Our faculty

Chelsea Robinson is the Owner/Director of Positive Dance Experience and is a highly-regarded dance teacher with over 20 years of experience in the field. Chelsea has served as faculty at The Toronto Cricket Club, The Granite Club, Randolph Academy, The Dance Institute, Stardust Academy, Ive Got Rhythm School of Dance and the Russian Classical Ballet Company.

Chelsea's extensive educational background includes being a graduate and from Randolph Academy of the Performing Arts, and fully certified through the ADAPT Syllabus, the BATD Syllabus, the Acrobatique Syllabus, the Acrobatic Arts Syllabus, Progressing Ballet Technique, Alixa Flexibility and with Barreworks. In addition, Chelsea is also a STOTT Pilates and Body Harmonics certified Pilates Mat Instructor.

Chelsea has dedicated her life to helping dancers of all ages and abilities reach their highest potential. While teaching in a variety of settings, from fitness to the recreational level to the professional stage, Chelsea has choreographed for many competitions and multiple stage performances.

In addition to her teaching, Chelsea is passionate about making dance accessible and meaningful to all. She is a strong advocate for inclusivity and creating a positive experience for everyone involved in the dance world. Her commitment to her students and her passion for the art of dance are what make her an incredible teacher and mentor.

Amanda Davis (she/her) is a Toronto based dancer, choreographer, and educator with a BFA in Theatre Performance Dance from Toronto Metropolitan University (2010). In addition to performing, creating, and teaching, she is currently training to become an Expressive Arts Therapist at The CREATE Institute.

Amanda has performed in works choreographed by Alias Dance Project, Hanna Kiel (Human Body Expression), Valerie Calam (company viceversa), James Kudelka, Julia Aplin, William Yong, Lauren Cook, Troy Feldman, Francesca Chudnoff, Emmanuel Jouthe, Laida Aldaz Arrietea, MonstaPop and Christianne Ullmark.

She has performed in the 17th Internationales Solo-Tanz-Theatre Festival in Stuttgart Germany, The Toronto Fringe Festival, Fashion Arts Toronto, MOonhORsE Dance Theatre’s Dance and Design Project, CONTACT|THIS IS AN EXPERIMENT, Toronto’s Animating Historic Spaces, Pulse Ontario Dance Conference, Toronto’s SummerWorks Performance Festival, Dance: made in Canada/fait au Canada, Fringe North International Theatre Festival and Citadel Dance Mix.

Amanda has delivered dance classes, workshops, and choreography for over 10 years to movers of all ages. She has worked closely with The Royal Conservatory of Music as an educator, writer, and consultant in curriculum development. She has taught in a variety of dance programs, schools and studio environments including The Dance Institute, Harmony School of Dance and Music, The Cornerstone Studio, Propel Dance Centre, Positive Dance Experience, Jorgen Dance, and George Brown College.

Ruby has been a competitive dancer since the age of 7. She has trained in many different genres such as jazz, ballet, tap, acro, contemporary, lyrical and hip hop. 

Ruby is a certified Acro Instructor through the Acrobatic Arts syllabus. She is also a certified ballet, jazz and tap teacher through the B.A.T.D syllabus. 

Ruby is currently studying Biomedical Engineering at Toronto Metropolitain University. She strives to share her love of dance with her students and to help each one of them grow as a dancer and have fun!

Ms Helm received her professional training at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School/Professional Division, and the National Ballet School/TTP. Teaching credits include York University, Ryerson University, University of Toronto/Hart House, Metro Movement, In Studio/NBofC, Randolph College for the Performing Arts, the National Ballet School/TTP, George Brown Dance/BJC and the Quinte Ballet School of Canada.

A Fellow member of Cecchetti Canada, she enjoys teaching technique classes for both children and adults, and has been invited to teach across Canada.

She also has an extensive background in music. She has also worked as a ballet accompanist and teaches Music for Dancers and Teachers. Her classes are considered to be technique-based and fast-paced, with a strong rhythmical focus.

