Principle of Ballet & Artistic DirectorElmira Aksakova
Elmira Aksakova stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of ballet, embodying a profound dedication to her craft as both a highly technical teacher and a professional choreographer. Hailing from the cultural epicenter of Moscow, Russia, Elmira's journey in ballet commenced at the age of 10 when she embarked upon her training at the prestigious Rudolf Nureyev Choreographic School. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of her remarkable career, laying the foundation for the artistry and expertise that would define her path.
Over the years, Elmira has graced the stages of renowned theaters around the world, leaving an indelible mark with her performances. From the illustrious Bolshoi Theatre, where she mesmerized audiences as part of Yuri Grigorovich's esteemed troupe, to captivating international tours with esteemed companies like the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Kremlin Russian Ballet, Elmira's artistry knows no bounds. Her magnetic presence and unparalleled skill have captivated audiences in France, London, Brazil, China, Portugal, and the USA, earning her acclaim and admiration on a global scale.
In 2011, Elmira's unwavering dedication to the arts was further recognized as she earned a Bachelor's degree in Art Education, a testament to her commitment to ballet and her relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout her journey as a dancer and educator, Elmira's passion for ballet has remained steadfast, shaping her into the accomplished artist and teacher she is today.
As a teacher, Elmira's approach is characterized by passion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Drawing upon her vast experience and expertise, she imparts invaluable knowledge to her students, instilling in them a deep appreciation for the art form while nurturing their technical proficiency and artistic expression. Elmira's unwavering dedication to her students' growth and development ensures that each individual she teaches is empowered to reach their full potential, both as dancers and as artists.
With her unwavering passion for ballet and her extraordinary talent as both a performer and a teacher, Elmira Aksakova continues to inspire and uplift the world of dance, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
Over the years, Elmira has graced the stages of renowned theaters around the world, leaving an indelible mark with her performances. From the illustrious Bolshoi Theatre, where she mesmerized audiences as part of Yuri Grigorovich's esteemed troupe, to captivating international tours with esteemed companies like the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Kremlin Russian Ballet, Elmira's artistry knows no bounds. Her magnetic presence and unparalleled skill have captivated audiences in France, London, Brazil, China, Portugal, and the USA, earning her acclaim and admiration on a global scale.
In 2011, Elmira's unwavering dedication to the arts was further recognized as she earned a Bachelor's degree in Art Education, a testament to her commitment to ballet and her relentless pursuit of excellence. Throughout her journey as a dancer and educator, Elmira's passion for ballet has remained steadfast, shaping her into the accomplished artist and teacher she is today.
As a teacher, Elmira's approach is characterized by passion, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. Drawing upon her vast experience and expertise, she imparts invaluable knowledge to her students, instilling in them a deep appreciation for the art form while nurturing their technical proficiency and artistic expression. Elmira's unwavering dedication to her students' growth and development ensures that each individual she teaches is empowered to reach their full potential, both as dancers and as artists.
With her unwavering passion for ballet and her extraordinary talent as both a performer and a teacher, Elmira Aksakova continues to inspire and uplift the world of dance, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
Principle of Ballet, Men's Technique & ContemporaryArno Tsembenhoi
A graduate of The Kyiv National Ballet Academy, Arno brings extensive knowledge in the Vaganova Method for men’s and woman's dance technique as well as an exquisite background in contemporary performance and choreography.
Immediately after graduating from college, Arno began working at the world-famous Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine where he worked under the direction of Denisenko Vladimir Andreevich. From 2014 to 2016, he collaborated with Sofit Production, where he was able to unleash his creative potential in modern choreography in productions by Dwight Roden and Edwar Clug. From 2016 to 2018, at the invitation of Denis Matvienko, Arno worked and toured with the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater.
Over the course of his professional career, Arno has worked with many eminent and talented choreographers, dancers and vocalists such as: Nacho Duato, Denis Matvienko, Viktor Ishuk, Ivan Vasiliev, Anatoliy Sachivko, Jamala, Noga Erez, Paul Kalkbrenner, Tina Karol and many others. He has toured with ballet companies to Australia, New Zealand, China, Korea, Kazakhstan, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Spain, Austria and Germany.
Immediately after graduating from college, Arno began working at the world-famous Taras Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre of Ukraine where he worked under the direction of Denisenko Vladimir Andreevich. From 2014 to 2016, he collaborated with Sofit Production, where he was able to unleash his creative potential in modern choreography in productions by Dwight Roden and Edwar Clug. From 2016 to 2018, at the invitation of Denis Matvienko, Arno worked and toured with the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater.
Over the course of his professional career, Arno has worked with many eminent and talented choreographers, dancers and vocalists such as: Nacho Duato, Denis Matvienko, Viktor Ishuk, Ivan Vasiliev, Anatoliy Sachivko, Jamala, Noga Erez, Paul Kalkbrenner, Tina Karol and many others. He has toured with ballet companies to Australia, New Zealand, China, Korea, Kazakhstan, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Spain, Austria and Germany.
Principle of Ballet & Classical DanceAnastasya Rodina
A graduate of The Kyiv National Ballet Academy, with an bachelor’s degree in choreography and teaching from the Kherson State University. Nastya brings an expertise in classical technique, conditioning and performance.
