Our Team

Artistic Director & Senior Ballet Instructor

Galina Chapovalova

Galina Chapovalova is a distinguished ballet instructor and choreographer with decades of experience in classical and character dance. Originally trained in Russia, Galina’s foundation is rooted in the rigorous Vaganova method, which she mastered during her formative years. Her early career was spent performing with several regional ballet companies, where she developed a deep appreciation for the expressive potential of traditional character dance, an element she would later bring to her teaching practice with passion and precision.

After an extensive performance career, Galina turned her focus to pedagogy, becoming a highly respected educator known for her disciplined yet nurturing approach. She has taught at numerous ballet academies across Europe and North America, eventually making her home at Bayview School of Ballet. There, she has become a cornerstone of the school’s training program, particularly revered for her work in character dance.

Galina’s classes blend historical authenticity with expressive artistry, offering students a unique opportunity to develop their technical versatility and cultural understanding of ballet's global roots.

Galina is also a choreographer whose works have been featured in school productions, competitions, and community performances. Her choreography reflects a deep respect for tradition while embracing the individuality of each dancer. Committed to mentoring the next generation of artists, Galina continues to inspire students with her knowledge, elegance, and deep love for the art form. Her influence can be seen in the confident, expressive dancers who emerge from her classes, carrying forward her legacy of excellence.

Director of the Children's Division & Ballet Instructor

Olga Posternak

Olga Posternak (née Постернак) began her rigorous ballet education at the Kyiv State Choreographic School from 1998 to 2006, followed by earning a B.A. with honours in Choreography, Ballet Teaching, and Ballet Direction at Kyiv National Karpenko‑Karyi University (2006–2011). In 2006, she joined the Kyiv Municipal Academy Theatre for Children and Youth as a soloist before moving on in 2014 to the Kyiv City Ballet, where by 2017 she had ascended to the rank of principal dancer.

Her performance repertoire reflects remarkable versatility, encompassing major classical and character roles: Masha, Spanish dance, and Shepherdess in The Nutcracker; Odette/Odile in Swan Lake; Juliet in Romeo and Juliet—for which she was voted “Best Juliet” in Ukraine during the 2018–19 season; and roles in Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Thumbelina, Giselle, Don Quixote, Balanchine’s Tarantella, and Les Sylphides. Her talent has taken her on international tours through North America, Europe, Japan, China, Brazil, and beyond.

In 2022, Olga and her husband, Vladyslav Romashchenko, transitioned to Canada amid the war in Ukraine, having raised over $800,000 for humanitarian relief through performances in Europe, Japan, and the U.S. Since relocating, she’s been embraced by the Bayview School of Ballet School community— as both soloist and instructor—and continues to perform in high-profile productions such as The Nutcracker and Innovative Ballet Theatre. Beyond the stage, Olga is also actively committed to dance education, sharing her classical expertise with students in Canada and preserving her dedication to the art form.

Jazz & Contemporary Instructor

Eleanor Van Veen

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Eleanor van Veen is a Toronto-based contemporary dance artist and educator known for her expressive and dynamic style. Trained at The Conteur Academy under Eryn Waltman, she has worked with choreographers and companies such as Alysa Pires, Hanna Kiel’s Human Body Expression, The Chimera Project, ProArteDanza, and Nostos Collectives. Her performances have appeared at major events including the Capezio ACE Awards, Toronto Fringe Festival, and Dance Ontario DanceWeekend, with a 2020 Dora Mavor Moore Award nomination recognizing her ensemble work.

In addition to performing, Eleanor is a dedicated dance educator. She teaches contemporary, jazz, ballet, lyrical, modern, acro, and Pilates. Her inclusive teaching approach supports diverse learning styles and body types, fostering a supportive environment for all dancers.

Eleanor strives to cultivate a supportive environment where students feel empowered to explore their individuality, artistry, and creativity, reflecting her philosophy that movement is both personal and universal.

As an artistic collaborator, Eleanor actively engages in creation processes alongside choreographers and collectives. Notably, she is involved in new works with Hanna Kiel for Human Body Expression and performed in Nostos Collectives’ “let’s get physical” and “Sycamore” productions. Film and theatre archives list her most recent roles, including participation in the 2023 ballet The Royal We, choreographed by Jake Poloz. Recognized as a board member of CADA/East (the Canadian Alliance of Dance Artists – East), Eleanor contributes to the broader dance community in Toronto. Her vibrant career as performer, teacher, and collaborator underscores her dedication to advancing contemporary dance in Canada.