"Moscow born Igor Vassine is a very experienced dance accompanist however this was not his original occupation. Igor holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and after a stint with the Russian Army, completed his education in music.

Igor launched his musical career in Russia as a performer and songwriter, touring across the USSR and Europe as a member of numerous successful rock and jazz-rock groups. He moved to Toronto in 1995 branching out as a dance accompanist. His performing accomplishments include co-founder, musical director/arranger of the vocal group “Moscow Transit” (which was part of The State Oleg Lundstrem Chamber Orchestra of Jazz Music) ;  musical director/arranger “Russians on Broadway” in Toronto,  assistant to the musical director/ arranger “The Snow Maiden” ( Mirvish Productions ) ;  the documentary “Leap of Faith: The Dance of Mikhail Baryshnikov”.

His many accompanist credits include The National Ballet Of Canada, Canada’s National Ballet School, Dance-Teq, In Studio, Randolph Academy For The Performing Arts, Canada’s Ballet Jorgen, Toronto Metropolitan University (Ryerson), The Martha Hicks School of Ballet,  ProArteDanza, classes with Evelin Hart.

As a musician, Igor enjoys discovering the nuance and subtleties of his profession.  Other than music, his many interests include technology, cars, cats, politics and martial arts. He also loves to give his kids advice despite being ignored. Oh well, everyone grows up!"

Mélina Patry (she/her) is a Toronto-based dance artist, originally from Gatineau, Québec. As a 2023 graduate of the Performance Dance program at Toronto Metropolitan University, Mélina has danced and collaborated in many virtual, film, and live performances, including works created by Louis Laberge-Côté, Daileidys Carrazana, Stephanie Lake, Alyssa Martin and Rock Bottom Movement, Bobbi Jene Smith, Or Schaiber, and Jesse Obremski. Additionally, in 2023, Mélina co-produced a choreographic show, titled An Ending; A Beginning, which premiered 20 original choreographic works from emerging Toronto dance artists, including three of her original choreographic pieces. Mélina’s drive stems from a tireless work ethic and insatiable desire to learn from and be inspired by the diverse array of artists she meets along her journey.

With over 8 years of experience as a dance educator, Mélina brings passion and dedication to her classes, ensuring that each session is engaging and meaningful. She is committed to fostering a safe, enjoyable, and inclusive environment, which she believes is essential for creative expression and personal growth. Through her teaching, Mélina strives to inspire and empower her students to reach their full potential in dance.

Growing up in Belleville, Ontario, Kaitlin began her dance training at the age of three at the Ireland Academy of Dance and has been dancing ever since. She has trained and competed in all styles of dance both nationally and internationally, winning multiple awards and titles. Kaitlin is now a Toronto-based dancer who has performed at many events around the city 6th Annual HUM Awards, Let the Elephants Dance, as an opening act in the “I Am Blake McGrath” Promo Tour, Escapade directed by Ryan Foley, as a member of the Sauga City Dancers, and as a featured performer in Lianne Tammi’s productions Divulgence, Cabaret, I Am Here and Under the Big Top.

                Kaitlin has been teaching all genres of dance recreationally and competitively to students of all ages for many years. She is a certified Jazz, Tap and Ballet Associate with the BATD, and a certified Acro Instructor with the Acro Dance Teacher’s Association (ADTA) and Acrobatic Arts. Kaitlin has a Bachelor of Life Sciences from the University of Toronto where she graduated with high distinction. Currently, she is studying at Sheridan College, working towards a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Therapy. Kaitlin aspires to share her passion for dance with all of her students and help each and every one of them to grow and reach their fullest potential.

