DIRECTOR & FACULTY

Artistic Director and CEO

JESSICA VITALE

Jessica is the founder and Artistic Director of D’Air Dance Collective

At the young age of six, Jessica started training competitively in Tap, Ballet, Jazz, and Acro. As she continued her training, she was introduced to Hip-Hop, Contemporary, and Modern.

With hard work and determination, Jessica is now pursuing her childhood dream to share
her love of dance as a studio director, dance educator and adjudicator.

Jessica is a York University graduate, where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree, Specializing in Dance Performance and Choreography.

As a performer and choreographer, Jessica has competed in many worldwide competitions. She participated several times with Team Canada at the International Dance Organization in Germany, ranking fourth at worlds. She has been showcased through:

City TVs Breakfast television
CP24, local community channel for Rogers television
Canada’s Got Talent
New York City’s Capezio A.C.E Awards
Toronto's Choreographer’s Ball
Toronto's Fever After Dark
Blake McGrath’s Toronto Tour.
York Region Arts Council's Artist Highlight

Jessica is a certified instructor under Acrobatic Arts Module 1 and 2, Rhythm Works Intergrated Dance (RWID) and Youth Protection Advocates In Dance (Y.P.A.D), Alixa Flexibility Module 1-3, PBT Training and First aid and CPR (St. John Ambulance). Jessica is currently in the process of completing her ADAPT Training certificate with the Master's Mr. Brian Foley and Mrs. Faye Foley.

Studio Manager

TRACY NGUYEN

With teaching experience of over 10 years, Tracy leads with the goal of inspiring dancers of all ages to unlock their potential through the art of dance. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from York University and other teaching certifications such as ADAPT Jazz technique and Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT), Tracy is dedicated to sharing her deep love for dance and its technique. But beyond the steps, what truly drives her is showing her students just how strong and capable they are, both inside and outside the studio. Tracy also brings her passion for fitness to the studio, leading fitness classes for the adult program as a Certified Personal Trainer.

As an instructor, Tracy aims to create a warm, welcoming space where students feel safe to try new things, make mistakes, and grow into the best versions of themselves. She believes dance is more than movement – it’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Since joining D'Air Dance Collective in 2020, she has embraced her role as studio manager with a heart full of care for each student. Moving forward, it is her hope to provide more opportunities for her students, improve the studio experience for all of the D'Air families, and also work towards becoming a certified ballet teacher for the highly esteemed Royal Academy of Dance (RAD). Her mission is to keep growing the studio as a place where joy, confidence, and personal growth are at the core of every experience.

CERTIFIED R.A.D BALLET INSTRUCTORS

Mrs. Norma Sutherland

Norma Sutherland is a Registered Teacher and Mentor with the Royal Academy of Dance. She teaches all levels of ballet from Grade 1 to Solo Seal. Her students have received excellent results. Two of her students have been awarded the solo seal.

Successful competitive students of Mrs. Sutherlands’ have won scholarships, overall awards and titles throughout Canada and the United States. Some are performing professionally in the theatre, on cruise ships and professional ballet companies in Canada and Europe. Other students have forged their own careers as Ballet Teachers.

Mrs. Sutherland strives to bring technique, grace, poise, self esteem and discipline to all of her students. She takes pride in her career as a Ballet Teacher. She is looking forward to teaching at D’air Dance Collective for the seventh year.

Mrs. Lizzie Rotella

I was born in Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico. I started dancing ballet when I was 4 years old.
I presented all my RAD ballet exams from Grade 1 to Grade 8, and professional RAD ballet levels until Advanced 1. As a student, I participated with solos like Giselle, La Bayadère, La Fille Mal Gardèe, The Wizard of Oz, The Nutcracker, and others.

I started teaching ballet at 16 years old. I got an Accountant University degree, and an MBA, specializing in finance. I got a RAD Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies in London, UK, and every year I certify with the RAD my Continuous Professional Development.

I had the opportunity to complement my dance education in an internship in France, RAD summer camps, and intensive courses in Mexico with RAD mentors and examiners like Dulce Maria Silvera, Ana Jurado and Paola Haro.
I worked in Querétaro, Mexico with my mentor Consuelo Dueñas (RAD life member) and great RAD Teachers like Asereth Salazar.
I have more than 20 years experience teaching ballet.

I moved to Canada in 2020, and I have been working at D'Air Dance Collective with the guidance of our great RAD life member Mrs. Norma Sutherland.

I received the Overall Winner prize of the worldwide RAD member photo competition 2022.

