Cristina Stavrou - Artistic Director . . .

Cristina is the founder and artistic director of Dance Fever and the heart behind the studio’s vision. For the past 14 years, she has led the DF community with passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication, creating an environment that is inclusive, empowering, and truly feels like home. Her commitment to each dancer’s physical, emotional, and creative growth has shaped a generation of confident, capable, and passionate young artists.

Cristina’s love for dance began at just three years old and has evolved into a lifelong career spanning over 19 years of teaching, choreographing, and mentoring dancers. She is classically and competitively trained in all major styles — including jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre — and has studied under some of the industry's top educators. During her own competitive career, Cristina was awarded numerous overall titles, scholarships, and special awards at both national and international levels. Today, her students carry on that legacy, receiving high praise for their technical excellence and captivating performances. Her choreography has earned consistent accolades across Canada and the U.S., celebrated for its originality, musicality, and age-appropriate storytelling.

In addition to her dance expertise, Cristina holds a diploma in Child and Youth Work, which has deeply informed her nurturing, developmentally focused approach to teaching. She has led dance programs across York Region and continues to inspire students to pursue their dreams — many of whom have gone on to attend prestigious arts schools, book television and commercial work, and perform in professional productions and festivals.

A lifelong learner, Cristina remains committed to her own professional growth, regularly attending workshops, teacher training intensives, and masterclasses to bring the most current and high-quality instruction to her students. For Cristina, the greatest reward lies not just in medals or trophies, but in watching her dancers grow in confidence, resilience, and self-expression — both on and off the stage.

Cassandra Palazzolo - Assistant Director . . .

Cassandra is the Assistant Director of Dance Fever and has been a proud member of the DF family since its very first season. She began dancing at the age of four and quickly developed a passion for performance and technique, training extensively in jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre.

Throughout her childhood and teen years, Cassandra performed in numerous showcases, competitions, and community events, while completing annual ballet examinations and demonstrating a longstanding commitment to growth and excellence in dance. Her drive and talent earned her a place at St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, where she graduated with Honours from the Regional Arts Program for Dance in 2013. She has continued to stay actively involved in the dance community as a teacher, mentor, and leader.

Outside the studio, Cassandra is equally passionate about supporting youth and families. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care with Distinction from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), with a minor in Psychology. She went on to earn an Ontario College Graduate Certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science, followed by a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. Cassandra is now a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario.

Cassandra is deeply committed to creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment for dancers of all ages and abilities. In addition to teaching, she takes great pride in her behind-the-scenes administrative work and plays an instrumental role in the day-to-day operations of the studio. Having grown alongside Dance Fever from its earliest days, she is incredibly proud of how far it has come and looks forward to continuing to help shape its future.

Nancy Pezzo . . .

Nancy is a highly respected dance educator, choreographer, and performer with years of professional experience. A graduate of Ryerson Theatre School, she has extensive training in classical ballet, contemporary, modern, jazz, and pedagogy. Her creative talent has led to choreographic work with major brands like Hudson’s Bay, Lancôme, Toyota, and TD Bank, as well as commercial and television appearances.

She has taught ballet, lyrical, and jazz across North America, including faculty positions at Joy of Dance Centre and Teacher’s College. Nancy is a Registered Teacher, Mentor, and Practical Teaching Supervisor with the Royal Academy of Dance, and holds certifications with ISTD, IDTA, PAA, and IADA. She is also a sought-after adjudicator and has judged competitions across North America, including the World Championships of Performing Arts in Hollywood.

Nancy’s passion for dance education continues through her work with industry publications, film festivals, and workshops. Known for her technical precision and creative vision, she is proud to share her experience and inspire the next generation of dancers.

Taylor Mezzatesta . . .

Taylor’s dance journey began at just five years old and quickly evolved into a deep passion and commitment to the art form. By the age of six, she was already competing, and over the years developed into a well-rounded and highly trained dancer, with extensive experience in jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre. Taylor completed annual Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet examinations and is a proud graduate of the Regional Arts Program for Dance at St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, where she further honed her technique and artistry.

