FACULTY
UPPER DIVISION
INNA BAYER
EDUCATION
Master's Degree, Pedagogy with Honors, Bolshoi Ballet Academy
Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude, Voronezh State Academy of Arts
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Founder, Artistic Director | Instructor
Inna Bayer is a master teacher of the Russian Vaganova Method of Classical Ballet and Character Dance with more than 13 years of experience as a professional dancer and 30 years of experience as a Ballet Mistress. Inna received a Master's Degree, with honors, in Pedagogy and Choreography from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy (Moscow State Academy of Choreography). Inna received her Bachelor of Arts, Cum Laude, from the Voronezh State Academy of Arts. During her artistic career, Inna toured in France, Spain, Germany, and Poland. She performed as a Classical Ballet soloist in Kiev (Ukraine). This impressive career both informs her artistic and technical expertise.
Inna began her teaching career at Bat-Dor dance school where she taught Classical and Character Dance in 1992. Later, she moved to the United States to teach Character Dance at San Francisco Ballet School. From 2000 until the summer of 2007 Inna was Ballet mistress at Westlake School for the Performing Arts (Daly City, CA). During her tenure there she prepared students for many performances including Nutcracker, competitions, and recitals. Her final year included students participating triumphantly in the Aberdeen International Youth Festival (Scotland).
In 2002, American Dance Awards named Inna the "Choreographer of the Year" and in 2016 Miss Bayer was awarded, "Outstanding Teacher" at the Youth American Grand Prix (YAGP) in San Francisco.
Inna founded Bayer Ballet Academy in 2005 out of a passion for teaching the art of ballet to future generations. The school has been named "Outstanding School" by YAGP for six consecutive years (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023). Her students have received top honors, including Grand Prix and first prize, at international and regional competitions such as Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), International Dance Challenge (IDC), World Ballet Competition (WBC) and American Dance Awards.
Bayer Ballet Academy students have been accepted into prestigious programs, including those of the Vaganova Ballet Academy, Paris Opera, American Ballet Theatre, Royal Ballet, Princess Grace Academy, and Bolshoi Ballet.
Inna's students from Israel and the United States have danced in European and American professional dance troupes such as: Mariinsky Ballet, Batsheva Dance Company (Israel), Ballet Israely (Israel), Kibbutz Contemporary Dance Company (Israel), Scottish Ballet (Scotland), Compania Nacional de Danza (Nacho Duato Artistic Director), State Ballet of Georgia, Alberta Ballet (Canada), Inbal Pinto Dance Company, Austin Ballet, Boston Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance, New York City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Smuin Ballet, Eifman Ballet Saint Petersburg, Russia, Atlanta Ballet, Hrvatsko narodno kazalište HNK Split Balet / Croatian National Theater, State Ballet in Stara Zagora, Bulgaria and more.
TIIT HELIMETS
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts, Saint Mary's College
Master's Degree, Academy of Art University
Tallinn Ballet School
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Director | Male Dancer Program
Instructor | Classical
As a Principal Dancer with San Francisco Ballet, Tiit Helimets has danced major roles in Tomasson’s Giselle (Albrecht), Nutcracker (Grand Pas de Deux Prince), The Sleeping Beauty (Prince Desiré), and Swan Lake (Prince Siegfried and Von Rothbart); Tomasson / Possokhov’s Don Quixote (Basilio); Cranko’s Onegin (Gremin); Neumeier’s The Little Mermaid (Prince, Poet); Scarlett’s Frankenstein (Alphonse Frankenstein); and Wheeldon’s Cinderella (Prince Gillaume). He created principal roles in Caniparoli’s Doublestop, Ibsen’s House, and Tears; King’s The Collective Agreement; Liang’s The Infinite Ocean; Possokhov’s Swimmer (Humbert); and Wheeldon’s Ghosts.
His repertory also includes Ashton’s Symphonic Variations; Balanchine’s Agon, Apollo, Allegro Brillante, Diamonds, Divertimento No. 15, The Four Temperaments, Scotch Symphony, Serenade, Stravinsky Violin Concerto, and Symphony in C; Bintley’s The Dance House; Bubeníček’s Gentle Memories; Forsythe’s in the middle, somewhat elevated; Liang’s Symphonic Dances; Lifar’s Suite en Blanc; MacMillan’s Winter Dreams; van Manen’s Variations for Two Couples; McGregor’s Borderlands, Chroma, and Eden/Eden; Millepied’s The Chairman Dances—Quartet for Two; Nureyev’s Raymonda—Act III; Possokhov’s Firebird and Magrittomania; Ratmansky’s Russian Seasons, Seven Sonatas, and Shostakovich Trilogy; Robbins’ Glass Pieces and In the Night; Tomasson’s 7 for Eight, The Fifth Season, On a Theme of Paganini, Prism, and Trio; and Wheeldon’s Continuum.
