Soo
Owner | Artistic Director
Soo started her formal training at the renowned private institute, SUNHWA Art School in Korea, which is known for accepting high achieving students that pass a rigorous entrance exam. Soo was taught and trained intensively on the principles of the Russian Vaganova methodology. As a young dancer, Soo was selected by the Universal Ballet Company for the role of ‘Clara’ in The Nutcracker and traveled with the company to perform around Korea. In 1994, Soo came to the U.S. and had the privilege of being trained by Yelena Vinogradova, the Artistic Director at the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington D.C., where she continued her training. Soo studied at KNUA, Korea National University of Art, where she majored in dance choreography. She trained in ballet, modern, contemporary, and Korean dance. She expanded her ballet career as one of the KNUA ballet members and performed with them.
Upon arriving in the U.S. in 2002, Soo entered the University of California, Berkeley, and received her B.A. in Environmental Economics and Dance. Soo’s post university experience included performing at the SF Ethnic Dance Festival and teaching Korean dance at Claire Lilienthal School in SF. Her passion for ballet and teaching inspired her to establish her own dance studio, SOO DANCE COMPANY & ACADEMY, in 2010.
In 2015 the studio relocated to a larger, more modern 5,000 square ft custom dance facility located in Blackhawk Plaza in Danville. In 2018, Soo Dance Academy opened a second location in San Ramon.
SDCA has presented full length productions of The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, Giselle, Coppelia, and Don Quixote. In just a few short years, SDCA has earned a strong reputation in the Bay Area and is proud to have placed many of its students into the renowned Kirov Academy, Stanford University, and NYU: Tisch School of the Arts.
She also became a certified Progressing Ballet Technique in Junior, Senior, and Advanced programs instructor in 2018 and ABT- certificated instructor in 2021.
The SDCA Competition team consistently places in the Overall Finalist Top 3 at The International Dance Challenge, Spotlight National Dance Cup, EnerGy National, StarBound National, California Dance Classics, Showbiz, 24 Seven/Nuvo , Hollywood Vibe competition and convention, Rainbow, Revolution Talent National and YAGP competitions.
Soo has achieved remarkable success at the Spotlight National Dance Cup, receiving the prestigious “Director Award” consecutively in 2019 and 2020. In 2024,2025,2026, Soo’s outstanding performance and dedication were further recognized with the “Triple Crown & Studio Achievement” award. These accolades reflect Soo’s exceptional talent and commitment to excellence in dance. Soo Dance Academy received the 2025 ADCC Studio of Excellence Award and the 2025 Excellence Studio Award at Hollywood Vibe
Isabella Marines
Competition Director
Ms. Isa is a California native who performed in the dance industry with studio and theatre companies. They trained in various styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, musical theatre, and acrobatics. Beginning when they were 12, they closely studied acrobatic safety and techniques and were mentored by Acrobatic Arts professionals. Since they were 16, Isa has choreographed in California and the Maryland-Virginia area for theatre productions, recreational dance, and competition dance routines. In their time choreographing for competition, multiple pieces have placed in the Top 10, Top 5, and Top 3 at regional and national competitions.
Mimi Rana
Associate Director
Mimi’s love of dance started at the young age of 5. She has since 15 years studio trained in the disciplines of Jazz, Tap, Modern, Lyrical, Ballet, Acro, and Hip Hop built her foundation in dance at Joanne Brown Dance Studio and Yoko’s Dance Academy. Mimi began competing at the age of ten has won numerous National Dance awards, invitations to Scholarship Workshop: Alvin Alley and Joffrey Ballet and invited to several Dance Competition as being assistant choreography as a young age. As an adult, Mimi continued dancing in college with the Dance Department at Ohlone College during that time she was traveling to Los Angeles and had trained in Intensive Dance Program: AMADA for three years while in college. After graduating from Ohlone College with an Associate Degree in Marketing and Dance. Also graduated California State University, East Bay, with a Major Early Childhood Development Minor in Dance. Teaching and working in the child care industry (Teacher, Coordinator, and Preschool Director) for 10 years between teaching dance classes at dance studios in the south bay and east bay starting 2008 as a side passion. Her professional credits includes Los Angeles Clippers (2008), Semi pro Dance Team Bombshells Girls and Liberty Belles, Half time Dance Team with Santa Cruz Warriors, and Mission in the Mix w in South Bay area for 7 years.. Has experience and taught and created Preschools Dance Program almost 10 years around the Bay Area, and young adults for 8 years. Mimi is currently coaching Los Gatos Dance Team and also freelancing with other pre-professional dance teams in the Bay Area.
