Jury

Janek Schergen is from Göteborg, Sweden. Since 1971, he was invited to many dance companies to take on various positions – a dancer, teacher, ballet master, and artistic director. These companies include Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Washington Ballet, Royal Swedish Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and Norwegian National Ballet. As artistic director and board member of the Choo-San Goh & H. Robert Magee Foundation, he has staged 11 of Choo-San’s works for Singapore Ballet (SB), and more than 120 worldwide. In 2008, Janek was appointed as artistic director of SB. Since then, he has initiated programmes such as One @ the Ballet, Ballet Associates Course, Scholars’ Programme, SB Choreographic Workshop, and the Intensive Ballet Programme. Over the past decade, he has been part of several panels and committees for the National Arts Council, and has been frequently invited to judge at international ballet competitions. He was also honoured with the ‘Award for Culture’ by Singapore Tatler at the Leadership Awards 2015, a prestigious award that recognises the contribution of influential leaders in Singapore; and was conferred the Public Service Medal (PBM) by the President of Singapore at the prestigious National Day Awards 2017.Janek Schergen is from Göteborg, Sweden. Since 1971, he was invited to many dance companies to take on various positions – a dancer, teacher, ballet master, and artistic director. These companies include Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Washington Ballet, Royal Swedish Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, and Norwegian National Ballet. As artistic director and board member of the Choo-San Goh & H. Robert Magee Foundation, he has staged 11 of Choo-San’s works for Singapore Ballet (SB), and more than 120 worldwide. In 2008, Janek was appointed as artistic director of SB. Since then, he has initiated programmes such as One @ the Ballet, Ballet Associates Course, Scholars’ Programme, SB Choreographic Workshop, and the Intensive Ballet Programme. Over the past decade, he has been part of several panels and committees for the National Arts Council, and has been frequently invited to judge at international ballet competitions. He was also honoured with the ‘Award for Culture’ by Singapore Tatler at the Leadership Awards 2015, a prestigious award that recognises the contribution of influential leaders in Singapore; and was conferred the Public Service Medal (PBM) by the President of Singapore at the prestigious National Day Awards 2017.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Alysson was a finalist at the YAGP in 2005 and received a scholarship to study at the San Francisco Ballet School. He later worked at the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro, performing classical repertoire from renowned choreographers such as Yelena Pankova, Sir Peter Wright, Enrique Martinez, and Dalal Achcar. From 2011-2013, he was coached by Pedro Kraszczuk and Cecilia Kerche, and concurrently served as the choreographer and artistic coordinator of “Dançar a Vida Youth Company” in Rio de Janeiro. 

In 2013, he joined Ballett Dortmund in Germany, creating roles alongside his director Xin Peng Wang and performing pieces from William Forsythe, Alexander Ekman, Jiri Bubenicek, and Demis Volpi.

Recognized for his creative work, Alysson won the “Dortmunder Löwe 2019” prize for his “Silent Orchestra” dance/music project. He was later appointed as the First Ballet Master with Ballett Dortmund, where he assists and preserves the pieces from Ballett Dortmund’s director, Alexander Ekman, William Forsythe, and other renowned choreographers.

Alysson was invited as a Teacher and at the YAGP Final in 2022. He was also invited by Prof. Dr. Alkis Raftis to become a member of the International Dance Council of UNESCO. Alysson’s extensive experience and dedication to the art of dance make him a valuable asset in his role as an international teacher and judge.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Alysson was a finalist at the YAGP in 2005 and received a scholarship to study at the San Francisco Ballet School. He later worked at the Municipal Theater of Rio de Janeiro, performing classical repertoire from renowned choreographers such as Yelena Pankova, Sir Peter Wright, Enrique Martinez, and Dalal Achcar. From 2011-2013, he was coached by Pedro Kraszczuk and Cecilia Kerche, and concurrently served as the choreographer and artistic coordinator of “Dançar a Vida Youth Company” in Rio de Janeiro. 

In 2013, he joined Ballett Dortmund in Germany, creating roles alongside his director Xin Peng Wang and performing pieces from William Forsythe, Alexander Ekman, Jiri Bubenicek, and Demis Volpi.

Recognized for his creative work, Alysson won the “Dortmunder Löwe 2019” prize for his “Silent Orchestra” dance/music project. He was later appointed as the First Ballet Master with Ballett Dortmund, where he assists and preserves the pieces from Ballett Dortmund’s director, Alexander Ekman, William Forsythe, and other renowned choreographers.

Alysson was invited as a Teacher and at the YAGP Final in 2022. He was also invited by Prof. Dr. Alkis Raftis to become a member of the International Dance Council of UNESCO. Alysson’s extensive experience and dedication to the art of dance make him a valuable asset in his role as an international teacher and judge.

Baptiste graduated at the National Conservatoire in Paris in 2000. His career began in Norway with Nye Carte Blanche before returning to France where he worked with Luc Petton and Gilles Schamber. In 2002 he joined Scottish Dance Theatre and worked with various choreographers such as Ruy Horta, Didi Veldman, Hofesh Shechter, Janet Smith, Willi Dorner. From 2006 Baptiste freelanced and worked with different companies such as Compagnie Maryse Delente, Ballet Lorent, Acronote, State Of Flux, Company Chameleon and Kieran Sheehan Dance Theatre. Baptiste has been teaching release and floorwork at the London Contemporary Dance School at The Place since 2012 and became Director of Undergraduate Performance and International Development in 2019.Baptiste graduated at the National Conservatoire in Paris in 2000. His career began in Norway with Nye Carte Blanche before returning to France where he worked with Luc Petton and Gilles Schamber. In 2002 he joined Scottish Dance Theatre and worked with various choreographers such as Ruy Horta, Didi Veldman, Hofesh Shechter, Janet Smith, Willi Dorner. From 2006 Baptiste freelanced and worked with different companies such as Compagnie Maryse Delente, Ballet Lorent, Acronote, State Of Flux, Company Chameleon and Kieran Sheehan Dance Theatre. Baptiste has been teaching release and floorwork at the London Contemporary Dance School at The Place since 2012 and became Director of Undergraduate Performance and International Development in 2019.

