Mastering Dance Instruction
As educators, mentors, and artists, we believe that dance is not only a discipline but a transformative journey. Our collective mission is to guide each student with professionalism, passion, and respect, ensuring that every dancer who walks through our doors feels seen, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.
Yasmany Hechavarria
CEO, Founder, Director, and Master Instructor (Classical Ballet • Modern • Contemporary • Afro‑Cuban • Jazz • Acro • Latin • Choreography)Yasmany Hechavarría is internationally respected for his exceptional versatility as a performer, choreographer, and educator — and for the transformative impact he has on every student he teaches. Born and trained in Matanzas, Cuba, Yasmany’s journey in dance began with a deep family belief in resilience, discipline, and the power of the arts. That foundation shaped a career spanning over two decades across classical ballet, modern dance, contemporary, Afro‑Cuban technique, cabaret, and choreographic composition.
Yasmany’s academic achievements are among the highest in Cuban arts education. He graduated from the prestigious Vocational School of Arts “Alfonso Pérez Isaac” as a Classical Ballet major (2000), later earning his Dance Instructor certification from the Instructor’s School of Art “René Fraga Moreno” (2004). In 2008, he completed a Bachelor of Education with Honors at the Juan Marinello Superior Pedagogic Institute — graduating Valedictorian and receiving the distinguished Gold Title for academic excellence. His specialization in Dance Instruction continues to shape his pedagogical approach today.
Today, as the Director of DanzAlma Academy, he brings his lifetime of expertise to a new generation of dancers, blending classical technique with contemporary artistry and Cuban heritage.
Yasmany’s greatest strength lies in his ability to inspire dancers of all ages and levels. His classes challenge students with precision, artistry, and cultural depth — while nurturing confidence, discipline, and passion. Mr. Manny of his students have gone on to professional careers, elite schools, and competitive success.
Although he has held many titles throughout his career, the one that defines him best is Professional Mentor — a teacher who changes lives through dance.
Grace Shkreli
Substitute Dance Instructor and rehearsal Director (Classical Ballet • Jazz • Acro • Rehearsal • Choreography)Grace Shkreli is a dedicated young artist whose dance journey began at just eight years old at DanzAlma Academy, where she trained under the mentorship of Founder and Director Yasmany Hechavarría. From her very first class, Grace demonstrated exceptional discipline, and a natural ability to absorb technique — qualities that have shaped her into one of DanzAlma’s strongest developing dancers.
Grace’s foundation was built through rigorous training in Classical Ballet, Acro Technique, Contemporary Dance, and Cuban movement principles, all guided by Yasmany’s professional methodology. Her early start allowed her to grow with the Academy, progressing through increasingly advanced levels and developing a deep understanding of both technique and artistry.
Today, Grace brings her experience full circle as an instructor at DanzAlma Academy. She teaches with clarity, patience, and enthusiasm — always aiming to inspire the same love for dance that shaped her own journey. Her classes emphasize strong foundational technique, musical awareness, and confidence-building for young dancers.
Grace’s greatest strength is her ability to connect with students. She understands the challenges and triumphs of training because she has lived them inside the very walls of DanzAlma Academy. Her teaching reflects both her technical knowledge and her genuine care for each dancer’s growth.
As she continues to evolve as both a performer and educator, Grace represents the next generation of DanzAlma artistry — a dancer shaped by the Academy who now helps shape others.
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