Marisa Albee (she/her), born in Brooklyn, NY, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2001. She trained with her parents at the Albee School of Dance and later the School of American Ballet. Albee first joined Pacific Northwest Ballet as am apprentive and later got promoted to Soloist, dancing for eight seasons. Teaching since 1998, she previously taught at Washington Academy of Performing Arts. At PNBS, she serves as Assistant Principal. Albee focuses on engaging younger students through encouragement, fun, and instilling confidence. Albee is also the founder of Ballet in Form, an educational website for teachers and dancers.
Claudia Araston (she/her) J.D. and B.A., born in Cali, Colombia, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2017. Trained at Institute Colombiano de Ballet (INCOLBALLET), she holds a Juris Doctorate and Political Science degree, along with certifications in Progressing Ballet Technique, Pilates Mat, and Royal Ballet. Her sixteen-year career included soloist roles with Ballet Santiago de Cali, Florida Dance Theater, and Brandon Ballet. She has performed extensively in classical repertoire, including “The Nutcracker,” “Swan Lake,” and “Giselle.” A bilingual instructor, she contributes to IDEA initiatives and specializes in teaching children of all abilities.
Lucie Baker (she/her) M.F.A., B.F.A., born in Louisville, KY and raised in Seattle, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2020. After training at Pacific Northwest Ballet School, Cornish College of the Arts Preparatory Dance, and the Juilliard School; Baker went on to have a freelance performing career with Jane Comfort and Company, Tamar Rogoff Performance Projects, Erica Essner Performance Co-op, Phantom Limb Company and others. A career highlight includes producing her own full length choreography in New York City. In addition to a B.F.A. from The Juilliard School, she holds an M.F.A. from University of Washington, a certification as a Tamalpa Practitioner and is an avid social and folk dancer. Teaching since 2005, including at the Chen Dance School and currently at University of Washington and Cornish College of the Arts, she brings her diverse dance background and emphasis on student-centered, anatomically sound, creative collaboration to PNBS’s faculty.
Marjorie Bresler Thompson (she/her), born in Detroit, MI, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 1996. She has formally held the roles as PNBS Assistant Principal and PNBConditioning Director, a program she created alongside former PNBS director Francia Russell. Trained at the School of American Ballet, she danced with New York City Ballet under George Balanchine for eight seasons (1962-1970), performing memorable works including “Stars and Stripes” at JFK’s inauguration anniversary as an Apprentice, and “Brahms Schoenberg Quartet” at Gala Opening of Lincoln Center’s State Theatre. Her performance repertoire included significant works by choreographers Anthony Tudor, Jerome Robbins, and John Taras. Thompson began teaching in 1965, conducting company class with New York City Ballet while still performing, and began teaching at the School of American Ballet in 1969. She held director positions at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School and Minnesota Dance Theatre School, and later became a Romana Certified Pilates Instructor. Throughout her career, Thompson has brought her unique first-hand experience of working with Balanchine to inspire and train aspiring dancers. She has authored the children’s book “A Curious Tale of Magic, Mischief, and Music.”
Kirsten Cooper (she/her), born in Portland, OR, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2002. After training at Edge Performing Arts Center and Tremaine Dance Studios in Los Angeles, she launched a five-year professional career as a freelance dancer in Los Angeles, performing in film, TV, live productions, and with Costa Cruise Lines. She worked with notable choreographer Liz Imperio and holds certification as a Barre Fitness instructor with Barre Eclipse. Teaching since 1994, including experience at Westlake Dance Center Seattle, she serves on PNBS’s faculty, encouraging students to explore movement beyond classical ballet while emphasizing musicality and performance quality.
Nancy Crowley (she/her) grew up in Marshfield, MA where she received her early ballet training. She joined the faculty of PNB School in 2013 after a distinguished performing and teaching career in the USA and Canada. Ms. Crowley is a former principal dancer of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, and the avant-garde Montréal company, La La La Human Steps. She formerly was the School Director for Ballet Arizona where her students received critical acclaim from Alistair Macaulay writing for the New York Times. In 2024, Ms. Crowley was appointed the PNB’s Lead Rehearsal Director for the Family Matinée Series.
