Karina is the manager of the Dance Department at Edgewater Performing Arts. She is a highly qualified ballet instructor with a passion for dance education and accessibility. She obtained her Master of Arts in Teaching Dance in Higher Education and American Ballet Theatre Pedagogy from New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. As an American Ballet Theater Certified Teacher, Karina is proficient in all levels of the ABT® National Training Curriculum. Her comprehensive training equips her to provide students with a solid foundation in ballet technique and artistic expression. During her time at NYU, Karina gained valuable experience working with young dancers. She had the opportunity to assist primary classes at the prestigious Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School and interned with the Dance Theatre of Harlem Summer Intensive program. Her dedication to choreography was showcased in the NYU Masters' concert, where she crafted captivating dance pieces.

Originally from Brazil, Karina received her ballet training and completed her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Psychology, specializing in child development and educational processes. This unique background allows her to bring a holistic approach to her teaching, considering both the physical and emotional aspects of her students' growth.

With over 10 years of experience teaching ballet, Karina is a seasoned instructor who understands the importance of creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. She believes in making dance accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background or ability. Her advocacy for accessibility aligns perfectly with our ballet school's values.

Karina's expertise, combined with her commitment to student development and inclusivity, make her an invaluable addition to our faculty. She strives to empower her students, fostering their love for dance while instilling discipline, technique, and artistry. With her extensive knowledge and genuine passion for teaching, Karina inspires her students to reach their full potential and discover the transformative power of dance.

Yuka is the Associate Artistic Director at Edgewater Performing Arts. She is a highly trained ballet professional who brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our ballet school. She graduated from Osaka University of Arts, specializing in ballet at the Theatrical Performing Arts Division.

Yuka's commitment to excellence is reflected in her qualifications as an American Ballet Theatre Certified teacher. She has successfully completed the ABT teacher training intensive in Pre-Primary through Level 3, demonstrating her dedication to teaching ballet at the highest standards.

In addition to her ballet training, Yuka is a certified Pilates teacher by Pilates Academy International. Her knowledge of Pilates enhances her teaching approach, allowing her to help students develop strength, flexibility, and proper alignment. Currently based in New York City, Her passion for movement extends beyond ballet, as she also teaches anatomy and yoga posture for yoga teacher training at Body Tone Yoga NY. This diverse background enriches her teaching, enabling her to offer a holistic approach to dance and movement education.

Throughout her career, Yuka has gained extensive experience in ballet performances, As a dancer, she has graced the stage with her artistry and technical prowess. As a choreographer, she has showcased her creativity, crafting captivating dance pieces. Yuka's dedication to her craft and her commitment to nurturing young dancers make her an invaluable asset to our ballet school. Her extensive training, combined with her ability to inspire and motivate students, ensures a well-rounded and enriching learning experience. With her expertise in ballet, Pilates, anatomy, and yoga, Yuka is equipped to guide students towards achieving their dance goals while promoting physical and artistic growth.

Nicole Zadra completed her ballet training in the USA and Russia. In 2012 she graduated from Manhattan Youth Ballet on merit scholarship under Daniel Ulbricht. In 2014 she graduated from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, Russia under Marina Leonova. She then joined The Hong Kong Ballet in 2014 as a member of Corps de Ballet where she performed in Don Quixote, Swan Lake Act III, the Choreographers Showcase, the Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty and Turandot. In 2016 she joined Ballet Memphis where she performed in various pieces including Giselle, Peter Pan, George Balanchine’s Square Dance, The Wizard of Oz and several contemporary works. Over the years she has worked with numerous directors and choreographers including Nina Ananiashvili, Deborah Wingert, Maxim Beloserkovsky, Brian Reeder and more. She guest danced with the Atlantic City Ballet and most recently was a member of the California Ballet Company.

Nicole is an ABT certified teacher, National Training Curriculum, Pre-primary to level 3 and ABT Project Plie scholarship recipient. She is the recipient of numerous scholarships and her training includes time spent at The Alvin Ailey School, NYSSSA, The Rock School, Boston Ballet and Complexions Contemporary Ballet. Nicole gained extensive performance experience during her training, with highlights including roles in La Fille Mal Gardée at the Bolshoi Theater, The Sleeping Beauty and the Hungarian Rhapsody at the Kremlin Palace in Russia, and Jerome Robbins Interplay, as well as other contemporary, character dance and jazz pieces.

