beyond. She recently returned from a choreographic residency at Decidedly Jazz Danceworks in Calgary, where she made progress on choreographing her first full-length show. As an emerging artist, she is excited to be exploring many pathways in the arts and culture industries and looks forward to any opportunity to share her skills and passion for art in her community.

Photo by Rita Zietsma

ANJALI TANNA Anjali Tanna is an emerging movement artist, choreographer, and educator with roots in Indian classical and folk dance. Trained in Kathak, Garba, and certified in Dance Movement Therapy and Yoga, her practice blends tradition, heali

ANJALI TANNA

Anjali Tanna is an emerging movement artist, choreographer, and educator with roots in Indian classical and folk dance. Trained in Kathak, Garba, and certified in Dance Movement Therapy and Yoga, her practice blends tradition, healing, and storytelling. Originally from India, Anjali has lived, worked, and learned across the UK, Canada, and now the U.S., shaping her artistic voice through cultural shifts and personal transitions. Her recent choreographic interests lie in exploring rhythm as a shared language, and creating space for diasporic identity, emotional expression, and community connection. Anjali has had the opportunity to perform and collaborate with artists and collectives such as the Sanjukta Sinha Dance Company, Tanveer Alam, Shyam Dattani and Sampradaya Institute. She is slowly building her work with DanceHeals and Aadya Garba Institute, and hopes to continue learning, sharing, and growing through movement.

MAITHILI PATEL Maithili Patel is a Kathak dancer and choreographer based in New Jersey. Under the mentorship of her Guru, Dr. Pali Chandra, she has been fortunate to share her work globally (Dubai Kathak Festival, London Parliament House of Lord

MAITHILI PATEL

Maithili Patel is a Kathak dancer and choreographer based in New Jersey. Under the mentorship of her Guru, Dr. Pali Chandra, she has been fortunate to share her work globally (Dubai Kathak Festival, London Parliament House of Lords, Modhera Dance Festival). Kathak, a storytelling dance form, allows her to weave narratives that reflect on contemporary human experiences while still staying true to her cultural roots. Maithili’s debut choreography, Dark Inside (2018), explored themes of mental illness and internal conflict, while Quantum Dances (2025), delved into concepts from quantum mechanics. Having trained extensively in ‘abhinaya,’ the art of expression, her piece Draupadi (choreographed by Pali Chandra) received acclaim at the New York Kathak Festival 2019, while her dance film Rise, resonated deeply at the Swiss International Kathak Festival 2020. Through her work, Maithili continues to explore the depths of Kathak, using form as a powerful medium for social commentary, emotional depth, and cultural storytelling.

Photo by Marc Guerraz

DISHA PANCHAL Disha Panchal is an emerging Toronto-based dance artist whose work blends Bollywood, Indian classical, and folk traditions with street dance influences. Beginning with Garba and Bharatanatyam in India, she expanded her practice in

DISHA PANCHAL

Disha Panchal is an emerging Toronto-based dance artist whose work blends Bollywood, Indian classical, and folk traditions with street dance influences. Beginning with Garba and Bharatanatyam in India, she expanded her practice in Canada, performing professionally while training with collectives such as MOVMNT and artists like Tanveer Alam. She has collaborated with G Sidhu, Yuvan Shankar Raja, Raghav, and Raja Kumari, and performed at TEDx, Olympics Team Canada Fan Fest, and Dusk Dances. Choreography credits include "Unveiled 2025", “Salaam Rahman” - a Sampradaya Dance Creations Production and “The Bridge World Tour” by Rajakumari, among others. Her work is driven by an ongoing exploration of identity, using movement to reflect culture, community, and lived experience.

Photo by Hishant Dheer

CINNAMOON COLLECTIVE CinnaMoon Collective is founded by Irma Villafuerte and Nickeshia Garrick, a Central American and Afro-Caribbean contemporary dance duo that is dedicated to reclaiming and honouring ancestral stories from a decolonial perspe