Before joining San Francisco Ballet, Tiit was a Principal Dancer with Birmingham Royal
Ballet and the Estonian National Ballet. Tiit made history in Estonia by being the youngest male dancer ever to perform the role of Siegfried in Swan Lake.
In 2011 Tiit formed a touring company Helimets and Co, in 2012 he created a
dance/music installation at the de Young Museum, and in 2013 he produced Estonian National Ballet’s San Francisco tour. He received an Isadora Duncan Dance Award for Outstanding Performance for his 2015 performances of Giselle and the Award for Outstanding Performance in Estonia for guest appearances in The Sleeping Beauty and Romeo and Juliet.
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MAIIA MUSAEVA
EDUCATION
Master's Degree, Kazan State University of Culture and Arts (2012)
Training, Ulan-Ude School of Choreography
Teachers - N.A. Abykova and L.Sakhyanova
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Instructor | Classical
Ms. Musaeva is a respected professor of classical ballet and an accomplished professional dancer. M. Musaeva’s students are distinguished by their academic approach, purity of performance, and high technical level, which allow them to win prizes at international festivals and competitions.
PERFORMANCE CAREER
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Buryat State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre
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Kirov State Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet (State Academic Mariinsky Theatre), where she performed leading roles of classical repertoire under the guidance of G. Komleva and S. Berezhny
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Musa Jalil Academic Theatre of Opera and Ballet.
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Ms. Musaeva toured internationally
REPERTOIRE
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“Swan Lake” - Odette and Odile, Pas de Trois, Big Swans;
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“Don Quixote” - Kitri, Street Dancer, an inserted variation from Act III, Girlfriends;
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“Sleeping Beauty”- The Lilac Fairy, The Diamond Fairy; Princess Florine, Fairies from the Prologue;
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“Giselle” - Myrtha, an inserted pas de deux, the two Willis;
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“Le Corsaire” - Medora’s pas de deux, Gulnara’s pas d’Esclave, Trio;
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“Spartacus” - Aegina;
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“Mowgli” - Bagheera;
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“Walpurgis Night” - Bacchante, Nymphs;
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“Pas de quatre” – Marie Taglioni, Carlotta Grisi;
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Pas de deux - “Diana and Actaeon”;
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Pas de deux - “La Esmeralda”, to name a few.
EDUCATOR
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2010-2018: Kazan School of Choreography, following the A.Y. Vaganova System
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2018-2023: L. Różytski State Professional Ballet School (Ogólnokształcącą Szkołą Baletową im. L. Różyckiego w Bytomiu nauczyciel tanca klasycznego), Poland
PUBLICATIONS & TECHNICAL PAPERS
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Institute of Additional Professional Education (Professional Development) (2014)
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Presented a paper on the topic "Current issues of improving the level of professional mastery of classical dance teachers and choreography concertmasters”
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Perm State Choreography College (2014)
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Presented the work "Methods and peculiarities of teaching special disciplines in primary and secondary school"
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Institute of Additional Professional Education (Professional Development) (2015)
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Presented a paper on "Methods of teaching classical dance"
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Moscow State Academy of Choreography (Bolshoi) (2016)
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Participant of educational and methodological events of "Moscow Ballet School in the regions of Russia"
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Polish Ministry of Education
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Created video materials on classical dance methodology "Teacher's Diary"
AWARDS & HONORS
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Individual Award of the II degree for outstanding contribution to the development of creative education in Poland
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"Festival of Terpsichore" International Competition: awarded the diploma of laureate of the second degree and Audience Award
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Student Successes: “ZŁOTE POINTY” (2019); Gdansk Ogólnopolski konkurs XXI (2019); “EUROPEAN BALLET GRAND PRIX” (2020); Gdansk Ogólnopolski konkurs XXII (2022)
OKSANA VASILEVA
EDUCATION
Master's Degree, Bolshoi Ballet Academy
Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, St. Petersburg, Certifications in the Elementary Level, Preparatory Process, Teacher Training, Preservation and Development of the Vaganova Method
Academy of Russian Ballet, St. Petersburg, Certification in the Junior & Middle Levels of the Vaganova Method
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Moscow Institute of Contemporary Art, Ballet Teacher & Choreographer
Ledyakh School of Classical Ballet,
Ballet Dancer
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Instructor | Classical
Oksana Vasileva graduated from the Ledyakh School of Classical Ballet in Moscow, where she earned her degree as a Ballet Dancer. From 1996-2008, she performed with the Moscow State Theater of Classical Choreography, performing a diverse classical ballet repertoire and contemporary works, including participation in the Stanton Welsh's production of "Green" (2000), alongside with the stars of Bolshoi Ballet Nina Ananiashvili, Sergey Filin, Dmitry Belogolovtsev.