Brent Parolin is a Canadian-born dancer, teacher, coach, and choreographer. He received his professional training at Canada’s National Ballet School and the John Cranko School, where he was awarded the Lawrence Haskett and Peter Dwyer Scholarships. In 2006, Brent joined Stuttgart Ballet, performing an extensive international repertoire before returning to Canada in 2014 to dance with The National Ballet of Canada. Alongside his performing career, he has been deeply involved in dance education, teaching at Canada’s National Ballet School and working closely with pre-professional and professional dancers. Brent has performed internationally in major cities including New York, London, Tokyo, and Beijing, with a repertoire featuring works by John Cranko, Maurice Béjart, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, George Balanchine, Wayne McGregor, and Crystal Pite. His teaching career has taken him across Canada, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Singapore. He has held the position of Ballettmeister with Deutsche Oper am Rhein in Düsseldorf, Germany, where he worked as a rehearsal director, choreographic assistant, coach, and teacher. In parallel, Brent completed a Master of Arts in Dance Pedagogy at the Palucca University of Dance Dresden, with a focus on professional dance education.Brent Parolin is a Canadian-born dancer, teacher, coach, and choreographer. He received his professional training at Canada’s National Ballet School and the John Cranko School, where he was awarded the Lawrence Haskett and Peter Dwyer Scholarships. In 2006, Brent joined Stuttgart Ballet, performing an extensive international repertoire before returning to Canada in 2014 to dance with The National Ballet of Canada. Alongside his performing career, he has been deeply involved in dance education, teaching at Canada’s National Ballet School and working closely with pre-professional and professional dancers. Brent has performed internationally in major cities including New York, London, Tokyo, and Beijing, with a repertoire featuring works by John Cranko, Maurice Béjart, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, George Balanchine, Wayne McGregor, and Crystal Pite. His teaching career has taken him across Canada, Germany, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Singapore. He has held the position of Ballettmeister with Deutsche Oper am Rhein in Düsseldorf, Germany, where he worked as a rehearsal director, choreographic assistant, coach, and teacher. In parallel, Brent completed a Master of Arts in Dance Pedagogy at the Palucca University of Dance Dresden, with a focus on professional dance education.

Dr Caren Cariño, from Hawai’i, USA, has earned three related degrees: Doctorate in Southeast Asian Studies (Contemporary Dance Research); Master of Fine Arts (Dance Performance and Choreography); and Bachelor of Education (Dance). Her prolific professional career includes a wealth of experience as dance performer, academic, administrator, educator and advocate. She began with Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company (USA), a ‘force for innovation in contemporary dance throughout the world’ and was also instrumental in the company’s dance education programme, with a mission to ‘make dance a viable part of everyone’s lives, whether as observers, critics, performers or creators’, a national model that still stands today. Dr Cariño eventually migrated to Singapore and was appointed Programme Leader/Lecturer (Dance) at Lasalle College of the Arts. Her current position as Vice Dean /Principal Lecturer (Dance) at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts since 2007 has seen her develop a conservatory-style dance programme with a contemporary outlook that has produced international independent and company dance artists. She has published and presented her research that focuses on education, performance and cultural studies in America, Asia and Australia. Dr Cariño is dance advisor to Singapore’s Ministry of Education, National Arts Council, People’s Association and World Dance Alliance.Dr Caren Cariño, from Hawai’i, USA, has earned three related degrees: Doctorate in Southeast Asian Studies (Contemporary Dance Research); Master of Fine Arts (Dance Performance and Choreography); and Bachelor of Education (Dance). Her prolific professional career includes a wealth of experience as dance performer, academic, administrator, educator and advocate. She began with Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company (USA), a ‘force for innovation in contemporary dance throughout the world’ and was also instrumental in the company’s dance education programme, with a mission to ‘make dance a viable part of everyone’s lives, whether as observers, critics, performers or creators’, a national model that still stands today. Dr Cariño eventually migrated to Singapore and was appointed Programme Leader/Lecturer (Dance) at Lasalle College of the Arts. Her current position as Vice Dean /Principal Lecturer (Dance) at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts since 2007 has seen her develop a conservatory-style dance programme with a contemporary outlook that has produced international independent and company dance artists. She has published and presented her research that focuses on education, performance and cultural studies in America, Asia and Australia. Dr Cariño is dance advisor to Singapore’s Ministry of Education, National Arts Council, People’s Association and World Dance Alliance.

International judge and ballet teacher. Claresta Alim started her training at Marlupi Dance Academy (MDA), she joined Beijing Dance Academy in 2008, at the same time she received a scholarship from Joffrey Ballet School and was also accepted to American Ballet Theatre Summer Session in the USA. 

She began her professional career with Washington Ballet School and Art Ballet Theatre of Florida. During the time she has performed in many roles including Issaev’s Harlequinade, Fairy Doll, Le Corsaire, Raymonda, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, Little Mermaid in Ballet, Shostakovich (3 Movements), Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin and Edgar Anindo’s Fragmentos.

Claresta has groomed many students to international recognition, including being the first Indonesian to be invited to Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and winning GOLD MEDAL at the YAGP New York Finals.

Her students have not only won numerous awards in international competitions but also received scholarships to the Royal Ballet School, The Australian Ballet School (full scholarship for the year programme), Princesse Grace Dance Academy, Houston Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Universal Ballet, The Rock School, etc. 

Claresta is also a well-known international ballet teacher, she has been invited to teach Master classes in the United States, Poland, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. Many students from all over the world also came and took classes with Ms Claresta and benefited greatly from her coaching.

International judge and ballet teacher. Claresta Alim started her training at Marlupi Dance Academy (MDA), she joined Beijing Dance Academy in 2008, at the same time she received a scholarship from Joffrey Ballet School and was also accepted to American Ballet Theatre Summer Session in the USA. 

She began her professional career with Washington Ballet School and Art Ballet Theatre of Florida. During the time she has performed in many roles including Issaev’s Harlequinade, Fairy Doll, Le Corsaire, Raymonda, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, Little Mermaid in Ballet, Shostakovich (3 Movements), Sleeping Beauty, Aladdin and Edgar Anindo’s Fragmentos.

Claresta has groomed many students to international recognition, including being the first Indonesian to be invited to Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and winning GOLD MEDAL at the YAGP New York Finals.

Her students have not only won numerous awards in international competitions but also received scholarships to the Royal Ballet School, The Australian Ballet School (full scholarship for the year programme), Princesse Grace Dance Academy, Houston Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Universal Ballet, The Rock School, etc. 

Claresta is also a well-known international ballet teacher, she has been invited to teach Master classes in the United States, Poland, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia. Many students from all over the world also came and took classes with Ms Claresta and benefited greatly from her coaching.

