WINTER INTENSIVE APPRENTICES
JAVONTE’ MARQUE
JaVonte’ Marquez trained in dance for 10 years and earned his Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts at the University of Arizona with the class of 2020. JaVonte’ started his journey in entertainment at 14 years old in Nashville, TN and trained in Jazz, Modern, Ballet, Acro, Musical Theatre, Contemporary, Choreography, and Improvisational Dance. During his training he traveled to different communities and cultures, (one of those places being Barcelona, Spain), to gain a wide perspective of his place in the arts and in the world. With all of the skills and tools that he acquired throughout his training, JaVonte’ received acceptance, as well as scholarships, to renowned programs like Joffrey Ballet, ABT, Point Park University, and University of Arizona. Even though JaVonte’ had an extensive training in dance education and concert style dance, he also gained experience on the commercial side of the entertainment industry as well. You can see young JaVonte’ on the country music scene dancing for artists like Keith Urban and Britt Nicole and on America’s hit TV show ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ performing a number titled ‘Brand New’ choreographed by Emmy Award winning choreographer Mandy Moore. Recently JaVonte’ has been honored to; perform with The Weeknd at the Super Bowl LV Pepsi Halftime Show, work with Debbie Allen and Chester Whitmore on a Tyler Perry film, dance in Dolly Parton’s ‘A Magic Mountain Christmas’ film, and choreograph as well as perform in the Nashville Opera’s production of ‘Pagliacci’. JaVonte’ Marquez currently teaches Jazz Technique, Tumbling, Ballet, Improvisation, Cardio/Conditioning and is a Choreography Assistant at Milele Academy. Even though he is fulfilled with teaching, JaVonte’ simultaneous receives bookings through FreshTalent Group for various jobs that include choreography and performance so that he continues to follow his dreams of being a professional entertainer. JaVonte’ recently finished up a tour in Japan of the original Japanese musical ‘ENDLESS SHOCK’ and is now preparing for his chapter in choreography and movement with The Ripple Effect.
Anna Kriofske
Anna Kriofske is a dancer located in North Carolina, where she grew up before moving to Northampton, Massachusetts to attend the CLI Conservatory in 2022. At CLI, Anna trained in various styles of dance under director Teddy Forance, as well as adjunct teachers and choreographers. In the summer’s of 2021, 2022, and 2024 she attended Justin Giles’ SoulEscape summer events, where she trained under Justin and the company in Dallas, TX. In September of 2023, Anna moved to NYC where she lived for a year, continuing to explore her journey with dance while gaining new perspectives. Currently, she’s living in North Carolina again where she teaches and choreographs in Winston-Salem. Anna is grateful to have had so many opportunities to connect with artists, share the love and joy of movement, and continue growing each day.
Rachell Peace
Rachell Peace is a Licensed Massage Therapist and energy practitioner based in Nashville, Tn.
After attending Nashville School of the Arts for film and performing arts, she continued her dance career with local artists and Found Movement Group.
In 2018 she began her career in massage and bodywork. As she learned more, she fell into deeper understanding of the human body from a wholistic point of view. Her relationship with movement is intuitive, somatic and deeply spiritual. She draws inspiration from the human condition, emotions, relationships and the cycles of nature. As a creator, she inspires others to look within, drawing parallels between the internal and external connections we experience in life as fully embodied humans.
Maya Paletta
Maya Paletta is a multi-hyphenate performing artist from the Pacific Northwest currently working in the Chicago area. Most recently she has made her Chicago theatre debut in Dames at Sea (Ensemble, u/s Ruby) with Citadel Theatre. This fall she choreographed for Danceworks Milwaukee's Get It Out There! Showcase debuting her piece Tic Tic Tic. Paletta was recently a Trainee with Water Street Dance MKE under the direction of Morgan Williams. There she had works set on her by Kate Alava and Shanira Delgado. Earlier this year Paletta graduated with her BFA in Acting, minor in Dance from Northern Illinois University. Favorite NIU credits include She Kills Monsters (Agnes Evans), Big Love (Olympia), and Life is a Dream (Movement Director). She has done intensive training with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and Deeply Rooted Dance Theatre. Thanks to her family, friends, and all who support the arts! Instagram @mayapapaya5678 or visit www.Mayapaletta.com
Gage Wayne
With over a decade of experience in the dance industry, Gage Wayne has established himself as a versatile performer and passionate educator. Specializing in jazz funk and hip hop, Gage has worked across various styles, including contemporary and musical theatre. His impressive resume includes notable performances in The Mean Girls Musical Movie, Netflix’s A Week Away, and commercials for brands like VROOM and Panda Express. Gage has also made appearances on American Horror Story , HULU, The Greatest Showman Live, and shared the stage with country icon Dolly Parton at the Academy of Country Music Awards.
As a dedicated instructor, Gage has taught dancers of all ages at both studio and convention levels. He believes in fostering a supportive environment where each dancer can discover their unique voice and hone their craft. His teaching philosophy centers on the idea that everyone has something special to contribute to the industry, and he encourages his students to let their individuality shine.
Gage holds a bachelor’s degree in entertainment business and is a certified life and career coach. He leverages this knowledge in his mentorship program, stayenGAGEd, where he equips aspiring dancers with the tools they need to navigate their careers with confidence and professionalism.