In 2002 Oksana graduated with BFA from the Moscow Institute of Contemporary Art's as a
Ballet Teacher & Choreographer. In 2011 she trained at the Academy of Russian Ballet named after A. Y. Vaganova in St. Petersburg, earning certificate of "Training of the elementary level and the preparatory process of learning classical ballet", and in 2014 she attended teachers training program: "Preservation and development of the methodology of A. Y. Vaganova." Also, Oksana completed a two-year professional training at the Moscow State Academy of Choreography, Bolshoi Ballet Academy, earning her Master's Degree in 2016. She continued her advance ballet teacher training in 2017 at the Academy of Russian Ballet in St. Petersburg in the program: "Preservation and development of methods of teaching classical ballet at junior and middle levels."
Oksana Vasilieva joins Bayer Ballet with extensive teaching and coaching experience in all levels from Junior through Pre-Professional. Ms. Oksana has conducted four State Graduation Exams (2012, 2014, 2016, 2018.) Her students successfully participated at prestigious Ballet Competitions, including 2nd Place at the International Competition "Dance Moscow"and 1st Place in Pas De Deux category at YAGP Paris. Ms. Oksana was recognized by The Russian Ministry of Culture State Commissioner for excellence in ballet education.
ELENA NIKOLAEVA
EDUCATION
Ballet Dancer, Vaganova Ballet Academy
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Choreographic Art, Vaganova Ballet Academy
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Ballet Pedagogy, Vaganova Ballet Academy
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Instructor | Classical
Ms. Nikolaeva is a former Soloist, Russian Ballet, St. Petersburg Theater (1991-2002) and Prima Ballerina, Croatian National Theatre / HNK Split (2002-2024). Throughout her career, Ms. Nikolaeva has performed numerous solos from world-famous ballets, including but not limited to: Odette, Odilia, Kitri, Giselle, Nikije, Gamzati, Clare, Sugar Plum, Pimpinelle, Princess Aurora, Carmen.
As an educator, Ms. Nikolaeva has served on the faculty of Art Academy of the University of Split, I-6 Degree Course (2004-2024); Boris Papandopulo, Split as a Teacher, Classical Ballet (2009-2024); Croatian National Ballet, HNK Split Theatre as the Assistant Choreographer & Ballet Teacher and Associate Professor, Art, Dance Art, Arts Movement, Classical Ballet
(2014-2024); and Teacher of Classical Ballet for HNK Ballet Studio, Split (2016-2024).
Ms. Nikolaeva is a graduate of the Vaganova Ballet Academy, Ballet Dancer (1991) where she received multiple degrees, "Choreographic Art” (1991) and "Ballet Pedagogy" (2011). She is a disciple of direct students of Agrippina Vaganova.
During her time at the academy, she studied under many world-class ballet teachers, soloists, ballet dancers and protégés, some of which include: K.M.Sergeev (ballet soloist, and partner of G.S.Ulanova), L.B.Kovaleva (pedagog of D.Višneva), E.B.Kokorina (pedagog of A.J.Vaganova), L.N.Safronova, N.P.Sahnovskaja, V.S.Desnickij, V.Onoško, A.A.Stepin, G.N.Selucki, I.G.Gensler (the Prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Theatre), L.E.Goncarova (Prima ballerina of the Mariinsky Theatre), A.B.Bruskin, I.I.Gorovaja, A.I.Manoškin, Y.Gumba.
Born in Seoul, South Korea, Ms, Kim graduated with the highest distinctions from Yewon School and Seoul Arts High School. Ms. Kim received her Bachelor's and Master's Degrees from Ewha Womans University,
From 2003-2004, Ms. Kim received a Ballet Master Scholarship to continue her education in England. In 2018, she enhanced her credentials with additional certification at the Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg.
