MWDA Staff

Meet the heartbeat of our dance floor, the one and only Mr. Adrian, affectionately known as Bboy Nerve! Hailing from the vibrant city of Calgary, Alberta, Bboy Nerve's journey into the world of breakdancing ignited in 2004 under the mentorship of his older cousin, the legendary Christopher "Crisis" Josue.

With the rhythm coursing through his veins, Bboy Nerve refined his craft under the tutelage of his cousin, Anthony "Rein" Rebalbos, and the illustrious members of the Original Rudes Crew.

The year 2007 marked his dance destiny when he joined the electrifying Floorwookies Crew, and in 2017, he became an integral part of the renowned Next of Kin crew, solidifying their status as household names in Calgary's breaking scene.

As a dynamic force in the dance community, his dance prowess has graced prestigious stages, including World Skills and the Calgary Stampede, leaving audiences spellbound with his captivating performances.

A lifelong learner, Mr. Adrian has absorbed wisdom from the best, participating in workshops led by breakdance legends such as Ken Swift, Flea Rock, Kid David, Luigi, Lil John, and more. Today, his dance persona is a symphony of originality, musicality, and distinctive character that commands attention on the dance floor.

Renowned for his impeccable top rocks, intricate footwork, and a balanced style that encompasses all four facets of breaking, Bboy Nerve stands as a beacon of inspiration in Alberta's dance scene. Undeterred by his achievements, he continues to evolve as a dancer, relentlessly pushing his boundaries and those of his crew, determined to elevate their talents to unprecedented heights.
Join us in celebrating the dynamic spirit of Mr.Adrian a.k.a. Bboy Nerve, as he continues to leave an indelible mark on the dance landscape, one electrifying move at a time!

Step into the dynamic world of dance with the unparalleled Ms. Barbara, a dance luminary with over four decades of unwavering dedication and expertise. A true maestro in the realms of performance, choreography, and education, Ms. Barbara’s journey is a testament to her passion for the art form.

A proud graduate of Grant MacEwan University, Ms. Barbara didn't just stop at personal achievements—she collaborated to design a groundbreaking children's dual-stream dance program, seamlessly blending the elegance of modern dance with the timeless grace of ballet. Not stopping there, she also played a pivotal role in crafting a Dance Teacher Training program, shaping the future of dance education.

Venturing into the professional dance arena, Ms. Barbara graced the stage with the Brian Webb Dance Company and the Formolo Dance Association for World Expo '86, leaving an indelible mark with her captivating performances. Co-directing the innovative Thatside Independance, Barbara demonstrated her prowess not just as a dancer but as a visionary shaping the dance landscape.

From 1982 to 2012, Ms. Barbara held the prestigious position of Head of Modern Dance in the Professional Division at the School of Alberta Ballet, influencing generations of dancers with her expertise and passion. Her impact extends beyond the studio walls, as she has been a guiding force in the Calgary Board of Education, teaching in Senior and Junior High Schools, Elementary Schools, and Private Schools since the 80s.

Known affectionately as "Ms. Barbara," she brings her infectious energy to students of all ages, from the young to the young at heart. As the Head of Modern Dance at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy and the co-founder of Dit.Co, Ms. Barbara continues to inspire and motivate her students, fostering a creative environment where learning is a reciprocal journey. Join us in celebrating the vibrant spirit and profound influence of Ms. Barbara Lisek, a true icon in the world of dance education!

Embark on the extraordinary journey of Ms. Bella, a Calgary native whose dance odyssey began at the tender age of three right here at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy. With grace and dedication, she has not only become a shining star within our academy but has also ventured beyond, leaving a trail of accomplishments that showcase her unparalleled passion for dance.

Ms. Bella's dance repertoire includes the completion of the Royal Academy of Dance Graded and Vocational exams, reaching the pinnacle of achievement with Advanced 2. Proudly adorned with the title of a member of MWDA’s Professional Division Program, her talents have graced iconic stages across the globe. From the enchanting Disney Park stages in Los Angeles and Florida to the glamorous launch of MAC Cosmetics Nutcracker Christmas Collection, Ms. Bella has danced her way into unforgettable experiences.

Her journey at McDonald Wilson extends beyond the spotlight, as she actively participated in the Teacher’s Aspirant Program for four years. In 2014, she made history as the inaugural recipient of the "Most Outstanding Teacher’s Aspirant Award," a testament to her commitment and leadership. The accolades continued in 2016 when she was honoured with the first-ever "Shannon Bachynski Purple Heart Award."