CINNAMOON COLLECTIVE

CinnaMoon Collective is founded by Irma Villafuerte and Nickeshia Garrick, a Central American and Afro-Caribbean contemporary dance duo that is dedicated to reclaiming and honouring ancestral stories from a decolonial perspective, with the mission to ignite collective healing and recontextualize identity through the lens of black, Indigenous and racialized femme presenting queer bodies. We are committed to forming part of the movement dedicated to magnifying the voices that have been silenced and erased. We aim to share works that reach our audiences and communities on a human level. Nickeshia and Irma have been collaborating as dance artists for over 7 years through companies such as Victoria Mata Productions, Jaberi Dance Theatre and Kaeja d’Dance, to name a few. CinnaMoon Collective has nurtured their creative beginnings through residencies in El Salvador at the Centro de Arte para la Paz in Suchitoto (Arts Centre for Peace), through Aluna Theatre which led to a work-in-progress presentation at Caminos Festival in fall 2023, and a presentation of the same work in progress at Aeris Korper’s Prospects, an Evening of Dance and Discussion. The collective premiered their full-length, immersive dance-theatre work “Surrendered Spirits” in May 2024, which was nominated for two Dora Mavor Moore Awards, and was co-presented and co-curated by dance Immersion and Kaeja d’Dance.

Photo by Enzo Romero

QUEENIE SEGUBAN Originally from Manila, Philippines and now based in Toronto, Queenie is a powerhouse dancer, educator, and community leader. She discovered her love of music and dance early in life and has since used movement as a tool for con

QUEENIE SEGUBAN

Originally from Manila, Philippines and now based in Toronto, Queenie is a powerhouse dancer, educator, and community leader. She discovered her love of music and dance early in life and has since used movement as a tool for connection, empowerment, and cultural expression. With a background in Kinesiology and Education from York University, Queenie has over a decade of experience in street and commercial dance — from performing and teaching to choreography and creative direction. She trained with her crew DEUCEnDIP, and her work has been featured at Bazaar Dance Showcase, Toronto Pride Festival, MNFSTO, and Outside Looking In’s Annual Showcase. As the co-founder of School of Groove and Associate Director of the Dance Program at Outside Looking In, Queenie is dedicated to mentorship, community-building, and uplifting the voices of young dancers across Canada.

Photo by Nino Vicente

KELLY GAMMIE Kelly Gammie is a dance artist (DEUCEnDIP dance crew) and passionate dance educator based in Toronto. After receiving a BFA in dance from York University and a professional career dancing on some of Canada’s biggest stages (MMVA’s,

KELLY GAMMIE

Kelly Gammie is a dance artist (DEUCEnDIP dance crew) and passionate dance educator based in Toronto. After receiving a BFA in dance from York University and a professional career dancing on some of Canada’s biggest stages (MMVA’s, iHeartRadio Fest, MuchMusic’s NML), Kelly now co-directs School of Groove, a street/commercial dance and mentorship program dedicated to educating and empowering the next generation. She also co-leads The Groove Collective, an initiative aimed at supporting emerging artists from process to stage. She has the privilege of teaching at dance studios in and beyond the GTA, as well as work with arts organizations such as Just Bgraphic, North York Arts and Outside Looking In. Dance has been central to her personal development and evolving self. Such lessons greatly inform her creative process and are embodied in her teaching philosophies, where she aims to foster confidence, community and collaboration.

Photo by Jasmin Dela Paz

LAXMI MENON Laxmi began her dance journey at the age of 3, training in various Indian classical styles. During her high school years, she actively competed in and won several state-level dance competitions across India. She later expanded her sk

LAXMI MENON

Laxmi began her dance journey at the age of 3, training in various Indian classical styles. During her high school years, she actively competed in and won several state-level dance competitions across India. She later expanded her skill set by training in Hip Hop and Krump under “Myself and My Moves” dance community, eventually joining Choreo Grooves. In Toronto, Laxmi led as a choreographer for D Squad Ontario and performed with the Seneca Varsity Dance Team, contributing to their gold at the CMC Dance Competition (2022), silver at the Hamilton Association Competition (Sep 2022), and runner-up placement at the Afterdark Masquerade Gala. She has also showcased her performance skills with groups and events including Jadoo Entertainment (Mosaic & Diwali Razzmatazz 2024), Shadow Entertainment, Unite Dance Showcase, and Winterlude’s Fever After Dark. As an educator, Laxmi offers personalized training in Hip Hop and Indian classical dance, inspiring high school students to build confidence and express themselves through movement. Her unique style blends classical discipline with the raw energy of street dance—inviting dancers of all levels to explore, connect, and celebrate the joy of dance.