During 2008-2012, she performed diverse classical ballet repertoire and contemporary work in Ballet Blanc in Korea. In 2012, she received the female ballet dancer acting award at the Seoul Dance Festival hosted by the Korean Dance Association.
From 2010 to 2020, Ms. Kim taught at the Yewon School, recognized as an official partner school of the Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg.
Ms. Kim is certified in the Vaganova teaching method for grades 1 through 8.
Instructor | Classical
SORA KIM
EDUCATION
Master’s Degree,
Ewha Womans University
Bachelor’s Degree,
Ewha Womans University
Certifications (Grades 1-8),
Vaganova Ballet Academy, St. Petersburg
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Arsen Serobian was born in Armenia and trained at the Classical Dance School in Moscow, Russia as well as the Moscow Academy of Choreography (the Bolshoi). After graduation he moved to the United States, performing with companies including Indianapolis Ballet, State Street Ballet, San Francisco Dance Theatre, and Media City Ballet, and many more in roles for La Bayadere, Raymonda, Romeo and Juliet, Don Quixote, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Le Corsair.
Arsen was awarded the prestigious 2004 Lester Horton Dance Award for Outstanding Achievement in Performance for his stunning portrayal of the leading role of Komitas in the Djanbazian Dance Company's critically acclaimed "Kroong Bnaver."
He has also earned a degree from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Los Angeles as a professional actor and dancer, is a judge at the Youth Ballet Masters Competition, and works to prepare students for professional careers and competitions. Additionally, Arsen is the president and CEO of Dance Channel TV, Inc.
Instructor | Classical
ARSEN SEROBIAN
EDUCATION
Drama & Dance Pedagogy, Bolshoi Ballet Academy
Classical Dance School, Moscow
AA, Drama & Dramatics/Theatre Arts, American Academy of Dramatic Arts, Los Angeles
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Olga Voloboueva graduated from the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in 1989, class of Professor N. Kurgapkina, at which time she embarked on her professional career with the Kirov Ballet (Mariinsky Ballet). Her expansive performing career highlights include solo and principal roles and, full repertoire with the following ballet companies: Kirov Ballet / Mariinsky /, St. Petersburg; Colorado Ballet, USA; Royal Ballet of Flanders, Belgium; and Ballet Victor Ullate. Ms. Voloboueva performed as a guest artist with the following companies: San Francisco Opera Ballet, USA; Setsuko Itchikawa Ballet, Japan; and Arlington Ballet, USA. She also had the opportunity to tour England, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Germany, USA, Japan, Korea, Scotland, Belgium, and France, to name a few.
Lead Soloist and Principal Roles
Mariinsky Theatre (Kirov Ballet) - soloist
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La Bayadere - Nikiya, Gamzatti
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Nutcracker - Masha
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Giselle - Giselle
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Swan Lake - Odetta, Odile
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La Sylphide – Sylphide
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Chopeniana (Les Sylphides) - Waltz, Mazurka
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Stone Flower - Hostess of the Copper Mountain
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Esmeralda – Pas de deux
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Don Quixote – Pas de deux
Colorado Ballet:
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Romeo and Juliet - Juliet
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Sleeping Beauty - Princes Aurora
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Esmeralda - Diana and Acteon - Pas de deux
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Serenada - Dark Angel / Balanchine
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Rubies - Soloist / Balancine
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Western Symphony – Pas de deux
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Stars and Stripes – Second Movement / Balanchine
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Configurations / Choo San Goh
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A Midsummer Night's Dream / Christopher Wheeldon
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River / Alvin Ailey
Royal Ballet of Flanders:
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Nutcracker – Clara
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Sleeping Beauty
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Giselle – Giselle, Mirta
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La Bayadere - Nikiya, Gamzatti
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Impressing The Czar / W.Forsythe
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Ancient Air and Dances / R.Tanner
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In The Middle / W.Forsythe
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Swan Lake / J.Fabre
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Encounters / C.Pastor
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In The Night / J.Robbins
During her professional career Ms. Voloboueva has worked with : N. Kurgapkina, T. Terehova, N. Bolshakova, O. Vinogradov, M. Fredman, Poul Mejia, Robert Denvers, Christopher Wheeldon, Victoria Morgan, Victoria Simon,W.Forsythe, J.Fabre, E. Evteeva, M. Daukaev, I. Kolpakova, O. Vinogradov, Menia Martinez, Daniel Job, Christine Redpath. Partners included: Andris Liepa, Farukh. Ruzimatov, Makhar. Vaziev, Igor Zelensky, Alexsander Vetrov Wim Vanlessen, Melis Pakri, Priit Kripson, Stefan jon Wise and many others.