Ms. Bella's commitment to dance education is not only seen in her remarkable achievements on stage but also in her academic pursuits. Holding a Registered Teacher's Status with the Royal Academy of Dance and armed with a Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies, she has honed her skills to impart the art of dance with precision and passion. In 2022, she proudly graduated from The University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Education, setting her sights on a fulfilling career as a Kindergarten Teacher with CCSD.

As Ms. Bella embarks on her 22nd year at McDonald Wilson Dance Academy, her infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication continue to inspire. With dreams of kindling the joy of dance in others, she stands as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the transformative power of dance education. Join us in celebrating Ms. Bella's remarkable journey and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead!

Step into the enchanting world of dance with Ms. Cara, a seasoned dancer and devoted instructor who has been an integral part of the McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy for nearly 25 years. With a dance journey spanning ballet, modern, jazz, lyrical, and tap, Ms. Cara's passion for movement and expression knows no bounds.

From the tender age of seven, Ms. Cara a dream—to become a dance teacher—and she has turned that childhood aspiration into a reality. Her dedication to the art of dance led her to the Teachers Aspirant program, where she honed her skills for over five years, laying the foundation for her journey as an inspiring dance educator.

In 2017, Ms. Cara showcased her versatility as both a dancer and choreographer in the dit.co season, leaving an indelible mark with her creative contributions. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her achievements, having completed graded RAD examinations up to and including Ballet 8 and vocational examinations up to and including Advanced 2.

Ms. Cara's passion extends beyond the studio, as she holds a Bachelor of Biology with a major in Kinesiology. Armed with a deep understanding of the human body, she brings a unique perspective to dance instruction—guiding students to move with precision, preventing injuries, and unraveling the "why" behind each movement and exercise.

Beyond the dance realm, Ms. Cara wears the hat of a Family and Child Developmental Aide, working one-on-one with children with special needs. As a devoted mom to her almost three-year-old son and a cherished member of her family, Cara finds joy in balancing her roles. Her infectious love for dance is not only a professional endeavor but a personal mission to foster success and share the joy of dance with her students.

Join us in celebrating Ms. Cara’s remarkable journey, where her expertise, creativity, and passion converge to create a dance experience that transcends the ordinary. As she continues to inspire the next generation, Ms. Cara is a shining example of the transformative power of dance in both artistry and education.

Dive into the vibrant world of dance with the incredible Christina Robertson, a Calgary native whose dance journey began at the tender age of 5. Initially enrolled in ballet by her mom to "get it out of her system," little did they know that it would become a lifelong passion and an integral part of her identity.

Ms. Christina's dance odyssey unfolded at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy, where she not only embraced the enchanting world of ballet but also conquered RAD ballet exams up to and including the challenging Advanced 2 level. Her commitment to the art extended to Jazz and Tap, where she successfully tackled ADAPT exams, showcasing her versatility and dedication.

While pursuing a Bachelor’s in Communications and Culture with a Math Minor and a diploma in Architectural Technologies, Ms. Christina continued to dance, gracing stages with the University of Calgary dance program, Dance Montage, Jeunesse Classique Ballet, Studio Bollywood iDance, En Corps Dance Collective, and various esteemed choreographers from across North America. Her passion also led her to perform with the Dancers in Training Company and explore the rich dance culture of Cuba, studying salsa dancing and traditional Afro-Cuban dancing and drumming.

A force to be reckoned with, Ms. Christina has not only been an inaugural company member with Trip the Light Dance and Performance Company (now Luminaire) but has also played a vital role in MWDA's Professional Division Program (PDP) trips throughout the US, contributing as a performer, choreographer, and chaperone.

A recipient of numerous awards, including "Most Improved Dancer," "Purple Heart," "Dancing Heart," "Most Dedicated," the 2008 Bree Eriksen Memorial Award in Dance, and the 2018 Heather Simpson Memorial Award, Ms. Christina's journey is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent.
Beyond the dance floor, Ms. Christina is the Vice President of Operations for a local home builder/land developer, bringing her organizational prowess to the professional realm. As a registered teacher through the RAD and a graduate of the 2-year CBTS program, she continues to expand her knowledge through courses in Progressing Ballet Technique, ensuring a holistic approach to dance education.