Children’s Ballet & Body Conditioning Instructor

Bianca Pariselli

Bianca Pariselli is one of our dedicated children’s ballet and body conditioning instructors, bringing over ten years of experience in teaching, assisting, and volunteering across a wide range of dance programs. She is a graduate of York University’s Dance Program (B.F.A. Hons.), completed jointly with Canada’s National Ballet School, and she also graduated from Canada’s National Ballet School Teacher Training Program (RAD/RTS). She holds her Registered Teacher Status (RTS) with the Royal Academy of Dance as of June 2022. Bianca teaches Creative Movement, Pre-Primary to Grade 6 Ballet, Intermediate and Pointe work, Character, and Adult Ballet, and has successfully prepared students for RAD ballet examinations and choreographed for recent competition seasons.

In addition to her ballet expertise, Bianca is a certified STOTT Pilates Mat and Reformer instructor and trained through Barre Body. Her extensive experience in Pilates and barre training allows her to lead conditioning classes that support dancer development, improve alignment, and prevent injuries.

Bianca also teaches senior fitness, private and semi-private Pilates sessions, and applies Pilates principles to cross-train figure skaters, promoting safe and effective movement practices across all levels of fitness and dance. She is known for her thoughtful class planning, strong classroom management, and ability to create a fun and productive learning environment. Her passion for dance and movement is evident in every class she teaches, and she consistently fosters a supportive atmosphere that encourages growth, artistry, and confidence. Committed to sharing her love of dance, Bianca strives to make her classes accessible and inspiring for students of all ages and abilities.

Children's Ballet Instructor

Giada Katsyukevych

Giada Katsyukevych is a skilled ballet instructor in our Children's Division, known for her vibrant energy and deep dedication to dance education. She embarked on her ballet journey at Bayview School of Ballet at the tender age of three, where she trained extensively in classical ballet as well as tap, jazz, flamenco, tango, and contemporary dance. Her diverse training has shaped her into a versatile artist with a broad movement vocabulary and a passion for nurturing young dancers.

In addition to her dance achievements, Giada’s athleticism and grace led her to success in rhythmic gymnastics. In 2022, she proudly earned the Canadian Championship title in the Rhythmic Gymnastics Group Division, showcasing her exceptional coordination, teamwork, and performance skills.

This accomplishment, alongside her dance training, reflects her commitment to excellence and her ability to inspire discipline and artistry in her students.

A graduate of Bayview School of Ballet’s respected Teacher’s Training Program, Giada brings both technical precision and a warm, approachable teaching style to every class. Her early start in dance, combined with years of rigorous training and competitive success, has given her a unique perspective as an educator. Today, she imparts her expertise to the next generation of dancers, helping them develop confidence, creativity, and a strong foundation in movement from an early age.

Children's Ballet Instructor

Lexi Pace

Lexi Pace is a passionate instructor specializing in Children's Ballet within our Recreational Division at Bayview School of Ballet. She brings fresh energy, kindness, and enthusiasm to every class, helping young dancers discover the joy of movement and the discipline of classical technique. Lexi began her own dance journey at the age of three, training primarily in ballet, and later expanding her repertoire to include jazz and contemporary dance. Her diverse background gives her a dynamic and expressive teaching style that resonates with children of all ages.

Lexi is a proud graduate of Bayview School of Ballet’s esteemed Teacher’s Training Program, where she received in-depth instruction in ballet pedagogy, classroom management, and the Vaganova method. Her training instilled in her a strong foundation in classical technique, which she now passes on to her students with care and precision.

In addition to her dance education at Bayview School of Ballet, Lexi also graduated from Cardinal Carter Academy for the Arts’ renowned dance program, where she refined her skills in performance, choreography, and creative expression.

With her combined academic and artistic training, Lexi is uniquely equipped to inspire and guide the next generation of dancers. Her classes are joyful, structured, and thoughtfully designed to support each child’s development. Lexi’s love for teaching is matched by her commitment to sharing the art of dance in a way that builds confidence, discipline, and creativity in every student she teaches.

