THE XIV TEAM | Studio XIV Dance Co.

MEET THE XIV TEAM

MEET
VANESSA

VANESSA LYN | OWNER & LEAD INSTRUCTOR

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Vanessa is the Owner and Lead Instructor of Studio XIV and has been dancing since the age of three.

Trained in hip hop, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, jazz funk, ballet, and heels, her dance background is rooted in both strong technical foundations and expressive performance. Over the years, Vanessa has continued to evolve as a dancer, drawing inspiration from commercial, studio, and performance-based training to create classes that feel challenging, empowering, and fun.

From a young age, Vanessa knew teaching dance was where her heart was. That passion led her to pursue a Business degree at the University of Guelph-Humber, combining her love for movement with the skills needed to build a sustainable, community-driven studio. Studio XIV was created to be more than just a place to dance—it’s a space where adults can reconnect with themselves, build confidence, and move without pressure or judgment.

As an instructor, Vanessa is known for her supportive energy, clear instruction, and ability to meet dancers where they are. She believes dance should feel empowering, not intimidating, and that every body deserves to take up space in the room. Whether you’re stepping into a studio for the first time or returning to dance after years away, her goal is to help you feel strong, confident, and proud of yourself—both on and off the dance floor.

For Vanessa, teaching dance isn’t just about choreography. It’s about self-expression, self-trust, and carving out time to do something purely for you.

MEET
SAMANTHA

SAMANTHA VARONA | INSTRUCTOR

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Samantha’s dance vocabulary is extensive and ever growing. With a strong foundation in classical training, she was able to expand her movement with street styles

while growing in the dance world. Samantha has substantial training in ballet, jazz, tap, modern, contemporary, heels, hip hop, waacking, and her new venture - ballroom!

Because of dance, Samantha has had the great fortune to be able to live, train and work all over the globe. Some of her favourite memories include; an original trilogy of contemporary theatre work (The Women and War Project, Europe), Good Morning America (Various artists, NYC), Rent (choreo, UK), Dana Foglia Dance Company (Various showings, LA), Movement coach (Various Artists, LA), Artbirth (TO), The Panty Party (TO), Nuit Blanche (Various years, TO). Since reestablishing in her native Toronto, Samantha is now channeling her love of performing into helping others be their best selves on stage or on film. She has done many choreographic works in both original shows (Studio XIV: Bang, Heat, Overdrive & more!) and restaging beloved musicals (Matilda, Little Mermaid, Shrek & more!). Samantha thrives in creating stunning visuals through movement, space and music.

At her core, Samantha loves dance; to create it, to watch it, to teach it. She believes that dance has no age limit or ability boundaries. With some giggles, a lot of sweat and tons of creativity, a rehearsal with Samantha will always leave you broken in the best possible way. #breakmybodysam

MEET
SHANNON

SHANNON BISSCHOP | INSTRUCTOR

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Shannon has been dancing since the age of three and grew up training in competitive dance, where she developed a strong technical foundation and performance quality.

She went on to earn her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from York University, further deepening her understanding of movement, artistry, and the creative process. Shannon also completed her heels teaching training through AOS, shaping her confident, expressive, and empowering approach to heels movement.

As an instructor, Shannon is passionate about helping dancers learn new skills, step outside of their comfort zones, and truly see their own growth. She thrives on creating an environment where students feel challenged, supported, and celebrated. There’s nothing she loves more than watching her dancers light up with pride when they realize what they’re capable of.

Shannon’s choreography blends artistic movement with confidence, intention, and just the right amount of spice—all delivered in a space that feels encouraging, fun, and empowering. She is thrilled to be teaching at Studio XIV, where she continues to inspire dancers to move boldly, express freely, and feel proud of themselves in every class.

MEET
LEANNE

LEANNE DI PUCCHIO | INSTRUCTOR

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Leanne is an energetic, passionate and committed instructor who’s proudly been teaching with Studio XIV since its inception.

She grew up in the world of competitive figure skating, where dance played a vital role in both training and performance.

Injuries fuelled her interest in athletic therapy, which led her to pursue a degree in Kinesiology BSc (Hons). Leanne also holds a wide range of Coaching and Training Certificates, which focus on sport-specific training, athletic therapy and injury prevention.

Her undeniable love for music, performance and alternative fitness has led her to disciplines such as cheerleading, kickboxing, snowboarding, pole fitness and of course - dance! Leanne loves dance in all its forms (line dancing, anyone?…) and is always game to learn something new. Her favourite classes to teach (and take!) are Heels, Hip-Hop, and her all-time fave - Jazz Funk.

Leanne is a passionate teacher who blends technical instruction with biomechanics to create an empowering and accessible learning environment. She takes great pride in fostering fun, energetic and positive dance experiences and her 'class rules' are simple…

"GET SWEATY’ and ‘HAVE FUN’!

MEET
BRITTANIE

BRITTANIE JACKSON | INSTRUCTOR

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Brittanie Jackson began her journey with movement at the age of eight and has been dancing ever since.

With training in ballet, lyrical, contemporary, modern, jazz, and heels, Brittanie brings a well-rounded technical foundation and a deep appreciation for artistry into every class she teaches. Her approach to movement emphasizes both strength and emotional expression, encouraging dancers to connect to the story behind the steps.

Brittanie is deeply passionate about helping students build confidence and explore complex emotions through dance. She believes dance is one of the most powerful tools for self-expression—one that allows people to feel strong, creative, and fully themselves while still having fun. As an instructor, she is committed to meeting each dancer where they are, offering thoughtful guidance and encouragement as they work toward their personal goals.

Whether learning new techniques or diving into intricate choreography, Brittanie creates a supportive, motivating environment where dancers of all backgrounds and experience levels can grow, take risks, and shine. She can’t wait to share the joy of movement, creativity, and confidence with you on the dance floor at Studio XIV.