Photo by anyo._

HARRY Haoyan “Harry” Zhang is a Toronto-based dancer, choreographer, and educator specializing in Campbellocking. Originally from China, he discovered hip-hop culture through Breaking after moving to Canada and has since trained in multiple stre

HARRY

Haoyan “Harry” Zhang is a Toronto-based dancer, choreographer, and educator specializing in Campbellocking. Originally from China, he discovered hip-hop culture through Breaking after moving to Canada and has since trained in multiple street styles under mentors such as Caroline “Lady C” Fraser, Footnotes Academy, and pioneering figures of the form. His studies with OGs have grounded him in Campbellocking’s history, culture, and techniques. Harry’s work spans stage, film, and battles. He has performed at Breakin’ Convention’s Open Art Surgery and the Toronto Jazz Festival, competed internationally, and directed the short film Candy, selected for the FORM Film Festival. His choreography includes a solo for Open Art Surgery (2022) and a work for MOVMNT Collective’s Emergent Choreographer Showcase (2024). Dedicated to both tradition and innovation, Harry continues to share Campbellocking authentically within Toronto’s street dance community.

Photo by Anya

CAROLIN MATEUS Carolin Mateus is a dance artist, educator, and choreographer with over 15 years of experience teaching and creating in Colombia and Canada. She holds a Master’s degree in dance and has worked in diverse settings, from professiona

CAROLIN MATEUS

Carolin Mateus is a dance artist, educator, and choreographer with over 15 years of experience teaching and creating in Colombia and Canada. She holds a Master’s degree in dance and has worked in diverse settings, from professional studios to community programs. In Colombia, she collaborated with IDARTES, developing artistic projects that empowered children and youth, and contributed to the book Educational Tools for Dance, highlighting innovative pedagogical approaches. In Canada, she has choreographed for multiple companies and led projects like SOMOS UNO, celebrating multicultural identity, as well as initiatives with Indigenous communities, promoting visibility and empowerment through art. Blending Latin, Afro, and Hip-Hop influences, Carolin’s teaching emphasizes inclusion, equity, and creative expression. Passionate about using dance to connect cultures and build community, she continues to inspire dancers of all levels, fostering growth, confidence, and artistic exploration.

Photo by House Of Eight Dance Studio

RUMI JERAJ Rumi Jeraj is an Ismailli muslim hailing from Sherwood Park Alberta (the world's largest hamlet). A Graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University Rumi has worked for dance artists including Hanna Kiel, Daryl Tracy, Maxine Hepner, Heidi

RUMI JERAJ

Rumi Jeraj is an Ismailli muslim hailing from Sherwood Park Alberta (the world's largest hamlet). A Graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University Rumi has worked for dance artists including Hanna Kiel, Daryl Tracy, Maxine Hepner, Heidi Strauss, and Eilish Shin-Culhane. He has presented his own work at Dusk Dances, the Hamilton Fringe Festival, Citadel Compagnie’s Night Shift and Interaccess Gallery. He aspires to create and be a part of work which mixes forms in order to better tell stories. He believes there is a perfect balance between words, music, and movement which can communicate intellectually, emotionally and viscerally all at once. He aspires to find this state on stage.

Photo by Drew Berry

ZURI SKEETE Zuri Skeete (she/her) is a queer emerging dance artist within the Toronto community. She is a performer, choreographer, and teacher with a heavy focus on improvisation and contemporary dance. Zuri is a graduate from York University’s

ZURI SKEETE

Zuri Skeete (she/her) is a queer emerging dance artist within the Toronto community. She is a performer, choreographer, and teacher with a heavy focus on improvisation and contemporary dance. Zuri is a graduate from York University’s Choreography/Performance Specialized Honours BFA in Dance. She has worked with artists such as David Norsworthy, Syreeta Hector, Tracey Norman, and Susan Lee. Zuri has co-choreographed pieces for Dance Ontario Weekend and Fever After Dark. She has also choreographed and performed a commissioned piece for Toes for Dance’s Common Ground Festival. Additionally, she is the co-founder of The Meaningful Movement which aims to create spaces, events and conversations for all artists and art lovers. Zuri is constantly striving to explore her identity and movement aesthetic, persistently questioning if she can go deeper in everything she works on. Being present, staying curious and always ready to play allows her to fully immerse in the language of dance.

