Signed in as:
filler@godaddy.com
About us
For many years, the dance world has offered incredible opportunities for children and pre-professional dancers, but very few have been designed specifically for adults. Many adults have dreamed of dancing, like adult ballet, but chose different paths. Others stepped away due to work, family, injuries, or simply life. And many discovered dance later, proving that it’s never too late to begin.
The Thalhe Festival was created to change that. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to expanding access to dance, inspiring lifelong learning, and building an inclusive community where every adult dancer has the opportunity to learn, perform, and grow.
More than just a festival, Thalhe is a space where adult dancers from around the world come together to train with inspiring guest artists, build meaningful connections, and perform in dance performances on a professional stage if they choose. Here, we celebrate our love of dance in a welcoming, inclusive, and non-competitive environment.
Whether you are taking your very first adult ballet class, returning after years away, or have spent a lifetime dancing, you will be welcomed exactly as you are. Because we believe dance is not defined by age, body type, or experience.
At Thalhe, you are not defined by your age, your body, or your experience. You are welcomed by your love of dance.
Why "THALHE'?
The name “Thalhe” comes from the Portuguese word for carving, a process of shaping something with patience, care, and dedication. Just as a sculptor reveals beauty within wood, we believe every dancer, whether participating in adult ballet or other forms, continues to grow through movement, experience, and passion. Thalhe represents transformation, inclusion, and the belief that every body has the potential to shine, especially during the celebrated Thalhe Festival, a highlight in our dance performance calendar.
Artistic Advisor
Alysson Rocha was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and began his ballet training under Silvana Andrade before joining the social project Dançar a Vida, directed by Nelma Darzi. As a finalist in the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), he earned a scholarship to the San Francisco Ballet School and later danced with Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro. In 2013, he joined Ballett Dortmund, where he became First Ballet Master, collaborating closely with Xin Peng Wang and maintaining works by leading contemporary choreographers. Alysson is also an international YAGP judge and guest teacher, working with institutions such as The Royal Ballet (London), Opéra de Bordeaux, and Leipziger Ballett. His extensive experience in adult ballet has enriched his teaching approach. Currently, he serves as the Head of the Professional Division at Oklahoma City Ballet School, where he may participate in local events like the Thalhe Festival to showcase dance performances. Photo: Leszek Januszewski
Treasure / Secretary
Amilton Domingos da Silva is an entrepreneur and construction professional with over 30 years of experience in project management, aluminum systems, glazing, and welding. As Treasurer of the Thalhe Festival Foundation, he plays a crucial role in overseeing the organization’s financial stewardship and operational planning. His efforts support the mission to expand access to dance, particularly adult ballet, and create meaningful opportunities for adult dancers through education, performance, and community engagement.
Our Inspiration
The name Thalhe carries a legacy of excellence, passion, and transformation, embodied by our teacher, Jorge Teixeira, founder and Artistic Director of the esteemed Thalhe Dance Group in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. His unwavering dedication to dance and artistic excellence continues to inspire countless dancers, influencing our journey and the fundamental values that define the Thalhe Festival.
More than just a tribute, the name Thalhe symbolizes our commitment to fostering a welcoming community where adult ballet dancers can learn, perform, connect, and grow through dance. It emphasizes the belief that every dancer’s journey is a profound work of art, shaped by passion, dedication, and purpose.
Jorge Teixeira
Teacher / Choreographer
Maître de Ballet BTMRJ
Artistic Director of Cia BEMO-TMRJ
Artistic Director of the CBB
Choreographer Front Committee of Beija-Flor
Special guest Host
Stephen DeAngelis
Casting Director • Producer • Artistic Visionary
Stephen DeAngelis is one of the industry’s leading Casting Directors and Independent Producers, specializing in dance performance and adult ballet. He has produced and created over 300 Broadway concerts across New York and the United States, featuring a multitude of stars, including Tony Award and Drama Desk Award winners and nominees, screen actors with Broadway roots, and some of the fastest-rising talents in theatre today. His work extends to renowned events like the Thalhe Festival, showcasing extraordinary talents in the world of performance.
2025 Thalhe Team
Claudia Mota
Patricia Strauss
Alysson Rocha
As the Artistic Patron of the Thalhe Festival, Claudia Mota, a principal dancer at Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro and one of Brazil’s most acclaimed ballerinas, will lead an international ballet masterclass tailored for adult ballet enthusiasts. She will also showcase her artistry during our Gala Night, sharing her impressive legacy and excellence with dancers from around the world.