Isabelle Nelson is a Distinguished graduate of the New Zealand School of Dance and has worked as a professional dancer with Dutch National Opera, Dans Theater AYA, Jelena Kostic (Netherlands), and Landesbühnen Sachsen (Germany). As Founder of IN Dance Co., she produces choreographic and dance film projects with major funding support in Europe. Her work as a Movement Director includes collaborations with Rituals Cosmetics, Sephora, and the Dutch Ministry of Defence. Isabelle is Co-Artistic Director of the global streaming incubator NPAFE/AAlchemy (USA) and teaches her signature Floor N’ Flow method and Countertechnique across Europe and New Zealand. Currently based in the UK, she teaches for institutions such as Wayne McGregor | Random Dance, Rambert School, London School of Contemporary Dance, National Dance Company Wales, and Scottish Dance Theatre. Her choreographic and film work has received over €80,000 in European funding, with invitations to present in the USA, Poland, New Zealand, and Italy. Isabelle is currently pursuing an MA in Arts & Culture Management while continuing her international creative practice.Isabelle Nelson is a Distinguished graduate of the New Zealand School of Dance and has worked as a professional dancer with Dutch National Opera, Dans Theater AYA, Jelena Kostic (Netherlands), and Landesbühnen Sachsen (Germany). As Founder of IN Dance Co., she produces choreographic and dance film projects with major funding support in Europe. Her work as a Movement Director includes collaborations with Rituals Cosmetics, Sephora, and the Dutch Ministry of Defence. Isabelle is Co-Artistic Director of the global streaming incubator NPAFE/AAlchemy (USA) and teaches her signature Floor N’ Flow method and Countertechnique across Europe and New Zealand. Currently based in the UK, she teaches for institutions such as Wayne McGregor | Random Dance, Rambert School, London School of Contemporary Dance, National Dance Company Wales, and Scottish Dance Theatre. Her choreographic and film work has received over €80,000 in European funding, with invitations to present in the USA, Poland, New Zealand, and Italy. Isabelle is currently pursuing an MA in Arts & Culture Management while continuing her international creative practice.

Jason Mabana is an international dance teacher and choreographer based in London. He holds a Ba (hons) degree from the Rambert School and a postgraduate Diploma from The Place.

Jason is the rehearsal and production director at the Rambert School and teaches Contemporary at both London Contemporary Dance School and The Royal Ballet School, where he shares his expertise and knowledge with the next generation of dancers.

In addition to his teaching commitments, Jason has created works for numerous renowned dance companies, schools and events, including Black Box Dance Company, Conny Janssen Danst, FDR, Hamburg Contemporary Company, Balletboyz, SpringBoard, Royal Ballet School, Stella McCartney, De Beers and more. His works have been nominated for Best Choreography in Denmark, the Asian Arts Awards, and the Amnesty International Freedom of Speech Awards, which is a testament to his creativity and talent.

As a sought-after guest teacher at conservatoires worldwide, he has taught at The University of the Arts in Amsterdam, University of Stavanger, and Hamburg Contemporary Dance School. Jason’s unique style of teaching comes from the fusion of contemporary and hip hop,

Throughout his career, Jason has also been a highly skilled dancer, performing with world-renowned dance companies such as Akram Khan Company, Wayne McGregor, Shobana Jeyasingh, and Candoco Dance Company. His experience as a performer has given him a deep understanding of the art of dance and has allowed him to bring that knowledge to his teaching and choreography.

Jason Mabana is an international dance teacher and choreographer based in London. He holds a Ba (hons) degree from the Rambert School and a postgraduate Diploma from The Place.

Jason is the rehearsal and production director at the Rambert School and teaches Contemporary at both London Contemporary Dance School and The Royal Ballet School, where he shares his expertise and knowledge with the next generation of dancers.

In addition to his teaching commitments, Jason has created works for numerous renowned dance companies, schools and events, including Black Box Dance Company, Conny Janssen Danst, FDR, Hamburg Contemporary Company, Balletboyz, SpringBoard, Royal Ballet School, Stella McCartney, De Beers and more. His works have been nominated for Best Choreography in Denmark, the Asian Arts Awards, and the Amnesty International Freedom of Speech Awards, which is a testament to his creativity and talent.

As a sought-after guest teacher at conservatoires worldwide, he has taught at The University of the Arts in Amsterdam, University of Stavanger, and Hamburg Contemporary Dance School. Jason’s unique style of teaching comes from the fusion of contemporary and hip hop,

Throughout his career, Jason has also been a highly skilled dancer, performing with world-renowned dance companies such as Akram Khan Company, Wayne McGregor, Shobana Jeyasingh, and Candoco Dance Company. His experience as a performer has given him a deep understanding of the art of dance and has allowed him to bring that knowledge to his teaching and choreography.

Born in Canberra of Polish parents, Joanne studied ballet with Katerina Druzins until the age of eleven, after which she went to Bryan Lawrence and Janet Karin, both former Principals of The Australian Ballet. At the age of fifteen Joanne was accepted into The Australian Ballet School and in 1977 she was accepted into The Australian Ballet Company, reaching the rank of Principal in 1982 where she remained until 1986.   Throughout her dance career, Joanne had the privilege to work with many choreographers including Glen Tetley, Graeme Murphy, Jiri Kylian, and danced leading roles in Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Onegin, Romeo and Juliet, to name a few. She was awarded the Pavlova Prize by Serge Lifar in 1981 and the Inaugural Dance Australia Award for the most popular Female Dancer. In 1987 Joanne began teaching, freelancing around Melbourne and also adjudicating for the RAD and Cecchetti Society.   In 2002 and 2003 she was Ballet Mistress for The Dancers Company Tour, having been a Guest Artist on the first tour in 1980. Since 2004, Joanne has taught the graduate year female students of The Australian Ballet School.Born in Canberra of Polish parents, Joanne studied ballet with Katerina Druzins until the age of eleven, after which she went to Bryan Lawrence and Janet Karin, both former Principals of The Australian Ballet. At the age of fifteen Joanne was accepted into The Australian Ballet School and in 1977 she was accepted into The Australian Ballet Company, reaching the rank of Principal in 1982 where she remained until 1986.   Throughout her dance career, Joanne had the privilege to work with many choreographers including Glen Tetley, Graeme Murphy, Jiri Kylian, and danced leading roles in Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Onegin, Romeo and Juliet, to name a few. She was awarded the Pavlova Prize by Serge Lifar in 1981 and the Inaugural Dance Australia Award for the most popular Female Dancer. In 1987 Joanne began teaching, freelancing around Melbourne and also adjudicating for the RAD and Cecchetti Society.   In 2002 and 2003 she was Ballet Mistress for The Dancers Company Tour, having been a Guest Artist on the first tour in 1980. Since 2004, Joanne has taught the graduate year female students of The Australian Ballet School.