After graduating from the Kherson State University, Anastasya worked at the Kiev Municipal Academic Opera and Ballet Theater for Children and Youth. From 2014 to 2016, she collaborated with Sofit Production. This collaboration gave her the opportunity to work with the American choreographer Dwight Roden during the creation of the ballet "The Great Gatsby". Anastasya was also cast as Juliet in Edward Clug's modern choreography "Radio & Juliet".
From 2016 - 2018 at the invitation of Denis Matvienko, she worked and toured with the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater and other professional ballet companies across Australia, New Zealand, China, Iraq, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, Austria, Lithuania, France, the USA and many others.
After graduating from the Kherson State University, Anastasya worked at the Kiev Municipal Academic Opera and Ballet Theater for Children and Youth. From 2014 to 2016, she collaborated with Sofit Production. This collaboration gave her the opportunity to work with the American choreographer Dwight Roden during the creation of the ballet "The Great Gatsby". Anastasya was also cast as Juliet in Edward Clug's modern choreography "Radio & Juliet".
From 2016 - 2018 at the invitation of Denis Matvienko, she worked and toured with the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theater and other professional ballet companies across Australia, New Zealand, China, Iraq, the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Hungary, Switzerland, Austria, Lithuania, France, the USA and many others.
Principle of Ballet & DanceLilit Kurinyan
Mrs. Lilit Kurinyan is a professional Vaganova trained ballet artist and instructor. Beginning her dancing carrier at age 5, Lilit elevated her training to become a world-renowned professional dancer. Performing at top ballet companies throughout Armedia, Russia and Europe including dancing as a soloist in most famous ballets, such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, the Nutcracker, and Cinderella.
A passionate performer and dedicated teacher, she was fortunate to be educated and mentored by some of the best ballet instructors from around the world, including many amazing teachers who were graduates of world-famous schools such as Vaganova and Bolshoi.
“I use Vaganova method of teaching. I pay close attention to the proper placement of the hips, feet, and head, stretched out knees, legs, and long lines. I also find musically and proper dynamics crucial for executing each step correctly. I adjust my classes accordingly to the student's needs and goals. I’m capable of making my classes very academic and physically challenging as well as easy and fun.”
A passionate performer and dedicated teacher, she was fortunate to be educated and mentored by some of the best ballet instructors from around the world, including many amazing teachers who were graduates of world-famous schools such as Vaganova and Bolshoi.
“I use Vaganova method of teaching. I pay close attention to the proper placement of the hips, feet, and head, stretched out knees, legs, and long lines. I also find musically and proper dynamics crucial for executing each step correctly. I adjust my classes accordingly to the student's needs and goals. I’m capable of making my classes very academic and physically challenging as well as easy and fun.”
Principle of Ballet & Classical DanceAskar Kettebekov
Askar Kettebekov's journey in dance showcases his exceptional talent and dedication. Born in Kazakhstan, he trained at the National Ballet School of Kazakhstan and graduated with a degree in ballet pedagogy and choreography from the National University of Kazakhstan. Askar began his career with the National Ballet Theatre of Kazakhstan, performing as a soloist for eight years. He later joined the Moscow Festival Ballet, expanding his repertoire.
Seeking new opportunities, Askar moved to the U.S., where he performed as a principal guest dancer with companies like Ballet Theatre of Boston and Tulsa Ballet, eventually becoming a principal dancer with the San Diego Ballet. He captivated audiences with his powerful performances for three years.
In addition to performing, Askar has contributed to dance as an artistic director at the Media Dance Center in Los Angeles, guiding and inspiring aspiring dancers. His career has taken him across Asia, Europe, and North America, performing iconic roles in ballets such as "The Nutcracker," "Le Corsaire," "Giselle," and "Swan Lake," where he was known for his portrayal of Rothbart.
Askar's dedication and artistry have left a lasting impact on the world of ballet, continuing to inspire both audiences and dancers.
Principle of Ballet & Contemporary ArtsMarina Levchenko
Marina Levchenko brings the elegance and precision of classical ballet to her students with her extensive expertise and unwavering dedication. Hailing from the cultural hub of Saint Petersburg, Russia, Marina's journey in the world of dance began with her education at the prestigious St. Petersburg State University, where she honed her skills under the tutelage of some of the most revered choreographers in the industry.
With a deeply ingrained love for ballet and a commitment to excellence, Marina has developed her own established methodology that combines traditional techniques with innovative approaches. Her teaching style is highly technical, emphasizing the importance of form, grace, and discipline, while also fostering creativity and self-expression in her students.
As a professional choreographer, Marina's work reflects her passion for the art form, blending classical beauty with contemporary flair. Her choreographic creations have graced stages around the world, captivating audiences with their artistry and precision.
Above all, Marina is known for her unwavering passion and dedication to her craft. She believes in nurturing each student's unique talents and helping them reach their full potential, both as dancers and individuals. Through her guidance and mentorship, Marina inspires her students to strive for excellence and pursue their dreams with determination and grace.
