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Name: Collingwood School of Dance
Address: 10114 Ontario 26 #1, Collingwood, ON, L9Y 5P6, CA
Telephone: 705-293-7722

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Meet Your Collingwood Dance Educators

Ms. Devon Stone - Collingwood School of Dance

Ms. Devon StoneOwner & Director

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Ms. Devon Stone

Owner & Director
Associate Diploma, Cecchetti Canada - CICB
Acrobatic Arts Certified

Hello there! I’m Devon Stone, the proud owner and director of Collingwood School of Dance – the largest and most dynamic dance studio in Collingwood, serving hundreds of aspiring dancers every year.

I established Collingwood School of Dance in 2007 with the mission to offer a new and innovative type of dance education, one that focuses on inspiring students to discover their passion for dance, boosting their confidence and self-esteem, and empowering them to achieve success through specialized one-of-a-kind dance programs and curriculum available exclusively at Collingwood School of Dance.

As a graduate of the School of Alberta Ballet Teacher Training Program and a certified member of Cecchetti Canada, Cecchetti International – Classical Ballet, and Acrobatic Arts, I bring over 20 years of dance teaching experience to the area.

My passion for dance started at a young age, and at just 13 years old, I was accepted into a prestigious professional ballet school, the Quinte Ballet School, where I honed my skills further. I also had the opportunity to attend the National Ballet School in Toronto and graduate from The School of Dance in Ottawa, which further molded me into the dancer and teacher I am today.

With a deep-rooted love for ballet, I was honored to receive top marks on all my Cecchetti Ballet exams and receive the prestigious Celia Franca Scholarship Award in 1998.

At Collingwood School of Dance, I’ve created an environment and unique dance training education system that sets us apart from other studios in the area, combining my experience as a mother and my professional dance training to provide a nurturing and inspiring dance studio for children and adults to learn and grow.

Our team of dance educators are dedicated to fostering growth and development in every student, teaching exquisite technique and building your child’s confidence with every class. Our classes are specifically designed to be intentional and developmentally appropriate, ensuring that your child thrives both as a dancer and as an individual.

With a focus on providing the absolute best dance education in the area, we offer a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere that sets us apart from other studios.

Join us and experience the exceptional difference at Collingwood School of Dance!

Ms. Carol Gillstrom - Collingwood School of Dance

Ms. Carol GillstromBallet, Jazz & Creative Movement

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Ms. Carol Gillstrom

BFA (Hons) Dance, York University
Associate Diploma, Cecchetti Canada - CICB
Expert in Ballet, Jazz, Creative Movement, and Adult Programs

From the moment Carol Gillstrom discovered dance as a young girl, she was hooked! Her love for dance has driven her to dedicate her entire career to sharing this joy with children and adults alike. Carol's impressive journey began with a ballet teaching diploma from The Montreal Ballet Educators Society, which was just the beginning of her exciting adventure.
Carol's educational path led her to York University, where she delved into the world of Modern Dance, Modern Educational Dance, Jazz, and Creative Movement. She graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts Honours in Dance, armed with a wealth of knowledge and a passion for teaching.

In 1987, Carol took a bold step and opened Huronia Dance Centre in Barrie, Ontario. For 23 vibrant years, she not only ran the studio but also wowed audiences with her elaborate annual recitals and award-winning competition choreographies. Carol's commitment to excellence and creativity has always shone through.

In 2002, Carol achieved her Associate Diploma in Cecchetti Ballet, guiding her ballet dancers to success in Cecchetti Ballet Exams. Her diverse expertise extends across Ballet, Modern, Jazz, Creative Movement, and Adult Ballet programs, ensuring every class is filled with fun and encouragement.

Carol's teaching philosophy is simple yet powerful: she aims to create a nurturing and inspiring environment where every student can fall in love with dance and pursue it for a lifetime. With Carol's extensive experience, dedication, and passion, you can trust that your child will be in the best hands at Collingwood School of Dance. Let Carol Gillstrom help your child discover the magic and joy of dance!