Hannah has performed for many renowned choreographer’s, notably Richard Alston Dance Company, Merce Cunningham Company, Russell Maliphant, New Movement Collective, Didy Veldman, Ashley Page and Mark Bruce Company. 2012 & 2016 saw Hannah nominated for the National Dance Award’s Outstanding Female Performer. Hannah was an original cast member for Bruce’s Dracula, winner of the Sky Arts South Bank Award 2014. 

Alongside performing Hannah has taught in many of the UK’s dance conservatoires including Royal ballet School, LCDS, RCS, Rambert School, Central School of Ballet and at Trinity Laban, as well as for companies Company Wayne Macgregor, Rambert, Richard Alston Dance Company, Protein, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventure’s and Mark Bruce Company. 

In 2019 Hannah was commissioned to create the Rambert Grades Syllabi, where she is now in post as Head of Education and Examinations. Alongside this, Hannah lead’s the artistic vision of Rambert School Prevocational programme’s.

Hannah has performed for many renowned choreographer’s, notably Richard Alston Dance Company, Merce Cunningham Company, Russell Maliphant, New Movement Collective, Didy Veldman, Ashley Page and Mark Bruce Company. 2012 & 2016 saw Hannah nominated for the National Dance Award’s Outstanding Female Performer. Hannah was an original cast member for Bruce’s Dracula, winner of the Sky Arts South Bank Award 2014. 

Alongside performing Hannah has taught in many of the UK’s dance conservatoires including Royal ballet School, LCDS, RCS, Rambert School, Central School of Ballet and at Trinity Laban, as well as for companies Company Wayne Macgregor, Rambert, Richard Alston Dance Company, Protein, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventure’s and Mark Bruce Company. 

In 2019 Hannah was commissioned to create the Rambert Grades Syllabi, where she is now in post as Head of Education and Examinations. Alongside this, Hannah lead’s the artistic vision of Rambert School Prevocational programme’s.

Born in London, Kate trained at the Royal Ballet School. She joined London Contemporary Dance School for a post-graduate year and joined London Contemporary Dance Theatre under the directorship of Sir Robert Cohan. Later she joined Rambert Dance Company with the appointment of Christopher Bruce as Artistic Director. In these repertory companies she worked on new and restaged pieces with a variety of choreographers.   Pursuing a freelance dance career she worked as a long-standing member of Michael Clark Company, with DV8, Mark Baldwin Dance Company, Jeremy James and Dancers, Martha Clarke, Michael Keegan- Dolan, Arthur Pita and Aletta Collins. Kate retired from performing in 2012 and took up a post as Producer, Frieze Projects, followed by two years as Programme Director at Siobhan Davies Dance, and five years as Associate Director at Michael Clark Company.   She is currently Artistic Director and Professional Training Lead at Central School of Ballet in London. Kate is also a trustee of The Dance Professionals fund. Kate has been the recipient of the Critics’ Circle national Dance Award for ‘Best Female Artist’, and a joint recipient with colleagues of the Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance with London Contemporary Dance Theatre for their season at Sadlers Wells.Born in London, Kate trained at the Royal Ballet School. She joined London Contemporary Dance School for a post-graduate year and joined London Contemporary Dance Theatre under the directorship of Sir Robert Cohan. Later she joined Rambert Dance Company with the appointment of Christopher Bruce as Artistic Director. In these repertory companies she worked on new and restaged pieces with a variety of choreographers.   Pursuing a freelance dance career she worked as a long-standing member of Michael Clark Company, with DV8, Mark Baldwin Dance Company, Jeremy James and Dancers, Martha Clarke, Michael Keegan- Dolan, Arthur Pita and Aletta Collins. Kate retired from performing in 2012 and took up a post as Producer, Frieze Projects, followed by two years as Programme Director at Siobhan Davies Dance, and five years as Associate Director at Michael Clark Company.   She is currently Artistic Director and Professional Training Lead at Central School of Ballet in London. Kate is also a trustee of The Dance Professionals fund. Kate has been the recipient of the Critics’ Circle national Dance Award for ‘Best Female Artist’, and a joint recipient with colleagues of the Olivier Award for Outstanding Achievement in Dance with London Contemporary Dance Theatre for their season at Sadlers Wells.

Beginning ballet at age 10 in Taiwan under Li Chiao’s Vaganova-method training, Wang earned full scholarships to Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School and Boston Ballet School’s summer program at 15. As a professional dancer, he performed principal roles in The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Don Quixote with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Colorado Ballet, touring globally. In 2000, he reached the finals at New York International Ballet Competition, performing Don Quixote’s male solo at the Gala. Transitioning to education, Wang has taught at Prima Ballet, National Taiwan University of Arts, and Chia-Chi Girls’ High School in Taiwan, plus guest teaching at Japan’s IYODA BALLET. Since 2009, he has facilitated international ballet academy auditions in Taiwan, eliminating overseas travel requirements for students. In 2013, he established TGPIBC to nurture Taiwanese talent through world-class competition opportunities and global ballet networking.Beginning ballet at age 10 in Taiwan under Li Chiao’s Vaganova-method training, Wang earned full scholarships to Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School and Boston Ballet School’s summer program at 15. As a professional dancer, he performed principal roles in The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, and Don Quixote with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Colorado Ballet, touring globally. In 2000, he reached the finals at New York International Ballet Competition, performing Don Quixote’s male solo at the Gala. Transitioning to education, Wang has taught at Prima Ballet, National Taiwan University of Arts, and Chia-Chi Girls’ High School in Taiwan, plus guest teaching at Japan’s IYODA BALLET. Since 2009, he has facilitated international ballet academy auditions in Taiwan, eliminating overseas travel requirements for students. In 2013, he established TGPIBC to nurture Taiwanese talent through world-class competition opportunities and global ballet networking.

Lisa Macuja Elizalde – Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ballet Manila, a prima ballerina, is one of the most recognizable and iconic figures in the Philippine classical ballet landscape. Graduating at the top of her class from the prestigious school in 1984, now the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, Lisa debuted as principal ballerina in The Nutcracker, Don Quixote, and Giselle with the Kirov Ballet. Upon her return to Manila, she was the first artist-in-residence of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and performed as guest artist with Ballet Philippines until 1988 when she became a principal dancer of the Philippine Ballet Theatre. 