Bethany Goodwin (she/her) joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. Her performing career includes serving as both an aerialist and Dance Captain with Royal Caribbean International. Career highlights include performing in “Invitation to Dance,” choreographed by Louis van Amstel and Cheryl Burke, and dancing at Bally’s Jubilee in Las Vegas. Bethany is an American Ballet Theatre® Certified Teacher, qualified to teach Pre-Primary through Level 3.
Olivia Evans (she/her), born in Little Falls, NY and raised on Cape Cod, MA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty and community education staff in 2024. She trained at Boston Ballet School, Integrarte Pre-Professional Program, and graduated from Alonzo King LINES Ballet Training Program in 2023. Evans has worked with choreographers including Kayla Farrish, Jay Carlon, and Keelan Whitmore. Her choreography has been featured in dance films and festivals. Teaching since 2022, she previously taught at Alonzo King LINES Ballet Community Programs and SF Arts Education Project. At PNBS, Evans serves as Community Education Programs Coordinator, bringing a unique perspective on the intersections of classical ballet, contemporary dance, and composition.
Rachel Foster (she/her), born in Greensburg, PA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2022. Trained at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and summer courses at School of American Ballet and San Francisco Ballet, Foster had a distinguished 22-year professional career. She danced with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and as a Principal with Pacific Northwest Ballet, performing lead roles in “Giselle,” “Don Quixote,” and “Sleeping Beauty.” Foster worked with renowned choreographers like Crystal Pite and was featured on the cover of Dance Magazine in 2009. Teaching since 2019, she currently serves on the faculty and contributes to PNB’s DanceChance program, sharing her extensive experience with aspiring dancers.
Kurt Froman (he/him), born in Fort Worth, TX, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. After training at Fort Worth Ballet and School of American Ballet, as the first recipient of the Rudolf Nureyev Scholarship, he performed with New York City Ballet for 22 years. Career highlights include the leading role of James in Twyla Tharp’s “Movin’ Out” and working with Suzanne Farrell on George Balanchine’s “Slaughter on 10th Ave” and “Mozartiana.” Froman later trained Hollywood actors for “Black Swan” and “Red Sparrow.” Teaching since 2009, he serves as Head Faculty of the Men’s Division, bringing his extensive Balanchine background and resourceful teaching approach to PNBS.
Danielle Golden (she/her) B.A., born in Seattle, WA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2023. She trained at British Dancing Academy and earned her B.A. in Dance from the University of Washington in 2015. Her extensive certifications include Progressing Ballet Technique, Strength Training & Injury Prevention, Choreography & Composition, Pre-School Dance, and Acrobatic Arts. She holds Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing certifications in Ballet, Modern, and Tap through Advanced 2 level. Golden has received choreography awards from Starpower National Talent and Believe National Talent, bringing over a decade of teaching experience to PNBS.
Bethany Goodwin (she/her) joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. Her performing career includes serving as both an aerialist and Dance Captain with Royal Caribbean International. Career highlights include performing in “Invitation to Dance,” choreographed by Louis van Amstel and Cheryl Burke, and dancing at Bally’s Jubilee in Las Vegas. Bethany is an American Ballet Theatre® Certified Teacher, qualified to teach Pre-Primary through Level 3.
Susan Gorter (she/her), born in Lansdale, PA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2001. She trained at the School of the Pennsylvania Ballet and graduated from North Penn High School. Gorter danced as an Apprentice with Pennsylvania Ballet and as a Company Member with Basel Ballet in Switzerland during her 14-year career. Her performance highlights include dancing in the pas de six in “Giselle.” Teaching since 2001, Gorter brings her extensive professional experience to her role as a faculty member at PNBS, contributing to the development of the next generation of dancers.
