THE SDD FACULTY
Michelle Spezio Ferm – Artistic Director/Owner
Miss Michelle heads Spezio’s Dance Dynamics Inc. with the philosophy that dance must be fun and yet disciplined to challenge students to reach for mastery, proper technical execution and artistic expression through all they wish to accomplish. Dance is about passion for life, discovery and expressing one’s personal talents.
Michelle Spezio Ferm, BFA, Artistic Director and President of Spezio’s Dance Dynamics Inc. since 1993 is recognized for training versatile, well-rounded dancers with an artistic spirit. Michelle has over 28 years of educating dancers and performance experience. Miss Michelle’s versatility as a teacher of all ages and levels include expertise in ballet/pointe, Acrobatics, Jazz/Contemporary, Modern/Lyrical, Theater Dance, Tap and children’s classes. Miss Michelle is a master teacher, choreographer and National Level Competition Judge with significant experience in teaching, curriculum development, training diversity and an award-winning choreographer. As an adjudicator, Michelle brings a significant understanding of various subjects, technical proficiency/methodology, depth of performance and an understanding of what it takes to train working dancers for today’s climate.
Miss Michelle is certified by and active member of Dance Masters of America, the Country’s leading Dance Educational Testing Program. Miss Michelle and SDD is a proud member of I.D.E.A. “The International Dance Entrepreneurs Association” committed to principle of integrity in teaching, business practices, the proper training, age-appropriate movement and choreography. The school is an active Chapter for the National Honor Society in Dance Arts, Member National Dance Education Organization and the New York State Dance Education Association. She is a former USGF Gymnast/Team Coach, a former performer with Zodiaque Dance Company, Greater Buffalo Opera Company and other professional performance companies.
Miss Michelle has built a solid foundation for students of all levels at Spezio’s Dance Dynamics to excel as “thinking artists” who understand cultivate and celebrate their personal talents. As the SDD Artistic Director, Ms. Michelle is proud of the diverse and well trained “Facul-Team” she supports for teaching/education experience, curriculum development, training diversity and award-winning choreography. SDD students have performed all over the USA, received numerous National level Outstanding dancer scholarships, Summer Intensive Placements/Scholarships, attended prestigious university programs and performed professionally in many areas of dance.
Miss Michelle looks forward to guiding students of all ages and levels along their dance journey in pursuit of their goals while developing their passion for the art of dance!
Marissa Limina
Miss Marissa began her dance training at Dance Dynamics at the age of five. Marissa became a member of the competition team at the age of eight where she studied under the direction of Miss Michelle. During high school she became a member of the SDD faculty and has shared her passion of dance and teaching with her students ever since. She teaches a variety of subjects including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, acrobatics and kiddie combo classes. Marissa continues to broaden her knowledge of dance by studying with various teachers and choreographers at dance seminars and workshops. She graduated from Canisius College with a bachelor’s degree in childhood and special education and a master’s degree in advanced special education. When Marissa is not at the studio, she is a Special Education Teacher in the Buffalo Public Schools.
Kelly Burwick
Miss Kelly graduated from the University at Buffalo with a BFA in Dance and a Minor in Accounting. Prior to college she had been training at a local dance studio in Utica NY since the age of three. While attending college Kelly studied with the various dance companies that traveled to the college, including the American Ballet Theatre, Limon, and Martha Graham. Throughout college she gained valuable performing experience through the Zodiaque Dance Company, Studiowerks Dance Ensemble, Zodiaque Studio Dance Ensemble, Young Choreographers Showcase, and Dancers Workshop which she also choreographed for. She has danced with guest performer Anthony Miranda and his Percussion Ensemble, and In Young Sohn’s Korean Dance company. In addition, Kelly is a certified aerobics instructor specializing in Pilates, Step Aerobics, and Resistance Training.