As a standout member of Dance Fever’s competitive team, Taylor was widely recognized for her expressive, emotionally driven performances and strong stage presence. She earned numerous overall awards and special distinctions throughout her competitive career, including Luv2Dance Competition’s “Light Up the Stage” and “Luv2Dance and It Shows” awards, which celebrated her captivating performance quality and passion for dance.

Now an inspiring and dedicated teacher, Taylor is known for her vibrant energy, creative choreography, and genuine mentorship. Her ability to connect with dancers of all levels makes her a beloved figure among students and parents alike. She is a graduate of the Business Management program at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Alexia Recchiuti . . .

Lexi has been an integral part of the Dance Fever family since 2015. Over the years, she has trained extensively in jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre, developing into a highly technical and versatile performer. As a standout member of our competitive team, Lexi consistently impressed judges with her precision, artistry, and stage presence, earning numerous overall awards, scholarships, and special recognition titles throughout her competitive career. Her dedication to classical technique is further reflected in her successful completion of annual Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet examinations.

Lexi now brings that same level of passion and excellence to her teaching. Known for her thoughtful instruction, patience, and warm approach, she is deeply respected by both students and parents. Her ability to create a positive, structured, and encouraging environment allows dancers to thrive both technically and creatively.

Outside the studio, Lexi is pursuing a degree in Linguistics at York University, with plans to become a speech-language pathologist. She is also a certified Pilates instructor and enjoys sharing her knowledge and training with her students.

Jordana David . . .

Jordana has been part of the Dance Fever family since day one, proudly standing among the studio’s very first students. With years of dedicated training across styles such as jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre, she developed into a polished and versatile performer. As a standout member of the competitive team, Jordana earned numerous overall awards and scholarships for both solo and group routines, consistently recognized for her strong technique, artistry, and commanding stage presence. She also completed annual Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet examinations, further grounding her in classical training and discipline.

Jordana is now thrilled to bring her experience full circle as a teacher with the DF faculty. She is known for her warm energy, engaging teaching style, and ability to challenge dancers in a way that fosters both growth and confidence. Her classes blend fun with technical development, and she takes pride in helping dancers reach their full potential.

Jordana earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from York University and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology, with plans to become a psychotherapist. She combines her passion for supporting others with a deep interest in mental health and well-being.

Natalie Pileggi . . .

Natalie has been immersed in the world of dance since the age of four. By eight, she was already competing and went on to spend over a decade training intensively in a wide range of styles, including jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre. As a competitive dancer, Natalie was recognized for both her technical ability and expressive performance quality, earning numerous awards and scholarships throughout her career. Notably, she received Dance Canada’s prestigious “Destined to Succeed” award in 2019, a testament to her talent, dedication, and potential in the dance community. She also completed annual Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations, further strengthening her foundation in classical ballet technique.

A proud graduate of St. Elizabeth Catholic High School’s Regional Arts Program for Dance, Natalie went on to earn a degree in Early Childhood Studies from the University of Guelph-Humber, followed by a Bachelor of Education. She now works as a classroom teacher, making a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners.

Today, Natalie plays a vital role on the Dance Fever team as part of our dedicated office staff. She is the friendly, familiar face who warmly welcomes dancers and families at the door and helps keep our studio running smoothly. Her years of dance experience and love for working with children make her an invaluable member of the DF community.

Makayla Alulio . . .

Makayla has been part of the Dance Fever family since its very first season in 2013. As a founding member of the studio’s inaugural competitive team, she trained extensively in jazz, tap, ballet, acro, hip hop, contemporary, lyrical, and musical theatre. Throughout her dance journey, Makayla completed annual Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) examinations and performed in countless routines and competitions. Along the way, she formed lasting bonds with her teammates that continue to this day.

Now a valued member of the Dance Fever staff, Makayla continues to inspire the next generation. She is deeply admired by younger dancers who look up to her as a role model and mentor. Whether she’s supporting behind the scenes or greeting families at the front desk, Makayla’s warm, approachable presence makes her an integral part of the studio’s day-to-day life.

She is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology at York University and is also building a creative career as a DJ, performing under the name DJ Mak-E and growing her presence in the music scene. Her lifelong love of dance continues to shine in everything she does.