With a deeply ingrained love for ballet and a commitment to excellence, Marina has developed her own established methodology that combines traditional techniques with innovative approaches. Her teaching style is highly technical, emphasizing the importance of form, grace, and discipline, while also fostering creativity and self-expression in her students.
As a professional choreographer, Marina's work reflects her passion for the art form, blending classical beauty with contemporary flair. Her choreographic creations have graced stages around the world, captivating audiences with their artistry and precision.
Above all, Marina is known for her unwavering passion and dedication to her craft. She believes in nurturing each student's unique talents and helping them reach their full potential, both as dancers and individuals. Through her guidance and mentorship, Marina inspires her students to strive for excellence and pursue their dreams with determination and grace.
Principle of Ballet & Classical DanceVirjina Maslov
Virjina Maslov began her dance journey at the age of 5, exploring various modern dance groups where ballet barre formed the foundation of her training. Her passion for dance led her to the Academy of Music, Theater, and Other Arts (AMTAP) in Moldova. There, she studied a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, character dance, ballroom, modern, and historical dance, with a particular emphasis on ballet and character dances.
Inspired by her experiences and mentors, including a dedicated teacher from the Moldovan National Opera and Ballet Theater, Virjina decided to pursue a career in choreography. She began teaching dance to children and adults while still in her first year at the Academy, and over the years, she has created solo pieces for students and helped many of them advance their own careers, with some becoming choreographers themselves.
Now based in the United States, Virjina is a passionate teacher who utilizes the principles of the Vaganova method to instill a strong ballet foundation. She focuses on developing athleticism, body conditioning, flexibility, and proper alignment and form, viewing dance as a universal language that allows her to express emotions and tell stories beyond words.
Inspired by her experiences and mentors, including a dedicated teacher from the Moldovan National Opera and Ballet Theater, Virjina decided to pursue a career in choreography. She began teaching dance to children and adults while still in her first year at the Academy, and over the years, she has created solo pieces for students and helped many of them advance their own careers, with some becoming choreographers themselves.
Now based in the United States, Virjina is a passionate teacher who utilizes the principles of the Vaganova method to instill a strong ballet foundation. She focuses on developing athleticism, body conditioning, flexibility, and proper alignment and form, viewing dance as a universal language that allows her to express emotions and tell stories beyond words.
Principle of Ballet & Classical DanceYelena Zerkovska
Yelena Zerkovska began her training in ballet and character dance in Ukraine at the age of 5. She continued her ballet studies in Los Angeles, CA, before being accepted into the North Carolina School of the Arts, where she earned a BFA in Ballet. Throughout her career, Yelena has performed professionally with renowned companies such as the New Jersey Ballet, Staten Island Ballet, Pasadena Dance Theatre, Riverside Ballet, and LA Chamber Ballet/Raiford Rogers Modern Ballet. Her repertoire includes solo roles from classic ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Le Corsaire, Firebird, Paquita, Raymonda, La Bayadere, and The Nutcracker.
For the past six years, Yelena has expanded her career internationally, collaborating with prestigious companies including the Russian National Ballet Theater, Russian Moscow Ballet, Classical Ballet Theater, and the State Ballet Theater of Russia. During this time, she has performed solo roles in beloved productions such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, and Cinderella.
Yelena speaks fluent Russian, has six years of classical piano training, and has a unique passion for parrots—she admires their love for dancing, which matches her own.
For the past six years, Yelena has expanded her career internationally, collaborating with prestigious companies including the Russian National Ballet Theater, Russian Moscow Ballet, Classical Ballet Theater, and the State Ballet Theater of Russia. During this time, she has performed solo roles in beloved productions such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, and Cinderella.
Yelena speaks fluent Russian, has six years of classical piano training, and has a unique passion for parrots—she admires their love for dancing, which matches her own.
Principle of Ballet & Classical DanceTaylor Hugens
Taylor Hugens began her dance journey at the age of three with Pasadena Civic Ballet, where she trained until her graduation in 2023. Throughout her formative years, she had the privilege of learning from esteemed instructors such as Petra Conti, Eris Nezha, Craig F. Williams, and Valeria Gortchakova. She also attended prestigious summer intensives at institutions like the School of American Ballet, Boston Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre.
In the 2023/24 season, Taylor joined Los Angeles Ballet as a trainee, performing in productions such as The Nutcracker, George Balanchine’s Serenade, and Yuri Possokhov’s Firebird. She also guested at Westside Ballet's gala, performing as the first violin in Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco, staged by Patricia Neary. Taylor will continue her journey with Los Angeles Ballet as an apprentice for the 2024/25 season.
In the 2023/24 season, Taylor joined Los Angeles Ballet as a trainee, performing in productions such as The Nutcracker, George Balanchine’s Serenade, and Yuri Possokhov’s Firebird. She also guested at Westside Ballet's gala, performing as the first violin in Balanchine’s Concerto Barocco, staged by Patricia Neary. Taylor will continue her journey with Los Angeles Ballet as an apprentice for the 2024/25 season.
Ashley Mei
MANAGER
Yelena Mezheritsky
OPERATIONS
Katrine Mezheritsky
MEDIA
Serge Mezheritsky
PRESIDENT