Dancing Geisha
Our Instructors
Dancing Geisha
Meet Our Experienced Instructors
MARYNA LELIAVINA
About MARYNA LELIAVINA
We are honoured to have Maryna leading our team as our Head Master Instructor. With over a decade of experience, Maryna has not only mastered several styles of pole dance ranging from pole sport and pole art to all aspects of exotic dance—but she has also become a beacon of inspiration in the pole dance community. Maryna’s skill is only outmatched by her unwavering passion and dedication to the craft. Her innovative teaching methods and deep commitment to helping others discover their strength and grace make her an invaluable asset to our Dancing Geisha family.
In her new role as our team leader, Maryna is excited to guide and empower each of you on your pole dance journey.
Tahnee Reyes
About Tahnee Reyes
Tahnee Reyes is a multi-apparatus aerialist, pole and movement artist. A trained dancer in ballet and modern, she took her love of movement into the air, initially training for a few years in circus arts, then finding pole, which became her focus for what is now 9 years- 8 of which she has instructed. She has taught pole technique classes from beginner to advanced level, pole choreography and aerial pole. Alongside pole, she has taught lyra, lollipop lyra, floorwork, chair, conditioning, flexibility, and handstands, Tahnee has led dance troupes, coaching a group of students in a choreographed number towards performing at studio showcases, and has taught workshops in Toronto, Montreal and Oaxaca (Mexico). She is CPR/First Aid certified.
She has extensive experience with partner work, especially with basing and flying. Tahnee has performed as a duo on a variety of apparatuses- pole, lyra, lollipop lyra, cube, and chandelier. She has worked with her pole partner to develop and teach doubles workshops and has also choreographed doubles clients towards performance.
Tahnee regularly performs at entertainment venues, corporate and private events. She has competed and placed 2nd in Semi-Pro at the Canadian Pole Fitness Championships.
She loves all things dynamic and flippy, always finding ways to help others conquer their fear of intimidating tricks breaking it down into more palatable bites of information and offering relevant conditioning and progressions to make their goals more attainable.
Laura Va-Akhunova
About Laura Va-Akhunova
Laura Va-Akhunova, also known as Alpha Laùra Pro, is an educator and choreographer with extensive experience in setting up performances for music videos, showcases, and competitions. She is deeply passionate about teaching and helping her students achieve their goals.
In her classes, you will engage in conditioning and mobility exercises before she guides you through various routines and styles. Laùra has created a unique style called “Alpha” in Exotic Pole Dance and Stripplastic, which she refers to as “Alpha Fusion” and “Alpha Seduction.”
Through her innovative approach and dedication, Laùra inspires her students to push their boundaries and express themselves confidently. Her commitment to excellence and her unique choreography style make her a sought-after instructor in the dance community.
AKIRA DAWN HUANG
About AKIRA DAWN HUANG
Akira started her heels training with Kaleela Dominic and Lauren Lyn’s the Candyshop dance in early 2019, where she received rigorous technical training and on camera experience. Since then, she had trained with many other leading heels dancers/choreographers including Kaela Faloon (sensual heeling workshops), Lyza Manalo (bevel bootcamp mentorship & on camera video programs), Cierra Lee (Hauls of heels) and Steph Brinning (SHE the company & assistant for show program).
Akira was part of multiple stage performance programs including “Candyland” (season 1-3 int/adv crew) by Kaleela Dominic and Lauren Lyn, “Love Language” by Cierra Lee and SHE the company show S3 by Steph Brinning. She has recently performed in the “Baddie Issues”show by Shavar Blackwood.
Outside of heels training, Akira is always broadening her range by taking classes in different styles inclduing Hip Hop, Jazz, Jazz funk, Waccking, and theatre Jazz.
She believes everyone’s dance journey is unique and special, and by putting in love and effort our moment to shine as a dancer will come.
Anastasiia Nagovitsyna
About Anastasiia Nagovitsyna
With over a decade of experience and a passion for movement, Anastasiia has been empowering students through pole dance and flexibility training since 2013. She has conducted more than 3,000 classes, helping individuals of all levels achieve their fitness goals while ensuring safety and injury prevention.
Anastasiia is known for her deep understanding of the body’s mechanics, especially in managing injuries and chronic pain, such as back issues. Her approach is centered on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where students can grow, gain confidence, and reach new heights—both physically and mentally.
Holding certifications as a Group Fitness Instructor (AFAA), Nutrition Coach (NASM), and Life Coach (ICF), Anastasiia brings a holistic perspective to her teaching. Her classes are not just about physical transformation but also about nurturing overall well-being.
Anastasiia’s commitment to continuous learning is evident from the over 30 specialized workshops and training she has attended, ensuring that her methods are always up-to-date and effective. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced dancer, Anastasiia is dedicated to guiding you on your journey with expert knowledge, care, and a focus on injury prevention.
JULIA SPELLMAN
About JULIA SPELLMAN
KRISTEN GILMOUR
About KRISTEN GILMOUR
Kirsten became hooked on pole from her first intro class. Her background in competitive gymnastics and coaching translated well into her aerial training. She enjoys cultivating a style that combines acrobatics and flow. As a rehab chiropractor she has extensive knowledge and experience in functional and safe training. Kirsten is excited about sharing her passion for pole with Dancing Geisha’s students.