Staff

FOUNDER/ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

After dancing in the corps of San Francisco Ballet under Michael Smuin, as well as with Dance Theatre of Kansas, Melanie spent many years teaching ballet in different studios in Santa Cruz County. She founded Agape Dance Academy in 2012 with the dream of having a studio that takes care of its dancers holistically, creating a loving and caring environment where students could grow in their ballet technique and love of dance.

DIRECTOR

In 2019, Conrad received an MA in Theatre Practices from Artez Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (NL), where he was a recipient of the Artez Scholarship. In 2015, he received a BFA in Dance from Belhaven University (USA) where he was a recipient of the Belhaven Dance Scholarship.

Over the course of his training, Conrad learned ballet under the tutelage of Caleb Mitchell (Houston Ballet), Ravenna Tucker (Royal Ballet), Laura Morton (Milwaukee Ballet), and of course his mother (San Francisco Ballet) among others.

In his ballet classes, Conrad focuses on performance and presence, teaching the students how to dig into the work and to find and hold the inner light of artistry.

MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR

Lana grew up dancing with Caledonia Dance & Music Center and performed with Aquinas College's Dance Team. Lana taught for 4 years at CDMC as a dance instructor and has loved working with students at all stages of their dance journey. She joined Agape in 2021 and intends to create an inclusive and supportive community in every one of her classes.

SHOW COORDINATOR | POINTESAFE CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR

Hannah has been teaching at Agape since 2021 after training there throughout her youth. In 2024, she became one of the only PointeSafe certified instructors in Santa Cruz County, and ensures that all students begin their pointe training with safety and longevity in mind.

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR | STUDENT SUCCESS ADVISOR | INSTRUCTOR

Juliana Davis joined Agape in 2024 and quickly became a beloved pre-ballet instructor. With her energetic and caring approach, she creates a joyful and nurturing environment where young dancers develop a love for movement. Her passion for teaching and dedication to her students make her an invaluable part of the Agape team.

STUDENT SUCCESS ADVISOR | INSTRUCTOR

Erin Fujimori-Kim joined Agape Dance Academy in 2024, bringing her passion for ballet and dynamic teaching style to pre-ballet classes. Her high-energy approach keeps young dancers engaged and excited to learn, while her deep love for ballet inspires her students. Erin’s enthusiasm and ability to connect with children make her a cherished member of the Agape team.

PRE-BALLET INSTRUCTOR

Olivia joined Agape Dance Academy in 2018 and has been a beloved teacher ever since. She teaches pre-ballet classes with a gentle and quiet style that creates a calm and nurturing environment for young dancers. Her patience and warmth make her classes a favorite among students, fostering a love for ballet from the very start.

SPECIALTY INSTRUCTOR

Anton Pankevich received his ballet training at Vaganova Ballet Academy in Russia and later on went to study at School of American Ballet and San Francisco Ballet School. Has danced with New York City Ballet, Dutch National Ballet, Royal Ballet of London, Pacific Northwest Ballet and Ballet San Jose. Has worked as a ballet master and a guest teachers with: English National Ballet, National Ballet of Canada, Wiesbaden Ballet, Stuttgart Ballet and Leipzig Ballet.