Alysson Rocha
Patricia Strauss
Alysson Rocha
Artistic Liaison · Masterclass Ballet Teacher Ballet Master at Ballet Dortmund (Germany) and judge at the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP). As the Artistic Liaison of the Thalhe Festival, Alysson bridges the connection between the festival and the broader dance community, including participants, professionals, and the audience alike. He wi
Artistic Liaison · Masterclass Ballet Teacher Ballet Master at Ballet Dortmund (Germany) and judge at the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP). As the Artistic Liaison of the Thalhe Festival, Alysson bridges the connection between the festival and the broader dance community, including participants, professionals, and the audience alike. He will also lead an adult ballet masterclass, showcasing the excellence and experience of a world-class educator, while enhancing the overall dance performance at the festival.
Patricia Strauss
Patricia Strauss
Patricia Strauss
Repertory Variation · Masterclass Ballet Teacher Former soloist with renowned companies such as Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal and Het Nationale Ballet (Netherlands), Patrícia Strauss brings a wealth of stage and teaching experience to the Thalhe Festival. As a repertory coach and masterclass ballet teacher, she will guide participants, inc
Repertory Variation · Masterclass Ballet Teacher Former soloist with renowned companies such as Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal and Het Nationale Ballet (Netherlands), Patrícia Strauss brings a wealth of stage and teaching experience to the Thalhe Festival. As a repertory coach and masterclass ballet teacher, she will guide participants, including adult ballet dancers, through the nuances of classical variations, combining technical precision with artistic depth. Her dynamic approach empowers dancers to explore character, emotion, and performance quality in every movement, enhancing their dance performance.
Xander Chawi
Patricia Strauss
Patricia Strauss
Physiotherapist · Masterclass Ballroom Teacher
A professional in physiotherapy with a specialized focus on dance and age-related care will lead a workshop on physical wellness tailored for dancers of all ages. This workshop will highlight the importance of adult ballet practice for enhancing dance performance. Additionally, he will teach
Physiotherapist · Masterclass Ballroom Teacher
A professional in physiotherapy with a specialized focus on dance and age-related care will lead a workshop on physical wellness tailored for dancers of all ages. This workshop will highlight the importance of adult ballet practice for enhancing dance performance. Additionally, he will teach a special masterclass in ballroom dance and offer individual physiotherapy sessions during the Thalhe Festival.
Deneshia Smith
Deneshia Smith
Deneshia Smith
Masterclass . Hip-Hop . Member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe
Founder of D. Smith Studios and proud member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe, Deneshia brings over a decade of experience teaching and choreographing, focusing on Hip Hop as well as adult ballet. She empowers dancers through movement, creativity, and community, showcasing their talents
Masterclass . Hip-Hop . Member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe
Founder of D. Smith Studios and proud member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe, Deneshia brings over a decade of experience teaching and choreographing, focusing on Hip Hop as well as adult ballet. She empowers dancers through movement, creativity, and community, showcasing their talents in various dance performances, including the Thalhe Festival.
Katie Borton
Deneshia Smith
Deneshia Smith
The production manager plays a crucial role in supporting the team with planning and logistics before the Thalhe Festival. She ensures everything runs smoothly behind the scenes, allowing each dancer to shine during their adult ballet dance performance.
Marina Lessa
Deneshia Smith
Lu Fernandez
Costume Designer · Backstage Support
Responsible for custom costumes for participants in the Thalhe Festival. She will be present throughout the festival to provide backstage support and assist with any costume emergencies during the adult ballet and other dance performances.
Lu Fernandez
Deneshia Smith
Lu Fernandez
In recognition of her dedication to promoting adult ballet and inspiring dancers of all ages through captivating dance performances, we are honored to appoint Lu Fernandez as the Official Ambassador of Thalhe Festival in Brazil. We believe in the transformative power of dance, and with Lu's commitment and passion, we are getting closer to
In recognition of her dedication to promoting adult ballet and inspiring dancers of all ages through captivating dance performances, we are honored to appoint Lu Fernandez as the Official Ambassador of Thalhe Festival in Brazil. We believe in the transformative power of dance, and with Lu's commitment and passion, we are getting closer to bringing this beautiful Thalhe Festival to Brazil. Our vision extends even further: we aim to expand the Thalhe Festival worldwide, making it a global symbol of diversity, inclusion, and love for dance.
Carol Lancellot
BROOKE WASSERMAN
Carol Lancellot
Official Event Photographer Carol is an adult ballerina who has been sharing her experiences in adult ballet online for over 15 years. As a multi-entrepreneur in the dance industry, she is currently completing a Master’s degree in Design and Visual Culture in Lisbon. Her brand 'Meia Ponta' launched as a blog in March 2009, quickly becomin
Official Event Photographer Carol is an adult ballerina who has been sharing her experiences in adult ballet online for over 15 years. As a multi-entrepreneur in the dance industry, she is currently completing a Master’s degree in Design and Visual Culture in Lisbon. Her brand 'Meia Ponta' launched as a blog in March 2009, quickly becoming one of the pioneering platforms for adult ballet in Brazil. Today, it has evolved into a multifaceted ballet brand with an active presence on Instagram, offering courses and unforgettable dance performance experiences, such as the mp Ballet Tour and successful collaborations like those featured in the Thalhe Festival.