Incredibly, Ms. Christina is celebrating her 30th year dancing at MWDA, a milestone marked by an insatiable passion that keeps her dancing every possible hour. With eyes peeled for her at the studio, join us in celebrating the remarkable journey of Ms. Christina, a true embodiment of the magic and dedication that dance brings to our lives!

Embark on a journey through the enchanting world of dance with Ms. Jackie, a seasoned dancer and instructor whose passion for ballet has shaped a remarkable career. Born in the vibrant city of Montreal, Ms. Jackie's dance story began under the tutelage of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens.

At the tender age of 13, Ms. Jackie made her way to Toronto, graduating from the prestigious National Ballet School in 1984—a pivotal moment that marked the commencement of her professional journey. She danced into the spotlight with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, showcasing her grace and talent. Her dance voyage also led her to Alberta Ballet and Calgary City Ballet, where she left an indelible mark performing iconic ballets such as The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Coppelia.

Beyond the stage, Ms. Jackie's commitment to dance education flourished during her tenure with the School of Alberta Ballet, where she shared her expertise for over 10 years. Now, as an integral part of McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy, Ms. Jackie imparts her knowledge, passion, and love for dance to eager learners.


But that's not all—Ms. Jackie extends her dance influence beyond the studio. She also dedicates her time to shaping the future of dance with The Young Canadiens, contributing to the growth and development of aspiring dancers. In addition to her roles in the dance world, Ms. Jackie works part-time at Fitness Table Calgary, showcasing her commitment to overall well-being.

Join us in celebrating Ms. Jackie's rich dance legacy and her continued dedication to nurturing the art form. With grace, expertise, and a passion that knows no bounds, Ms. Jackie is a guiding force at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy, inspiring the next generation of dancers to reach new heights.

Get ready to be swept away by the dynamic and multi-talented Mr. Mark Eriksen, a true force in Calgary's dance and arts scene. Born and bred in Calgary, Mark is not just a dancer—he's a choreographer, director, performance educator, and producer, carving his path as an arts industry luminary.

With a passport brimming with stamps from across the globe, Mark has garnered world-class experience in dance education, performance arts, and live spectacle presentation. Currently serving as the creative director and dance educator at McDonald Wilson Dance Academy, Mark is also the mastermind behind the iconic Grandstand Show at the Calgary Stampede, showcasing his prowess in producing internationally renowned performances.

Mark thrives on bringing people together, creating a positive, effective, and supportive team environment while reveling in the camaraderie of the McDonald Wilson family. Armed with a diverse resume that spans leadership, creativity, performance, and production, he is committed to fostering opportunities in youth dance education, performance, and life experiences.

His credits and accolades read like a who's who in the dance and performance world. From the American National Tap Ensemble to Princess Cruise lines, from managing and co-artistic directing the Young Canadians School of Performing Arts to being the Assistant Director of the Centennial of Alberta performance for HRH Queen of England, Mark's impact is felt on a global scale. He also co-directed the performance for Will and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and played a key role in the World Skills competition.

Beyond his extensive dance and performance education, Mark holds a Business Administration Diploma. A proud member of the International Tap Association, a Resident Artist for the Calgary Board of Education, and the current President of the Bree Eriksen Memorial Dance Award Society, Mark is deeply rooted in the dance community, annually presenting dance awards in Canada.

As if that weren't enough, Mark has recently joined forces with the International Dance Council, an affiliate of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). With a zest for life and an unwavering commitment to the arts, Mark Eriksen is a true maestro, leaving an indelible mark on Calgary's cultural landscape.

Get ready to be captivated by the incredible journey of Ms. Megan, a dance dynamo who has been an integral part of the McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy since the age of 5. With a passion for dance that has only intensified through the years, Ms. Megan has not only embraced the enchanting world of ballet but has conquered all RAD exams up to and including the challenging Advanced 2 level.

Ms. Megan's dance journey at McDonald Wilson Dance Academy has been nothing short of spectacular. From the youngest age, she has revelled in the diverse classes offered, seizing every opportunity to expand her skills and artistic horizons. As a proud member of the Professional Division Program, Ms. Megan has graced iconic stages, from the magical Zoo Lights at the Calgary Zoo to the festive Banff Christmas Parade. Her dedication also took her on two thrilling trips to Los Angeles, where she performed in Disneyland and immersed herself in enriching workshops.

Since 2018, Ms. Megan has donned the instructor's hat, sharing her passion for ballet and lyrical dance with students across various age groups. Her commitment to dance doesn't stop within the studio walls—Ms. Megan has lent her talents to the Ballet Bodies Collective in Calgary and actively participates in the vibrant dance community that surrounds her.