Elena
Ballet Instructor
Elena’s love for dancing started at age of 9 when she started studying ballet, character dance and jazz. By the age of 18 she graduated from one of the most prestigious dance academies in the world (Moscow Bolshoi Ballet Academy). After her graduation she moved to the USA with her family and continued her career as a world class adagio performer, where her professional edge required her to master several disciplines simultaneously: dance, acrobatics and the art of illusion. She appeared on television shows, competitions and performed in more than 40 countries.
Elena is very excited to share her knowledge and love for the art of dancing with the next generation of dancers. Elena and her husband Pasha are professional entertainers called Pasha and Aliona. Their greatest achievement, AGT(America Got Talent) had broadcasted nation-wide of their amazing choreography.
LaTonya
Hiphop/Jazz Instructor
LaTonya has worked with several famous directors and choreographers to pursue her passion. She has directed and choreographed many theatrical performances for some of the Bay Area’s popular theatrical companies. Her work includes: Taming of the Shrew; Romeo & Juliet; The Wiz; Grease; Pippin; Oedipus; Cinderella; Macbeth; Dreamgirls; Blackballin; Once Upon This Island, Chicago (2011 SFBATCC and Shellie Awards nominee for Best Choreographer); West Side Story; Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat; Hairspray; Life Could be a Dream; 9 to 5; Rent; Hedwig and the Angry Inch; The Robber Bridegroom; Night of January 16th; A Trip Down Broadway (2016 Shellie Award winner for Best Choreographer); Aladdin; A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum; Arsenic and Old Lace; Urinetown, the Musical; Rumors; You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown; Moon Over Buffalo (2018 Shellie Award winner for Best Director); The 1940s Radio Hour; Lend Me a Tenor; Once Upon a Mattress; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee; Zombie Prom; The Savannah Sipping Society, School House Rock, jr., Young Frankenstein, Freaky Friday, A Raisin in the Sun, Fences, Dreamgirls, Forbidden Broadway’s Greatest Hits and Annie Jr., The Mousetrap, Working, the Musical, Lion King Jr. and Frozen Jr. She was a recipient of the 2018 Women of Distinction Award from the Soroptimist International Organization. In 2022, she was inducted into the Pittsburg California Entertainment and Arts Hall of Fame and for BroadwayWorld San Francisco 2022 Regional Awards she won Best Director of a Play Fences and Best Play Fences.
Skye Montante
Hiphop/Contemporary Instructor
Skye Montante began studying ballet at Petaluma School of Ballet at the age of 8. In later years as they were introduced to other forms of dance, they found their true calling with Hip-Hop and Contemporary. They continued studying dance through college and graduated from San Francisco State University with a BA in Dance. While in school in San Francisco, they studied abroad in Argentina at IUNA University furthering their studies in Ballet and Modern dance. While studying in Buenos Aires, they began to work at PeiMei Studios, teaching Contemporary Fusion dance. Skye spent the past 10 years teaching both youth and adult classes in New York City in multiple studios such as Steps on Broadway and Brooklyn Arts Exchange. They were also a guest choreographer at Frank Sinatra High. Skye is currently living in Oakland, CA and deepening their roots in the Bay Area dance community. They teach youth and adult classes at ODC, and Full Out Studios. Skye’s focus as a teacher and creator is to help their dancers find their own individual voice and establish a safe space to move. They continues to work as a freelance choreographer, creating personal projects and looks forward to their continued growth as a part of the Bay Area Dance community
Alicia Pak
Instructor
Our senior instructor began her dance journey at the age of six at Soo Dance Academy, where she has trained and grown for many years.She has been accepted into the Dance Major program at the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine), where she will begin her studies in Fall 2026. During her high school years, she was also an active member of her school dance team, gaining valuable performance experience and versatility.At Soo Dance Academy, she has developed into a dedicated Teaching Assistant and instructor. She is known for her strong work ethic, responsibility, and positive leadership. Her teaching style combines solid technical training with genuine care, and she is passionate about mentoring younger dancers while helping them build confidence, discipline, and artistry.Having grown up within the Soo Dance family, she deeply understands the studio’s training philosophy and values. Her journey reflects the growth, commitment, and love for dance that we strive to instill in every student.She is excited to continue inspiring the next generation of dancers while pursuing her own artistic path.
