Our Staff

Taryn

Meet Taryn Johnson, the heart, soul and CEO behind Taryn’s Dance Company. Growing up, Taryn was highly dedicated to dance – from Ballet to Hip Hop, she immersed herself in every style imaginable. Her journey took her around the world, learning from top-notch instructors and soaking up experiences that would shape her future as both a teacher and studio owner.

Armed with certifications in Acrobatic Arts (Modules I & II), ADAPT Jazz/Tap, and enriched by countless workshops and conventions that shaped her approach to nurturing dancers of all levels, Taryn’s teaching journey was launched with determination in 2011.

Carly

I began my dance journey at the age of 7, exploring various styles such as Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, Highland, and Musical Theatre. While primarily training in Leduc, I also sought instruction from esteemed institutions like the Edmonton School of Ballet, Alberta Ballet, and Orchesis, giving me the chance to perform in the Edmonton Fringe Festival in 2014. I attained my Intermediate Ballet exam through the RAD and furthered my expertise by undergoing training as an instructor at the National Ballet School of Canada and the University of Nevada. I’ve been fortunate to earn teaching certifications from renowned figures in the industry, including Lisa Howell, Mandy Yip, Marie Walton Mahone, Denise Wall, Brian Friedman, and others.

Tannis

Hi, I’m Tannis.

Dance has long been a passion of mine, and my connection to Taryn’s Dance Company began at the very beginning – I’ve been part of the studio’s journey from the ground up. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching the studio grow while also experiencing it firsthand as a parent, supporting my own daughter’s dance journey at TDC.

As the Enrollment Coordinator, I work behind the scenes to ensure a smooth, organized, and welcoming experience for all families – from initial inquiries and trial classes to registration and ongoing support. You may see me around Leduc, but at the studio my focus is on making sure systems run efficiently and that families feel informed and supported. If you have a question, I’m always happy to help – and if I don’t have the answer immediately, I’ll make sure to find it.

Hannah W

Hannah has been dancing competitively since age 11 in the genres of Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Acro, Contemporary and Lyrical – two of those years training at TDC.

Hannah has been teaching since 2018 with the certifications A.D.A.P.T., Acrobatic Arts module 1 and 2, Alixa flexibility module 1 and 2, and has also attended contortion and aerial/back hand spring workshops.

She is also a Licensed Practical Nurse currently pursuing further education at Grant MacEwan University to become a Registered Nurse.

Harman

Harman is a Dancer/Choreographer with a very unique style of movement. His choreography can best be described as sharp and controlled movements with heavy emphasis on ‘Animation’ technique combined with innovative movement. Harman’s classes are focused on in-depth training on technique mixed with a positive and fun atmosphere to learn in!

Jenna

My name is Miss Jenna. I have been teaching at TDC since 2021. I grew up dancing many different styles of dance since the age of 2, then found a passion for teaching!

I have my certificates in Acrobatic Arts module 1 and Preschool Acro Dance . I will also be receiving my A.D.A.P.T training certificate summer of 2025. I am passionate about supporting dancers in developing their skills, building meaningful connections, and fostering greater self-confidence.

Outside of teaching , I work for BGC Leduc where I plan and implement programming for children and youth.

Lauren

I grew up in Edmonton, AB, training competitively from age 4 in various styles of dance – jazz, tap, ballet, and contemporary. Tap dance was and is my favorite! I further developed a love of fine arts, dance, technique, and diverse choreography at Victoria School of Performing and Visual Arts from grades 8-12. After completing my Bachelor of Arts, I specialized in Early Childhood Education earning my ECE Level 3 certification.

I have worked in various childcare centres, summer camps, as a nanny, and since 2013, provide childcare in my local dayhome. When my oldest daughter started preschool dance classes, I was smitten with her enthusiasm and energy toward movement and rhythm. I decided to connect my knowledge and experience with young children to my love of dance!

Kristin

ADCSC-CICB, ARAD, NBS Grad TTP (Dip.), AISTD, BPA.

