Instructors | Counterpoint Dance Marda Loop

Counterpoint Dance Academy Marda Loop’s professionally trained faculty provides a positive environment that allows each dancer the opportunity to achieve their personal best while learning, growing and flourishing in the art of dance. Our dedicated and invested instructors have trained extensively with top worldwide educators, mentors and teachers.

Counterpoint Marda Loop is a Royal Academy of Dance, ADAPT (Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers) and Acrobatic Arts fully certified studio. Our faculty has trained at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dance in London, England, the Randolph Academy for the Performing Arts, as well as The University of Calgary’s Bachelor of Arts Dance Program. Our instructors’ wealth of training and professional experience ensures all dancers receive comprehensive training in their technical and artistic instruction.

Miss Shannon Hearn

Studio Owner, Director, & Ballet Instructor

Shannon Hearn received her training in ballet, jazz and acrobatics. She began teaching dance in 1992 and in 1996 furthered her education by completing the one-year intensive teaching diploma (T.D.) at the Royal Academy of Dance in London, England. During that year, Shannon studied the RAD Grades and Vocationals, as well as the required courses of anatomy, child psychology and history of ballet. As well, Shannon graduated from the University of Calgary with a Bachelor of Arts Degree (B.A.) in General Studies with minors in Management and Communications. In September 2002, Shannon opened Counterpoint Dance Academy Marda Loop. She is committed to providing the support and training required to fulfill individuals’ dreams.

“I am drawn to understanding the world and how we operate and connect. I am always searching for more ways to grow, be connected, to listen and learn. As a reflective person, I strive to work through challenges in a postive and proactive manner. I am a heart centered leader and I see how each individual has their own path.”

“I have a great passion for uplifting, empowering, and encouraging others. It fills me with immense joy to be able to provide or create opportunities for people, helping them achieve their personal best. I find it incredibly rewarding to see individuals grow and succeed, and I am always looking for ways to support and foster that development.”

Miss Hannah Joelle

Marda Loop Dance Team Manager

Hannah Joelle is a teacher/choreographer from Calgary, Canada. She has been involved with dance for 27 years and has taught in Canada, the US, Bermuda, and the UK. Her diversified training and skills include: contemporary, hip hop, lyrical, jazz, house, locking, popping, lifts, harness, ballet, pointe, tap, and acro. Hannah has trained with many established professionals in the industry including Sho-Tyme, Menina Fortunato, Link, Super Dave, Ant Boogie, Jon Rua, Nijawwon Matthews and Sheila Barker, to name a few. She has worked with choreographers such as Chris Scott, Sean Cheesman, Ed Moore and Shaun Evaristo, as well as many others. Hannah was selected to present her work in Toronto at “Escapade”, a show produced by Ryan Foley. She also choreographed Emily Vay’s debut music video “Dollhouse”, and was assistant choreographer for the music videos “Party Follow Me” and “Lights Camera Action”, filmed at Universal Studios. Hannah choreographed along side Edgar-Gilbert Reyes for WE Day Alberta 2016, under the mentorship of Paula Abdul. She has choreographed shows for The Young Canadians of the Calgary Stampede and was selected for the 2017 Young Choreographer’s Festival in NYC, where she presented her work at Symphony Space. Hannah is committed to continue growing as a leader and helping others achieve their goals.

“Dance is not just an art form but a journey that can blossom into a lifelong passion. It connects people despite language, physical abilities, age, and has always been a positive role in my life. My mission has been to inspire and build confidence in the next generation of dancers.”

Miss Kate Rushfeldt

Preschool Manager

Born and raised in Calgary, Kate's journey into the world of dance began at the young age of three when she proudly began dancing as one of CPML’s first 30 dancers in Marda Loop!

During her youth, she trained in the styles of Ballet, Jazz and Musical Theatre. Kate successfully completed examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and was fortunate to enjoy opportunities to travel with dance throughout the years.

Her love of the art has naturally evolved into a fulfilling career of educating and inspiring dancers. Kate is honoured to share over a decade of teaching experience with her home studio, where she proudly offers a welcoming and engaging Preschool dance program. Her classes are thoughtfully designed to build confidence and coordination, while nurturing her same love of dance in CPML's youngest dancers.

When Miss Kate is not at the studio, she is most likely exploring the outdoors with her son or cooking up something delicious!

CPML INSTRUCTORS