Olga danced in the film, "The Little Humpback Horse." She also participated in significant competitions and festivals, including the First International Dance Festival in Miami, USA; Dance Aspen Festival, Colorado, USA; Golden Ballet Stars Gala in Tokyo, Japan; Stars of the White Nights, Russia; Classical Ballet Festival named after Rudolf Nureyev, Russia; First Vaganova Ballet competition – diploma of the 1st degree, Russia; and In memory of Rudolf Nureyev Ballet competition – diploma, Hungary.
Ms. Voloboueva has served as an international guest teacher at Vaganova Ballet Academy, Ballet West - Scotland, Universal Ballet - South Korea, Yantra Ballet - Belgium, Ballet Ruso Barcelona.
Instructor (guest) | Classical
OLGA VOLOBOUEVA
EDUCATION
Teaching Diploma, Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, St. Petersburg
Teachers: N. Kurgapkina, N. Serebryannikov, B. Ratchinskay, M. Daukaev, I. Gensler, N. Yananis
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Stanislav Feco received his Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts in Choreography from Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in St.Petersburg. During his rich career he has received numerous honors and awards: Philip Morris Flower Ballet Award, Best Dancer in Czech Republic, US Pushkin Legacy Ballet Award, Interpretation of Role Onegin. Mr. Feco is the Official Ballet Master, Anton Dolin's Foundation and Director and Co-Founder of Petipa Heritage Foundation.
Principal Dancer credits include: Prague National Theatre, St.Petersburg Russian Ballet, National Theatre in Brno. Guest Principal Dancer: Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires, Azerbaijan National Ballet, State Ballet in Kazan, and National Opera Donetsk.
With Vasily Medvedev, Mr. Feco has served as a dancer, assistant and choreographer with the following companies: Bolshoi Ballet, Staatsballett Berlin, Lithuanian National Ballet, Compañía Nacional de Danza in Mexico, Czech National Ballet, Croatian National Ballet, Romanian National Opera, Slovak National Ballet, National Ballet of Panama, Macedonian National Ballet,
National Ballet of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Great Theatre Lodz, Ekaterinburg Opera and Ballet Theatre, Vanemuine Ballet Estonia , and Perm Ballet.
COLLABORATIONS with famous ballerinas from major ballet companies include: G.Mezentseva ,Y.Makhalina,L.Kunakova,T.Terekhova ,S.Gumerova (Mariinsky Ballet), D.Klimentova, E.Glurdzhidze (English National Ballet), L.Lezhnina (Het National Ballet Amsterdam), A.Volochkova (Bolshoi Ballet), N.Sologub (Semperoper Dresden), and J.Kurova ,H.Vlacilova (Prague National Theatre).
Mr. Feco has participated at prestigious international ballet galas such as Gala des Etoiles in Montreal,Dance Open in St.Petersburg,Gala Due Mondi in Spoleto,World Ballet Stars in Seoul .World Ballet Festival in Kiev.
Instructor (remote) | Classical
STANISLAV FEČO
EDUCATION
Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts, Choreography
Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, St. Petersburg
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FACULTY
CONTEMPORARY
Lara Jean Mummert is a multi-award-winning actor, dancer, and choreographer. At the very young age of 12 she moved to NYC to train with American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and received full scholarship to the prestigious Purchase Conservatory, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.
Choreograp;hy credits include: Metropolitan Opera, Bruce Springsteen, Paris Hilton, Darren Criss, oxygen network, Sesame Street, The Netflix Bridgerton Experience, All Wheel Sports, Kings Island Cedar Fair, California’s Great America
Instructor / Contemporary
LARA JEAN MUMMERT
SAG-AFTRA
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Dance & Acting
Purchase College SUNY
American Ballet Theatre
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre
The A.C.T. Conservatory
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Adji Cissoko was born and grew up in Munich, Germany where she trained at the Ballet Academy Munich and graduated with a diploma in dance. Cissoko attended the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at American Ballet Theatre in New York City on full scholarship.
Cissoko joined the National Ballet of Canada in 2010. In 2012 she was awarded the Patron Award of Merit by the Patrons’ Council Committee of The National Ballet of Canada.
In 2014, Cissoko joined LINES Ballet, during which time she’s originated many central roles and guested for galas worldwide. Cissoko has given multiple masterclasses and taught classes around the world as part of the company’s outreach program.
