• citydanseacademy@gmail.com
  • Phone/SMS: 0917 272 6893
CityDanse Academy

ABOUT US

Core Values

CityDanse Academy is dedicated to establishing itself as the preeminent authority in delivering world-class Broadway productions globally, all while offering an unparalleled standard of customer service.

Our overarching mission is to broaden and cultivate a diverse and global audience for live theater. We act as a bridge, bringing the magic of Broadway to devoted fans and introducing new enthusiasts to the world of theater.

Our Core Values

Inclusivity

We extend a warm welcome to all, ensuring that every individual feels valued and appreciated within our community.

Innovation

We foster an environment that invites fresh ideas and encourages creative thinking as a catalyst for progress.

Curiosity

We inspire and support a culture of curiosity, where questions are encouraged and learning is a lifelong journey.

Diversity

We wholeheartedly celebrate the uniqueness and individuality of each member in our community, embracing the richness it brings.

Storytelling Passion

Our commitment to storytelling is unwavering, as we recognize the transformative power of narrative.

Excellence in Service

We are resolutely dedicated to delivering world-class service, consistently exceeding expectations.
Community as Family: Every member of our community is embraced as a cherished member of our extended family, nurturing lasting bonds and connections.

Our Team

Dr. Salve B. Arbo

Co-Founder and CEO
Many years of dedicated experience in the dental field, Dr. Salve is a seasoned professional renowned for her expertise in general dentistry, orthodontics, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and complex dental cases. Her unwavering commitment to promoting oral health extends beyond her practice, as she consistently goes the extra mile to help individuals prioritize their well-being. Her greatest professional satisfaction stems from not only delivering exceptional patient care but also from forging lasting relationships with those under her care.

In addition to her dental career, Dr. Salve is a multifaceted individual who shares an equal passion for the arts. She has taken on the role of Co-Founder and CEO at CityDanse Academy, an initiative that exemplifies her dynamic and innovative spirit, offering a unique blend of creativity and leadership in both the dental and artistic realms.

MJ Aspacio

Co-Founder and COO
MJ has been steeped in the world of arts and theater since childhood, coming from a family with a strong tradition of support and patronage for these creative endeavors. A passionate advocate for dance and the arts, MJ is dedicated to fostering an environment where students are encouraged to explore movement, receive support in their unique theater journeys, and establish meaningful connections between the arts and their lives. With certifications as a Yoga and Pilates Instructor, as well as a background in business development and marketing, she brings a strategic, business-oriented approach to the arts, aiming to build audiences, expand access, and support the creative process.

Beyond her professional expertise, MJ believes that engagement in the arts enriches communities, fostering a shared appreciation and understanding. She actively advocate for the arts and work to create a welcoming community for both artists and patrons. MJ's own love for the stage, demonstrated through her participation in plays and musicals, remains a testament to her commitment to creativity and innovation. MJ is dedicated to enhancing the arts community and its impact on society.

Eugene Obille

Artistic Director
Eugene, a former Soloist with Ballet Philippines, has a distinguished career marked by notable roles in classical ballets such as Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty. He's also toured with Les Ballet Grandiva/Ballet Eloelle in Asia, Australia, and South Africa.

During the pandemic, he played a pivotal role in the CCP Dance Workshop and is now a Company Artist at Sacramento Ballet. There, he's performed various contemporary pieces and even choreographed a Pas de deux called 'Nocturne'.

Philip Joseph Rocamora

Artistic Director
An accomplished ballet dancer with a rich training history that includes the Manila Dance Center, Philippine High School for the Arts, and professional experience with Ballet Philippines and international companies like Les Ballet Eloelle. Notable achievements include two bronze medals at NAMCYA and a standout performance as Mr. Mistoffelees in Cats aboard the Oasis of the Seas. Currently, pursuing a professional ballet career in the US.

Brezhnev Larlar

Consultant Director
Brezhnev, a product of the renowned Cultural Center of the Philippines, has had a diverse and illustrious career in the performing arts. He excelled early on, winning the 1985 National Competition for Young Artists in the Solo Voice Category B. His ballet journey was shaped by rigorous training under notable mentors such as Noordin Jumalon, Nonoy Froilan, and Alice Reyes. Brezhnev went on to represent the Philippines at the Hong Kong International Dance Festival and was an original member of Agnes Locsin's Ballet Philippines II.

Our Instructors

Eira Joanne Tangalin

Instructor
Joanne, a Philippine High School for the Arts alumna majoring in Ballet, received intensive training in Classical and Modern Ballet, Choreography, and Contemporary dance. She earned a college scholarship with the Saint Benilde Romancon Dance Company, leading to success in international dance competitions and an exchange program in Singapore.
Her professional career with Ballet Philippines included prominent roles in Swan Lake, Don Quixote, Cinderella, and the Nutcracker. During the pandemic, she received support from the Cultural Center of the Philippines' Professional Dance Support program.

In addition to performing, Joanne passionately shares her craft, teaching Ballet at institutions like Ballet Philippines Dance School, Cultural Center of the Philippines Dance Workshop, Bombay Ballet Company, JNA Dance Center, and CityDanse Academy.

