Our Talented Dance Instructors

Rheesa Schachter is the artistic director, owner, and founder of Kids Etc Youth Movement Company. KEYMC began in an elementary school auditorium with twelve students and has evolved into an award-winning, innovative dance studio that boasts more than 1000 enrolments each year. Rheesa has made it her personal mission as studio owner to create a dance environment where every dancer has the opportunity to flourish, excel, and achieve their personal best.

Rheesa’s background includes dance training at York University’s Faculty of Fine Arts in Toronto coupled with a Bachelor Of Commerce Honours Degree from the University of Manitoba, giving her a unique and professional approach to directing the studio. Under her direction, KEYMC has received accolades such as The Consumer Choice Award (three years in a row!), as well as countless Highest Score in Discipline awards, Overall awards, and Judge’s Choice awards. Rheesa is proud to have trained students who have pursued secondary training at prestigious Fine Art’s schools such as Randolph School of Performing Arts, Sheridan College and The Juilliard School; and students who have gone on to have successful dance careers on Broadway, as dancers at Tokyo and Hong Kong Disney, on live tours and cruise ships, and as competition adjudicators.

As a dedicated director and caring mentor, who makes a point of personally knowing each dancer at her school, Rheesa is thrilled to be sharing her love of dance with the Winnipeg community as KEYMC celebrates 45 years of excellence in dance.

Jessica Smith embarked on her journey into the world of dance at Kids Etc YMC in 1995 when she was not even two years old. Her repertoire of dance styles is extensive and includes Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Modern, Contemporary, Musical Theatre and Hip-Hop.

In 2009, Jessica’s talent was recognized on the global stage when she competed in the World Dance Championships. Her performances in Lyrical and Ballet solos not only captivated audiences but also earned her a place among the top eight dancers.

Her exceptional skills and dedication to the art form have led to her induction into the prestigious Hall of Fame Dance Challenge. Remarkably, she was selected as an All-Star for four consecutive years, demonstrating her consistency and commitment.

In 2011, Jessica’s passion for Ballet was further solidified as she accomplished a significant milestone by passing her Intermediate Cecchetti Ballet exam.

Always eager to learn and grow, Jessica actively participates in dance classes across Canada and the United States. She also pursues dance teacher courses to enhance her teaching skills, staying true to her belief in continuous learning.

Jessica is passionate about sharing her love for dance with her students and is excited to help them explore their potential. Her joy for dance is infectious, and she hopes to inspire the same enthusiasm in her students.

Ana Cole is a dedicated choreographer and dance educator with a passion for technical excellence, artistic movement and the creative process. Raised in Winnipeg, MB., Ana began dancing at the age of 4 and continued to pursue intensive training that has led her to a career that she is immensely proud of. Ana is currently on faculty at KEYMC as a full-time competitive dance educator and choreographer, specializing in both jazz and contemporary technique, as well as choreographing award-winning competition pieces for all ages. Her passionate commitment to both the mental and physical well-being of dancers has guided her to undertake a multi-faceted approach to continuing education, prioritizing injury prevention in the studio and creating a positive atmosphere for all dancers. Ana remains enthusiastic to share the art of dance with her local community, most recently stepping into the position of Head Choreographer for the Hope Couture Virtual Fashion Gala in support of the Ronald McDonald House Charities, as well as the Ice Crystal Gala Opening Performance in support of the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba.

Ana’s choreographic works continue to find success across Canada, receiving recognitions such as Top Choreography, Adjudicators Choice and Highest Scoring in Genre, and she is immensely proud to have trained dancers who currently perform internationally in cities such as New York, London, Vancouver and more. While always striving to share all the gifts dance has to offer, Ana is honoured to be able to help shape the journey of the next generation of dancers.

Aryanna has been dancing since the age of 2. She has been dancing and competing with Kids Etc for 7 years. Her favourite styles include ballet, lyrical, contemporary, and tap. She loves teaching young kids and cannot wait to inspire younger generations and grow her teaching skills.