Ikolo Griffin (he/him), born in San Francisco, CA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2020. Trained at San Francisco Ballet School, he had a 20-year performing career as Principal dancer with Dance Theater of Harlem and with San Francisco Ballet. Career highlights include principal roles in “St. Louis Woman: A Blues Ballet,” Balanchine’s “Prodigal Son,” and Robbins’ “Fancy Free.” He received the Princess Grace Award in 1994. He is the Founder and Professional Pirouette Coach of Just Turns Workshop. At PNBS, he teaches Dance Chance Level 1 and serves as Discover Dance Faculty.
Mark Haim (he/him/they) M.F.A., B.F.A., born in New York City, NY, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. Trained at The Juilliard School, Haim holds a B.F.A. from The Juilliard School and an M.F.A. from American Dance Festival and Hollins University. With a 40-year career, he has choreographed for renowned companies worldwide, including Nederlands Dans Theater and Joffrey Ballet. Haim has been Artistic Director of Mark Haim & Dancers and Companhia de Dance de Lisboa. Teaching since 1984, he has held positions at NYU Tisch, American Dance Festival, and was Senior Artist in Residence at the University of Washington.
Teresa Hanawalt (she/her) B.F.A., born in Port Angeles, WA, joined PNBConditioning staff in 2008. She received her dance training at Cornish College of the Arts, earning a B.F.A. in Dance in 2003. Hanawalt is a Certified STOTT Pilates and Pilates Total Barre instructor, completing her certifications in 2008. With 16 years of experience teaching Pilates, she previously taught at Bodycenter Studios. Hanawalt co-founded modern dance company NorthWest Dance Syndrome, and performed, choreographed, and taught around the Pacific Northwest. At PNBS, Hanawalt is dedicated to building relationships with her clients and helping them find a deeper connection with their bodies. She also teaches dance at Marysville Performing Arts Centre.
Dana Hanson (she/her), born in Carson City, NV, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2006. Trained at School of American Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet School, she had a 16-year performing career with New York City Ballet. Career highlights include performing in George Balanchine’s “Agon,” “Concerto Barocco,” and “Symphony in C,” and originating a role in Jerome Robbins’ final ballet “Brandenburg.” She studied at Fordham University and previously taught at School of American Ballet as Guest Faculty. Hanson brings extensive knowledge of Balanchine technique and style to her teaching.
Akoiya Harris (she/her), born in Seattle, WA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2021. She trained at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Dance Theater of Harlem, completing the Ailey Certificate Program. She had a five-year performing career, including roles as Company Artist with Spectrum Dance Theater, founding member of Black Collectivity, and Performing Artist with The Congregation. Harris has choreographed for On The Boards’ “To Gather” and created a dance oral histories film exhibited at Wa Na Wari. She is the 2024 Base Art Space Artist Resident. Harris brings expertise in Horton technique and knowledge of Dunham and Graham lineages to her teaching.
Emily Helman Berry (she/her), born in Anaheim Hills, CA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. She trained at School of American Ballet and Boston Ballet, performing professionally with Boston Ballet, Sarasota Ballet, Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre, and Ballet Project OC. Career highlights include dancing Dew Drop and Lead Marzipan in “The Nutcracker” and performing in numerous Balanchine ballets including “Chaconne,” “Stars & Stripes,” and “Serenade.” A Virginia B. Toulmin Foundation recipient (2013-2016), she bringing her extensive training and performance expertise to nurture her students.
Kimberly Holloway (she/her), born in Durham, NC, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2022. After training at Raleigh School of Ballet and earning her BFA in Dance from Belhaven University, she performed professionally with Kinesis Project Dance Theater, Storling Dance Theater, and as a company member with Catapult Dance under Michele Miller. A recipient of SeattleDances’ 2018 DanceCrush “Reader’s Choice” award for Performance, she brings extensive teaching experience to PNBS, having taught since 2008 at institutions including Bainbridge Dance Center and Dance Fremont. As faculty and Dance For All Faculty, she believes in movement’s power to bring healing and change, fostering creativity, strength, and expressivity in her students.
