Dancing Geisha

Who Are we?

WE ARE DANCING GEISHA

The idea for Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy was born out of the realization that exercise isn’t just good for the body; it also has the power to engage and build community, transforming and healing the individual.

Our goal is to break down stereotypes and stigmas surrounding pole dancing and demonstrate that it is a legitimate form of exercise that can be empowering, transformative, and therapeutic for women of all ages and body types.

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At Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy, our instructors not only teach pole dance techniques but also provide a supportive and encouraging environment for women to express themselves freely and unleash their inner goddess. We understand the transformative power of dance and strive to help women build confidence, strength, and self-love through our classes. Join us on this empowering journey and discover the strength, beauty, and resilience within you. At Dancing Geisha, we are more than just a dance studio; we are a community that celebrates every woman’s unique journey and supports each other in becoming the best versions of ourselves.

Why the name Dancing Geisha?

We understand that some may wonder about the choice of the name “Dancing Geisha.” For us, this name holds a deep, personal significance. It symbolizes a blend of timeless grace and modern empowerment through the art of pole dancing, inviting self-discovery and inner strength.

We recognize that the image of the geisha can carry many interpretations, often misunderstood in the West. Traditionally, geishas are artists dedicated to the mastery of music, dance, and performance. At Dancing Geisha, we draw inspiration from their discipline, artistry, and grace—qualities that transcend cultural boundaries and speak to the strength and power within all women.

Pole dancing, much like the figure of the geisha, has often been misrepresented. Our studio seeks to reclaim both, seeing pole as a transformative form of expression that empowers women to reconnect with their bodies and rediscover their inner strength.

Ultimately, “Dancing Geisha” is more than a name. It represents a philosophy of challenging societal norms and encouraging women to embrace their full selves—strength, sensuality, and all. We are committed to creating a space where women can heal, explore, and grow through the empowering art of pole dancing

About Tally V., Founder of Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy

Tally V. is the inspiring force behind Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy. As a full-time lawyer, a loving wife, and a devoted mother of two incredible daughters, Tally’s life has been a delicate balancing act between her professional and personal responsibilities. However, it was two years ago, during a period of immense trauma and emotional difficulty, that Tally discovered the transformative power of pole dancing.

Through dance and movement, Tally experienced profound personal transformation and healing, reconnecting with sides of herself that had felt lost for years.

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At almost 50 years old, she found herself in the best shape of her life, thanks to the strength and conditioning involved with the sport. Like many high-powered corporate women, Tally had lost touch with her playful, feminine, and soft side due to the demands of the corporate world, which often promotes a tough and masculine image for success.

In such environments, women can be critical and hard on each other, perpetuating a cycle of competitiveness and judgment. However, through pole dancing, Tally rediscovered those lost aspects of herself and found not only incredible fitness results but also a supportive and non-judgmental community of women. This newfound sisterhood became a source of strength and encouragement, inspiring her to create a space where other women could experience the same empowerment, self-discovery, and community that pole dancing offers.

Thus, Dancing Geisha was born—a sanctuary where women can embrace their femininity, reconnect with their inner goddess, and discover the art of pole dancing. Tally’s vision for Dancing Geisha is to foster an environment of support, empowerment, and celebration of every woman’s unique journey and strength.

Join us at Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Studio and embark on a transformative journey of dance, fitness, and self-discovery.

About Maryna Leliavina, Head Master Instructor at Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy

Maryna Leliavina is the esteemed Head Master Instructor at Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy. She discovered pole dancing after her only child had grown up, feeling a calling to find a new career that ignited her fire and passion.

Hailing from Ukraine, Maryna embarked on her pole dancing journey in her home country, dedicating years to training with a renowned teacher in Ukraine and hundreds of hours of self-teaching while simultaneously instructing others. Maryna has also attended dozens of workshops with renowned instructors from all over the world.

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With extensive experience teaching both children and adults, Maryna has mastered several styles of pole dance, including pole sport, pole art, and all aspects of exotic dance. Her dedication to the craft and her innovative teaching methods have earned her recognition and respect in the pole dance community.

For over a decade, Maryna has taught exclusively in Ukraine, Poland, and now in Toronto, bringing her wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to each class she leads. Her skill is only outmatched by her passion, making her an invaluable asset to the Dancing Geisha family. Under her expert guidance, students are not only learning the art of pole dance but also discovering their own strength, grace, and confidence.
Join Maryna at Dancing Geisha Pole Dance Academy and let her inspire you to reach new heights in your pole dancing journey.