In 1995, she established Ballet Manilla, and performing and leading the company’s performance all over the world. She formally retired from full length dancing in 2014 but makes periodic appearances in productions of Ballet Manila. Lisa is also the founder and directress of the Lisa Macuja School of Ballet, where she continues to train students in the Russian Vaganova method. 

Lisa is frequently invited to conduct master classes outside of the Philippines – Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, United States of America, Hong Kong, South Korea, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom. She is also in the jury panel for many international ballet comptitions both in the Philippines and in the Asian Region.

Lisa Macuja Elizalde – Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of Ballet Manila, a prima ballerina, is one of the most recognizable and iconic figures in the Philippine classical ballet landscape. Graduating at the top of her class from the prestigious school in 1984, now the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, Lisa debuted as principal ballerina in The Nutcracker, Don Quixote, and Giselle with the Kirov Ballet. Upon her return to Manila, she was the first artist-in-residence of the Cultural Center of the Philippines and performed as guest artist with Ballet Philippines until 1988 when she became a principal dancer of the Philippine Ballet Theatre. 

In 1995, she established Ballet Manilla, and performing and leading the company’s performance all over the world. She formally retired from full length dancing in 2014 but makes periodic appearances in productions of Ballet Manila. Lisa is also the founder and directress of the Lisa Macuja School of Ballet, where she continues to train students in the Russian Vaganova method. 

Lisa is frequently invited to conduct master classes outside of the Philippines – Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Taiwan, United States of America, Hong Kong, South Korea, Russia, Spain, United Kingdom. She is also in the jury panel for many international ballet comptitions both in the Philippines and in the Asian Region.

Melissa is Head of the School of Dance & Theatre at LASALLE College of the Arts and the Programme Leader for the Diploma in Dance.

She is also a choreographer, performer and educator whose choreographic interest lies in investigating the body-subject. Her works and creative process attempt to touch on questions of agency, materiality and perception to create a visceral experience for the audience.

Melissa enjoys multi-disciplinary collaborative works, Site based work such as site-specific outdoor performance Tracing the City (2016) and cause based performances and workshops such as Stride with Pride, a performance aimed at increasing respect for wheelchair users. She founded The Kueh Tutus (a collective dedicated to creating dance for young audiences) and has created several works that have been presented at The Artground, toured to regional libraries and appeared in the Esplanade’s Festivals Octoburst! and March On.

Melissa has managed and designed various MOE-NAC Dance related initiatives such as the Dance Talent Development Programme, and Strategic Partnership CCA (Ethnic Dance). She also mentors the choreographic work of young and emerging artists through institutions such as *SCAPE and occasionally writes dance reviews, articles and edu-packs to make contemporary dance more accessible.

Melissa is Head of the School of Dance & Theatre at LASALLE College of the Arts and the Programme Leader for the Diploma in Dance.

She is also a choreographer, performer and educator whose choreographic interest lies in investigating the body-subject. Her works and creative process attempt to touch on questions of agency, materiality and perception to create a visceral experience for the audience.

Melissa enjoys multi-disciplinary collaborative works, Site based work such as site-specific outdoor performance Tracing the City (2016) and cause based performances and workshops such as Stride with Pride, a performance aimed at increasing respect for wheelchair users. She founded The Kueh Tutus (a collective dedicated to creating dance for young audiences) and has created several works that have been presented at The Artground, toured to regional libraries and appeared in the Esplanade’s Festivals Octoburst! and March On.

Melissa has managed and designed various MOE-NAC Dance related initiatives such as the Dance Talent Development Programme, and Strategic Partnership CCA (Ethnic Dance). She also mentors the choreographic work of young and emerging artists through institutions such as *SCAPE and occasionally writes dance reviews, articles and edu-packs to make contemporary dance more accessible.

Rachael Hunt received her training at the esteemed Royal Ballet School. After graduating, she was invited to join the English National Ballet company, where she excelled in various roles spanning from corps de ballet to soloist and principal roles. She showcased her talents in a diverse repertoire, including iconic pieces such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Apollo, and Square Dance. Notably, Rachael had the privilege of having several pieces choreographed specifically for her, including works by renowned choreographers Robert North, Kim Brandstrup, and Mauro Bigonzetti.

Later, Wayne Eagling extended an invitation for Rachael to join the Dutch National Company, where she continued to showcase her versatility by performing works from choreographers such as William Forsythe, Christopher Bruce, Twyla Tharp, and Itzik Galili.

Transitioning from her successful dancing career, Rachael delved into the field of dance education. She pursued further training with the Royal Academy of Dance, earning distinction as a vocational teacher. Rachael gained international recognition as an esteemed educator, imparting her expertise to schools and companies worldwide.

Currently, Rachael serves as the International Artistic Manager at The Royal Ballet School, where she oversees auditions and intensive courses. Additionally, Rachael lends her expertise as an adjudicator for dance competitions on a global scale.

Rachael Hunt received her training at the esteemed Royal Ballet School. After graduating, she was invited to join the English National Ballet company, where she excelled in various roles spanning from corps de ballet to soloist and principal roles. She showcased her talents in a diverse repertoire, including iconic pieces such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Apollo, and Square Dance. Notably, Rachael had the privilege of having several pieces choreographed specifically for her, including works by renowned choreographers Robert North, Kim Brandstrup, and Mauro Bigonzetti.

Later, Wayne Eagling extended an invitation for Rachael to join the Dutch National Company, where she continued to showcase her versatility by performing works from choreographers such as William Forsythe, Christopher Bruce, Twyla Tharp, and Itzik Galili.

Transitioning from her successful dancing career, Rachael delved into the field of dance education. She pursued further training with the Royal Academy of Dance, earning distinction as a vocational teacher. Rachael gained international recognition as an esteemed educator, imparting her expertise to schools and companies worldwide.

Currently, Rachael serves as the International Artistic Manager at The Royal Ballet School, where she oversees auditions and intensive courses. Additionally, Rachael lends her expertise as an adjudicator for dance competitions on a global scale.

Resmi Malko received his ballet training at the Academy of Ballet in Tirana, Albania. Upon completion of his training in 1985, he joined the National Opera Ballet Theatre in Tirana and was promoted to Principal Dancer within 5 years. He continued his career there for the next 15 years, performing in countries including Italy, France, Turkey, Greece, Poland, Croatia, Bulgaria, USA and Canada.