Mel Hart is an established dance artist from Scarborough, Ontario with a Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in Dance from York University. Her training is expansive from Western dance forms: Classical Ballet, Pointe, Modern (Graham and Limón) and Contemporary, Street Dance forms: Hip Hop, House and Waacking, and Central and South American forms such as Salsa, Bachata, Argentine Tango, Samba and Soca. Mel co-founded SaMel Tanz, a contemporary dance collective with Samantha Schleese and produced works for the Toronto Fringe Festival, Breakin’ Convention, Next Stage Festival, Dance Made in Canada/ Fait du Canada Festival and Summerworks Festival. She is a member of Hip Hop dance crew DEUCEnDIP, who established themselves on MuchMusic’s NML Dance Battlez and performed on stages for Manifesto, WE DAY, Canada’s Walk of Fame and World Pride. Mel has danced for international artists such as Jason Derulo, Sean Paul and the legendary Black Thought of the Roots and opened for Latin artists such as Bad Bunny, Prince Royce, and Gente de Zona.

Working across Canada, Mel takes the most pride in being an Arts Educator, focusing on inspiring and sharing with students the history, technique and art of dance and self-expression in a safe environment. Currently Mel is a faculty member at Toronto's Positive Dance Experience and Mississauga’s City Centre Dance teaching Hip Hop, Jazz Funk and Contemporary dance forms and is lead choreographer for Bix Co. Entertainment creating custom performances across the GTA.

Passionate about the transformative power of fitness, Joanna is dedicated to promoting a holistic approach to health and wellness. With a deep-rooted enthusiasm for healthy living, she has committed herself to helping others achieve their best selves through thoughtful movement and proactive injury prevention.

A cornerstone of Joanna's career has been working with youth, guided by the principles of Long-Term Athletic Development (LTAD). Her experience in this area allows her to support young athletes and active individuals in their growth and development, ensuring they build a strong foundation for lifelong fitness and well-being. By applying LTAD methods, Joanna helps young people progress through developmental stages effectively, balancing skill acquisition with physical and emotional growth.

Joanna's journey into fitness and healthy living is anchored in a solid foundation of education and hands-on experience. With an advanced diploma in Fitness & Lifestyle Management from George Brown College, she has cultivated a deep understanding of physical health and lifestyle optimization. Her commitment extends to specialized areas such as pre and postnatal fitness, where she guides new and expectant mothers through safe and effective exercise routines. Sarah is also trained in Alixa Flexibility Level 1, which equips her to enhance flexibility and movement quality, and she holds certifications in TRX Suspension Training to provide innovative and dynamic workout solutions. She believes that a well-rounded approach—encompassing strength training, flexibility, and mindful practices—is key to fostering both physical vitality and mental resilience.

Joanna is devoted to guiding individuals on their path to optimal health, emphasizing the importance of proper movement techniques and injury prevention strategies. She helps individuals develop a profound understanding of their body’s capabilities. By integrating evidence-based practices with personalized care, she strives to empower others to lead active, pain-free lives and to embrace the joys of a healthier lifestyle.

In addition to her fitness expertise, Joanna is a Reiki practitioner, having completed Levels 1 and 2. This training enriches her approach to wellness by integrating energy healing practices that promote holistic health and balance. Through her diverse certifications and a genuine passion for injury prevention, Sarah is devoted to empowering individuals to achieve their best selves. By blending evidence-based practices with personalized care, she strives to inspire a culture of health, vitality, and well-being.

Joanna's commitment extends beyond just physical fitness; she is dedicated to cultivating a supportive community where everyone feels encouraged to set and achieve their wellness goals. Through continuous learning and a genuine passion for helping others, she aims to make a positive impact and inspire a culture of health and well-being.