Yuka Iino (she/her), born in Gunma, Japan, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2022. She trained at Reiko Yamamoto Ballet Studio and is certified at Yoga Alliance RYT 200. Iino had a distinguished 17-year career as a Principal dancer with Oregon Ballet Theatre and Reiko Yamamoto Ballet Company. Her performances include lead roles in “Swan Lake,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and works by George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and William Forsythe. Iino’s accolades include Gold medal at the 1998 Varna International Ballet Competition, along with other international competition medals. Teaching since 2000, she previously taught for Oregon Ballet Theatre company and school, as well as the National Ballet of Japan. Iino brings strong classical technique and positivity to her classes at PNBS.
Carrie Imler (she/her), born in Carlisle, PA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2017. Trained at Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet, she had a 22-year performing career with PNB as a Principal dancer. Career highlights include dancing Kitri in Ratmansky’s “Don Quixote” and working with renowned choreographers William Forsythe, David Dawson, and Twyla Tharp. She holds an Associate of Arts and Science from Bellevue College and previously taught at Central Pennsylvania Ballet’s Summer Course. Imler specializes in mentoring students transitioning from student to professional dancer.
Deborah Kenner (she/her) PhD ABD, M.F.A., M.S., born in Tucson, AZ, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty and PNBConditioning staff in 2010. She holds a B.F.A., an M.S. in Kinesiology, and PhD ABD in Health and Human Performance. Trained at the University of Arizona (as a Full Dance Scholarship recipient) and Colorado Ballet, she danced professionally with Colorado Ballet and David Taylor Dance Theatre for 10 years. She is an NCPT certified Pilates instructor and Balanced Body Educator, and has previously taught at Academy of Colorado Ballet and Tucson Regional Ballet. Kenner has created PNBS conditioning videos and curriculum for Dance for All, which she currently teaches. In addition, Kenner serves as a teaching artist for Dance for Parkinson’s.
Isadora Kolmorgan (she/her), based in Gold Beach, Oregon, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. After training at the National Ballet Academy of Denver, Rocky Mountain Ballet Academy, and Ballet Fantastique, she performed with Fermata Ballet Company and Echo Dance Collective. She later co-founded a dance studio on the Oregon Coast focused on community youth programs. Throughout her career, Kolmorgan has held both teaching and administrative positions at the Alonzo King LINES Ballet and served as an instructor at the Joffrey Ballet. Currently at Pacific Northwest Ballet, she serves as Community Education Engagement Coordinator and Teaching Artist while also holding a faculty position at the school. She brings extensive experience in various dance genres, including ballet, musical theatre, lyrical, jazz, contemporary, and modern, and is dedicated to fostering joy through movement in her teaching.
Miriam Landis (she/her) B.A., from Salt Lake City, UT, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2012. She trained at School of American Ballet and Ballet West. Landis danced professionally for Miami City Ballet under Edward Villella, dancing principal roles in Balanchine’s “Stars and Stripes,” “The Steadfast Tin Soldier,” and Bournonville’s “Flower Festival Pas de Deux.” She has taught since 1999 at institutions including Ballet West Academy and Stanford University. Landis holds a B.A. in English Literature from Stanford University and was a book editor in New York and at Amazon.com. She published three ballet-themed novels: “Lauren in the Limelight,” “Girl in Motion,” and “Girl on Pointe.” www.miriamlandis.com
Alexandra Madera Roumanis (she/her) B.F.A., born in Mountain View, CA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. She trained at Los Gatos Ballet and San Francisco Conservatory of Dance, earning her B.F.A. from Texas State University. She had a 10-year performing career, notably with Khambatta Dance Company. Her choreographic work “two hours” premiered at Velocity Dance Center, and her dance films have screened at multiple festivals. As a American Ballet Theatre® Certified Teacher, from Pre-Primary through Level 7 and Partnering, she brings extensive teaching experience in addition to holding certifications in Progressing Ballet Technique and Acrobatic Arts.
