Jill Danielson Owner, Artistic Director & Teacher Ballet - Modern - Contemporary - Broadway Jazz Certified ballet teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) CEGEP Diploma in Professional Theatre
A proud native of Montreal, Jill's lifelong passion and dedication to dance began with formal training in classical ballet and modern dance at l'Académie de Danse Classique. She studied under the tutelage of distinguished instructors Renee Rouleau (a former professional with The Royal Ballet, dancing alongside Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev) and Linda Marchand. Jill’s foundation was solidified in the Cecchetti method of classical ballet, where she successfully completed ballet examinations. Jill further honed her training and artistry as a dedicated company member of Ballet Ouest de Montréal for eight years. During this time, she performed in numerous full-length classical productions, including The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Giselle, alongside several original modern dance works. Her extensive movement background was also enriched by competitive experience in sports like synchronized swimming, diving, gymnastics, figure skating, cross-country running and volleyball. Following her dance training career, Jill graduated from the Professional Theatre program at Montreal's CEGEP John Abbott, where she expanded her expertise to include acting, singing, and a variety of theatrical dance styles. She continually explores movement and has trained in other styles such as Irish, Breakin', HipHop and Theater Jazz. Jill’s passion for instruction first began as a certified swimming instructor with the Red Cross and synchronized swimming coach. She then delved into the world of dance teaching which led her to become a certified teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) in 2013. Since then, she has successfully trained and entered numerous students for ballet examinations, maintaining a 100% pass rate. She is committed to lifelong learning, regularly attending professional development seminars at esteemed institutions such as Canada's National Ballet School, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet, and Broadway Dance Center in New York City. Jill finds immense joy in all aspects of teaching, particularly in choreography. Known for her quirky and creative style, her work has been consistently recognized on the competition circuit, including recent honors such as Top Overall Choreography at Dance Evolution 2024 and Top Choreographer at Wanna Dance Canada 2024. Now celebrating her 17th season teaching dance in Canmore and her 12th season as a beloved studio owner, Jill brings a wealth of experience, expertise, and humour to every class. When she steps away from the barre, Jill cherishes a good cup of tea, snuggling with her cats, and traveling with her supportive family: her 'handy-dandy studio husband' (affectionately known as Mr. Jill) and her talented teenage dancing daughter.
Sean Butler HipHop Sean is an accomplished choreographer and dancer proudly based in Calgary. As a passionate leader in the local dance community, Sean is the visionary creator of VibeTribeYYC and a founding member of the dynamic dance crew, theTOMORROWS. His profound understanding of music and movement is deeply rooted in his training through Flavorshop, a worldwide collective of like-minded artists developed by the esteemed Lenny Len (Toronto). Sean is dedicated to inspiring artists and students alike. He consistently strives to foster an enhanced understanding and positive mentality, actively promoting growth and success through the transformative power of dance and music. Sean's extensive professional credits include: - Aboriginal People’s Choice Music Awards 2014, performing for Inez Jasper. - Cowboys SYTYCD Competition 2014, achieving 1st place with the TOMORROWS. - Stampede 2017: Choreography and performance alongside Yung Dre. - Commonwealth Bar and Stage: Dancing for the monthly Hip Hop show, 10@10. - Inspire 2014: Back-up dancer for Inez Jasper. - Back-up Choreography: Provided support for local artists Yung Dre, Hayden McHugh, and Mike To. - Various Performances: Engagements with groups such as One World, Masked Canvas, Mpact, and Downtown Calgary. - Annual self-created and self- choreographed HipHop show 'The VibeOut' with VibeTribe YYC. Sean rocks sweats harder than Rocky Balboa, likes to beatbox in the shower and is a self-proclaimed gaming nerd. Sean continues to keep it so fresh and so clean in his eighth season with Canmore Dance Corps.
