Ian J. DaSilva is a Brooklyn native who began his training in the arts at the Bernice Johnson’s Cultural Arts Center and has received training from other organizations including Ballet Tech and Dance Theater of Harlem. Ian is a 2007 YoungARTS winner in dance, and has performed nationally and internationally. He has presented choreography at venues including, Manhattan Movement Arts Center, Hofstra University, Bryant Park, Franks Sinatra School of the Arts, Alvin Ailey CitiGroup Theater, and the Kings Theater.
Ian received an undergraduate degree in Music Technology from Stevens Institute of Technology, and later earned his Masters Degree from New York University in Dance Education. He serves on the dance faculty at Brooklyn High School of the Arts.
Sashawna has variety of technical training from classical ballet, tap, and jazz, to modern styles in Graham and Horton technique, hip-hop, and Afro-Caribbean styles. With a concentration in ballet studying at The Academy of Ballet Florida and graduating from Dreyfoos School of the Arts in West Palm Beach, FL and performing for The Center for Contemporary Dance in Winter Park, FL.
Sapphira Martin's teaching career has spanned over 15 years and is marked by a dedication to nurturing young talent and instilling a profound love for dance. Her journey as an educator commenced at It's Dance in Queens, NY, where she honed her teaching skills and had a transformative impact on countless aspiring dancers. Additionally, Sapphira has served as a dance coach and educator at Medgar Evers Preparatory H.S(Brooklyn) and Marymount Preparatory School(Upper West Side) in NYC. She is a proud HBCU graduate of Johnson C. Smith University where she learned and developed techniques in majorette-style dance. Upon graduation, she has gained an accomplished career in media. In addition to her passion for educating young dancers, she is currently a Partnerships Development Manager for ESSENCE Ventures.