Eloisa Jessa Tangalin

Instructor
Jessa commenced her dance journey at age 5 with a scholarship from Dancer’s Inc., training in classical and modern dance under mentors Olivia Escarlan and Edward Malagkit. At the Philippine High School for the Arts (PHSA), she earned a full scholarship as a Dance-Ballet major, graduating with High Honors in 2014 under the tutelage of Nonoy Froilan and Robert Medina.
Simultaneously pursuing her studies at the University of the Philippines-Diliman (UP), she evolved her career as a professional dancer, progressing from a company scholar to a full member with Ballet Philippines. Jessa's notable performances include roles in 'Crisostomo Ibarra,' 'Swan Lake,' 'A Midsummer Night’s Dream,' and 'Tales of the Manuvu.' She also achieved academic excellence, graduating Cum Laude in 2020 with a Bachelor's in Music (Dance) and continued to refine her skills through CCP Dance Workshop while receiving support from the Professional Dancers Support Program (PDSP) at CCP.

Gladys Baybayan

Instructor
Gladys embarked on her ballet journey at age 5 under Effie Nañas. She later earned the "Directors’ Scholarship" at Halili Cruz School of Ballet, performing soloist roles like Tony Fabella’s 'Dalagang Filipina.' Her talent took her to international stages, guided by mentors like Effie Nañas, Shirley Halili Cruz, Grace Garalde Perez, and Anna Lissa Tuazon-Balmadrid. Balancing academics, she received a scholarship at the University of the East and joined UE Silangan Dance Troupe. Gladys became a Company Artist with PBT during its 29th Season under Ronilo Jaynario and Anatoli Panasyukov, showcasing her talents in various productions.

Justine Joseph Orande

Instructor
Justine performed in major productions including, Peter Pan, Nutcracker, Don Quixote, Carmina Burana, Snow white, A midSummer Night's Dream, Tales of Manuvu, Swan Lake.
He was also part of BP's local and National Tours in Cagayan Deoro, Davao, Cebu and Iloilo.

Justine Joseph essayed notable roles such as the Nutcracker Prince in "The Nutcracker," Bluebird Pas de Deux in "Sleeping Beauty," and the Lover in Gener Caringal’s " and "Ang Sultan."
He was part of CCPDW as a COMPANY ARTIST from 2020 - 2022.

Julafer Fegarido

Instructor
Julafer started dancing at the University of the East's Silanganan Dance Troupe under Gener Caringal. While studying as a scholar of UE, he was also a company scholar of Philippine Ballet Theatre.

Eager to venture into, and improve his technique in classical ballet, he auditioned for a scholarship program at Ballet Manila. He was accepted, and trained under Osias Barroso, Mylene Aggabao-Salgado, and Jonathan Janolo. After a year of training at BM, he was given an opportunity to perform with the Quezon City Ballet under Shirley Halili-Cruz. During his stay at the QCB, he had the privilege to perform and tour in Russia, Korea, China, Hong Kong and. Thailand. After his five-year stay at the Quezon City Ballet, Julafer returned to Philippine Ballet Theatre as a company member in 2015, just in time for it's 29th season. Performances: Julafer has performed the roles of Dill, Russian Trepak dancer, dance of the Reed flutes, and Chinese dance in "The Nutcracker". As well as key roles in "Don Quixote", "Darangen ni Bantugen", "Sayaw sa Entablado" and "Dancing in One Voice". Featured Soloist role of "Vinta", Pas de Trois in "Paquita"; Kailangan Kita Pas de Deux in PBT's "Encore"; Just Give me a Reason in "Dancing in One Voice"; Fakir in "La Bayadere"; Corps de ballet in "The Merry Widow"; PBT's
'Andres"; as Achmed, the second lead in "Mirinisa"

RJ Jimenez

Voice Master
RJ Jimenez is a prominent Filipino singer, guitarist, and versatile musician who gained recognition as a former scholar of Pinoy Dream Academy. His array of talents encompasses singing, songwriting, music production, music arrangement, musical direction, and music teaching.

RJ's journey in music includes remarkable achievements such as being a Gold Record Awardee for the Pinoy Dream Academy Volume 1 Album under Star Records. As a singer-songwriter, his tracks "Miss Kita 'pag Tuesday" and "If We Fall in Love" have garnered millions of streams on Spotify. He has also made significant contributions to music production, with credits including "Ulan," the ABS-CBN Station ID performed by Toni Gonzaga, and various jingles for brands such as KFC, Whisper-Olay-Rejoice, Chowking, and Unilever Surf. Additionally, RJ has lent his musical direction and arrangement expertise to theater productions like "KATIPUNAN: MGA ANAK NG BAYAN" and "Si Jack at ang Mahiwagang Beanstalk." His work on "Sayaw ng mga Senyorita" and "Dreamland Musical" further exemplifies his excellence in the musical realm, earning him nominations and accolades in the industry. RJ Jimenez's musical talents continue to shine, contributing to the rich tapestry of Filipino music and theater.

Signup to Our Newsletter

Stay updated on City Danse Academy's Classes, Workshops and Shows
CityDanse Academy: Where the Arts Unite – A Total Performance Experience Beyond Dance, Theater, Voice, and Fitness
© 2022-2023, All Rights Reserved