Shannon Talbot - Collingwood School of Dance

Shannon TalbotOffice Manager

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Shannon Talbot

Office Manager

Shannon Talbot’s life journey is a remarkable testament to commitment, resilience, and the embrace of diverse experiences. Married for 28 years, Shannon’s dedication to her family is evident in her loving relationship with her husband and the vibrant household she has nurtured. As a mother of seven children, ranging in age from 10 to 26, Shannon’s life is filled with the joys and challenges of raising a large, close-knit family.

Shannon spent 14 years living in the Philippines, an experience that enriched her life with cultural diversity and broadened her worldview. Immersed in a new environment, she gained unique perspectives and a deep appreciation for different traditions and ways of life, which have undoubtedly influenced her and her family’s collective experiences.

Although not a dancer herself, Shannon has a deep admiration for the art of dance and the dedication it requires. Since joining Collingwood School of Dance in 2021, she has become an integral part of the studio’s community, where her passion for supporting the arts and the people involved is clear. Shannon finds immense joy in her role as Office Manager, cherishing the interactions with the many talented students and their families. The connections she has built and the relationships she continues to nurture are a source of great fulfillment for her.

In her spare time, Shannon enjoys losing herself in the pages of a good book, finding solace and inspiration in literature. Her story is a mosaic of rich family life, cultural immersion, personal passions, and professional satisfaction. Shannon’s ability to embrace and celebrate diverse experiences, coupled with her warmth and dedication, makes her a valued and respected member of Collingwood School of Dance family.

Miss Cecilia - Collingwood School of Dance

Miss CeciliaCertified Dance Educator

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Miss Cecilia

ADAPT Certified Dance Educator
Diploma (Hons) in Dance Performance

Miss Cecilia’s dance journey is one of passion, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to artistic excellence. She began dancing at the age of 8 and quickly discovered her love for performing. By 10, she was competing in a wide range of styles, developing the versatility that continues to define her today.

Her training spans Jazz, Musical Theatre, Song & Dance, Lyrical, Contemporary, Ballet, Pointe, Acro, and Tap. Cecilia has earned numerous awards and overalls at competitions across British Columbia, Ontario, and even New York. A highlight of her early career was performing in The Nutcracker with the National Ballet of Canada in 2016—an unforgettable experience that deepened her love for the art form.

Cecilia has also achieved impressive technical milestones, completing R.A.D. Ballet exams through the Intermediate level and Acrobatic Arts Level 5. After high school, she pursued her professional dance education at George Brown College in Toronto, graduating with honors from both the Performance Preparatory Program (2019) and the Performance Program (2021). These programs expanded her artistry through Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Ballet, Pointe, Acting, Vocals, and Self-Choreography, while allowing her to train with some of Toronto’s most respected dancers and choreographers.

In 2020, Miss Cecilia transitioned into teaching, where she now shares her extensive knowledge and passion with both recreational and competitive dancers. Her choreography has been celebrated with Special Awards, Choreography Awards, and Overall Awards, but what she values most is seeing her students grow in confidence, artistry, and skill.

Miss Cecilia is an ADAPT Certified Teacher and a proud graduate of the ADAPT Teacher Training School. She is dedicated to continually growing as an educator and inspiring the next generation of dancers to discover their own love for the art.

Miss Sarah - Collingwood School of Dance

Miss SarahCertified Dance Educator

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Miss Sarah

ADAPT Certified Dance Educator
Acrobatic Arts Certified

Miss Sarah discovered her love for dance at just 4 years old, and it has been her passion ever since. By the age of 8, she joined the competitive team, training in Ballet, Jazz, and Modern before expanding her skills to include Acro, Lyrical, Contemporary, and more. Her versatility and dedication have earned her numerous awards and special recognitions on stages across Ontario and even internationally in Florida.

Sarah’s training includes ballet examinations in the Vaganova method, as well as Jazz and Modern exams. She is an Acrobatic Arts Module 1 certified instructor and is working toward Module 2, always striving to grow as both a dancer and teacher. She is also an ADAPT Certified Teacher, having completed the ADAPT Teacher Training School.

In 2020, Sarah transitioned from performer to instructor, sharing her love of dance with students of all ages and levels. Her choreography has already been recognized with overalls and special awards, but what she values most is helping her students gain confidence, artistry, and a deeper love for dance.