In 2011 Nicole was awarded an Alvin Ailey Fellowship. In 2012 she was a NSLI-Y Russian American Foundation, Bolshoi Ballet Academy Scholarship Award Recipient. In 2013 she was a Grishko USA Rising Star.

Kaitlin is a passionate, experienced arts educator and dancer. She earned her Master of Arts in Dance Education: ABT Ballet Pedagogy from New York University and American Ballet Theatre, and is certified in all levels (Pre-Primary through Level 7) of ABT’s National Training Curriculum. 

For the past seven years she has taught students ranging in age from toddlers to adults and choreographed for performances at Notre Dame University, IN and Saint Mary’s College, IN. 

She was a founding member and Vice President of Notre Dame University’s Ballet Company. Since relocating to New York Kaitlin has enjoyed performing ballet, contemporary, and Irish dance works across the city.

Her time as a master’s student, summer intensive student, class assistant, and intern at American Ballet Theatre thoroughly prepared her to pass on valuable knowledge through effective pedagogical practices. Kaitlin earned undergraduate degrees in Spanish Language and Culture and Global Intercultural Studies, which, compounded with her Dance Education background allow her to cultivate positive and engaging student experiences by providing a supportive learning environment for all to learn and grow. 

Ava Desiderio is an accomplished choreographer and captivating dancer. With a background that includes performances with the Alabama Ballet in renowned productions like Don Quixote and Blue Suede Shoes, Ava's journey has led them to the heart of the dance world in New York City.

Beyond their city, Ava's talents have graced stages with New Chamber Ballet and Eglevsky Ballet. Notable choreography showcases include Miami City Ballet School, Renversé Ballet, and Steps on Broadway. As an ABT® Certified Teacher, Ava's expertise stems from completing the rigorous ABT® Teacher Training Intensive.

Ava's dance story began at age 3, evolving into formal training at Petrov Ballet School and under the guidance of luminaries like Darla Hoover and Arantxa Ochoa. Their passion has taken them to esteemed programs such as San Francisco Ballet and The Royal Ballet School.

In addition to their performances, Ava excels as a director, choreographer, and producer of dance films, with their latest work titled "WHEN WE'RE TOGETHER."

Ava Desiderio's journey is one of dedication, innovation, and artistic brilliance, leaving an indelible mark on the world of dance.

Sanghee Lee is an accomplished ballet dancer and educator originally from Seoul, South Korea. She holds a BA in Dance and is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Dance Convergence Contents from Dongduk Women's University. Sanghee's passion for ballet began at a young age, and she honed her skills at the renowned Vaganova Ballet Academy in Seoul. She also graduated from Deokwon Arts High School, where she specialized in ballet. Throughout her career, Sanghee has performed a wide range of roles in both classical ballet and contemporary dance pieces. She has been a member of the esteemed SEO Ballet Company, where she showcased her talent in various solo and pas de deux roles. 

Not only is Sanghee a skilled performer, but she is also an accomplished choreographer. She has created numerous pieces in drama ballet and contemporary ballet, showcasing her creativity and ability to bring stories to life through movement. Sanghee's dedication to her craft extends beyond her performances. She has received training in "Dance and Arts effects" and holds Arts and Culture Education Instructor Certificates in Expressive Arts Therapy, Dance Movement Therapy, and as an Expressive Arts Counselor. These qualifications allow her to use dance as a therapeutic tool and to guide others in their artistic journeys. Continuing her pursuit of growth and knowledge, and She continually seeks new opportunities to expand her skills and artistic horizons.

As a ballet instructor, she shares her expertise and passion with aspiring dancers, nurturing their talent and instilling in them a love for the art form. Sanghee's technical proficiency, and commitment to artistic expression make her a valuable addition to our school. Her diverse background and dedication to dance education ensure that she will inspire and guide students on their ballet journey.

Ryan Yuri embarked on his artistic journey in 2014 at the esteemed Academia Roda Viva, guided by the artistic direction of Daniela Dias. His passion for dance led him to further cultivate his skills at Itego em Artes Basileu França in Goiânia, Brazil, where he trained under the expert guidance of Simone Malta from 2015 to 2019.

In 2019, Ryan joined the Ballet to Teatro Escola Basileu França youth company, a pivotal step in his career. During this time, he had the privilege of collaborating with renowned professionals such as Olga Dolganova (Russia), Leidy Escobar (Cuba), Simone Malta (Brazil), Ana Maria Campos (Brazil), and Binho Pacheco (Brazil). His repertoire includes performances in full-length productions, as well as neoclassical and contemporary works, showcasing his versatile talent.