Resmi then immigrated to North America and performed with the USA Ballet and the Canadian company, Ballet Jorgen. In 2003 Resmi graduated with Distinction from the Teacher Training Program for professional dancers at Canada’s National Ballet School and joined the artistic teaching staff later that year. After 10 years with the NBS, Resmi joined the Central School of Ballet in London.

Students Resmi has coached have competed in international ballet competitions such as, the Prix de Lausanne and Genée International Competition where a student for the first time in the competition’s history won all three major gold medals. Choreographically, Resmi has staged classical repertoire for the Central School of Ballet’s End of Year performances and for the touring company, Ballet Central. Additionally, Resmi often returns to coach at the National Opera Ballet Theatre, Tirana.​

Resmi Malko received his ballet training at the Academy of Ballet in Tirana, Albania. Upon completion of his training in 1985, he joined the National Opera Ballet Theatre in Tirana and was promoted to Principal Dancer within 5 years. He continued his career there for the next 15 years, performing in countries including Italy, France, Turkey, Greece, Poland, Croatia, Bulgaria, USA and Canada.

Resmi then immigrated to North America and performed with the USA Ballet and the Canadian company, Ballet Jorgen. In 2003 Resmi graduated with Distinction from the Teacher Training Program for professional dancers at Canada’s National Ballet School and joined the artistic teaching staff later that year. After 10 years with the NBS, Resmi joined the Central School of Ballet in London.

Students Resmi has coached have competed in international ballet competitions such as, the Prix de Lausanne and Genée International Competition where a student for the first time in the competition’s history won all three major gold medals. Choreographically, Resmi has staged classical repertoire for the Central School of Ballet’s End of Year performances and for the touring company, Ballet Central. Additionally, Resmi often returns to coach at the National Opera Ballet Theatre, Tirana.​

Born in Rome, Italy, Sabrina Lenzi trained at the Opera of Rome and completed her ballet formation at the Académie de Dance Classique de Montecarlo with Marika Besobrasova. She began her career with the Stuttgart Ballet, rising to principal and performing many leading roles in John Cranko’s ballets. Sabrina then joined Birmingham Royal Ballet as principal, expanding her repertoire to include works by Ashton and MacMillan. She has worked with renowned figures such as Marcia Haydée, David Bintley, Peter Wright, Maurice Béjart, Hans Van Manen, Jíří Kylián, John Neumeier, Mats Ek, and James Kudelka. Her principal roles include Aurora (The Sleeping Beauty), Odette/Odile (Swan Lake), Giselle (Giselle), Swanilda (Coppélia), Tatiana (Onegin), and Juliet (Romeo and Juliet), and she has created roles such as Isabel (Edward II). After retiring from performance, Sabrina completed Pilates Teacher Training with Alan Herdman in London, focusing on anatomy and injury prevention. In 2003, she moved to Houston, Texas, joining the Houston Ballet Academy and becoming Ballet Mistress of Houston Ballet II and Principal of the Upper School. She also coached and rehearsed Houston Ballet Company, co-staged La Bayadère for Joffrey Ballet, and guest-taught for multiple academies in the US and Japan. Sabrina participated in international artistic collaborations with the Hungarian Dance Academy, San Francisco Ballet School, and Hamburg Ballet School. In 2017, she joined the Australian Ballet School as Artistic Teacher of Classical Dance for Level 4 and 6 female students and continues to teach in Europe with Birmingham Royal Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet.Born in Rome, Italy, Sabrina Lenzi trained at the Opera of Rome and completed her ballet formation at the Académie de Dance Classique de Montecarlo with Marika Besobrasova. She began her career with the Stuttgart Ballet, rising to principal and performing many leading roles in John Cranko’s ballets. Sabrina then joined Birmingham Royal Ballet as principal, expanding her repertoire to include works by Ashton and MacMillan. She has worked with renowned figures such as Marcia Haydée, David Bintley, Peter Wright, Maurice Béjart, Hans Van Manen, Jíří Kylián, John Neumeier, Mats Ek, and James Kudelka. Her principal roles include Aurora (The Sleeping Beauty), Odette/Odile (Swan Lake), Giselle (Giselle), Swanilda (Coppélia), Tatiana (Onegin), and Juliet (Romeo and Juliet), and she has created roles such as Isabel (Edward II). After retiring from performance, Sabrina completed Pilates Teacher Training with Alan Herdman in London, focusing on anatomy and injury prevention. In 2003, she moved to Houston, Texas, joining the Houston Ballet Academy and becoming Ballet Mistress of Houston Ballet II and Principal of the Upper School. She also coached and rehearsed Houston Ballet Company, co-staged La Bayadère for Joffrey Ballet, and guest-taught for multiple academies in the US and Japan. Sabrina participated in international artistic collaborations with the Hungarian Dance Academy, San Francisco Ballet School, and Hamburg Ballet School. In 2017, she joined the Australian Ballet School as Artistic Teacher of Classical Dance for Level 4 and 6 female students and continues to teach in Europe with Birmingham Royal Ballet and Stuttgart Ballet.

Sarah Wildor studied at the Royal Ballet School and then joined the Royal Ballet Company rising through the ranks to become a Principal dancer. Roles included Juliet, Giselle, Manon, Anastasia, Cinderella, Sugar Plum Fairy, Ondine, Swanhilda (Coppelia), Titania (The Dream), Lise (La Fille Mal Gardée), Ballerina (The Concert), Chloe (Daphnis and Chloe), Desdemona (Othello), Push comes to shove, The Invitation, Enigma variations, Rhapsody, Symphonic Variations, Vera (A month in the Country), Young Girl (Two Pigeons), Irina (Winter Dreams), Gloria and Jeux. She created the Tightrope Walker (Sawdust and Tinsel) and roles in Fanfare, Dream of Angels, The Crucible and Mr. Worldly Wise. She represented the Company at the Erik Bruhn Competition. Sarah also created the title role in Sir Matthew Bourne’s production of Cinderella and Susan Stroman’s Contact for which she was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She has also starred in On Your Toes in London and Japan after which followed several stage acting roles. Other dancing roles include the role of Madame de Tourvel in Les Liaisons Dangereuses which she performed on tour in Japan and at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London. Sarah attained the Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching and Trinity Laban’s Diploma in Dance Teaching and Learning and holds a First-Class Honours Degree in Psychology from the University of Buckingham. Sarah is currently completing an MSc in Psychology and works full time as the Artistic Manager of the Associate Programme at the Royal Ballet School.Sarah Wildor studied at the Royal Ballet School and then joined the Royal Ballet Company rising through the ranks to become a Principal dancer. Roles included Juliet, Giselle, Manon, Anastasia, Cinderella, Sugar Plum Fairy, Ondine, Swanhilda (Coppelia), Titania (The Dream), Lise (La Fille Mal Gardée), Ballerina (The Concert), Chloe (Daphnis and Chloe), Desdemona (Othello), Push comes to shove, The Invitation, Enigma variations, Rhapsody, Symphonic Variations, Vera (A month in the Country), Young Girl (Two Pigeons), Irina (Winter Dreams), Gloria and Jeux. She created the Tightrope Walker (Sawdust and Tinsel) and roles in Fanfare, Dream of Angels, The Crucible and Mr. Worldly Wise. She represented the Company at the Erik Bruhn Competition. Sarah also created the title role in Sir Matthew Bourne’s production of Cinderella and Susan Stroman’s Contact for which she was nominated for an Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She has also starred in On Your Toes in London and Japan after which followed several stage acting roles. Other dancing roles include the role of Madame de Tourvel in Les Liaisons Dangereuses which she performed on tour in Japan and at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London. Sarah attained the Royal Ballet School’s Diploma of Dance Teaching and Trinity Laban’s Diploma in Dance Teaching and Learning and holds a First-Class Honours Degree in Psychology from the University of Buckingham. Sarah is currently completing an MSc in Psychology and works full time as the Artistic Manager of the Associate Programme at the Royal Ballet School.