Bill Thomas
Mr. Bill has performed in concert works such as: The Green Table (K. Jooss), Don Quixote/ Pas de Deux (after Petipa), Galena Summit (K. Posin), and Polenc (M. Simms), among others. He has performed and gained entrance into dance companies such as: Webster Dance Theater, Buffalo City Ballet, Off-Track Dancers, The Thomas Dance Collection (Director/Choreographer), David Puszh Dance Company, Joel Hall Dancers (apprentice), and Nanette Bearden Contemporary Dance Theater (apprentice). His musical theater credits include Anything Goes w/ Chita Riveria, The Unsinkable Molly Brown w/ Ann Reinking, Sesame Street Live and The Black Musical Review. As an independent/ freelance artist he has performed at: La Mama E.T.C., The International Theatre Festival of Barranquilla/ Columbia, The Toronto Fringe Festival/ Canada, and The International Festival for Arts/ Argentina.
His choreography has been seen at/on: Ailey Citigroup Theater, Thelma Hill Performing Arts-Kumble Theater, The Thomas Dance Collection(Director/Choreographer), Buffalo City Ballet, Danse4Nia Repertory Ensemble- Philadelphia, Philadanco II, Jacob’s Pillow Inside/Out Choreography Showcase, International Theater Festival/ Mexico City, Danco On Danco Choreography Showcase, Zodiaque Dance Company, Orchesis Contemporary Dance Theater, Danza Una/Costa Rica, Buffalo Dance Festival, and Hampton University.
Mr. Thomas’ teaching credits include: Philadanco, Rochester City Ballet, Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, Danse4Nia Repertory Ensemble (Ballet Master/ Rehearsal Dir.), Buffalo City Ballet, Montgomery County Community College, Conservatory and School of the Arts in St. Louis, Empire State Ballet, National University of Costa Rica-Heredia, American Academy of Dance, Dance Masters of America Teachers Training School, Florida A&M University, The Black College Dance Exchange, The French-English School in Barranquilla, Colombia, Losdenmedium Danza in Costa Rica, Amsterdam Dance Center in the Netherlands, Instituto de Danzas Espanolas & Ballet Folklorico in Argentina, and formerly at S.U.N.Y. @ Buffalo where he was Head of Ballet, Associate Professor & Director of Dance.
Mr. Thomas’s training includes Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, Dance Theater of Harlem, John Barker’s Vaganova Teacher Training Seminar, Broadway Dance Center, Jacob’s Pillow, Hubbard Street Dance Studio, and with master teachers such as: Finis Jhung, Madame Darvash, Madame Lavinia Williams, and Homer Bryant, and studied choreography from luminaries such as: Bessie Schonberg, Phyllis Lamhut and Vera Blaine. He has adjudicated for organizations including NAACP ACT-SO, Winners Talent Showcase Nationals, and Links Inc. International, New York Foundation for the Arts, The Cultural Arts Fund, and Buffalo/Erie Arts Council. He also has teaching awards from S.U.N.Y. at Buffalo and the A.K.A. Sorority and holds a B.A. in Dance (Ballet Major) from Webster University Conservatory in St. Louis, Missouri, and an M.A. in Dance (Choreography/Pedagogy) from The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, where he received the University Fellowship and Teaching Fellowship.
Courtney Agius
Miss Courtney has been part of the Spezio’s family for over 30 years, beginning her dance journey at age four and joining the studio at six. She became a member of the competition program at eight, and her love of dance eventually led her to become a member of the Spezio’s faculty after graduating high school. Having grown up at Spezio’s, the studio has always felt like a second home to her.
While teaching, Miss Courtney continued her own dance education at the University at Buffalo, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Dance. She teaches tap, lyrical, jazz, ballet, and acro, and continues her training through workshops, seminars, and conventions.
Miss Courtney believes dance teaches children much more than technique, including teamwork, commitment, confidence, and perseverance. She is proud to continue being part of the studio that has been such a meaningful part of her life and to share her love of dance with the next generation.
Natalie Davis
Miss Natalie started her dance journey at the age of three and began dancing competitively at the age of eight. She has been teaching various dance disciplines at studios across Western New York since 2013. She has been a licensed Zumba and Zumba Gold instructor since 2017 and has had the opportunity to teach at local dance studios and gyms. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University at Buffalo in Communication and Psychology with a minor in Health and Wellness. She also has a Master of Arts degree from Stony Brook University in Higher Education Administration. Currently, Miss Natalie is a Senior Academic Advisor with the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences at the University at Buffalo. She is thrilled to be part of the team at Spezio's Dance Dynamics!
