Meet our experienced and passionate dance teachers at Accentz Dance Studio.
“Behind every dancer is a team that lifts them, challenges them, and believes in who they are becoming.”
Our team of dance teachers in Vernon, BC brings experience, passion, and energy into every class. Together, they create a supportive and inspiring environment where dancers build confidence, grow in technique, and develop a lifelong love of movement.
Accentz Faculty
BECKY MARTSELOS : Studio & Academy Director. Becky Martselos leads Accentz Dance Studio with over 13 years of professional performance experience and 38 years of teaching excellence. Trained at Laine Theatre Arts in London, UK, she has performed and taught internationally and spent 9 years as a Dance Captain with Carnival and Celebrity Cruise Lines. Certified with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance in Ballet, Modern, and Tap, and in Pilates Mat and Reformer, Becky brings a powerful combination of artistry, strength, and leadership to her work. As President of the Vernon Performing Arts Festival, she continues to drive growth and excellence within the arts community. Becky is dedicated to building strong, confident dancers with the technique, resilience, and foundation for long, healthy careers.Kennedy Fried grew up in Vernon, BC, and was the very first student at Accentz Dance Studio in 2005. She continued her training in Vancouver, earning a scholarship through The Dance Initiative and working with Harbour Dance Centre’s Source and Aviary Dance Company. She has performed at the Dancing on the Edge Festival, represented Team Canada at the I.D.O. World Championships, and worked with leading choreographers, as well as on film and commercial projects including She, PRP Productions, and Disney. Now a professional artist and mentor, Kennedy brings energy, experience, and a full-circle passion back into the studio—leading and inspiring every dancer she teaches.Amie Roussel brings energy, creativity, and passion into every class she teaches. With a strong background in multiple dance styles, she builds confident dancers, sharp technique, and a genuine love for movement. As the owner of a successful dance photography business in the Okanagan, Amie captures the artistry of movement both behind the lens and in the studio. She creates a positive, inspiring space where dancers feel supported, challenged, and excited to grow.
TANNIS KASSAM :Tannis Kassam built her dance foundation in Ballet, training in Vernon and Calgary and completing her RAD Advanced 2 examinations before earning her teaching certification through the Royal Academy of Dance (CBTS). She taught at a competitive studio in Calgary, preparing students for RAD exams and choreographing for stage and competition. Back in Vernon, Tannis expanded her training into yoga, Barre, and Pilates, and created her own mat Pilates program. Tannis now brings a strong, strength-focused approach into the studio, developing dancers with confidence, control, and solid technique.AVERY MORRISON :Avery Morrison began dancing at the age of three in Vernon, B.C., and quickly developed a strong passion for performance, including the opportunity to perform at Disneyland. A certified Barre instructor and Pilates Reformer trainee, Avery brings a strong focus on creativity, strength, and connection into every class. She choreographs with purpose, prepares dancers for the stage, and builds confidence in every student she teaches. Avery creates a positive, supportive environment where dancers feel inspired to grow, express themselves, and love the process. Shayla Sauer grew up at Accentz Dance Studio and now returns as a teacher, bringing her full-circle journey into every class. Specializing in Hip Hop and teaching all ages, she delivers high-energy classes filled with passion and positivity. Shayla builds a supportive, upbeat environment where dancers feel confident, motivated, and excited to grow.Desiree Bortolussi began dancing at age three in Kelowna, BC, training in R.A.D. ballet at The Canadian School of Ballet and completing all exams with Distinction. She earned BC Provincial Senior Ballet Champion before continuing her training across North America and stepping into a professional contract with Ballet Kelowna. Over a 13-year career, Desiree performed nationally and internationally, worked with leading choreographers, and performed in over 40 original works. She now brings that professional experience into the studio, creating a strong, inspiring environment where dancers feel challenged, supported, and empowered to grow.