Asha Park
Competition Team Instructor
We are proud to announce that Asha Park will be joining Soo Dance Academy as a Competition Team Instructor beginning in Summer 2026.Asha is a dedicated and accomplished dancer who has been part of the Soo Dance family since the age of 3. With over 11 years of intensive training, she has grown into one of the studio’s most outstanding young leaders. She currently serves as a Teaching Assistant and has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, responsibility, and a genuine passion for teaching.As a competitive dancer, Asha has achieved remarkable success. She earned 1st Place Solo Gold Awards at California Dance Classics (CDC) in both 2022 and 2026 and was also crowned Miss Revolution National Title Winner in 2025. She is a YAGP solo winner and scholarship recipient, with multiple Top 1 placements at prestigious competitions and conventions. In addition, Asha was accepted into the Joffrey Ballet School New York Pre-Professional Year-Round Trainee Program and BFA Programs, a wonderful recognition of her talent and potential.Beyond her performance accomplishments, Asha has also shown exceptional talent in both choreography and teaching. Her creative work reflects strong musicality, clean technique, and emotional maturity beyond her years. Her choreographed solos have consistently placed in the Top 3 at competitions over the past several years, further highlighting her artistic ability.
Presley Nava
Instructor
Presley fell in love with dance at a very young age, beginning her training at just 16 months old in Livermore, California. Since then, she has studied a wide range of styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop. She has also been training at Soo Dance Academy since 2020, where she has developed a strong foundation in ballet.
At only four years old, Presley performed her first jazz solo and discovered her passion for sharing dance with an audience. By the age of ten, she won KAR Nationals, and again the following year, while also earning the title of Miss Junior Dance. Over the years, Presley has accumulated dozens of regional titles, helped lead her team to seven Grand National titles, and served as a KAR Protégé for three years. She has also received convention winner recognition from Radix, Nuvo, and 24Seven.
Internationally, Presley was a member of the U.S. Junior Small Group that won gold at the 2024 World Tap Championships in Prague, Czech Republic. She has also begun making her mark in the collegiate space, earning the Contemporary Standout Award at her first college clinic with the Oregon Ducks.
Presley is perhaps best known for her viral tap solo Little Old Me, which has received over 1.8 million views across social media platforms. More recently, she has stepped into choreography, creating her own tap works and inspiring younger dancers. Presley is excited to continue sharing her love for dance with the next generation of artists.
Audrey Tinloy
Instructor
I started dancing at the age of eight and have been dancing for the past eight years. I have been competing for five years. I compete in jazz, contemporary and hip-hop. I have had many incredible opportunities through dance like acceptance and attendance of numerous summer intensives such as Alonzo King Lines and Joffrey Ballet School. I have also had wonderful opportunities to train with many popular choreographers such as Jaylen Pea and Danyel Moulton. Additionally, I am an active member of my high school's varsity dance team and have been for the past two years.
Aryanna Ma
Senior TA Instructor
Aryanna Ma has been training at Soo Dance Academy for the past 5 years, where she has developed strong technique and artistry across multiple styles. Her dedication, discipline, and passion for dance have helped her grow into a confident and expressive performer.As a member of the Soo Dance Competition Team, Aryanna has earned numerous top awards throughout her competitive seasons. Her performances in contemporary and jazz showcase her versatility, musicality, and emotional depth on stage.At Soo Dance Academy, Aryanna serves as a Senior Instructor and TA Teacher, specializing in contemporary and jazz. She is known for her strong work ethic, leadership, and ability to connect with students. Aryanna brings positive energy to every class while helping dancers build both technique and confidence.She has been accepted to the University of California, Berkeley, where she will continue her academic journey. Aryanna continues to inspire younger dancers through her commitment, passion, and love for teaching.
