About Studio Élevé
At Studio Élevé, our name is our philosophy. Élevé is inspired by the dance term relevé meaning to rise, a foundational movement that represents strength, control and upward progression. That same idea is at the heart of everything we do.
Studio Élevé is dedicated to elevating both dance education and the dancers within our community. We believe in holding our students, and our standards, to a higher level, creating an environment where excellence is expected, growth is supported and teamwork is essential.
Our studio fosters resilience, confidence, and strong technical foundations. Through structured training and focus on proper technique, dancers are encouraged to push past limits, embrace challenge, and continuously improve.
We are proud to offer instruction from experienced and professional teachers who are passionate about developing the next generation of dancers.
At Studio Élevé is more than just dance - it’s about rising to your potential.
Our Team
Jillian Mckenzie - Studio Owner / Artistic Director
MCPA TTP, CDTA Licentiate, PBT, AAC1
Jillian is a highly trained and accomplished dance educator whose experience, credentials, and passion for excellence set her apart.
Her passion began at two years old; continuing to train competitively and earn many awards and achievements through her career. She went on to receive her post-secondary professional dance training through the Teacher Training Program at the Maritime Conservatory of Performing Arts (MCPA-TTP), building a strong foundation in both technique and teaching methodology. Jillian holds her Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA) Ballet Licentiate and and CDTA Jazz Associate and is also certified in Progressive Ballet Technique (PBT) and Acrobatic Arts (AAC1).
With over 13 years of teaching experience in Cape Breton, and a decade training dancers at several of Halifax’s top studios: Jillian offers a level of professional expertise that is unmatched. Her own training has taken her to Canada’s National Ballet School, Broadway Dance Center and Peridance Center.
As a choreographer, her work has earned top marks and awards at competitions reflecting her commitment and passion for her students success.
Jillian is known for her ability to challenge and inspire dancers. Her supportive, yet disciplined environment allows dancers to reach their highest potential in technique and performance.
At her studio dancers can expect focused, professional training designed to elevate not only their skills but their love for dance in a space where everyone is encouraged to be the best dancer they can be.
Teaching Faculty
Miss Ella MacKinnon Fontaine - Teacher and Choreographer
Ella holds a B.Ed. in Elementary Education and is certified in ASK (Active Smarter Kids). With over 13 years of dance experience and eight years of teaching and choreography experience, she is passionate about inspiring confidence, creativity, and a love of movement in every dancer.
A Cape Breton/Unama’ki dancer, teacher, and emerging choreographer, Dani has been dancing competitively since the age of 5 and has trained in a variety of styles. With 8 years of teaching experience, she is a certified Module One Acrobatic Arts instructor and has completed her Junior, Senior and Intermediate CDTA Ballet examinations.
Dani is passionate about creating safe, inclusive, and encouraging spaces where dancers can build confidence, grow their skills, and reach their full potential.
Miss Dani MacNeil - Teacher
Miss Alexandra Vokey- Teacher and Choreographer
Alexandra has been dancing for 17 years and teaching for the past 4 years. Her training has continued through opportunities such as Ross Creek’s Dance Summer Dance, as well as performing in local productions including the Savoy Theatre’s The Nutcracker and the Hat’s Chiaroscuro.
While continuing her dance training and teaching, Alexandra is also pursuing her Bachelor of Education. She brings a genuine passion for working with young dancers and creating fun, engaging classes where students can build confidence, develop their skills, and grow both as dancers and individuals.