Tommy Neblett is the Dean of Dance at Boston Conservatory at Berklee. He has been in the dance profession for over forty years, first as a performer, then as a choreographer, educator, and administrator. For twenty-five of those years, he was co-Artistic Director (alongside his wife Diane Arvanites) of Prometheus Dance and their second company. He has also been on the dance faculties of Boston Ballet, Harvard University, Emerson College, Walnut Hill School for the Arts, The Dance Complex and the Oure Idraetshojskole in Denmark.   Tommy has led his dancers to perform at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, Bates Dance Festival, Joyce SoHo, Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, and throughout the east coast of the United States, as well as in Spain, France, Denmark, Venezuela, Ecuador, and China. They have received numerous accolades for their work including eight Choreographic Artist Fellowships from the Massachusetts Cultural Council; an award for Outstanding Artistic Achievement from Governor Deval Patrick; and a Creativity Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.Tommy Neblett is the Dean of Dance at Boston Conservatory at Berklee. He has been in the dance profession for over forty years, first as a performer, then as a choreographer, educator, and administrator. For twenty-five of those years, he was co-Artistic Director (alongside his wife Diane Arvanites) of Prometheus Dance and their second company. He has also been on the dance faculties of Boston Ballet, Harvard University, Emerson College, Walnut Hill School for the Arts, The Dance Complex and the Oure Idraetshojskole in Denmark.   Tommy has led his dancers to perform at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, Bates Dance Festival, Joyce SoHo, Institute of Contemporary Art/Boston, and throughout the east coast of the United States, as well as in Spain, France, Denmark, Venezuela, Ecuador, and China. They have received numerous accolades for their work including eight Choreographic Artist Fellowships from the Massachusetts Cultural Council; an award for Outstanding Artistic Achievement from Governor Deval Patrick; and a Creativity Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Wu, Yi-San, a distinguished figure in the world of dance, commenced her career as a professional dancer with Cloud Gate Dance Theatre and City Contemporary Dance Company (CCDC), touring globally and participating in various International Dance Festivals from 1994 to 2006. Her exceptional journey includes membership in South ‘ASLI’ Dance Workshop from 1996 to 2001. In 2023, she received the prestigious Chinese Literary Award from the Chinese Writers & Artists Association C.W.A.A. Adding to her accolades, she became a distinguished alumna of Taipei Municipal Zhong Zheng Senior High School in 2022.

Acknowledged for her outstanding performance, Yi-San received the Hong Kong Dance Awards in 2000 and the 2009 Production Award through Unlock Dancing Plaza Community Culture Ambassador Project. She was featured in the Dance History of Hong Kong in 2003 and 2006. Yi-San was granted a full scholarship from The Hong Kong Jockey Club Music and Dance Fund in 2003, allowing her to study at the London Contemporary Dance School. She collaborated with renowned companies such as Random Dance Company, Akram Khan Dance Company, and Protein Dance.

With over 20 years of experience in teaching and choreography, Yi-San continuously explores diverse creative perspectives and collaborates with various media artists. Her works have premiered at esteemed platforms like Taiwan Co-dance Festival, Singapore Huayi Festival, DA:NS Festival, Asia Pacific Dance Festival, Beijing Dance Festival, and many others. Notable collaborations include performances with The Human Expression Dance Company (T.H.E), LASALLE College of the Arts, Crucible Dance Company in Germany, City Contemporary Dance Company, Beyond Dance Theater, E-Side Dance Company, and more.

Wu, Yi-San, a distinguished figure in the world of dance, commenced her career as a professional dancer with Cloud Gate Dance Theatre and City Contemporary Dance Company (CCDC), touring globally and participating in various International Dance Festivals from 1994 to 2006. Her exceptional journey includes membership in South ‘ASLI’ Dance Workshop from 1996 to 2001. In 2023, she received the prestigious Chinese Literary Award from the Chinese Writers & Artists Association C.W.A.A. Adding to her accolades, she became a distinguished alumna of Taipei Municipal Zhong Zheng Senior High School in 2022.

Acknowledged for her outstanding performance, Yi-San received the Hong Kong Dance Awards in 2000 and the 2009 Production Award through Unlock Dancing Plaza Community Culture Ambassador Project. She was featured in the Dance History of Hong Kong in 2003 and 2006. Yi-San was granted a full scholarship from The Hong Kong Jockey Club Music and Dance Fund in 2003, allowing her to study at the London Contemporary Dance School. She collaborated with renowned companies such as Random Dance Company, Akram Khan Dance Company, and Protein Dance.

With over 20 years of experience in teaching and choreography, Yi-San continuously explores diverse creative perspectives and collaborates with various media artists. Her works have premiered at esteemed platforms like Taiwan Co-dance Festival, Singapore Huayi Festival, DA:NS Festival, Asia Pacific Dance Festival, Beijing Dance Festival, and many others. Notable collaborations include performances with The Human Expression Dance Company (T.H.E), LASALLE College of the Arts, Crucible Dance Company in Germany, City Contemporary Dance Company, Beyond Dance Theater, E-Side Dance Company, and more.