Sarah Nelson is from Vancouver, BC and is based in Toronto. She has achieved a BFA from Toronto Metropolitan University School of Performance in 2020, where she trained in classical styles such as ballet, jazz and modern. Sarah has studied with Kenny Pearl in the Graham technique, Kate Hilliard in improvisation, Louis Laberge-Côté in contemporary, Allen Kaeja in partnering, and Marianne McIsaac in acting. Sarah has trained with DiscoverDance and achieved a certificate with their Foundations course. She has performed works by Hanna Kiel, Jera Wolfe, and Ben Landsberg within her institution; Tori Mehaffey and Roberto Campanella at ProArte Danza’s summer intensive; and Charles Moulton’s work in Fall for Dance North. Outside of Ryerson Sarah has travelled with Juntos Collective in 2019 to Guatemala doing community outreach related to performance and art education. In 2021, Sarah has performed in dance:made in Canada festival apart of the dance steward program. She has worked with SQx Dance Company with their AIP program for two years. Sarah strives to further explore her identity as an artist through creative processes.

Alicia took her first dance class at 4 years old and has been in love with it ever since. After ending her competitive dance journey, she enrolled as a student at Randolph Kids Performing Arts. Alicia now teaches at Positive Dance Experience and is a Certified Instructor in both Acrobatic Arts and Discover Dance. She is passionate about fostering a love for movement and creative self-expression.

Melissa Morris is an actor, singer, musician, musical director, multi-instrumentalist, composer, playwright, and educator. She is a graduate of both the Music and Drama departments at Queen’s, and also attended Australian National University.  Melissa’s career has taken her across Canada and the Caribbean, where she has had the pleasure of working at Chemainus Theatre, Theatre Orangeville, Port Hope Festival Theatre, Thousand Islands Playhouse, Stirling Theatre, Upper Canada Playhouse, Orillia Opera House, Seven Tyrants Theatre, Theatre 20, Theatre Collingwood, and Theatre Kingston. She was Resident Musical Director and Composer at St Lawrence Shakespeare Festival for 9 seasons, and has musical directed many other shows at different companies in Canada. Melissa was a composer of Evil Dead the Musical, which ran Off-Broadway and in Las Vegas, and which continues to run internationally. She has sound designed multiple shows and has also composed music for film. She has taught Musical Theatre at both Queen’s University and St. Lawrence College. She teaches privately as well as in several Arts schools in the GTA.

Luke is a triple threat performer and dance educator originally from the prairies of Saskatchewan. He is a graduate of the Randolph College for the Performing Arts. He grew up as a competitive dancer in Saskatoon where he also received his Canadian Dance Teachers Association Advanced Tap exam as well as his Royal Academy of Dance Advanced 2 Ballet Exam. He has also worked on the creative side choreographing and directing shows. He also works as a guest teacher and workshop instructor for studios across the country and is a proud member of the Quick Ball Change Roster.

He has worked for many Theatres across Canada including Drayton Entertainment (Elf, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Beauty and the Beast, The Drowsy Chaperone, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin: The Panto, Anne of Green Gables), Stage West Calgary (Priscilla Queen of the Desert) Theatre Aquarius (Elf the Musical), Harold Green Jewish Theatre/danCap (The Jazz Singer), Capitol Theatre (Beauty and The Beast), Breakaway Entertainment/NextStage Festival (Anatomy of a Dancer) Theatre St. Johns (Mary Poppins)

I have been dancing for 13 years recreationally and 6 years competitively. I have received training in a variety of styles including ballet, pointe, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and musical theatre. I first began assisting in 2022 for a ballet 1 class. Currently, I am enrolled in the ADAPT Assistant Teachers Program.

Alyssa is a dedicated member of the senior competitive team with a passion for dance.  She has training in ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop and acro genres and has competed in Jazz and Hip Hop solos.  Alyssa is a high school student at TFS and enjoys spending her time in the summer at overnight camp.. Alyssa is very excited to volunteer and contribute meaningfully to the PDE community.

Hi, I’m Isla! I’m 16 years old and like to sing and dance. I love all styles of dance but my favourites are jazz and contemporary. I have been in the competitive program with PDE since 2020 and danced with Ms Chelsea for many years before that. I think dancing is a great way to express yourself, be creative and have fun. I really like seeing the younger dancers get started in their dance journey and it makes me happy to be able to teach them!