Today I have the opportunity to share my experience and passion with the Pre-school curriculum at D’Air Dance Collective giving the opportunity to our Pre-Primary, Primary and Graded levels students to certify their RAD ballet studies and being recognized worldwide.

PRESCHOOL/PRIMARY INSTRUCTORS

Ms. Isabella Cristini

Isabella’s passion for dance grew immediately when she started dancing at the age of 3. She is trained in ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary and modern styles. Throughout her time as a competitive dancer she competed in regional and national competitions. Her journey has been enriched by the mentorship of some of the most esteemed educators in the Greater Toronto Area, including the founder, Jessica Vitale, under whom Isabella honed her skills and graduated. She has also performed in prestigious events such as the Canadian International Youth Festival, the El Camino World Cup 2014 Video, and the York Region Arts Council Promotional Video for Artrepreneurship, Italian Heritage Month and Furze Latina Community Culture Day. Her accomplishments also include completing Royal Academy of Dance examinations in ballet and jazz.

Starting as a student teacher at 15 and leading her own classes by 17, Isabella has developed a teaching philosophy deeply rooted in the principles instilled by Vitale. She creates a nurturing and inspiring environment for her students focusing on foundational skills and techniques that help young dancers embark on their dance journey with confidence. She fosters a culture of hard work and positivity, ensuring her students are supported and motivated to reach their fullest potential.

In addition to her extensive dance experience, Isabella has pursued academic excellence with a Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication Studies from the University of Guelph and a diploma in Media Communications from Humber College. She is currently furthering her education at the University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education.

Isabella is certified in Acrobatic Arts Module 1 and Principles of Healthy Child Development from HIGH FIVE Canada.

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Ms. Nicole Cianfarani

With a lifelong passion for dance, Nicole has dedicated over 20 years to the art of movement and performance. Starting at the age of 3, Nicole quickly fell in love with dance, igniting a journey that would shape her life. At just 7 years old, she began competing in tap and jazz, showcasing her talent and determination on both regional and national stages.

Throughout her competitive career, Nicole has graced the stages of prestigious competitions across Florida, California, and Atlantic City, earning accolades and experience that have enriched her understanding of the dance world. Her diverse exposure to various dance styles and environments has given her a well-rounded perspective that she brings into her teaching.

Nicole believes that dance is more than just an art form—it's a powerful way to build confidence, discipline, and creativity. This philosophy drives her commitment to each student, ensuring that every individual receives personalized attention and support to reach her full potential. Nicole’s teaching approach is grounded in a genuine care for her students’ growth, both as dancers and as individuals.

In the studio, Nicole fosters an environment of encouragement and enthusiasm, where students are inspired to push their boundaries and achieve their goals. She blends technical precision with a nurturing spirit, creating a dynamic learning experience that helps students thrive.

With a deep-rooted passion for dance and a dedication to her students' success, Nicole continues to inspire and cultivate talent, helping the next generation of dancers shine brightly on their own journeys.

RECREATIONAL INSTRUCTORS

Ms. Alexia DiRuscio

Alexia DiRuscio is a dedicated and passionate dance instructor with a deep love for nurturing young talent. Her journey in the world of dance began at the age of five, when she started competing in various dance styles. Over the course of a decade, Alexia honed her skills through competitive dance training in all styles of dance. Alexia's commitment to dance excellence led her to St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, where she enrolled in four years at the Regional Arts Dance Program. Here, she further expanded her knowledge and expertise, with a particular focus on ballet and modern dance. During her time at St. Elizabeth, Alexia had the unique opportunity to collaborate on choreography for dance shows, specifically taking on significant roles as a rehearsal director. This experience allowed her to refine her leadership skills and foster a collaborative environment among her peers. In her pursuit of continuous growth and learning, Alexia has participated in numerous dance workshops such as the Broadway Dance Center and the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City. These experiences have enriched her understanding of diverse dance techniques and styles, enhancing her versatility as a dancer and instructor. Currently, Alexia is attending York University, where she is entering her second year of studies towards a Bachelor's degree. Her academic pursuits complement her dance career, providing her with a well-rounded education and a broader perspective on the arts. Alexia DiRuscio's dedication to dance and her passion for mentoring young dancers make her committed to sharing her knowledge and love for dance with the next generation, helping them to achieve their fullest potential and fostering a lifelong appreciation for the art of dance.
Ms Alexia Also teaches the Primary age group!