In 2020 she became certified in health/life coaching as well as in ABT’s National Training Curriculum.
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WATCH VIDEO of Adji teaching at Bayer Ballet. Students learn contemporary phrases and improvisation, and explore personal interpretation of the movement and musicality. These skills are essential, as many professional companies require improvisation during auditions.
Instructor (guest) / Contemporary
ADJI CISSOKO
LINES Ballet
EDUCATION
Diploma, Dance, Ballet Academy Munich
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School at American Ballet Theatre, New York City
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Brady Farrar discovered his love of dance at the age of five. He trained at Stars Dance Studio and The Art of Classical Ballet.
He is a five-time YAGP Finals medalist and was the 2021 Grand Prix Winner of the North American Finals. Farrar is also a three-time Best Dancer Winner at The Dance Awards, the 2021 winner of the Carla Fracci Prize at Novara Dance Experience, Novara, Italy, and a double gold medal winner at the South African International Ballet Competition in 2020.
In November of 2021, Farrar performed in Twyla Tharp’s show Twyla Now at the New York City Center. He has also performed in international galas at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center, as well as around the world in Germany, Italy, Israel, and Mexico.
Brady attended the ABT Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School in the 2022 spring semester under Cynthia Harvey’s direction and joined ABT Studio Company in September 2022 under the artistic direction of Sascha Radetsky. In ABT Studio Company, Farrar has created roles in ballets by Gemma Bond, Hope Boykin, and Aleisha Walker and has performed in ballets by Rena Butler and Emily Kikta. Farrar’s repertoire with ABT Studio Company also includes Paquita pas de deux, a Raymonda suite, Flames of Paris pas de deux, Daniel Ulbricht’s Tatum Pole Boogie, and George Balanchine’s Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux. He has performed in Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker with the Main Company of American Ballet Theatre.
Farrar has choreographed dances that have appeared in the YAGP in Tampa, Florida and at the Nervi International Dance Festival in Italy.
Choreographer Instructor (guest)
/ Contemporary
BRADY FARRAR
ABT Studio Company
EDUCATION
Stars Dance Studio
The Art of Classical Ballet
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Erin (Armstrong) Micek has been instructing students of all ages in classical ballet for 12 years. She received her ballet training from Houston Ballet Academy under directors Clara Cravey and Steve Brule, Ballet Idaho Academy of Dance, and from renowned coaches such as Maria T. Vegh, former co-director of Harkness House in New York City. Erin has performed professionally with the Eugene Ballet Company/Ballet Idaho, Drop Dance Collective, the Margaret Wingrove Dance Company and multiple independent choreographers, performing various classical, contemporary and modern dance roles. Some of her former students have been accepted as students at prestigious schools throughout the country or moved on to professional careers of their own in ballet and modern companies. As she teaches and choreographs, Erin continues to work at instilling both the discipline and the love of the art of ballet into the lives of her students.
Instructor / Contemporary
ERIN (ARMSTRONG) MICEK
EDUCATION
Master's Degree, Language Interpretation & Translation, University of Texas
Bachelor's Degree, Political Economy, Spanish, College of Idaho
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FACULTY
PRE-BALLET DIVISION
Christina Kongaika's love for dance began at the age of three years old. She studied a wide array of dance styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, modern, contemporary, character, hip-hop, hula and Tahitia. At the age 9, she began studying the Vaganova method under Ms. Inna Bayer. In 2008, she graduated from Westlake School for the Performing Arts and Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts (SOTA).
From an early age, Christina knew she wanted to be a dance teacher and began training for this career at age 12. In 2006, Christina served as a ballet, tap and hula teacher at Westlake School for the Performing Arts. In 2008, Christina joined Bayer Ballet as an instructor of classical ballet, where she is currently serving as Director of the Pre-Ballet Division. Christina is responsible for overseeing the department's curriculum, directing annual productions of Springtime Fairy Tale, and preparing students for community outreach performances and competitions. Christina's students have received top awards, including the Gold Award (Classical) from California Dance Classics & 3rd Place (Classical & Contemporary) at Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP).
Christina is certified to teach all levels of the Vaganova Method by the official Bolshoi Ballet Academy Teacher Certification Program.