But that's not all—Ms. Megan is not just a dance virtuoso. With a Bachelor of Science in Construction Project Management, she juggles the world of dance with a role as a Coordinator on Commercial Construction Projects, showcasing her versatility and organizational prowess.

Ms. Megan's enthusiasm knows no bounds, and she can't wait to welcome both new and familiar faces this year. As she continues to inspire and share her love for dance, Megan Muckle is a true embodiment of the synergy between passion, dedication, and the joy that dance brings to life.

Enter the world of dance with the extraordinary Ms. Shana, a luminary with over 40 years of captivating experience in the dance industry. Her diverse expertise spans Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Hip-Hop, Flamenco, African, and Yoga, showcasing a profound passion for movement and artistic expression.

As a trailblazer in dance education, Ms. Shana has not only completed Royal Academy of Dance examinations up to and including Advanced 2 but has also conquered the Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers (ADAPT) Jazz Exams. A full member of the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), she brings two decades of teaching experience to her role at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy.

Ms. Shana's journey is marked by a commitment to continuous learning and international exploration. She has studied across North America at esteemed institutions such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Alberta Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, Steps on Broadway (New York), and Harbour Dance Centre (Vancouver). Her dedication led her to New York to specialize in pointe shoe fittings, and in 2009, she embarked on a transformative journey to Matanzas and Havana, Cuba, immersing herself in intensive workshops encompassing afro-Cuban, salsa, folkloric, and rumba styles.

Awards and accolades have adorned Ms. Shana's illustrious career, including recognition as "Most Dedicated Dancer," "Best Performer," and the esteemed "Dancing Heart" award at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy. Beyond dance, she is qualified in the Radiant Child Yoga program and has completed the Little Warriors Prevention Workshop.

In the summer of 2016, Ms. Shana achieved certification in all three levels of the Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) training program under the tutelage of Marie Walton-Mahon, the founder and artistic director of PBT. She also attended the RAD's first national teacher conference, "En Avant," in 2016.

A pinnacle in Ms. Shana's remarkable career occurred in 2016 when the Walt Disney Company honoured her as one of the 40 foremost Arts Educators globally, extending an invitation for her participation in an Arts Educators Summit.

Aside from her extensive dance and teacher training, Ms. Shana holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Calgary, majoring in English. Currently, she holds the esteemed positions of Owner and Principal at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy, where she also imparts her wisdom as an instructor. Ms. Shana's journey is a testament to the transformative power of dance, education, and a lifelong dedication to artistic excellence.

Bio coming soon!

Meet the radiant Ms. Sophia, a Calgary native whose dance journey at McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy began at the tender age of 5. A true dance prodigy, Ms. Sophia's story weaves seamlessly through the fabric of MWDA, making her mark not just as a dancer but as an inspiring instructor.

Having been a part of the Teacher’s Aspirant program for two years, Ms. Sophia has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a dance educator, contributing her passion and expertise for the past six dance seasons. Her commitment and excellence were duly recognized in 2016 when she received MWDA’s prestigious "Best Performer” award, followed by the coveted “Dancing Heart” award in 2018.

Ms. Sophia's dance journey extends beyond the studio walls, as she has been an integral part of McDonald Wilson’s Professional Division Program. The privilege of gracing the stages of Disneyland and DisneyWorld, performing at Zoolights, and participating in the Mayor’s Lunch are just a few highlights of her illustrious dance career. Her involvement in multiple Dancers In Training productions showcases her versatility and dedication.

In her years at MWDA, Ms. Sophia has not only danced her way through all graded and vocational ballet examinations, including the challenging Advanced 2 exam, but she has also successfully conquered it twice—a true testament to her dedication and skill.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Calgary under her belt, Ms. Sophia has set her sights on further academic pursuits at St. Mary’s University, where she is currently pursuing a Secondary Education degree. Her dream is to be a school teacher while continuing to share her love for dance. Sophia aspires to be a role model for dance students at MWDA, fostering a sense of family and belonging in every class she teaches.

For Ms. Sophia, MWDA isn't just a dance studio—it's a second home. She hopes that her students feel the warmth, camaraderie, and sense of belonging that she has cherished throughout her journey. With boundless passion for teaching and dancing, Ms. Sophia Secreto is an inspiration and a guiding light for all who cross her path.