Originally from Taiwan, Gloria Chen started dancing at the age of 6 studying multiple disciplines including Ballet, Chinese dance and Modern.  Her studies led her to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, graduating from the Professional Division Teachers’ Course program.  Gloria holds certificates in Cecchetti Intermediate, Advanced 1 and Advanced 2 as well as an Associate and Associate Diploma Degree in teaching from the Cecchetti Society of Canada.  She has taught all levels of students from ages 6 to adults and has led students in ballet examinations, competitions, workshops and recitals.

In addition to teaching, Gloria also dances professionally with Bolero Dance Theatre performing Flamenco, Classical Spanish dance and Bolero dance.  As a principal with the company, she has performed with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, Winnipeg Contemporary Dancers and in several Winnipeg Fringe Festivals.

Kelly is an accomplished dancer, choreographer, and dance educator, who takes pride in inspiring young children, teens, and adults to love and appreciate the joys of dance. She is A.D.A.P.T certified in jazz and tap. Kelly has taught for over 25 years at a variety of different dance schools, and for 16 of those years, Kelly had the grateful experience of running her ownsuccessful recreational and competitive dance studio.

After completing a competitive dance program as a young adult, Kelly’s training has taken her to major cities across North America, where she attended MBS, Metro Movement, Broadway Dance Center, EdgeSchool for Performing Arts and Harbor Dance Centre…to name a few. Kelly grew up in Vancouver where she received scholarships from dance conventions to attend the Gus Giordano Dance School in Chicago for a full year, and for six months at The Henry Lee Tang School in New York City.

As a professional dancer, Kelly has travelled the seas while dancing professionally on cruise ships and in the performing arts industry across North America. Hercredits include, ‘’Mimi’’ in Miss Saigon (Rainbow Stage), Beauty and the Beast (Rainbow Stage), “Little Eva” in The King And I (Rainbow Stage), Grease (Rainbow Stage), A Midsummer Night’s Fever (MTYP), The Spice of Life (Fringe), dancer for Storm Dance Company, a dancer and choreographer for Brian Glow’s touring show of Glow In The Dark. Film & TV credits include: Shall We Dance (Miramax), The Murdoch Mysteries (Bravo), Playmakers (Showcase), Falcon Beach (Global TV), Make It Happen, Less Than Kind (CityTV), Sonic Bloom music video (Much Music), music video for Jackie Shaw (Much Music), and has danced in an episode of the television series Todd And The Pure Book Of Evil.

Kelly found her passion for teaching as a full time dance teacher and director for Sisler High School’s Visual and Performing Arts Dance Program. An award-winning choreographer in jazz, lyrical, and contemporary…she has helped students gain the skills to go onto pursueprofessional careers in the dance industry. Kelly’s ambition is to provide students with quality dance training while inspiring them to achieve their goals and appreciate the rewards of dance. She is thrilled to be joining the faculty at Kids Etc., and cannot wait to meet the students!

Ms Schroeder joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School’s Professional division at the age of 10.She had the joy of performing with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Corps and in several Manitoba Opera Association productions over the years.

After moving to Morden with her husband and 3 children in 2001, Marilee began her teaching career at a small rural school which blossomed over the next 13 years. Ms Schroeder spent countless hours promoting arts and dance in several small southern Manitoba communities. In 2010/11 she had the pleasure of working at the Manitou Elementary school preparing young performers for the Manitou Chautauqua Festival through a Manitoba ArtSmart grant.
With the desire to bring the best to her students, Ms Schroeder joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Teacher Training Program in 2009. She was recipient of the Kally Kennedy Memorial Scholarship in 2010 and 2011. In 2011 she graduated from the program after successfully completing her Advance 1 Cecchetti examination and was awarded her Associate Diploma with the Cecchetti Society of Canada. Ms Schroeder also holds her Royal Academy of Dance teaching certification (RAD-RTS), Stott Pilate’s certification, Can-pro certificates in Resist-aBall training, and Maureen Rae’s fast track yoga levels one to three. Ms Schroeder obtained her Cecchetti Associate Diploma and currently holds her (ADCSC-CICB) designation with the Cecchetti Society of Canada.