Ms Kristin is a graduate of The National Ballet School of Canada’s 3 year Teacher Training Program, and brings to TDC over 25 years of teaching expertise in Vagaonova, Cecchetti and RAD Ballet. She holds teaching qualifications with the ISTD National Branch, The Cecchetti Society of Canada, The Royal Academy of Dance, and has trained and entered hundreds of students into successful examinations from Primary through Solo Seal levels.

Lindsay

My name is Miss Lindsay. I am currently in my second year of teaching at TDC. I have been a part of TDC since 2017, when the studio opened, training competitively in genres of Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, and Hip Hop until 2023. I have danced at the University level with RDP and am continuing to train competitively in Hip-Hop alongside teaching. Growing up having TDC as a second home, I am eager to continue my journey through the studio as a teacher, sharing my love for dance.

I currently teach festival and performance division classes and am excited to explore different age groups and genres as I continue with my teaching journey. Outside of the studio, I am working towards a Bachelor of Kinesiology degree at the University of Alberta.

Emily

My name is Miss Emily. I’ve been a part of the TDC family since the studio opened in 2017, first as a dancer and now in my role as a dance teacher. After growing up dancing, I’m so grateful to get to continue sharing my passion through teaching.

I primarily teach preschool dance classes, but I’m also involved in planning and running the preschool summer camp program. I’m eager to keep learning and building my experience through many more years at the studio!

Outside of teaching, I’m currently attending the University of Alberta, studying elementary education.

Hannah S

Hi, I’m Hannah! I’m a recent graduate and currently in my second full year of teaching, with nearly seven years of experience assisting in dance classes. I love sharing my passion for dance and filling dancers’ minds with exciting new skills while helping them build confidence, creativity, and a strong technical foundation. My goal is to create a positive and encouraging environment where dancers feel supported, motivated, and excited to learn while having fun in every class.

Reese

Hi, my name is Miss Reese. I started dance when I was two years old, and in that time I have been exploring many styles of dance such as ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and hip hop. I have been a competitive dancer for eight years, three of them being at TDC. Previously I was an assistant teacher working with different ages and styles of dance, learning how to run and manage a dance class effectively. I really enjoy working at TDC and having the opportunity to share my love of dance through teaching!

Grace

My name is Miss Grace! I’ve been dancing competitively in Leduc for almost 10 years, being apart of TDC’s competitive program for 3. I have experience in genres such as Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, Tap, and Hip hop. I have always loved dancing, and my biggest passion continues to be Hiphop. Along with dancing competitively at TDC, I have assisted many classes throughout the years, and taken part in training to better prepare me to become the best instructor I can be. I am so excited to be apart of the TDC staff, and share my love for dance with my students!

Kaycee

Hi, I’m Kaycee! I’m in my first full year of teaching and have been assisting in classes for about five years. I’m acro certified and have a strong passion for teaching acro, focusing on building strength, flexibility, and safe technique. I’m also curious and excited to continue learning and exploring other dance styles. My goal is to create a supportive and motivating environment where dancers feel confident, challenged, and excited to grow!

Kate

This is my third season at TDC, and I am excited to continue to be a part of this dance community! I grew up dancing in Edmonton, training in the advanced syllabi of ADAPT and RAD. Additionally, I am an ADAPT-certified teacher and love creating exciting pieces of choreography with dancers! Outside of the studio, I am a Clinical Registered Dietitian and love to talk about all things food and nutrition!

Walle – “DOFI (Director of First Impressions)”

Meet Walle, our 4-year-old Bernese mountain dog with a “fur-ever” smile and a heart full of hugs! As the DOFI, Walle greets everyone at the studio with boundless energy and a big “paws-itive” attitude. His specialty? Delivering “bear-sized” hugs that will melt your heart. With Walle on duty, you’ll always feel “paws-itively” welcome!

Lyla – “Chief of Security”

Lyla, our 13-year-old mini Australian shepherd, is the “paw-some” Chief of Security at TDC. When she’s not “barking” out orders or keeping things on a tight “leash,” you’ll find her wagging her very small tail and giving out furry high-fives. Always on “paw-trol” with Miss Taryn, Lyla makes sure the studio stays “fur-tastically” safe while bringing joy to all the dancers. She’s truly the “top dog” around here!