Miss Sarah is known for her encouraging, positive approach and her commitment to helping every dancer reach their full potential. She believes in creating a supportive and inspiring space where students can learn, grow, and truly shine.

Miss Pilar - Collingwood School of Dance

Miss PilarCertified Prima Star Dance Educator

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Miss Pilar

Certified Prima Star Dance Educator

Miss Pilar’s passion for dance was ignited at the age of 3, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey in the art form. In 2016, she made a pivotal decision to join the Company Dancer Program at Collingwood School of Dance, a step that solidified her commitment to her craft. Her dedication has led her to achieve a Grade 6 certification in the Cecchetti ballet method, reflecting her hard work and mastery of this classical discipline.

Pilar’s dance repertoire is as diverse as it is impressive. She excels in a wide range of styles, including the elegance of ballet, the dynamic energy of jazz, the strength and grace of pointe, and the expressive depth of lyrical and contemporary dance. Her versatility and dedication to perfecting each style highlight her relentless pursuit of artistic excellence.

At Collingwood School of Dance, Pilar’s journey has been multifaceted. In addition to her rigorous training, she has thrived in the Assistant Training Program, demonstrating her passion for teaching and sharing her love of dance with younger students. In 2024 Miss Pilar graduated from Collingwood School of Dance and the Apprentice Teacher Program. Her role as a dance educator allows her to mentor and inspire dancers, bringing enthusiasm and expertise to every class.

Miss Pilar’s commitment to growth extends beyond the studio. She continues to expand her horizons through an apprenticeship with Simcoe Contemporary Dancers, a respected contemporary dance company in Barrie. This opportunity enables her to deepen her skills and gain new insights under the guidance of seasoned professionals, further enriching her dance journey.

As she looks to the future, Pilar stands at the threshold of exciting new opportunities. Miss Pilar is currently pursuing a career in healthcare by studying to become a Massage Therapist, while continuing her dance endeavors in the city. Collingwood School of Dance is proud to support Pilar as she embarks on this new chapter, and eagerly anticipates her continued success in both dance and her future career.

Miss Christiana - Collingwood School of Dance

Miss ChristianaCertified Prima Star Dance Educator

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Miss Christiana

Certified Prima Star Dance Educator

Miss Christiana's dance journey began at the tender age of 3 at the Collingwood School of Dance, where her passion for movement quickly blossomed. By the age of 8, her dedication and talent earned her a place in the prestigious Company Dancer Program, marking the start of a promising dance career.

Her training is both extensive and diverse, encompassing Ballet and Pointe, Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, Tap, and Acro. Miss Christiana’s versatility as a dancer is evident through her active participation in competitions across these styles, where she consistently demonstrates both artistic expression and technical excellence.

Her commitment to the discipline of dance is reflected in her achievements within the Cecchetti Ballet exams, where she has successfully completed 8 levels and currently holds a Grade 6 certification. This accomplishment underscores her deep dedication to mastering the classical ballet form.

At the age of 11, Christiana began her teaching journey as part of the Assistant Training Program, eventually advancing to the CSD Apprentice Teacher Program. In this role, she has shared her knowledge and passion with students in the Prima Star classes, guiding and inspiring young dancers.

Miss Christiana is now a CSD graduate, and fully certified CSD dance educator. Her return to Collingwood School of Dance as a teacher symbolizes her lasting connection to the institution and her desire to mentor the next generation of dancers.

Miss Christiana’s journey is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the art of dance. Her story inspires others and highlights the transformative power of dance, showcasing the enduring spirit of a true artist.

Ms. Virginia - Collingwood School of Dance

Ms. VirginiaCreative Kids Club Instructor

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Ms. Virginia

Creative Kids Club Instructor

Ms. Virginia brings an extensive wealth of experience and passion to Collingwood School of Dance as a primary music specialist and Creative Kids Club instructor. With a tenure of 5 years at the school, her journey in the world of dance and music education spans an impressive 25 years.

Beyond her role at the studio, Virginia's involvement in the arts runs deep. As a devoted dance mom for 15 years, she intimately understands the dynamics of nurturing young talents within Collingwood School of Dance, especially with her own daughters participating in the program.