Photo by Natasha Smith

MINUET CHARRON Minuet Charron Is a dance artist, creator, and imaginator based in Toronto, ON. Originally hailing from Nova Scotia, Minuet has trained in various forms of concert and street dances. They mainly practice Contemporary and Hip Hop,

MINUET CHARRON

Minuet Charron Is a dance artist, creator, and imaginator based in Toronto, ON. Originally hailing from Nova Scotia, Minuet has trained in various forms of concert and street dances. They mainly practice Contemporary and Hip Hop, exploring, educating, and expanding her overall knowledge about these styles and joy and understanding of them. An alumna from Dance Arts Institute, Minuet has been trained extensively in Contemporary dance forms including foundations of Graham, Inspired by Fighting Monkey, Flying Low and Passing Through, and has had the honour of performing works by Peggy Baker, Naishi Wang, Ashley “Colours” Perez, Tanveer Alam, Ryan Lee, and Elke Schroeder. Minuet continues to perform, teach, and explore Contemporary dance, while also giving time to their Breaking and freestyle practices through attending battles, sessions, and community events. Minuet is passionate about creating spaces for community, being in a constant state of learning, growth, and curating spaces of kindness.

Photo by Vivian Tran

DJ RIKIGAI Rikigai is a Toronto-based DJ driven by a deep connection to nature and the energy of human experience. The name is a fusion of “Ikigai”—the Japanese concept of life’s purpose—and rhythm, reflecting his passion for creating meaning th

DJ RIKIGAI

Rikigai is a Toronto-based DJ driven by a deep connection to nature and the energy of human experience. The name is a fusion of “Ikigai”—the Japanese concept of life’s purpose—and rhythm, reflecting his passion for creating meaning through music. Known for weaving Afro-house, melodic house, and global grooves, Rikigai’s sets are designed as journeys—balancing warmth and energy, harmony and pulse. Inspired by natural soundscapes, his mixes invite dancers to feel grounded yet elevated, blending earthy textures with hypnotic beats.

Photo by Neharika

RAHA Raha is a passionate dancer dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Iranian/Persian dance with audiences worldwide. Trained in classical and regional styles, she weaves cultural heritage into her performances, blending st

RAHA

Raha is a passionate dancer dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich traditions of Iranian/Persian dance with audiences worldwide. Trained in classical and regional styles, she weaves cultural heritage into her performances, blending storytelling, rhythm, and graceful movement. Her artistry reflects a deep respect for tradition while embracing contemporary expression, creating a bridge between past and present. Raha has performed at festivals, cultural events, and community gatherings, captivating audiences with her elegance and authenticity.

Photo by Azita Ziaei (StudioSpec)

JESSICA DENNEY Jessica Denney is a 17 year old high school senior at Cawthra Park Secondary School, where she is in the Regional Arts Program for dance. Jessica was first introduced to dance at a young age when she would watch the performances o

JESSICA DENNEY

Jessica Denney is a 17 year old high school senior at Cawthra Park Secondary School, where she is in the Regional Arts Program for dance. Jessica was first introduced to dance at a young age when she would watch the performances of her older sister, Madison. This began her own dance journey at the age of 3. She has trained in a variety of different styles such as lyrical, jazz, tap, contemporary, modern, ballet, hip-hop, and musical theatre. She started dancing competitively at the age of 8 and is currently dancing in her last year at Can Dance Academy in Mississauga. Jessica’s dance journey has not been without physical challenges including her scoliosis and arthritis diagnoses. However, she strives to overcome these obstacles and does not allow them to diminish her passion and desire to dance. She is very grateful for this opportunity to work with Toes for Dance and can’t wait for you all to see her perform!

Photo by Henry Mendel

RHEA MANUNTAG Rhea is a 14-year-old dancer from Toronto, Canada, who has been training since the age of five. She currently dances at Dance Inc., where she continues to grow as a versatile artist. While she loves exploring all dance styles, her

RHEA MANUNTAG

Rhea is a 14-year-old dancer from Toronto, Canada, who has been training since the age of five. She currently dances at Dance Inc., where she continues to grow as a versatile artist. While she loves exploring all dance styles, her passion shines most in lyrical and contemporary. Dedicated to expanding her skills, she actively participates in dance conventions and had the incredible opportunity to attend the Outstanding Dancer Experience at NYCDA in Phoenix, Arizona in 2024. She is also proud to have been named Runner-Up Miss Junior Candance Nationals 2024. With big dreams for the future, she aspires to one day perform on stage alongside her favorite artists.