Ms Schroeder and her family currently reside in Winnipeg and look forward to a new season of dance and fitness within the welcoming walls of Kids Etc.

From the early age of three, Annie discovered her passion for dance. At eleven, she became a part of the competitive team at Kids Etc YMC, where she fine-tuned her skills in various dance forms including Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Jazz, and Musical Theater. As an award-winning dancer, Annie has showcased her talent across North America.

In addition to her love for dance, Annie holds a special affinity for Musical Theatre, and in 2023 received the prestigious R.E.D. Award in recognition of excellence in Triple Threat. She has executed several solo performances and participated in numerous group performances, demonstrating her versatility and dedication to the craft.

Now, Annie is eager to inspire her students, aiming to pass on her deep-rooted love and passion for dance and performance. She aspires to not only teach the steps but also instill the joy and artistry that dance brings into every aspect of life.

Miss Alex took her first dance class when she was 3 years old and she has loved dance ever since! She has trained in tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, contemporary, hip hop, ballet, pointe, and musical theatre. She joined the KEYMC family as a teacher in 2015, and is honoured to have worked with so many amazing dancers. Miss Alex’s dances have received many special awards over the years, including choreography awards. She is extremely excited to share her dance knowledge and passion with this generation of talented dancers!

Miss Heather has been involved in children’s movement, dance and recreation programs for over 20 years through YMCA Canada and more recently here at Kids Etc YMC’s Youth Movement Company. She teaches our pre-school and early years dance programs, where dancers of all ages enjoy her creative choreography and individualized attention. Miss Heather is a YMCA certified fitness trainer and personal trainer who has presented instructor training throughout the Maritimes and here in Manitoba, as well as conducting a wide variety of fitness classes. Heather is also looking forward to teaching adult stretch and strength classes at Kids Etc YMC; incorporating into these classes, yoga, Pilates and stretching exercises.

Stedroy has been in love with Hip Hop ever since he was young. He was enrolled in dance classes at 8 years old, but really fell in love with the craft at 12 as he started to compete in local dance competitions. Meeting his cousin – Naquan – at this age made him hungry as ever to keep learning and growing since Naquan was far better than him and had never taken classes! This hunger helped Stedroy become the recipient of the Manitoba Dance Festival Scholarship(x2), taking home Gold at Dance World Cup (Niagara Falls), while being undefeated in all local dance competitions. Wayne Santos was Stedroy’s mentor growing up and he was fortunate to have met him at Marquis Dance Academy. Stedroy teaches drop-ins out of Muse Studios and is excited to embark his new journey at Kids Etc!

Ben started dancing at Kids Etc YMC at the age of 9. Training in styles such as Ballet, Lyrical, Contemporary, Jazz, and Musical Theatre. In 2019, he auditioned for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Professional Division and was accepted into their program. While at RWB, Ben was awarded the Leon and Lorraine Rubin Scholarship. In 2021 Ben decided to follow his passion for other dance disciplines and rejoined the KEYMC team. Since then, he has won several awards and scholarships including “Senior Mister Candance Regina 2023”, “Winnipeg Move Finalist 2023” (for his solo, trio, and group dances), and being part of the team that won “13 and Over Champions’’ at Terpsichore Dance Celebration. As well as the 2022 recipient of the “Bricker Family Lyrical Scholarship” at KEYMC. Ben is part of the Senior Team and is excited to be a part of the faculty and share his passion for dance!