Children's Ballet Instructor

Joanna Zhao

Joanna Zhao is a dedicated Children’s Creative Movement instructor at Bayview School of Ballet, recognized for her nurturing approach and ability to inspire imagination and joy through dance. With a deep appreciation for expressive movement and a strong sense of discipline, Joanna brings warmth and creativity to every class, making her especially skilled at guiding young dancers through their first steps in ballet.

She is a proud graduate of Bayview School of Ballet’s Teacher’s Training Program, where she received comprehensive instruction in classical ballet technique, creative movement, and early childhood development. Her training focused on age-appropriate methods for introducing musicality, coordination, and body awareness to young children.

As an instructor, Joanna creates a joyful and supportive environment where children can explore movement, rhythm, and storytelling through dance. Her classes build the foundation for future ballet training while also encouraging confidence, imagination, and a love for learning. Joanna is passionate about introducing children to the magic of dance and helping each student take their first steps into the world of ballet with joy and confidence.

Children's Ballet & Dance Fusion Instructor

Gabriela Rivaya
Salvadores

Gabriela Rivaya Salvadores is our dedicated jazz and Dance Fusion teacher at Bayview School of Ballet, known for her high-energy classes, strong technical foundation, and passion for inspiring young dancers. She began dancing at the age of four, training in ballet, tap, jazz, and flamenco. Her early start and diverse dance background have shaped her into a dynamic and versatile performer and educator, with a deep understanding of multiple dance styles and how they connect.

Gabriela is a proud graduate of the Claude Watson Dance Program at Earl Haig Secondary School, where she received advanced training in performance, technique, and choreography. She furthered her education through Bayview School of Ballet’s Teacher’s Training Program, gaining expertise in pedagogy and dance instruction. This strong foundation has equipped her with the tools to lead engaging, structured, and inspiring classes that challenge and motivate her students.

In addition to teaching jazz, Gabriela leads our Dance Fusion classes—a unique blend of acro, ballet, and jazz—designed to build strength, flexibility, coordination, and expressive movement. Her teaching approach encourages students to explore their full physical and creative potential in a supportive and fun environment. Gabriela’s commitment to nurturing each dancer’s growth makes her an invaluable part of the Bayview School of Ballet faculty and a favourite among students.

Children's Ballet Assistant Instructor

Julia Chin

Julia Chin serves as an assistant ballet instructor at Bayview School of Ballet, where she brings a wealth of experience and dedication to nurturing young dancers. Beginning her dance training at the age of five, Julia has developed proficiency across ballet, jazz, contemporary, and character dance. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in her numerous accolades and distinguished competition history.

Julia notably earned first place overall at the Candance 2024 Competition for her ballet solo performance, in addition to receiving the Special Award for Pointe Perfection. She is also recognized as the Top Ottawa Nationals Novice Champion and has proudly represented Bayview School of Ballet and the local community at the Mayor’s Evening for the Arts. In 2021, Julia was the recipient of the prestigious Bella Kovarsky Scholarship, awarded in recognition of her artistic promise and technical skill.

A graduate of Bayview School of Ballet’s Teacher’s Training Program, Julia has refined her teaching skills and deepened her understanding of ballet instruction. Her combination of strong performance experience and a thoughtful teaching approach allows her to effectively guide and inspire students. Julia’s professionalism and passion for dance make her a valuable asset to the Bayview School of Ballet faculty.

Administrative Manager

Niusha Zamanipour

Niusha Zamanipour began her ballet journey at the young age of six and has since developed a strong foundation in classical dance. She is a proud graduate of Bayview School of Ballet’s Teacher’s Training Program, where she honed both her technical skills and her understanding of ballet instruction. Today, Niusha applies her discipline and passion for the arts in her role as Administrative Manager at Bayview School of Ballet, supporting the school’s operations and helping to create a positive environment for dancers and staff alike.

In addition to her dance background, Niusha recently graduated from Toronto Metropolitan University with a Bachelor of Design, Fashion, earning a double concentration in Fashion Communication and Design Leadership. This unique combination of creative and managerial expertise allows her to contribute innovative ideas and effective leadership to the Bayview School of Ballet community.

Niusha’s blend of artistic training, academic achievement, and organizational skills make her an invaluable member of the Bayview School of Ballet team. She is committed to supporting the school’s mission and fostering a thriving environment where dancers and instructors can excel.