Photo by Kimberly Manuntag

MIGUEL MEDINA Miguel Medina is an exuberant percussionist whose rhythmic brilliance has energized contemporary dance for over 15 years at renowned institutions like Circuit-Est and Concordia University. His musical journey spans the globe, colla

MIGUEL MEDINA

Miguel Medina is an exuberant percussionist whose rhythmic brilliance has energized contemporary dance for over 15 years at renowned institutions like Circuit-Est and Concordia University. His musical journey spans the globe, collaborating with diverse projects in Mexico, France, and Canada, including the acclaimed Compania Carmen Romero and the vibrant SaSaSa Company. Together, Carmen and Miguel create an unforgettable fusion of flamenco and contemporary dance that ignites the stage!

Photo by Dahlia Katz

JAZZMIN JAMES Jazzmin James is a dedicated dance educator and performer based in Canada. Her dance journey began at Elite Danceworx in Markham, ON. Later, she pursued her professional training in Vancouver, BC, at the Arts Umbrella Graduate Prog

JAZZMIN JAMES

Jazzmin James is a dedicated dance educator and performer based in Canada. Her dance journey began at Elite Danceworx in Markham, ON. Later, she pursued her professional training in Vancouver, BC, at the Arts Umbrella Graduate Program under the direction of Artemis Gordon. There, she performed repertoire by renowned choreographers such as Crystal Pite, Mats Ek, and Johan Inger. Jazzmin has also furthered her dance education through intensives at Rubberband Dance, Ballet BC, and Springboard Danse Montréal. Her professional experience includes dancing with Janet Jackson in her Toronto concert and working on television projects including Degrassi, The Next Step, and Backstage. Currently, Jazzmin is a member of Transcen|Dance Project, a company focused on immersive dance theatre. Jazzmin holds a Bachelor of Health Sciences from Queen’s University, which informs her approach to wellness and movement. She also completed her CoreFit Reformer Level 1 teacher training and is a certified yoga teacher.

Photo by Michael Slobodian

TARYN LESLIE Taryn is currently a student, assistant and teacher at Dance Inc. She has experience in Acro, Ballet, Contemporary, Creative Movement, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, and Technique and continues to inspire young dancers. Taryn is cu

TARYN LESLIE

Taryn is currently a student, assistant and teacher at Dance Inc. She has experience in Acro, Ballet, Contemporary, Creative Movement, Modern, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, and Technique and continues to inspire young dancers. Taryn is currently a student attending a performing arts high school specializing in Dance Composition. She has choreographed numerous solos, duets/trios, and group routines. Taryn has 10 years experience in performance and is best known for inspiring young dancers through her passion and dedication to storytelling through her performance.

NYLA-ROSE STANLEY I am a13-year-old dancer and have been training at Dance Inc in Ajax since I was three years old. Dance has always been such a huge part of my life and something that makes me feel the most like myself. My favorite styles are h

NYLA-ROSE STANLEY

I am a13-year-old dancer and have been training at Dance Inc in Ajax since I was three years old. Dance has always been such a huge part of my life and something that makes me feel the most like myself. My favorite styles are hip hop and contemporary because they let me move in totally different ways—sometimes powerful and sharp, other times soft and emotional. What I love most about dance is being able to tell a story without having to say a single word. Performing gives me a chance to share my feelings and connect with people through movement. Dance has helped me build confidence, creativity, and friendships, and I’m excited to keep learning and growing as a dancer.

AISHA NICHOLSON Aisha Nicholson is an Artist, Emerging Choreographer, Teacher and Reiki Practitioner that hails from Toronto; creator of the Movement CheckIn a program that brings artists together on Instagram live. She is currently an independ

AISHA NICHOLSON

Aisha Nicholson is an Artist, Emerging Choreographer, Teacher and Reiki Practitioner that hails from Toronto; creator of the Movement CheckIn a program that brings artists together on Instagram live. She is currently an independent artist and has worked with various choreographers and companies such as Lua Shayenne Dance Company, Ronald Taylor Dance, KasheDance, Arsenio Andrade, C.O.B.A (Collective Of Black Artist), Garth Fagan, Ballet Creole, Aria Evans to name a few. Aisha has performed and toured with Obeah Opera for Luminato festival and in South Africa. She performed at Carifesta XIV festival in Trinidad and Tobago in 2019. In 2021, she choreographed her first inaugural solo called Abandonment and is currently working on remounting this work. Her artistic practice is rooted in Caribbean, West African, Contemporary and Afro-contemporary dance styles and her exploration of movement is multilayered, polyrhythmic and rooted in the Black experience. @movementcheckin