Director & Instructor / Pre-Ballet
CHRISTINA KONGAIKA
EDUCATION
Teaching Certificate, All Levels
Teacher Certification Program,
Bolshoi Ballet Academy
Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts (SOTA)
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Dawn Sue started her early ballet training with Irine Fokine in Ridgewood, NJ. She then went on to train at the Joffrey Ballet School in the trainee program. Following her studies in Government and Sociology at Cornell University, she trained at the Princeton Ballet School with Douglas Martin, Mary Barton and Kyra Nichols.
She was then invited to dance with the American Repertory Ballet in Princeton, NJ. Among her favorite ballets she performed with ARB, were Romeo and Juliet, Serenade, Paquita and Midsummer Night's Dream. Dawn started her teaching career at Princeton Dance and Theater under the ownership of Susan Jaffe (upon her retirement from ABT) and Risa Kaplowitz (of Houston, Dayton and Pennsylvania Ballet).
She has experience teaching all ages from 5 through adult and is passionate about instilling a love for the art form while developing the proper muscular development in ballet technique.
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
DAWN SUE
EDUCATION
Teaching Certificate, Pre-Ballet Certification & First Year Level 1 Certification, Bolshoi Ballet Academy
Irine Fokine
Joffrey Ballet School, Trainee Program
Princeton Ballet School
Cornell University, Government & Sociology
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Sasha Smirnova is an accomplished ballet teacher with an extensive background in both performance and education. With 15 years of teaching experience and 11 years as a performer in a prestigious dance company in Minsk, Belarus, Sasha brings a wealth of expertise and artistry. Her journey in the world of dance began when she was 6 years old in Minsk, Belarus, where she was born and raised. At the age of 13 she became a part of a dance group that performed in Belarus, Ukraine and Russia. In 2012, Aliaksandra graduated from the Belarusian State Pedagogical University with a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education. Seeking to deepen her knowledge and broaden her horizons, Sasha furthered her education in Moscow, where she obtained a Master's degree from a renowned Sport University. In 2016, she embarked on an exciting new chapter, relocating to San Jose, California, where she continued her teaching career in the Bay Area.
Sasha's diverse educational background and international experience have shaped her approach to teaching pre ballet. She seamlessly combines her deep understanding of technique, pedagogy, and artistic expression to provide her students with well-rounded and comprehensive training. Her classes are known for their precision, attention to detail, and nurturing environment that fosters growth and creativity. Sasha's dedication to her students' development and her passion for the art of ballet make her an exceptional mentor, guiding aspiring dancers on a path of excellence and self-discovery.
Sasha's wealth of teaching experience, combined with her international perspective, brings a unique and dynamic energy to our dance community. Through her expertise, guidance, and unwavering commitment, Sasha empowers her students to realize their full potential as dancers.
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
SASHA SMIRNOVA
EDUCATION
Master’s Degree, Physical Education,
Russian State University of Physical Education, Sport, Youth and Tourism (SCOLIPE)
Bachelor’s Degree, Physical Education,
Belarusian State Pedagogical University named after Maxim Tank
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Jocelyn Wang has been training at Bayer Ballet Academy from the age of 6, and has progressed through pre-ballet, middle levels, apprentice, and pre-professional levels.
Over the years, she has performed in countless productions, having danced in performances such as the Springtime Fairytale, Snow Queen, La Esmerelda, The Rose and the Butterfly, and Coppelia Suite. She has also participated in YAGP and CDC competition group dances, which have consistently placed top 3.
Jocelyn is also accomplished in piano, with multiple USOMC awards, CM level distinctions, and years of teaching experience.
Jocelyn has been a teacher's aide for Ms. Christina's pre-ballet classes since she was in pre-ballet herself, and has worked with kids across all ages and levels. She is very excited to be joining the Bayer Ballet faculty this year, and is looking forward to teaching with passion and joy!!
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
JOCELYN WANG
EDUCATION
Bayer Ballet Academy
_________
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
ABIGAIL KIM
EDUCATION
Castilleja School
Bayer Ballet Academy
_________
Abigail Kim began training at Bayer Ballet 12 years ago at the age of five. While still in pre-ballet at the age of seven, she began working with Artistic Director Inna Bayer, and has gone through pre-ballet, middle, and high school levels as a her direct student.
Throughout her time at BBA, Abigail has danced in many of Bayer Ballet’s productions; most recently, she danced as Swanhilda in Coppelia Suite, and Gerda in The Snow Queen. Other lead roles include Talisman Pas de Deux, Fleur de Lys Friends in La Esmeralda, and Iris and Chrysanthemum in The Romance of the Rose and the Butterfly. She has been successful in many competitions including 1st place at Youth America Grand Prix and California Dance Classics.
