Makayla Criss, TDip MCPA

Junior Jazz Program Director, Lyrical Program Director, Competitive Dance Coordinator, Horton Technique (Certified Instructor), Hip Hop Faculty, Ballet Exam Prep Program Faculty, Adult Program Faculty

Makayla received her professional training through the Maritime Conservatory of the Performing Arts - Teacher Training Program. Her studies included anatomy, conditioning, and child development, all of which were tailored specifically for dancers. Makayla has also studied a broad spectrum of pedagogical approaches from highly respected and successful examiners and teachers. Most recently, Makayla completed the full Horton Teacher Training Program through The Ailey School under the direction of Ana Marie Forsythe.

With training in a wide range of styles, Makayla's background includes Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Modern, and Hip Hop. Later deciding to focus on Ballet, Makayla has studied both the Cecchetti and Royal Academy of Dance syllabi, and is passionate about reflecting strong technical training while allowing the body to adapt to other stylistic forms of dance. Makayla has attended classes for Professional Development at Steps on Broadway, The Ailey School, The Martha Graham School with notable teachers including John Vincent Leggio, Nina Goldman, and Terri Wright and locally with Darryl Tracy and Robert McCollum. In 2022 Makayla completed an internship with Mocean Dance throughout the creation process of Syreeta Hector’s piece “From the Top” which was performed at Fluid Forms in Halifax, NS.

Outside of the studio, Makayla’s choreography has been featured annually at numerous galas and events including the Rotary Club of Truro’s Annual Fundraising Gala, The Colchester East Hants Health Centre Foundation’s Annual Fundraising Gala, New Glasgow’s Art At Night, Youth Dance Fest East, Local Love Truro Awards and CDA’s own B-Side Hip Hop Festival.