Photo by Drew Berry

ZEENA I am Zeena, an artist with experience in theater and performance, as well as acting and voice work. In my home country, I was involved in various productions, many rooted in movement and performance. These experiences shaped my vision of

ZEENA

I am Zeena, an artist with experience in theater and performance, as well as acting and voice work. In my home country, I was involved in various productions, many rooted in movement and performance. These experiences shaped my vision of the body as my main artistic language—a living language capable of carrying the deepest emotions. I am also passionate about photography, especially capturing the body in motion. Now, here in Canada, I am continuing to develop my practice, looking forward to exploring new opportunities and sharing my expression with others.

JENNAVIE LEWIS From the ripe age of 2, Jennavie has found a deep love for dance and continued all throughout elementary and high school. Her growth in dance continues and cannot wait to enter her final year.

JENNAVIE LEWIS

From the ripe age of 2, Jennavie has found a deep love for dance and continued all throughout elementary and high school. Her growth in dance continues and cannot wait to enter her final year.

JUDY LUO Jia Yi (Judy) Luo is a Chinese-Canadian dance artist based out of Toronto, Ontario, and in her trusty blue suitcase. Voyaging with faith and gifts of grit and grace, she loves exploring and animating every day spaces with movement. Jud

JUDY LUO

Jia Yi (Judy) Luo is a Chinese-Canadian dance artist based out of Toronto, Ontario, and in her trusty blue suitcase. Voyaging with faith and gifts of grit and grace, she loves exploring and animating every day spaces with movement. Judy is a former member of touring company Rambert 2 (London, UK). She holds her BFA in Performance Dance from Toronto Metropolitan University and is a laureate of the Hnatyshyn Foundation’s Developing Artist Grant. Known for her stage presence and versatility, her commercial credits include Nike, SportChek, Tim Hortons, Hallmark Channel, Jessie Reyez and Feist. Judy collaborates alongside Anne Plamondon (Montreal), Liam Francis (UK), Nova Bhattacharya (Toronto) and Dreamwalker Dance Company (Toronto/Vancouver). Switching between the hats of performer, rehearsal director and educator, she marvels at the body's intelligence and delights in sharing this fascination with others. Follow along her creative endeavours on her Substack publication, "mindthemoves."

Photo by Carl Johan Folkesson

EVELYN FARMER Hi! My name is Evelyn, I am 16 years old. I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old and started competing around the age of 7. I attend Rosedale Heights School of the Arts as a dance major. Dance is one of the best things that happ

EVELYN FARMER

Hi! My name is Evelyn, I am 16 years old. I’ve been dancing since I was 3 years old and started competing around the age of 7. I attend Rosedale Heights School of the Arts as a dance major. Dance is one of the best things that happened to me and brings me the most joy. I do not know what I’d do without dance, it helps me express feeling and emotions I have when words can’t describe them. I am overjoyed to be a part of this wonderful experience and so thankful for the amazing people who are making it happen. I can’t wait to continue dancing throughout me life and keep improving in my dance career.

Photo by E.S. Cheah

DHRUV NAIK Dhruv is a multi-talented performer, choreographer, and co-founder of Jadoo Entertainment, bringing a unique fusion of Bollywood, hip hop, and contemporary styles to stages across Canada and beyond. A Marty Award winner for Establishe

DHRUV NAIK

Dhruv is a multi-talented performer, choreographer, and co-founder of Jadoo Entertainment, bringing a unique fusion of Bollywood, hip hop, and contemporary styles to stages across Canada and beyond. A Marty Award winner for Established Artist, Dhruv has collaborated with top Bollywood professionals and celebrities, including Tesher at the Junos, Raja Kumari, and Raghav. He has also performed as a dancer for professional sports teams, including the Argos (CFL) and the 905 Raptors. His creative vision extends to film, having choreographed a short film set to premiere at TIFF 2025. Passionate about giving back, Dhruv is deeply involved in the local arts community, mentoring young dancers, organizing workshops, and fostering opportunities for South Asian performers. Known for his energy, precision, and storytelling through movement, he continues to inspire audiences while elevating arts and culture across Canada.