Alex has always had a passion to be active and move through space. As a young child she was a dancer and trained in many different styles. Alex was also a competitive gymnast. As she grew up, she discovered acro and aerial dance – a great combination for what she was looking for! She has been hooked ever since. Alex is level 1 certified with Acrobatic Arts and she has taught both acro and aerial for over 12 years. Her specialty apparatus is aerial silks and she still loves to fly through the sky and teach her students to have fun, express their creativity, all while also staying active in such a unique way! On top of being a dance instructor, she is also a school teacher in the Louis Riel School Division. She is so excited to bring these styles of dance to Kids Etc!

Mackenzie began her dancing career at Kids Etc’s YMC at a very young age. She has studied jazz, tap, ballet, modern, lyrical and musical theatre. Mackenzie received many gold and gold honours awards at various regional and national competitions in the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, she is a scholarship recipient from the Manitoba Provincial Dance Festival, and in 2014 was the recipient of the Bricker Family Modern Scholarship at Kids Etc YMC. Mackenzie’s energy, enthusiasm, and sense of humor create a positive learning environment for her students!

Peter has appeared in leading roles on stages across Canada, as well as performing as a featured dancer on Broadway, off Broadway, and large scale commercial theatre. He has worked extensively in film and theatre on notable networks such as ABC/Disney, Sci-Fi, CW Network, NHK, as well as choreographing for several major film productions. Peter holds a B.F.A. from the acclaimed College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati, and a diploma in Theatrical Arts from Grant McEwan University. While working as a professional in the performing arts industry, Peter spent over 10 years running a successful dance studio with his wife, Kelly Swan Huck. As a successful dance educator, choreographer, storyteller, and national adjudicator, Peter brings a wealth of performance knowledge to our competitive program at KEYMC. Peter is eager to help our KEYMC dancers find perspective, focus, and confidence as they progress through their technical ability on the way to realizing their full performance potential.

Sam began her dance training at Kids Etc YMC at the age of 2 and has continued to train extensively in every style Kids Etc YMC has to offer on their competitive senior team. Sam’s love for dancing is something that is very evident and her love for teaching is as well. Sam is also always willing to extend her passion beyond the studio by participating in multiple volunteer and charity events. She wants all her students to experience the passion for dance that she continues to have.

Wayne Santos is a decorated hip hop choreographer based out of Winnipeg, MB, Canada. He is the founding member of SIKAT Dance Company and directed the award winning choreography team from 2005-2013. In 2008 Wayne was hired as an instructor & choreographer at a local dance studio in Winnipeg where he helped mold the hip hop program it’s known for today with nearly a decade of award winning routines to back it up. He has had the privilege of leading 2 Team Canada hip hop teams to represent Canada in both Austria & Taiwan. In 2014 Wayne became the head dance choreographer for the Winnipeg Blue Bomber Cheer & Dance Team and contributed to rebuilding the dance program, leading the program to become one of the best in the CFL. 2018 brought new opportunity for Wayne as he ventured on to open his own dance studio in Winnipeg called Muse Studios. After some early success, the business eventually fell victim to the pandemic and closed in 2022. These days, Wayne has been looking to using his experience towards humanitarianism and sharing his craft with those who have barriers to accessing quality dance training. His newest venture

“The Haven Project” looks to provide free dance to underserved communities. Wayne is excited to return to his first love of creating art through movement and using it as a vehicle to help others.