Leia Finbow
Preschool & Kindergarten - Jazz - Lyrical Leia’s extensive dance journey began at the age of four in England, where she successfully completed IDTA examinations in Ballet, Modern, and Tap. Her early life was defined by creativity and athleticism, encompassing competitive gymnastics, figure skating, swimming, and performing arts classes. After immigrating to Canada at age ten, she quickly integrated into the local dance community, continuing her training with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus and excelling in the world of competitive dance. Since 2015, Leia has been sharing her expertise by teaching dance to both children and adults, spanning styles from foundational Ballet to high-energy HipHop. Her talent for creative expression has earned her recognition, including multiple choreography awards at various competitions. In addition to her work in the performing arts, Leia holds a University Degree in Interior Design and contributes her artistic vision to the Bow Valley and beyond as an Interior Designer with Compass Design Co. Leia’s core passions include dance, singing, Broadway musicals, drawing, her dog Bella, and dedicated community involvement. This marks Leia's third season with Canmore Dance Corps.
Harper Long Acro - HipHop Born and raised in Canmore, Harper is a passionate and dedicated dancer whose artistic journey is rooted in a lifelong commitment to movement and performance. An alumna of Canmore Dance Corps, Harper's diverse foundation began with ten years of competitive gymnastics training, complemented by involvement in soccer and rock climbing. Harper quickly established herself in the dance world after beginning her training at age 12, excelling across a broad spectrum of styles including ballet, hip hop, jazz, lyrical, modern, contemporary, and theatre jazz. Harper successfully completed her Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations up to the demanding Intermediate level, showcasing her technical excellence. Her commitment to higher-level training was evident through her participation in the professional summer intensive at the Alberta Ballet School, where she was also a member of their Affiliates Program for three years. After graduating in 2025, Harper has continued to further refine her training and artistry by participating in the post-graduation dance program at The Edge School in Springbank, AB. Looking ahead, Harper's talent has been recognized internationally, earning her a full scholarship to Ollerup Dance in Denmark in their pre-professional program, which she is thrilled to begin in the fall of 2026. Harper brings her knowledge, enthusiasm, strong leadership skills, and a love for exploring different textures within dance to her inaugural season as a valued member of the Canmore Dance Corps teaching staff. She is excited to share her dedication and evolving expertise with her Canmore students.
Amanda Brown Jazz - Lyrical - Tap Certified Yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance Certified teacher and part owner with Reformed (Pilates) & HotShop (Calgary)
Born and raised in Calgary, AB, Amanda received her foundational training at Calgary's premier studio, Drewitz Dance Productions. Her rigorous studies included ballet, jazz, lyrical, tap, and musical theatre, with a significant emphasis on RAD classical ballet. As a member of the studio's elite competitive team, she successfully competed across Canada and the US. Following graduation, Amanda launched her professional career as a dancer for Carnival Cruise Lines, traveling extensively throughout North and South America. This invaluable experience allowed her to collaborate with dancers and world-class choreographers, master diverse styles, and perform nightly. Amanda has been sharing her passion for dance for well over a decade, specializing in Jazz, Lyrical, and Tap. Her technical expertise and award-winning choreography have been instrumental in the development and success of our competitive dance team. A true highlight for Amanda is choreography, and she remains dedicated to creating fresh, creative, and current routines each year to ensure our dancers feel inspired and excited. Amanda's energy and entrepreneurial spirit are evident in her diverse commitments. She is a certified Pilates, Yoga and Spin instructor and part owner with Reformed and Hot Shop (Calgary). Outside of her extremely busy schedule and careers, Amanda enjoys traveling internationally and mothering her adorable young daughter. This marks Amanda’s 16th incredible season with Canmore Dance Corps. Her continued commitment to our dancers is absolutely amazing, and we are profoundly thankful to have her on our team.