Elsa Ayumi Matsuda (she/her), born in Puebla City and raised in Mexico City, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2019. She trained at Academia de Ballet San Angel Inn and Canada’s National Ballet School, completing their Teacher Training Program. Her certifications include Cecchetti Canada, Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance, and STOTT Pilates. Teaching since 2012 at schools in Mexico, Canada, and the U.S., she currently serves as DanceChance Assistant, Discover Dance “The Nutcracker” workshop teacher, and Open Ballet Teacher, fostering a welcoming environment where students can explore and refine their artistry and technique.
Dina McDermott (she/her) M.F.A., B.F.A., from New Jersey, joined the Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty and PNBConditioning staff in 2001. She received her earliest ballet training with Irine Fokine. She earned her B.F.A. at The Juilliard School, and subsequently danced professionally in New York City for five years. After earning her M.F.A. from Arizona State University, Dina taught at various universities/colleges, community centers, public school residencies, and detention centers. After moving to Seattle, she received a “Giraffe Award” for founding a summer arts program for underserved youth. Dina is also the author of three books, most recently a children’s book “Tammy the Troll, A Dance in the Forest,” which was named a “Recommended Read” by Dance Teacher magazine and was a Mom’s Choice Gold Level Awardee.
Laurie McKarns Perrault (she/her) M.A., B.S., born in Canton, OH, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2017. After training at San Francisco Ballet School and Pacific Northwest Ballet School, she performed as a Principal with San Gorgonio Ballet. She holds a B.S. in Kinesiology from California State University San Bernardino, an M.A. in Dance Education from New York University, and is an American Ballet Theatre® Certified Teacher, from Pre-Primary through Level 7. Teaching since 1995, with experience at San Gorgonio Ballet School and as a teaching artist in New York and Uganda, she brings her expertise in ballet pedagogy to PNBS’s faculty.
Kaori Nakamura (she/her), born in Gunma, Japan, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2014. Training at Reiko Yamamoto Ballet School and School of American Ballet, she achieved a distinguished 26-year career as Principal dancer with Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet. Career highlights include leading roles such as Juliette in Maillot’s “Romeo et Juliette.” Her accolades include First Prize at the 14th Prix de Lausanne (1986) and Bronze Medal at Varna International Ballet Competition (1988). She brings technical expertise, professionalism, and patience to her teaching.
Liz Pless (she/her), born in Hot Springs, AR, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2023. After training at Texas Ballet Theater School, she performed as a Soloist with Austin Dance Company and Metamorphosis Ballet. Career highlights include dancing in Mark Bush’s “Swan Lake” alongside Patricia Barker and performing Ben Stevenson’s works. A licensed aesthetician and Certified Meditation Instructor, she owns Earth Glow Wellness studio in downtown Seattle. Teaching since 2010 at institutions including Balance Dance Studio, she serves as faculty and Dance For All teacher’s assistant at PNBS, where she emphasizes mindful movement and natural creativity.
Suzanne Singla (she/her) A.A.S., born in Vancouver, WA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty, community education, and PNBConditioning staff in 2004. She trained with Columbia Dance Ensemble and The Ailey School, earning comprehensive credentials including Royal Academy of Dance Intermediate & Advanced Exams, Certificate of Dance from Alvin Ailey American Dance School, Associates of Arts & Science from Clark College, and full certification in STOTT Pilates (2008). Singla’s diverse career includes performances with Jennifer Muller Dance, Metropolitan Ballet, and in musical theater productions internationally. Teaching since 1998, she previously taught at Ballet Hispanico and Steps on Broadway. At PNBS, Singla is part of the Dance For All Faculty, dedicated to bringing joy and imparting knowledge to students of all ages and abilities. In 2023, she received additional certification in Dance for PD®, further expanding her expertise in inclusive dance education.