Jonah began his dance training with his mom, Marilee, in Morden at the age of six. In 2012, he auditioned for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School Professional Division and was accepted into their full-time program. While at the RWB, he had the opportunity to take part in various performances, including in Spotlight/InConcert, the Concert Hour Ballet Tour and the First Steps Choreographic Competition, in which his piece, Elegie, won an award. Jonah was also awarded various scholarships during his training, including the Royal Bank of Canada Award, Jane McEvoy O’Donnell Scholarship and the RWB Alumni Scholarship. Following his graduation from the RWB in 2017, Jonah was accepted into the prestigious Vaganova Ballet Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia, considered by many to be the top ballet school in the world. While studying in Russia, Jonah participated in various performances, including at the world famous Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, the Kremlin Palace in Moscow and in the cities of Klin and Surgut. He also went on a three-week tour to Japan, including to Tokyo and Fukuoka among other cities, one of his highlights from studying at the school. Jonah graduated from the Vaganova Ballet Academy in 2019, one of few Canadians to do so, and had the opportunity to dance one of the lead roles from the ballet “Laurencia” in his graduation performance at Mariinsky Theatre, another highlight from his studies. Following his graduation, Jonah was invited to join a ballet company in St. Petersburg, and though originally intending to return to Russia, circumstances led him to stay at home in Canada.

Taylor has been dancing at Kids Etc YMC almost since the day she was born! She has received many gold and gold honours awards at dance competitions over the years, and has been the recipient of dance scholarships from the Dance Manitoba, LADF, CNDC and many more. For three consecutive years, Taylor was chosen as a Hall of Fame All Star. In 2012 she choreographed a routine for Winnipeg’s WE Day celebrations and performed in front of thousands of people. Moreover, Taylor danced with the famous pop artist Vita Chambers on stage in a variety of Winnipeg venues. She continues to study jazz, tap, lyrical, modern, hip-hop, musical theatre and ballet. Taylor’s energetic approach to classes make it fun, not just for the dancers but for the parents as well.

Brianna Taylor has been dancing since age three and performing solos by six, Brianna’s journey in dance is nothing short of remarkable. Trained in numerous styles, with a notable scholarship in Lyrical dance to her name, her versatility shines through.

Brianna began her dance education elsewhere but sought out KEYMC for further growth and competition opportunities. Today, she’s an integral part of our Senior 2 Dance Team.

Eager to share her love for dance with future generations, Brianna brings not only her talent but also her enthusiasm and commitment to our dance community. We are thrilled to have her on board.

Tessa began training at Kids Etc YMC at the age of three. She has trained in tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, ballet and hip hop. She has taught a variety of styles and ages at Kids Etc, at the CCFM dance school, for the Franco-Manitoban School Division in both Winnipeg and Thompson, and The Studio School of Dance in Ottawa. She is looking forward to sharing her passion for dance with her students.

Cat has been a part of the Kids Etc family since the age of two. She has loved studying jazz, lyrical, ballet, tap, hip-hop, modern, musical theatre and pointe. She has competed at both regional and national level competitions, including the IDO World Championships in Niagara Falls. She has also successfully completed many Cecchetti ballet exams. Part of her love for dance comes from the close connection it has to her family; she loves Kids Etc because it is where she grew up alongside her step-sisters, Jessica and Taylor, and their parents, Rheesa and Paul. Outside of teaching preschool dance classes, Cat is an early childhood educator, and is taking courses towards her ECEII degree. She is eager to continue to share her love for dance with her students, and looks forward to an incredible year with all of her students!

Katie is a Winnipeg-born and educated pianist. Her musical training includes a Bachelor of Music from the University of Manitoba Marcel A. DesAutels Faculty of Music, a Royal Conservatory of Music Gr. 10 certificate and silver medal (for highest regional mark) as well as various festival and masterclass opportunities.

Katie first fell in love with accompanying at the age of 7 when she was asked to play Oh Canada for a school assembly. Since then, she has avidly pursued any and all opportunities to play for others. Katie is now an in-demand pianist throughout Winnipeg and has had the chance to play throughout North America and Europe. Always up for a challenge, Katie has played for various groups of all ages and abilities including; the Winnipeg Youth Chorus, the Winnipeg Male Chorus, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Rainbow Stage and many soloists, musicals, auditions, festivals, weddings etc. She has had the joy of playing for and seeing music impact everyone from 5 to 95!

Traditionally a choral accompanist, Katie began playing for ballet while still in university. Unlike any other type of playing, she loves the challenges and unique collaborations it provides.