Andrij Deneka
Mr. AJ has been dancing, modeling, and choreographing around the globe. His extensive training expands to both the east and west coasts, at such studios as The Edge Performing Arts Center, Broadway Dance Center, Gus Giordano, and has assisted and trained with the likes of Joe Tremaine, Liz Imperio, Doug Caldwell and Brian Thomas. Andrij has worked with such artists as Kylie Minogue, Marc Anthony, Stevie Wonder, Gregory Hines, Mila Jam and Selena Gomez. Some of his credits include the MTV Movie Awards, The TV Land Awards, Wella, Nike, International Dance Festival, The Winter Olympics, American Choreography Awards, Jazz Dance World Congress, Coca Cola, Mercedes Benz Fashion Week, LA Fashion Apparel Magazine, and has toured the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Mexico with "Instincts Live Media Dance Company.” He has been a guest teacher at F.I.T. in Manhattan, Broadway Dance center in Seoul, Korea and at studios/ colleges all over the US, Canada and Mexico. He is the founder of Embrace What Makes You UNIQUE, a fashion line and movement inspiring people to live as their authentic self.
Brianna Gelnett
Miss Brianna, originally from Lockport NY, has been dancing since the age of three. She is a 2022 graduate from Point Park University with a BFA in Dance. She grew up studying acrobatics, contemporary, modern, jazz/tap, ballet, hip hop, and lyrical dance. After graduating college, she performed onboard the MSC World Europa with MSC Cruises as dance captain and dancer, where she has learned many values of living and dancing in extremely diverse environments. She performed for 10 months onboard traveling through the Middle East and Mediterranean Sea. She is a part-time photographer, specializing in dance photography. She’s had the opportunity to work through RWS Entertainment Studios on multiple workshops for upcoming projects. She also assisted artist Jennifer Golonka in her work ‘Divergence’ with the Zodiaque Company (University at Buffalo), as well as the Young Artist Dance Intensive where she also assisted artist Chris Bloom. Miss Brianna has been teaching for four years, and assisting for eight. She loves the many opportunities and invaluable resources attained through learning under various artists. Miss Brianna strives to provide a healthy and productive dance environment.
Grace Gilbert
Miss Grace began her dance journey at Spezio’s Dance Dynamics at the age of 7 and joined the competition ensemble at age 9, continuing through to her high school graduation. She is a proud graduate of Duquesne University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Throughout her formative years, Grace had the privilege of training under the dedicated faculty at Spezio’s. Their guidance not only helped her develop a strong technical foundation and stage presence, but also instilled in her important life values such as discipline, confidence, and perseverance—qualities that continue to influence her both personally and professionally.
During high school, Grace began assisting classes at the studio, which sparked her passion for teaching and mentorship. The experiences and lessons gained through her time at Spezio’s have played a significant role in shaping the educator and individual she is today.
Grace is committed to creating a positive, engaging, and inclusive environment where each student feels supported and inspired. She is thrilled to be back at the studio in a teaching role and looks forward to sharing her love of dance with the next generation of dancers!
Hannah Kelly
Miss Hannah has been dancing since age 2 in Hudson Valley, NY, where she is originally from. She has trained in every style but will always have a special place in her heart for tap. Miss Hannah is currently attending University at Buffalo and is currently pursuing her bachelor's degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences with a minor in ASL. Miss Hannah is excited to teach children to love the art of dance and to watch them grow into amazing dancers and humans.
Kristina Marzec
Miss Kristina has been teaching ballet for over 20 years. She holds a BS in Education, a master’s degree in Literacy, and a Minor in Dance. Growing up, Miss Kristina studied with Geraldine Hoffman and Sharon Ralston. In college, she performed with Buffalo State’s Dance Dimensions Dance Company. Miss Kristina also has a love for singing and currently sings in a contemporary Christian band. Miss Kristina is a mother of 4 children and is happy to share her love of dance with her 2 girls as they receive their training at Dance Dynamics.
