PNB School Faculty Spotlight: James Yoichi Moore
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 an apprentice 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.
Lena has spent her whole life finding joy and cultivating relationships through movement – whether it be dance, martial arts, yoga flow, or hiking. In 2025, she started her own business bringing dance, yoga, and movement classes to Seattle-area daycares, and it has been an exciting and fulfilling adventure. This follows a lifetime in ballet and a minor in dance at the University of Washington. She currently coaches adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, boxing, kickboxing, and yoga – eager to make these hobbies accessible to those with different backgrounds, goals, and fitness levels.
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.”
Leigh-Ann’s career has included positions as an artistic director, adjudicator, rehearsal director, master teacher, choreographer, coach, mentor, educator, and professional ballet dancer, with a 15-year performing career. Her extensive experience spans from working with young dancers to professionals. She continually strives to provide exceptional instruction, instill passion, and foster deep appreciation for ballet and dance. Leigh-Ann regularly teaches at studios in the greater Seattle area and master classes and guest classes in the USA and Canada.
Leigh-Ann was the director of the Ballet Department at Washington Academy of Performing Arts, a dance faculty member at Oakland University, MI, and an assistant coach at Ballet British Columbia, Canada. For 18 years, she was a faculty member at Cornish College of the Arts Preparatory Dance Program
She was invited to observe classes, rehearsals, and an array of performances at top European ballet companies and schools including the Stuttgart Ballet, Dresden SemperOper Ballet, and the John Cranko Ballet School. This experience enhanced her insight into the trends and versatility demands in modern, contemporary, and classical ballet techniques, choreography, and training, which she loves to share with dancers of all ages.
Leigh-Ann earned a diploma in Dance Training from George Brown College, Canada.
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.
Carol Elsner (she/her) M.P.T., B.A., born in Seattle, WA, joined PNBConditioning faculty in 2005. She holds a B.A. in Physical Education from the University of Washington and a Master of Physical Therapy from the University of Puget Sound. Trained at the University of Washington Dance Program, Graham School, and Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, she danced with Thomas Holt Modern Company in New York City. A certified Pilates instructor and former competitive gymnast, she teaches conditioning classes for community clients, PNB students, and Company Mat, focusing on healthy movement and functional mobility for dancers.
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.
Alberto Gaspar is a dance educator, choreographer, and former professional dancer with more than 20 years of experience in the performing arts. Originally from Mexico City, he holds a degree in International Business Engineering and brings a unique combination of artistic and leadership experience to his work. Alberto has served as a dancer, choreographer, educator, and community ambassador, leading a variety of educational, artistic, and outreach initiatives throughout his career.
As a choreographer, Alberto has created works for both professional dancers and students, drawing inspiration from storytelling, musicality, and the human experience. His creative approach blends a strong foundation in classical ballet with contemporary movement and as an educator, Alberto emphasizes strong technique, musicality, artistry, discipline, and personal growth. He is passionate about helping students build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong appreciation for dance in a supportive and inspiring environment.
Naomi Glass serves as Director of Access Programs, PNB School faculty, and a teaching artist for PNB’s STG Dance for PD® program. Naomi was formerly a Soloist with the Houston Ballet. She taught extensively in every sector prior to joining PNB School in 2015. Naomi received the Professor Joan White Award from the Faculty of Education at the Royal Academy of Dance for her research focused upon creativity, expressivity, and movement for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Naomi holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Houston and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Bath, UK.
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.
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.
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, MS, BFA, joined the Pacific Northwest Ballet School faculty and PNB Conditioning staff in 2010 and was appointed Assistant Principal in 2025. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts, a Master of Science in Kinesiology, and a PhD in Health and Human Performance. Originally from Tucson, Arizona, Deborah trained locally before attending the University of Arizona on a full dance scholarship. She furthered her training with Colorado Ballet and Ballet West, and went on to perform with Colorado Ballet and David Taylor Dance Theatre. In addition to her performance career, Deborah is an NCPT-certified Pilates instructor and a Balanced Body Educator. Prior to joining PNB School, she taught at the Academy of Colorado Ballet and Tucson Regional Ballet.
At PNB, she has developed conditioning videos and curriculum for the School’s Dance for All program and also 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.