Zaruhi Baroyan
BROOKE WASSERMAN
Carol Lancellot
Official Concert Pianist | Accompanist | Music Educator Zaruhi Baroyan, a native of Yerevan, Armenia, is a highly accomplished pianist and accompanist with a career that spans Europe and the United States. A graduate of the Tchaikovsky Music School of Yerevan and the Komitas State Conservatory, she holds bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degr
Official Concert Pianist | Accompanist | Music Educator Zaruhi Baroyan, a native of Yerevan, Armenia, is a highly accomplished pianist and accompanist with a career that spans Europe and the United States. A graduate of the Tchaikovsky Music School of Yerevan and the Komitas State Conservatory, she holds bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD degrees in music. Zaruhi began her professional journey as an accompanist with the Armenia State Opera and Ballet Theater and has won numerous awards in international music and ballet competitions since 1988. In 1999, she was invited to the United States by Columbia Artists to perform in a nationwide tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s music alongside American star Michael Bolton. Since 2004, she has served as the company pianist for the Sarasota Ballet of Florida, collaborating with world-renowned artists including Marcelo Gomes, Diana Vishneva, Johan Kobborg, Alina Cojocaru, José Manuel Carreño, and many more. Her extensive credits include work with the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP), Ringling International Arts Festival, Kirov Academy of Ballet, Salzburg Landestheater, and the Barbieri-Carreño Dance Festival. She has also participated in the Thalhe Festival, showcasing her talent in various dance performances. Additionally, she has shared the stage with legendary figures such as Itzhak Perlman, Mikhail Baryshnikov, and Joshua Bell, contributing to her reputation as a distinguished artist within the adult ballet community.
BROOKE WASSERMAN
BROOKE WASSERMAN
BROOKE WASSERMAN
Stage Manager Born in Marlborough, Connecticut, Brooke began her formal ballet training at the age of 12 under Yseult Leger, a founding member of The Sarasota Ballet. After receiving a merit scholarship to support her summer studies, she continued her training at The Sarasota Ballet Academy in Sarasota, Florida, under the direction of Adr
Stage Manager Born in Marlborough, Connecticut, Brooke began her formal ballet training at the age of 12 under Yseult Leger, a founding member of The Sarasota Ballet. After receiving a merit scholarship to support her summer studies, she continued her training at The Sarasota Ballet Academy in Sarasota, Florida, under the direction of Adrian Ciobanu. While there, she studied with esteemed faculty including Pavel Fomin, Isabel Dubrocq, Ludmila Lopukhova, and Darya Fedotova. During her time at the academy, she performed with The Sarasota Ballet in productions of Eva Peron: A Dance Portrait, Coppélia, Don Quixote, and La Boutique Fantasque (as Mary). She furthered her dance education at SUNY Purchase College, where she showcased her talent at New York City’s Joyce Theater as part of Dancers Responding to AIDS and danced with the Purchase Dance Corps in various BFA and MFA choreographic works. After returning to Connecticut in 2010, she trained with renowned ballet master Alexei Tchernichov and performed with Hartford City Ballet and CONNetic Dance. In addition to her role as a dancer, she has taken on the responsibilities of a company teacher and stage manager—working on productions, running rehearsals, and managing backstage operations for both classical and contemporary performances for Azara Ballet since 2023. As an instructor, she has taught at studios including Revelle Academy, Starz Choice Dance Academy, ReFlex, and the International Ballet of Florida, specializing in the Vaganova syllabus. Brooke also deepened her pedagogical training by attending teacher intensives with the Open World Dance Foundation in 2016 and 2020, where she studied under Ekaterina Shchelkanova and Professor Mme. Ludmila Safronova of the Vaganova Academy in St. Petersburg, Russia. Her diverse experiences have contributed to her involvement in adult ballet programs and participation in notable events like the Thalhe Festival, where she continues to inspire the next generation of dancers through her dance performances.
madison bradley
BROOKE WASSERMAN
BROOKE WASSERMAN
With a voice full of soul and sincerity, Madison Bradley brings a warm and heartfelt presence to the stage. Her performances create an intimate and moving experience, reminding us of the power of music to connect and inspire. Naturally captivating, Madison weaves stories through her singing that resonate deeply and celebrate the beauty of
With a voice full of soul and sincerity, Madison Bradley brings a warm and heartfelt presence to the stage. Her performances create an intimate and moving experience, reminding us of the power of music to connect and inspire. Naturally captivating, Madison weaves stories through her singing that resonate deeply and celebrate the beauty of human connection. At the Thalhe Festival, her artistry will add a special dimension to the celebration of dance performance, adult ballet, and community.