Taylor Koning
Senior TA Instructor
Taylor Koning began her dance journey 5 years ago at Soo Dance Academy, where she has trained and grown over the years. Through her dedication and passion, she has developed a strong foundation in ballet technique along with a deep appreciation for the art of dance.
She will be attending the University of California, Berkeley in Fall 2026. During her high school years, Taylor was also an active member of the Soo Dance Competition Team, where she gained valuable performance experience and developed versatility across multiple styles.
At Soo Dance Academy, Taylor serves as a TA Ballet Teacher and Senior Instructor. She is known for her responsibility, leadership, and positive energy in the classroom. Taylor works closely with students to build strong fundamentals while encouraging confidence, artistry, and growth.
She continues to inspire younger dancers through her commitment, work ethic, and genuine passion for teaching.
Mia Moore
TA Instructor
Mia Moore is a passionate and accomplished dancer who began her dance journey at just 4 years old. Now 13, she has dedicated nearly a decade to perfecting her craft and growing as an artist. Specializing in jazz, Mia also has a deep love for ballet and contemporary dance, which she blends seamlessly into her performances with grace and emotion. Her commitment to dance has earned her numerous awards and recognition, but for Mia, the true reward is the joy of movement and the ability to express herself through every performance. Whether it’s the power of a jazz routine, the elegance of ballet, or the creativity of contemporary, Mia’s passion for dance shines through in everything she does. With each step, turn, and leap, Mia continues to push herself to new heights, inspiring those around her with her dedication, talent, and love for the art of dance. She is more than excited to share her love of dance with her students.
Janie Lau
TA Instructor
Janie is a passionate and versatile dancer trained in contemporary, jazz, hip hop, ballet, and acro. She began her dance journey in 2018 and has since performed in a wide range of shows and competitions, showcasing her dedication and growth as an artist. In 2023, Janie joined Soo Dance Academy, where she continues to refine her technique and expand her performance experience. Alongside her training, she has served as a teacher assistant. She has truly enjoyed sharing her knowledge and supporting younger dancers. Janie’s commitment to dance is reflected in her dynamic stage presence and her drive to grow as both a performer and mentor within the dance community.
Elle Koning
TA Instructor
Elle Koning is a teaching assistant and member of the Soo Dance Academy competition team. She began her dance training in Atlanta, Georgia, with The Atlanta Dance Academy, learning hip-hop and classical ballet technique and style. After relocating to the Bay Area, she joined the Soo Dance Academy in 2022. Her leadership and enthusiasm for dance has paved the way for her membership of younger dancers. Elle has received numerous awards and scholarships at regional and national competitions. She has quickly learned to master several genres of dance while building on her technical skills and artistry on the stage. Elle is trained in hip-hop, jazz, contemporary, ballet conditioning, and acro, and she brings her skill and positivity to her work with younger dancers and classes and solo lessons.
Isabella Wu
TA Instructor
Isabella Wu is an exceptional dancer who is a Teaching Assistant at Soo Dance Academy. She started to dance when she was two years old, and started competing in Dance Competitions with Soo Dance when she was nine. Her parents had encouraged her to dance competitively, so her passion and talent bloomed under the care of her instructors. Isabella is a national champion, scholarship recipient, and has placed in the overalls countless of times for her solos. She has earned 1st place awards many times, the world dance championship invite three times, and the Triple E scholarship twice for her groups. She has also danced main and side roles in the biannual show Soo Dance puts on. Isabella is trained in Ballet, Pointe, Contemporary, Lyrical, Tap, Jazz, Hip-hop, and Conditioning. She brings those into the studio with care, creating a personalized dance experience for everyone. Isabella is known for her optimism, cheering for her friends during competitions, and taking the role of leadership when needed for her groups or for the younger children. With more than a decade worth of experience onstage and in training, Isabella happily continues to be a representative of Soo Dance Academy, creating a team where everyone is welcome.