Ryan's participation in prestigious festivals and competitions, including Promodança, Festival de Dança de Joinville, and YAGP, not only earned him numerous awards but also secured scholarships to renowned institutions like Barcelona Dance Center and Alberta Ballet School. His remarkable achievement includes a 2nd place win in the Men's Senior Division at YAGP.

His dance journey is adorned with exquisite experiences, featuring notable pas de deux performances such as the Bluebird Pas de Deux from Sleeping Beauty. Ryan has graced the stage in complete ballets with orchestras, including iconic productions like Coppelia, The Nutcracker, Carmen, Swan Lake, Don Quixote, The Fairy Doll Suite, Grand Pas Classique Hongroise Raymonda, La Esmeralda, Les Millions d'Arlequin, among others.

Throughout his artistic development, Ryan has had the privilege of learning from distinguished teachers and coaches, such as Jair Moraes (Male CIA Jair Moraes), Ana Paula Oioli (Director of Costal City Ballet-Canada), Olga Dolganova (Russia), Lars Van Cauwenbergh (SPCD), and Cristopher Powney (Royal Ballet School). These mentors have played a crucial role in shaping his artistry and contributing to his success on the international dance stage.

Erika Gilmore stands as a distinguished choreographer and dancer, bearing her artistic standard from the thriving artistic enclave of Brooklyn, NY. Her most recent opus graced the platform of the esteemed Steps on Broadway Conservatory dancers, an accomplishment that earned its rightful place in the limelight of Whitewave’s renowned Dumbo Dance Festival.

Hailing from the serene landscapes of Florida, Erika's artistic odyssey has matured over nearly a decade of dedicated pedagogy, illuminating the paths of dancers traversing all echelons of their progressive dance trajectories. Her choreographic vision is intricately intertwined with life's most poignant and genuine experiences, culminating in the creation of a nurturing artistic milieu. This environment becomes a crucible for the cultivation of her students' profound affection for the art of dance.

Central to Erika's artistic ethos is the profound art of storytelling. A veritable constant within her creations, storytelling becomes the conduit through which movement finds its purpose and meaning. Erika's dedication extends beyond her choreography as she embarks on a transformative journey with the up-and-coming generation of dancers. This journey revolves around the pivotal notion of imbuing every motion with humanity, instilling within them an understanding of how the raw and unadorned aspects of human existence can be channeled into their craft.

Erika Gilmore beckons you to explore her realm—an intersection of choreographic finesse and evocative narrative. In her capable hands, dance transcends the physical realm, venturing into the domain of emotional expression and genuine connection. Join this visionary artist as she leads the charge in guiding the next generation of dancers, fostering a paradigm where every graceful gesture becomes a testament to the human spirit.

Miki Mitsumoto, a Tokyo native, began her dance journey at Avex Artist Academy, mastering Hip Hop and Dance Hall choreography. Her early career in Japan was distinguished by her participation in over 100 showcases, where she captivated audiences with her innovative performances.

Miki’s pursuit of diverse dance styles led her to New York City, where she furthered her training at prestigious institutions such as Broadway Dance Center and Peri Dance Studio. There, she explored Street Jazz, Jazz Funk, Street Heels, and Urban Street Choreography, enhancing her versatile dance repertoire.

In New York, Miki's talent has been showcased in music videos for artists like Minmi, Mr. Benjamin, Najash, and Gavri Moon. She has also made her mark on the stage, performing at major events including the renowned "Carnival," with choreography by David Sincere, and the Broadway Dance Center showcase, choreographed by David Thomas.

Currently, Miki is a dedicated Dance Teacher and Choreographer. She crafts creative and engaging lesson plans, manages the dance program, and fosters a positive, inclusive environment for her students.

Miki continues to inspire and educate through her diverse dance expertise and unwavering passion for the art form.

Donghyun Park received his Bachelors in Music at the Mannes College of Music and his Masters in Music at the Brooklyn College of CUNY. He has performed at numerous venues in NYC including Carnegie Hall, and Symphony Space.

He has taught more than 100 students over 10 years in NYC and New Jersey.