Ms. Lauren Milocco

Lauren started dancing at the age of three and started competing at the age of ten at regional and international levels, where she has won many awards and scholarships. Lauren has also completed ballet examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, with her most recent exam being Intermediate.

Most recently, Lauren has been accepted to York University majoring in Dance, and has completed her first year allowing her to move into her second year through the choreography and performance path. Lauren has been able to learn and study under Tracy Norman and Keiko Thomson. Lauren has graduated from St.Elizabeth’s Regional Arts Program majoring in dance. Most recently, Lauren has been seen dancing in York University’s BLOOM Dance Show, has been in York Region Arts Council “Entrepreneur Program” promotional video under D’Air Dance Collective, and The Canadian International Dance Festival in Toronto.

Lauren started her teaching experience at the age of fourteen at D’air Dance Collective assisting classes under many genres and age groups. As well, she shadowed under founder Jessica Vitale which helped enrich her understanding in teaching and contributes to how she teaches today. Since then, Lauren continues to teach her own competitive and recreational classes and choreographs in multiple styles and age ranges. As a fully certified Module one Acrobatic Arts teacher and High Five Certified Lauren has gone on to achieve multiple choreography awards in her first year as a competitive teacher and continues to strive for more. She has helped aid her competitive team to various overall and standout awards.

Lauren continues to teach and share her love and understanding of dance. She is excited and eager to be apart of new experiences.

Ms. Julia Gradiski

Julia began dancing at a young age and trained as a competitive dancer for many years. She has trained in a variety of dance styles including ballet, pointe, jazz, hip hop, lyrical, and contemporary. During her years training as a dancer, Julia successfully completed RAD ballet examinations at both the graded and vocational levels. Julia has certifications in Progressing Ballet Technique, Dance PossAbilities, and High Five. She also holds a Masters of Education in Developmental Psychology and Education.

As a dancer, Julia has had the opportunity to perform in a number of professional settings including D’air Dance Collective’s professional company productions of “X’perience” and “Opia”, as a back up dancer for musical artist Neena Rose, a concept video for Mimp Magazine’s fourth issue, Fever After Dark, and the Let The Elephants Dance Gala for Mental Health.

Over her years as a dance teacher and choreographer, Julia has taught both competitive and recreational students and created award winning choreography. Julia believes that every student deserves the opportunity to experience the joy of dance and grow at their own pace with the guidance of a dedicated, nurturing, and passionate teacher. She strives to make her classes a welcoming, fun, and inspiring environment where her students can develop their confidence and skills. Julia is excited to welcome students into her classes and share in the joy of dance!

Ms. Victoria Dicarlo

Victoria DiCarlo, began dancing at the age of 4, taking her very first tap class and had loved every minute of it. From the sounds of the studio environment she quickly realized that dancing was all she wanted to do and she was determined to accomplish that dream. She continued with her training eventually branching into the styles of; jazz, ballet and acro. Eventually developing her training further when joining the competitive dance team at her studio and diving into all genres of dance including; lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre and hip hop. In this time Victoria had the opportunity to take class and train with some incredible choreographers including; Natasha Lewis, Twitch, Blake McGrath, Ian Eastwood, Shannon Mather and many many more. Victoria continued on her dance journey attending a arts high school where she had the opportunity to explore the world of cultural dancing such as Flamenco, Belly dancing and Bharatanatyam. At this point she really knew her dance journey had just begun and continued her training post secondary and graduated from York University, where she earned her Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Dance; specializing in performance and choreography. Victoria believes in being a lifelong learner and is always looking to refine her craft for herself and students and continued on to gain her Progressing Ballet Techniques (PBT) and ADAPT Jazz and tap Technique training. Victoria started her teaching career at the age of 17 and this year marks her 25th year as a member of the dance industry and her 12 year of teaching. Victoria is eager to continue learning and growing as a member of the community and continues to spread her love for dance to all her students.

Ms. Jenna Cianfarani

Jenna began dancing at the age of 3 and started competing at the age of 7. She was a student at D’Air and graduated in 2021. She has trained in various styles including Jazz, Tap, Acro, Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, and Hip Hop. For over a decade, Jenna has competed throughout Canada and has attended National competitions in the United States. During this time, she achieved numerous overall awards, special judge's awards, and won dance-off challenges. As a student, she also attended many dance workshops and completed her Intermediate RAD Ballet Exam. Jenna became a dance teacher assistant at the age of 12 and has been teaching at D’Air for the past 5 years. She is currently an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biomedical Science.