Brenno de Souza
Adriana Coronado
Adriana Coronado
A professional actor affiliated with SATED, Brenno began his artistic journey at the age of 6, dedicating himself to dance and acting courses and workshops. In 2013, he was invited to portray Pilate at World Youth Day, alongside Cássia Kiss and Eriberto Leão.
In 2015, he gained national recognition with a video that went viral on the inter
A professional actor affiliated with SATED, Brenno began his artistic journey at the age of 6, dedicating himself to dance and acting courses and workshops. In 2013, he was invited to portray Pilate at World Youth Day, alongside Cássia Kiss and Eriberto Leão.
In 2015, he gained national recognition with a video that went viral on the internet, surpassing 50 million views, which earned him an invitation from host Xuxa to join her television program. Although the project did not materialize due to the show’s cancellation, the exposure further boosted his career.
Brenno has appeared on TV programs such as Famosos da Internet (SBT) and Ferdinando Show (Multishow), in addition to acting in soap operas and short film projects both in and outside Rio de Janeiro. In 2017, he hosted the live broadcast of Mister Brasil Tur on YouTube alongside Milton Cunha. In 2023, he was part of Disney’s VOZES da Diversidade campaign, officially launched across the brand’s platforms and featured on national television during Altas Horas.
Holding a degree in Dance Education, Brenno also stands out as a dancer and choreographer. He has completed advanced training at Walt Disney World and at renowned institutions in New York, including Steps on Broadway, Broadway Dance Center, New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey Dance Company, Joffrey Ballet, and American Ballet Theatre.
As a front commission choreographer, he worked for five years with top-tier samba schools in Rio de Janeiro, where he also served as a choreographic assistant and actor in various samba organizations.
Join Brenno at the Thalhe Festival for an exciting Tap Dance class and experience a weekend filled with inspiring faculty, unlimited classes, and unforgettable moments on and off the stage.
Adriana Coronado
Adriana Coronado
Adriana Coronado
Originally from Colombia, Adri is a professional dancer, choreographer, and holistic movement educator with a Master’s Degree in Performing Arts. She has trained extensively in Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theater, Contemporary Dance, and International Folklore, combining years of artistic excellence with a deep passion for holistic wellness.
As
Originally from Colombia, Adri is a professional dancer, choreographer, and holistic movement educator with a Master’s Degree in Performing Arts. She has trained extensively in Ballet, Jazz, Musical Theater, Contemporary Dance, and International Folklore, combining years of artistic excellence with a deep passion for holistic wellness.
As a Certified Integrative Nutrition and Hormonal Health Coach and Mindfulness Practitioner, Adri integrates movement, feminine embodiment, and mind-body practices to create transformative experiences that nourish the body, mind, and spirit.
At the Thalhe Festival, Adri will lead the Goddess Dance & Intuitive Movement Workshop—a unique experience designed to help participants reconnect with their bodies, awaken their life-force energy, and discover the joy of authentic self-expression through movement.
Inspired by ancestral dance traditions, somatic practices, and the wisdom of the Divine Feminine, her classes encourage stress release, confidence, creativity, vitality, and a deeper connection with oneself. Open to all genders and experience levels, this workshop offers a safe and welcoming space to explore movement as a path to embodiment, self-discovery, inner balance, and nervous system regulation.
Meredith Butulis
Adriana Coronado
Meredith Butulis
Dr. Meredith Butulis is a Dance/Sports/Orthopedic Physical Therapist, Exercise Physiologist, NSCA certified Strength & Conditioning Coach, and certified Pilates, Yoga, and Progressing Ballet Technique instructor.
She graduated from Northeastern University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Boston University with a Master's in Physic
Dr. Meredith Butulis is a Dance/Sports/Orthopedic Physical Therapist, Exercise Physiologist, NSCA certified Strength & Conditioning Coach, and certified Pilates, Yoga, and Progressing Ballet Technique instructor.
She graduated from Northeastern University with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Boston University with a Master's in Physical Therapy, Bachelor's in Health Studies, and minors in Dance and Psychology. While in school, she performed professionally with Impulse Jazz Company, Kelly Donovan & Dancers, and Medusa Dance. Upon graduation, she worked for New York City Performing Arts, servicing 3 Broadway shows and the Radio City Rockettes. She then worked in Boston and Minneapolis as a dance medicine Physical Therapist and Pilates/Yoga instructor for over 20 years.
She is currently a Physical Therapist at Sarasota Memorial Health Care System's University Town Center. Her passion is helping people have fun with movement.
Yoga Flow Class Description
Whether you seek a higher battement or mobility freedom to explore new ranges of dance, this class is for you. This class will provide a multi-level yoga flow designed to melt tension, improve flexibility, and activate core stability. Many pearls of wisdom connected to dance will be shared throughout the session. No experiencerequired. All levels, from absolute beginner to professional yogi, are welcome. Come prepared to have fun exploring movement!