Her multifaceted career extends to teaching music in a traditional school setting, where her expertise and dedication shine through in guiding and inspiring students in their musical pursuits. Moreover, her global teaching experience in the Cayman Islands for 7 years adds an international dimension to her already diverse background.

Virginia's love for musical theatre reflects her active participation in local community theatre productions. Her on-stage experience not only enriches her teaching style but also fosters a deep appreciation for the performing arts among her students.

Outside the realm of teaching, Virginia's "spare" time (if one can call it that) is a testament to her unwavering commitment to music. Engaging in various musical ensembles such as a flute choir, handbell choir, and a ukulele group, in addition to lending her voice to an open choir, showcases her boundless energy and enthusiasm for music-making.

Her life might be bustling with activities, but for Virginia, it's a joyful blend of passion, dedication, and pure enjoyment. Her commitment to nurturing budding talents, coupled with her vibrant involvement in diverse musical pursuits, defines her as not just an educator but a true enthusiast and advocate for the arts.

Miss Elise - Collingwood School of Dance

Miss EliseCertified Dance Educator

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Miss Elise

Certified Dance Educator

Elise Gilbert’s passion for dance began at the age of 3, and her journey continued until she graduated from Collingwood School of Dance in 2008 as the studio’s very first graduate. Throughout her formative years, Elise cultivated a deep understanding of the commitment and dedication required to pursue one’s dreams. She spent many summers honing her skills at intensive programs offered by renowned ballet schools, including the Quinte Ballet School in Belleville and The School of Dance in Ottawa. Her training encompasses a wide range of dance styles, from Cecchetti ballet—where she achieved her Advanced 1 certificate—to modern, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, Broadway, and flamenco.

In 2012, after earning her Bachelor of Arts degree in Drama in Education and the Community from the University of Windsor, Elise returned to her roots by joining the teaching faculty at Collingwood School of Dance. She completed the studio’s Teacher Training Program under the mentorship of Devon Stone, and during this time, she also became licensed to teach Zumba®, Zumba Kids®, and Zumbini®. After six years of teaching at CSD, Elise pursued further education, completing her Bachelor of Education at Queen’s University.

Since earning her B.Ed., Elise has been actively teaching DANCEPL3Y and YOGAPL3Y, innovative kids' fitness programs, in schools across Ontario as well as in recreational settings. Additionally, she has worked as a supply teacher with the Ontario College of Teachers. Elise is thrilled to be back in Collingwood, where she continues to share her passion for dance as an instructor at Collingwood School of Dance. Her extensive experience, dedication to teaching, and enthusiasm for dance make her a valued member of the CSD community.

Ms. Gemma-Lee - Collingwood School of Dance

Ms. Gemma-LeeCertified Dance Educator

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Ms. Gemma-Lee

ADAPT Certified Dance Educator

Gemma-Lee is a certified ADAPT Dance Teacher who began her dance journey at the young age of four and instantly fell in love with the art form. Raised in a studio environment that nurtured versatility, she trained in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical, and Hip Hop, eventually gravitating toward the expressive and storytelling-driven styles of Lyrical, Hip Hop, and Musical Theatre Dance.

As a competitive dancer, Gemma-Lee spent many years on the stage, developing a strong performance foundation and a deep appreciation for the discipline, teamwork, and joy that dance brings to young artists. She later went on to earn her ADAPT Dance Teacher Certification—an accomplishment that marked the beginning of her journey as a professional educator in the dance world.

Gemma-Lee has now been teaching for over a decade, sharing her love of dance with students of all ages and levels. She strives to create a classroom environment that is fun, focused, and full of encouragement. Her teaching approach blends strong technical training with the freedom to explore individuality and expression, allowing dancers to build confidence, character, and artistry.

Throughout her teaching career, Gemma-Lee has choreographed award-winning routines and developed programs for both recreational and competitive dancers. Her work includes choreographing competitive dance routines, leading dance workshops, choreographing full-scale musical theatre productions, and training and mentoring competitive students. She takes pride in watching her students grow not only as dancers but as kind, disciplined, and resilient individuals.

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Certified Leaders in Dance Education

10114 Ontario 26 #1 Collingwood, ON L9Y 5P6 | 705-293-7722 | [email protected] 