She has also had experience as a teacher’s aid for several years, assisting in pre-ballet classes of all levels. Abigail has managed to balance ballet with academics at the number two ranked all-girls high school nationwide, Castilleja School. She has been selected for numerous awards and programs such as internships at Stanford University, nomination for the Pritzker Engineering Early Distinction award from UChicago, and the Research Mentorship Program at UC Santa Barbara.
Arielle Salhov is preparing for a professional dance career under the guidance of Inna Bayer, as a student of Bayer Ballet's Pre-Professional Day Program. She is completing her academic studies at Oasis High School.
Recently, Arielle performed in the prestigious Petipa Awards Gala with International Ballet Stars. She has danced lead roles, including Swanilda's Fiends in Vasily Medvedev's Coppelia Suite and Lead Deer in Bayer Ballet's Snow Queen. In 2023, Arielle was awarded Top 12 Classical at Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP).
Arielle is a brand ambassador for Metronome Dancewear and a sodancer for Só Dança USA.
Arielle loves teaching and is so happy to be on faculty this year.
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
ARIELLE SALHOV
EDUCATION
Bayer Ballet Academy
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Ananya received her formal Vaganova training from Bayer Ballet Academy since age 6. She performed lead roles of Magician and many other roles such as Watergirl, Lead Bunny, Fairy, and Bluebell in the ballet Springtime Fair Tale, and Snow Queen. She has participated in competitions, including YAGP San Francisco and California Dance Classics San Francisco, where she received awards in the classical and Contemporary categories.
Ananya has extensive training in a variety of disciplines like classical Indian dance Kuchipudi. Being part of the high school dance team allowed her to study new styles such as Jazz, Lyrical, hip-hop, and Contemporary.
Ananya is currently president of Stress-Free Teens, a non-profit organization advocating Teen Mental health. Ananya is very passionate about dance and teaching. In her own words, “ Dance has taught me everything in my life. Dance taught me not to quit, perseverance counts, Discipline matters, family support is essential, health is wealth, accept the fact that nothing and nobody is perfect.”
Before teaching her classes, Ananya served as an Assistant Teacher to Ms.Christina, Director of Bayer Ballet's Pre-Ballet Division. In Ananya’s classes, she uses positivity to create a fun, inclusive environment.
Instructor / Pre-Ballet
ANANYA TRIMULA
EDUCATION
Bayer Ballet Academy
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MUSIC
Vadim Rivkin was born in Leningrad (presently Saint Petersburg), Russia. He graduated from the Leningrad N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory with a degree in composition, and has been a member of the USSR Composer's Union since 1976.
Vadim has been teaching music for grades 1-5 in the Stratford School since his move to the United States in 2003.
Vadim Rivkin
Pianist
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts, Composition
Leningrad N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov Conservatory
health & wellness
physical therapy
injury prevention
Dr. Lauren Mindel, DPT Born and raised in California, Lauren received her bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from St. Mary’s College of California prior to earning her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from UC San Francisco and San Francisco State University. She is especially fond of utilizing the Sahmann approach and Functional Manual Therapy techniques she has learned through continuing education courses with the Institute of Physical Art.
Prior to becoming a physical therapist, Lauren danced professionally and taught dance to all ages. She has been recognized for her artistry and choreography, and she continues to teach and create.
Lauren Mindel
Doctor of Physical Therapy
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Arts, Performing Arts, St. Mary's College
Doctorate, Physical Therapy, UC San Francisco
San Francisco State University
Continuing Education, Institute of Physical Art
master
classes
We are dedicated to providing year-round opportunities for emerging artists in our community to engage, educate and collaborate with world-renowned master artists.
PAST MASTER CLASSES
Yuri FATEEV, Dir. Mariinsky
Selyutsky Gennady NAUMOVICH, Ballet Master, Choreographer, Mariinsky
Margarita YUSIM, Bolshoi Ballet
Veronika PART, ABT
Alexei MOSKALENKO, Assist. Dir. YAGP
Misha TCHOUPAKOV, Assoc. Professor, UNCSA, YAGP Judge, Rehearsal Director, Judge
Karine PLANTADIT, Tony Award-nominee, former soloist, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, YAGP Judge
Adji CISSOKO, Lines Ballet
...and many more
ADMINISTRATION
Christine Wood
Executive Director
Elena Zabelina
Administrative Assistant, Photographer