Annamaria Monti
Miss Annamaria is a Spezio's Dance Dynamics alumni class of 2015. In that time, she trained in a variety of styles although her favorites are jazz and hip hop. Throughout her years dancing at Spezio's, Miss Annamaria always loved being an assistant and learning from her teachers. Miss Annamaria holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from Canisius College and a master's degree with Advanced Certificate in School Psychology from the University at Buffalo. Currently, Miss Annamaria teaches preschool, kiddie combo classes, tap, jazz, and hip hop. During the summer, Miss Annamaria enjoys facilitating and teaching our summer camps! She loves teaching and believes that the lessons learned in the studio go beyond the studio and can be applied to all areas of a dancer's life.
Erin Ostrum Alongi
Miss Erin started dancing when she was 3 years old and hasn’t stopped since. Before becoming a teacher at SDD, she was a student here! Since that time, Miss Erin achieved a Dance Minor from SUNY Geneseo where she was also a member of the Geneseo Dance Ensemble, performing in many faculty and guest artist pieces. She currently holds a Doctoral degree in School Psychology. Miss Erin loves teaching dance to children of all ages, believing that the skills and lessons learned in the dance studio translate to strong life lessons outside of the dance studio.
Sarah Polvino
Miss Sarah, originally from Buffalo, began her dance training at the age of nine. After graduating high school in 2018, she moved to New York City to continue training professionally. Sarah is a graduate of the Steps on Broadway Conservatory, where she trained at a mastery level in ballet, jazz, musical theatre, contemporary, modern, and tap. She has worked with artists including Chet Walker, Joshua Bergasse, Chase Brock, and Al Blackstone, as well as numerous Verdon Fosse Legacy members. Sarah has performed in multiple video productions and staged pieces, most notably appearing as Charity in a restaging of I’m a Brass Band from Sweet Charity, under the direction of Verdon Fosse Legacy members Lloyd Culbreath and Dana Moore. Sarah is thrilled to be sharing her knowledge and passion for dance with her students!
Savannah Sigmon
Originally from Taylorsville, NC, Savannah began dancing at age four at Ann Freeman Dance Academy and trained competitively earning numerous regional and national titles including Miss Dance of North Carolina (2015–2016). Growing up, Savannah consistently attended Student Honors Intensive Programs, Carolina Dance Masters Conventions, Dance Masters of America Nationals, and other regional dance competitions furthering her dance education. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with a minor in Business Management from the University at Buffalo, NY graduating summa cum laude in 2020. At UB, she was a member of Zodiaque Dance Company; a featured performer in the Original Cast of Starring Buffalo’s Hunchback of Notre Dame, and performed in several departmental dance shows. After graduating, she moved to New York City to pursue her passion of dancing professionally. Savannah is a proud former NFL Cheerleader for the Philadelphia Eagles as well as a former NLL dancer for the New York Riptide where she was a sideline leader and Rookie of the Year. Other notable performances include Steps on Broadway’s Industry Showcases in New York City. Savannah is an experienced adjudicator and master teacher at dance conventions and dance competitions and has traveled nationwide working with organizations such as Dance Masters of America and Spirit of Dance Awards. Savannah has also created award winning choreography and developed rich and engaging dance classes for dancers of all ages at studios in North Carolina and New York. Savannah is excited to be here to continue to share her love for dance, performing, and education!
Hailie Suk
Miss Hailie began her dance training at the age of three. She has been teaching a variety of dance disciplines of all ages throughout her dance career. Miss Hailie holds a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering and a master's and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from the University at Buffalo. She is very excited to be a part of the "Facul-team" at Spezio's Dance Dynamics.
Alyssa Zeshonski
Miss Alyssa began her journey at Spezio’s at just 4 years old and joined the competition team at 9. In 2024, she graduated high school and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education at the University of South Carolina. Her love for teaching started when she became a class assistant at just 11 years old, and since then it has only grown. She believes that the lessons learned in dance help shape you into a better person both in and outside of the studio and wishes to provide a positive and productive environment to help children become the best versions of themselves. She is excited to share her love of dance with her students and make them feel joy in it too.
