Our Team
Meet our team
Melissa Kelly-Lavoie
Born and raised in Timmins, Ontario, Melissa Kelly-Lavoie began dancing at the age of five, and at the end of her training in Timmins, she obtained her teaching certificate with The Society of Russian Ballet.
In 2005, Melissa graduated from the Teacher Training Program at Canada’s National Ballet School, obtaining a mark of Distinction. The intense three year Teacher Training program allowed her to study in direct relation with professional dance artists. Dancers and teachers from all over the world attend this school and it produces only the finest dance educators in North America. At NBS, she obtained her Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance (I.S.T.D) certificate in National Dance and her Associate Diploma certification with Cecchetti Canada. Melissa also trained with one of Toronto’s finest hip hop and tap artists, Shawn Byfield.
Due to her love of Latin dancing and in order to add diversity and expand her dance repertoire, Melissa trained extensively in Salsa, Merengue & Bachata during her time in Toronto. Towards the end of her studies in Toronto, she also obtained her Full-Membership certification with the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA).
Melissa also holds her full certification with the Acrobatic Arts and received her certificate for Progressive Ballet Technique. She loves to stay current with the ever evolving dance industry, and has attended the Summer in L.A. program for 2 years hosted by Be Discovered as well as the Broadway Bound Program in New York City.
With over thirty years of dance training, Melissa is the proud owner/operator of the Melissa Kelly Dance Academy in Timmins, ON (established in 2005). With the ever constant evolution in dance, Melissa and her artistic staff thrive to stay on top of what is new and fresh in the dance industry. She promises the highest quality of dance training to all who love to dance!
Julie Prévost
Julie Prévost is a member of the Canadian Dance Teachers Association, stage division (CDTA) and is a certified Acrobatics Arts teacher. Julie has been an experienced dance instructor and MKDA family member since the academy’s inaugural year. Julie has 25+ years of dance experience.
Stephanie Salvati
Stephanie comes to us with much expertise in Tap and Jazz. She has successfully completed her dance exams with the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA) and we welcome her 15+ years of dance experience. Stephanie is also a graduate of the Ontario College of Teachers.
Cristy Webb
Miss Cristy has been training in numerous dance styles since the age of 4. She acquired several Russian ballet examinations prior to attending post-secondary education. She attended Northern College where she obtained her Educational Assistant diploma.
Miss Cristy believes we are forever learning and has continued dance education in attending numerous workshops both in person and virtually in Canada and the US. Miss Cristy has acquired training and certification from Acrobatique, Broadway Dance Centre, Canada’s National Ballet School and most recently with Acrobatic Arts.
Miss Cristy joins the MKDA team with 20+ years of instruction experience and love for the art of dance and teaching. Her greatest joy is watching her students grow and achieve their goals. She absolutely loves watching her creations come alive in the studio and on-stage. One of Miss Cristy’s favourite quotes: “We should consider every day lost on which we have not danced at least once.” – Friedrich Nietzsche
Riley Towers
Owner & Head Coach at Rock & Gold Gymnastics with over 25 years of experience teaching gymnastics to all ages and abilities. In addition to teaching Gymnastics, Riley has 5 years of experience teaching and helping with Acrobatic classes at several dance studios in Timmins.
Carter Chalmers
Carter Chalmers is an elite, advanced level dancer on our competitive team. Carter is a trained and skilled dancer in Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop, Contemporary and Ballet. He is an accomplished dancer receiving many awards at dance competitions and at the MKDA year-end banquet. Carter was the recipient of MKDA’s 2023 Scholarship for his outstanding demonstration of leadership, enthusiasm, discipline and passion for dance. He has experience working as a teacher’s assistant and has found a passion for training and teaching aspiring dancers. We welcome Carter to the teaching staff this year!
Kalli Lavigne-Passaw
With a decade of dance experience and seven years on the competition team, Kalli is a graduating senior who has gained the skills and passion for dance, training in various styles such as ballet, contemporary, musical theatre, hip hop and jazz. Kalli recently created several choreographies for “Take Two Theatre’s production” of Cinderella. She continues to devote herself at creating choreographies and bringing the best of herself to every class she participates in and teaches. During her time at MKDA, she has not only gained dance expertise but also invaluable life skills, confidence, and a deep appreciation for teamwork.
Alexa Roussel
Over 8 years, Alexa has become an accomplished dancer on our competitive team and has accumulated 13 years of dance experience. She has earned numerous awards at dance competitions and our year-end banquet for a variety of dance styles, in addition to the “spirit” and “detailed dancer” awards. Alexa was MKDA’s 2024 Scholarship recipient, honoring her embodiment of exceptional leadership and a deep passion for dance. She serves as a great role model, demonstrating support and encouragement for her teammates and inspiring young dancers. As an assistant since 2021, she has developed a strong passion for teaching our dancers and is thrilled to be a part of our team!
Stephanie K. Pichette
Stephanie is our Accounts Manager, and she is responsible for all invoices, receipts, and managing all recreational and competitive accounts. Stephanie can be reached by email at: stephanie@jemsmanagement.com.