Tara Stepenberg (she/her) M.Ed., B.S., CMA, RMT, from Rochester, NY, joined PNBConditioning program in 2002. After graduating from Juilliard School in 1963, she earned a Master’s in Education from UMass Amherst, and was also certified as a Labanotation Teacher and Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst. Tara’s extensive background includes dancing with Anna Sokolow Dance Company, teaching at multiple universities, and directing the Laban Movement Analysis Certificate Program in New York City. As a Certified Laban Movement Analyst and Method Pilates instructor, she is a distinguished movement specialist with a multifaceted career spanning dance, education, and somatic practices, teaching dance since 1965 and Pilates since 1995. A lifelong learner, Tara continues to integrate innovative movement knowledge into her teaching, dedicated to helping others discover ease of motion and wisdom within their bodies and viewing dance as an embodied journey of life.
Eva Stone (she/her) M.A., B.F.A., joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2007. She holds a B.F.A. in Dance from Arizona State University and an M.A. in Choreography from Trinity Laban, UK. Eva formed The Stone Dance Collective in 1993 and continues to choreograph and lecture extensively throughout the US. In 2019, she was commissioned for PNB’s main stage. For fourteen years, Eva produced the acclaimed CHOP SHOP Contemporary Dance Festival and currently produces WANDER/WONDER, an annual site-specific dance event on Whidbey Island. At PNBS she teaches Modern Technique, leads the New Voices program, and coordinates NEXT STEP, focusing on authentic movement engagement and artistic excellence.
Julie Tobiason (she/her) is a former principal dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet, Chicago City Ballet (directed by Maria Tallchief), and Founder and former Director of Seattle Dance Project. She studied at The School of American Ballet and has performed principal roles in works by Stowell, Balanchine, Ashton, Caniparoli, Duato, Forsythe, Tetley, and many others. She has been on faculty at PNB since 1996, and is Ballet Director at Tacoma Urban Performing Arts Center. Ms. Tobiason teaches, coaches, and choreographs nationally for independent films, Regional Dance America, various ballet companies and schools, and most recently Seattle International Dance Festival. In 2017, she was awarded the James Ray Residency to create kairos for SIDF 2018. Ms. Tobiason earned her BA in Business Administration from Foster School of Business at University of Washington in 2018.
Heather Toda (she/her) B.A., CPA, is a Seattle native, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2024. She trained at British Dancing Academy through the syllabi of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing and the Royal Academy of Dance, the Cornish Preparatory Dance Program and American Ballet Theatre. Heather is an ABT® Certified Teacher, Pre-Primary through Level 3. She holds a B.A. in Accounting from Washington State University and is a Certified Public Accountant. Prior to PNBS, she taught for Laura and Jerome Tisserand and other regional dance schools.
Jennifer Turner (she/her) M.A., B.A., born in St. Louis, MO, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2019. She trained at prestigious institutions including the School of American Ballet, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet, North Carolina School of the Arts, Miami City Ballet School, and Ballet Academy East. Turner’s professional career included performances with Miami City Ballet and Ballet Austin, notably dancing in Russia and in Balanchine classics like “Serenade” and “Jewels.” She has an M.A. in Anthropology and Education from Columbia University, a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Michigan, and an A.A. in Art History from John Cabot University. Currently serving as I.D.E.A. Committee Liaison at PNBS, Turner creates a supportive classroom environment focusing on intuition, awareness, musicality, and technical efficiency.
Malia Vessar (she/her), born in Fullerton, CA, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2015. After training at Oregon Ballet Theatre and American Ballet Theatre, Vessar earned a degree in Business Administration from Washington State University. Her professional career highlights include performing in James Canfield’s “Go Ask Alice” and “Nutcracker.” Teaching since 2015, Vessar has taught and directed educational outreach programs throughout the Northwest region, brings her extensive experience to her role as a faculty member at PNBS.
Le Yin (he/him), born in Nanchang, China, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2009. After training at Beijing Dance Academy, he performed as Principal Dancer with Houston Ballet and Pacific Northwest Ballet. His distinguished career includes leading roles in “La Sylphide,” “La Bayadère,” and “Giselle.” His numerous accolades include the Princess Grace Award, Prix De Lausanne professional prize, gold medal in China’s National Ballet Competition, along other international competitions medals. Teaching since 2007, including as Guest Professor at Beijing Dance Academy, he brings his exemplary classical expertise to PNBS’s faculty.