Alexis Macintosh Ballet (students & Adult) Certified ballet teacher with the RAD Certified Yoga teacher with Yoga Alliance Alexis brings a distinguished history of professional dance and a deep commitment to artistry to the studio. Her foundational training began in Victoria, B.C., with Maureen Eastick before she advanced her studies at the prestigious Canada's National Ballet School in Toronto. Her successful professional career spanned over a decade, featuring performances with renowned companies across the globe, including: The Guangzhou Ballet, Los Angeles Chamber Ballet, The Banff Centre’s Festival Dance, Soloist with Alberta Ballet. This extensive professional experience afforded Alexis the opportunity to collaborate with world-renowned teachers, artistic directors, and choreographers. This background has cultivated her exceptional keen eye for technique, choreographic ingenuity, and artistic subtleties-- qualities she now eagerly passes on to her students. Alexis's enduring passion for classical ballet translated seamlessly into a rewarding career in education. She is enthusiastically dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge within the discipline and holds a certification with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). For the past seven years, Alexis has been a cornerstone of ballet education in the Bow Valley, helping students achieve a high level of excellence in RAD examinations, regional competitions, and local productions. In addition to her dance certifications, Alexis holds a B.A. in Urban Studies from the University of Calgary and is a certified yoga instructor, bringing a holistic perspective to movement and wellness. Alexis embraces all artistic pursuits, from culinary adventures to literary endeavors. She cherishes her life outside the studio, working hard to keep up with the wonderful, wild adventures and antics of her husband and two sons. We are delighted that this is Alexis' sixth season sharing her expertise and passion with Canmore Dance Corps.
Meghan Brown Acro - Jazz - Lyrical - Tap Administrative Assistant Certified teacher with Acrobatic Arts Certified Yoga Teacher with AFLCA Certified in American Barre Technique Certified in Progressing Ballet Technique University degree in Kinesiology Meghan's journey with dance began at a young age, nurturing a lifelong passion for the art form. She trained as a competitive dancer throughout her schooling in her hometown of Red Deer, continuing to expand her knowledge base during her university years while earning her Kinesiology degree. Meghan is a highly enthusiastic and dedicated instructor with a diverse skill set. Alongside her training and expertise in Jazz, Tap Contemporary and Ballet, she holds teaching certifications with Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) and Acrobatic Arts. Meghan is also a certified Yoga Instructor, teaching fitness and yoga classes at various establishments in Canmore. Currently a busy mother to two young children, Meghan is frequently involved in children's programming throughout the community. She is committed to sharing the joy of dance and sparking passion in young dancers. Beyond the studio, Meghan enjoys crafting, creating of all kinds, and aerial silks (hanging upside down from the rafters!). This marks Meghan's sixth seasonwith Canmore Dance Corps, where she also serves as an administrative assistant.
Katrina Finnigan Ballet - Modern University BFA in Dance Certificate in Kinesiology and Sports Studies Certified in C-I training Certificate with SiDI (Safe in Dance International) Katrina's exciting movement journey began right here in Canmore at the age of three. Joining Canmore Dance Corps at seven, she flourished, training competitively in an array of styles including ballet, modern, jazz, lyrical, hiphop, tap, acro, and cabaret. While nurturing a deep love for classical technique, Katrina successfully completed her Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations up to Advanced 1 and attended the Alberta Ballet School's professional intensives for five years. Katrina's artistic path took a thrilling contemporary turn after attending an intensive at Placement Berlin in Germany, leading her to graduate with a BFA in Dance from the University of Calgary. Katrina’s commitment to dancer well-being shines through her Kinesiology and Sports Studies Diploma from Red Deer Polytechnic. This expertise ensures her teaching is firmly rooted in anatomy, promoting longevity and injury prevention. Katrina's true passion is teaching! Starting as a teaching assistant at age 12 with Miss Jill, she quickly realized her talent for mentoring, and began instructing her own classes at 16. She thrives on helping children blossom both as dancers and confident individuals. Her pedagogical reach is wide, encompassing private and public classes, and specialized work in rhythmic gymnastics with the Alberta Sports and Recreation Association for the Blind and Special Olympics. Always prioritizing safe practice, Katrina is certified in Levels 1 & 2 of C-I Training (conditioning-with-imagery) and has achieved the Healthy Dance Practice Certificate with Safe in Dance International (SiDI), certifying her as an international leader in healthy dance instruction. When Katrina manages to sneak away from the studio, you might find her nannying for local families, fulfilling her crucial role as Miss Jill’s favourite cat sitter, or enjoying a cozy moment with a good book, coffee, and opera on her record player. This marks Katrina's fourth season on the staff of Canmore Dance Corps.