Michael Yun has served as cover conductor for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and has assisted with the Lyric Opera of Baltimore, Opera Theatre of Montclair, Mannes Community Orchestra, and Miami Music Festival Symphony Orchestra. He has also taken part in festivals in Spain, Italy, and Canada. As a pianist, Mr. Yun has won first prizes at the New York Music Festival Competition and the New Jersey Teachers’ Association Competition. He is also a two-time recipient of a scholarship award from the Council of Korean Churches of Greater New York. He earned his Master’s degree in orchestral conducting at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University, where he studied with the legendary Gustav Meier, and Markand Thakar, a protégé of Sergiu Celibidache. Other conducting teachers include Agrippino Bellino, Scott Jackson Wiley and Ronald Braunstein. Mr. Yun received his degree in piano performance from the Mannes College of Music where he studied with Yuri Kim. Currently, he is conductor of the Heritage Choir.

Lu Meng was born into a musical family. Both her parents were music professors. She started to learn piano at 4. She has a B.A. in Piano from Beijing and a M.M. in Piano Performance from the Florida State University under the direction of Mr. Leonadas Lipovetsky, a student of the late Madame Rosina Lhevinne. Lu Meng believes piano study is a process of learning and integrating concepts and ideas. For students, it is as important to grow the intellect as it is to excel in both technique and interpretation. Learning piano is to improve students' concentration, control, accuracy, and to develop a mind that can multitask. Most importantly, students must learn to make their hearts sing in their playing. Lu Meng's students has won First Places at the following competitions: Crescendo International, Golden Key, Cecilia, Mid-Atlantic Music Teacher's Conference, American Protege, Little Mozart, and the Elite Music Competitions. Her students also do well in the ABRSM exams. Majority of them tested Distinction on all levels. One student received highest mark on Grade 8 in the region of NJ, PA and DE.

Yi-Ping Chou is a Soloist Classical Musician- who graduated from Indiana University Jacobs School of music with a Master’s Degree in 2020 and a Performance Diploma in 2022. Chou served as a Principal Flutist in several orchestras and performed numerous concerts surrounded by various talented colleagues during her schooling. Aside from schooling activities, Chou participated in international competitions and festivals from Europe to the United States; premiere performed composers’ works, recordings with orchestras…etc.

Chou signed a contract with Jack Price as a soloist musician in 2022 and looking forward to future cooperation with professional orchestras.

Sooyoun holds a BA from California State University and a Master’s degree from Ewha Womans University. With a distinguished career as both a pianist and educator, she has performed extensively as a soloist, accompanist, and in collaborative settings with choirs, ensembles, and for church services.

As a dedicated piano educator, Sooyoun has participated in advanced seminars with Piano Adventures and Piano Alfred, where she gained a deep expertise in piano pedagogy. Her teaching journey includes a tenure at the Alfred headquarters in Korea, as well as experience serving as a judge for piano competitions.

Currently, Sooyoun teaches a select group of students who have won top prizes in national and international competitions, with many performing at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall. She is an active member of the Korean Piano Pedagogy Association and the Music Educators Association of New Jersey. Passionate about nurturing young talent, Sooyoun is committed to inspiring and mentoring the next generation of pianists.

Ms. Tama Nakata, a native of Japan, earned her Bachelors of Arts from Osaka University in Osaka, Japan, where she concentrated in Germanistik (German Studies) and English. Under Dr. Koji Sonoda, Ms. Nakata completed the Method of Teaching Japanese program at the Japanese American Society in New Jersey, and has certification to teach Japanese as a Second Language. Ms. Nalata has been teaching Japanese at language schools, weekend schools, and American companies since 2001. She has experience instructing all manner of students, including children as young as seven, college students, and adults. She is a skilled and proficient instructor with the ability to teach Japanese at the beginner, intermediate, or advanced level.

Ivy Ha earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts and Art Education from Saint Peter’s University in New Jersey. With a deep passion for Fine Arts, she also completed an additional three years in a Fashion Design program at the Art Institute of NYC.

As a highly qualified art teacher with a standard teaching certificate from the state of New Jersey, Ivy has dedicated the past 18 years to teaching in both private and public schools. She has extensive experience working with a diverse range of students, from children as young as three to adults. Currently, she teaches many gifted and talented students across various art studios.

Ivy actively encourages her students to embrace challenges and participate in art competitions and events. Many of her students have achieved notable success and recognition in various art competitions and awards. Her mission as an art educator is rooted in the belief that creativity, continuous learning, and personal growth are essential to artistic development.