Hyeonmo Ku is a faculty member at Pacific Northwest Ballet School. He received his training at the Korea National University of Arts, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ballet.
Prior to joining PNB, Ku enjoyed a distinguished 10-year professional career in South Korea, dancing with Universal Ballet and as a Demi-Soloist with the Korean National Ballet. His versatile repertoire includes principal and soloist roles in classical masterpieces such as The Nutcracker (Prince), Le Corsaire (Ali), and Swan Lake (Rothbart). He has also performed in acclaimed contemporary works by master choreographers Jiří Kylián and Edward Clug.
As an educator, Ku brings extensive stage experience and deep pedagogical expertise to his students. He has successfully coached pre-professional dancers for university admissions and company auditions —including leading specialized workshops for the Korean National Ballet Academy— and specializes in classical technique, alignment, and pas de deux.
Dañela Lewis (she/her), born in Los Angeles, California, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2025. She trained at Palos Verdes Ballet, City Ballet of San Diego, and San Francisco Ballet, and performed with San Francisco Ballet under Michael Smuin, as well as the Bella Lewitzki Company. Lewis has taught ballet for over forty years, coaching solo variations and choreographing ensemble works for Cornish College of the Arts and Issaquah Dance Theatre. She has choreographed and produced numerous productions for schools throughout her career, including Nutcracker, Coppélia, and Swan Lake. Lewis is dedicated to preserving classical technique while nurturing individual expression and discipline in her dancers.
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.
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.
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.
Jennifer Olszewski (she/her) B.A., has been teaching dance for almost 30 years. She grew up dancing in the PNW, while spending her summers studying ballet in New York at Joffrey Ballet School and in Vermont with Burklyn Ballet Theatre. Jennifer has a B.A. in Dance from the University of Washington and an A.A. with emphasis in Elementary Education. She is certified in Ann Green Gilbert’s Brain Compatible Education method of teaching, Lisa Howell’s Training Turn-out in Young Dancers and Progressing Ballet Technique Level 1. When Jennifer is not teaching dance she works as a paraeducator in a special education classroom. Jennifer believes in giving all populations the opportunity to experience the freedom and joy of dance.
Emily Schoen Branch (she/her) M.F.A., B.F.A., born in Brookfield, WI, joined Pacific Northwest Ballet School’s faculty in 2022. She holds a B.F.A. from the University of Arizona and an M.F.A. from the University of Washington, with additional training at contemporary festivals in the U.S. and abroad. Named one of Dance Magazine’s “Top 25 to Watch,” she has danced for Kyle Abraham/AIM, KEIGWIN + COMPANY, and the Metropolitan Opera Ballet in works by Doug Varone and Mark Morris. In addition to choreographing for companies nationwide, she has been the Martha Duffy Resident Artist at Baryshnikov Arts Center and Artist-in-Residence at the Tunisian National Theater. At PNB School, she teaches Open Program ballet, modern, and choreography classes.
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.
Originally from Los Angeles, California and now based in Seattle, Michaela is enjoying getting connected within the Pacific Northwest dance community! She has enjoyed substitute teaching for Pacific Northwest Ballet and becoming involved within the Community Education Department. She is excited to join the faculty this school year and continue sharing her passion for dance with students and families. Michaela holds an MA in Dance Education from the University of Northern Colorado and a BA in Theater Arts from Azusa Pacific University. She studied ballet during her undergraduate career and spent the last eight years teaching Creative Movement as the Performing Arts Teacher at Echo Horizon School (Culver City, CA) to students in PK-6th grade. Michaela has taught students of all ages in a wide range of settings including public schools, independent and charter schools, dance studios, enrichment programs, and summer camps. She also has extensive experience designing curriculum, mentoring teaching artists, and directing large-scale student performances and festivals. Michaela currently leads youth and recreational dance programming, including after-school classes, student mentorship opportunities, and summer camps. She also teaches creative ballet, ballet and tap, and caregiver-and-child classes, and especially enjoys introducing young children to dance while building meaningful connections with their families! Her teaching philosophy is rooted in culturally responsive pedagogy, arts integration, and conscious practices that center student voice, creativity, identity, and community connection.
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 Vassar (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, Vassar 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, Vassar has taught and directed educational outreach programs throughout the Northwest region, brings her extensive experience to her role as a faculty member at PNB School.
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.