Xanthe Geeves is a graduate of the Tanya Pearson Academy and was awarded her Solo Seal by the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). She received a Diploma at the Palucca University of Dance Dresden before embarking on an international performing career with classical and contemporary companies across the UK, Europe and the USA, concluding her performing career as a Principal Artist.

Throughout her career, Xanthe worked with renowned choreographers including Mats Ek, Nacho Duato, Marco Goecke and Stephan Thoss, first as a dancer and later as a choreographic assistant. Alongside performing, she developed a strong passion for choreography and has created works and full-length productions presented across Europe, the United States and Australia.

In 2020, Xanthe was named The Australian Ballet’s Emerging Female Classical Choreographer and was commissioned to create a new work for the company’s Bodytorque season in 2022.

Xanthe has choreographed for the Schools Spectacular Featured Ballet Ensemble for many years and is a tutor with the NSW Arts Unit, delivering workshops for teachers and students. She is a qualified RAD teacher, mentors students in the RAD CDTS, and is a certified Pilates instructor.

She was co-founder of the inaugural Sydney International Ballet Gala in 2022 and, together with Gregor Thieler, established the Tanya Pearson Arts Centre in 2023, a state-of-the-art facility recognised by the NSW Government for fostering collaboration and innovation in the arts.

Since 2021, Xanthe has served as Director of the Tanya Pearson Academy and is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of dancers. As co-founder of The Australian Youth Ballet, she is committed to creating professional performance opportunities where young artists collaborate with leading choreographers in an inspiring environment.

Born and raised in Australia, Yarra Ileto is a Singapore-based award-winning independent artist-educator, with extensive experience as an arts leader, teacher, professional dancer, and choreographer. She is the artistic director of the National University of Singapore (NUS) Dance Synergy and a full-time Senior Lecturer at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts/ University of the Arts Singapore (NAFA/UAS) teaching in the departments of both the School of Dance (diploma) and School of Interdisciplinary Practices (degree), training ballet and contemporary technique, improvisation, choreography, performance lab modules and industry projects.

Throughout her professional full-time dance career (2008-2016), Yarra worked with world-renowned choreographers, performing, and touring extensively on international platforms across Asia and Europe as a pioneer member of The Human Expression (T.H.E) Dance Company led by established award-winning artist Kuik Swee Boon.  

In 2017, Yarra received The National Arts Council’s (NAC) prestigious Young Artist Award, Singapore’s highest honour for young people in the arts. As a choreographer, her works have been showcased at the Adelaide Dance Festival (Australia), Esplanade’s Da:ns Festival (Singapore), and M1 Contact Festival (Singapore) to name a few. 

As an enrichment teacher and lecturer, she has groomed students to pursue professional development through dance education and has assisted secondary students through Direct School Admission (DSA) and vocational school admissions through contemporary dance training. Most recently, Ms Yarra served as an International Jury at the renowned Busan International Dance Festival’s AK21choreographic competition in 2023.

Born and raised in Australia, Yarra Ileto is a Singapore-based award-winning independent artist-educator, with extensive experience as an arts leader, teacher, professional dancer, and choreographer. She is the artistic director of the National University of Singapore (NUS) Dance Synergy and a full-time Senior Lecturer at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts/ University of the Arts Singapore (NAFA/UAS) teaching in the departments of both the School of Dance (diploma) and School of Interdisciplinary Practices (degree), training ballet and contemporary technique, improvisation, choreography, performance lab modules and industry projects.

Throughout her professional full-time dance career (2008-2016), Yarra worked with world-renowned choreographers, performing, and touring extensively on international platforms across Asia and Europe as a pioneer member of The Human Expression (T.H.E) Dance Company led by established award-winning artist Kuik Swee Boon.  

In 2017, Yarra received The National Arts Council’s (NAC) prestigious Young Artist Award, Singapore’s highest honour for young people in the arts. As a choreographer, her works have been showcased at the Adelaide Dance Festival (Australia), Esplanade’s Da:ns Festival (Singapore), and M1 Contact Festival (Singapore) to name a few. 

As an enrichment teacher and lecturer, she has groomed students to pursue professional development through dance education and has assisted secondary students through Direct School Admission (DSA) and vocational school admissions through contemporary dance training. Most recently, Ms Yarra served as an International Jury at the renowned Busan International Dance Festival’s AK21choreographic competition in 2023.

Zhou Lin is a highly respected ballet educator and adjudicator. Since 2017, she has been a full-time faculty member at Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS), specializing in vocational training. She works closely with aspiring professional dancers, focusing on technique, artistry, and performance development. In addition to teaching, she plays a key role in rehearsing, choreographing, restaging works, and assessing students. She also conducts masterclasses, summer intensives, and serves as a jury panelist for international ballet competitions.

Originally from China, Zhou Lin trained at the Beijing Dance Academy before joining Singapore Ballet (formerly Singapore Dance Theatre) as a principal and soloist. She toured internationally, performing lead roles in classical and contemporary works such as Aurora in Sleeping Beauty, Raymonda in Raymonda, and Swanhilde in Coppélia. She was also featured in Jirí Kylián’s Forgotten Land and Stamping Ground.

After retiring from the stage, Zhou Lin transitioned into dance education, earning a Distinction from NBS’s Teacher Training Program and receiving the prestigious Betty Oliphant Award. Since then, she has been committed to shaping the next generation of dancers through her teaching and mentorship.

Zhou Lin is a highly respected ballet educator and adjudicator. Since 2017, she has been a full-time faculty member at Canada’s National Ballet School (NBS), specializing in vocational training. She works closely with aspiring professional dancers, focusing on technique, artistry, and performance development. In addition to teaching, she plays a key role in rehearsing, choreographing, restaging works, and assessing students. She also conducts masterclasses, summer intensives, and serves as a jury panelist for international ballet competitions.

Originally from China, Zhou Lin trained at the Beijing Dance Academy before joining Singapore Ballet (formerly Singapore Dance Theatre) as a principal and soloist. She toured internationally, performing lead roles in classical and contemporary works such as Aurora in Sleeping Beauty, Raymonda in Raymonda, and Swanhilde in Coppélia. She was also featured in Jirí Kylián’s Forgotten Land and Stamping Ground.

After retiring from the stage, Zhou Lin transitioned into dance education, earning a Distinction from NBS’s Teacher Training Program and receiving the prestigious Betty Oliphant Award. Since then, she has been committed to shaping the next generation of dancers through her teaching and mentorship.