AJ (they/them) is a non-binary artist, born in Guam and raised in Eugene. Their core belief is that dance is a universal non-verbal language through which we can communicate and express our deepest and most authentic selves.

AJ is primarily trained in multiple genres of Hip Hop, and also has a background in Modern, Ballet and Latin styles.

With 13 years of teaching and directing experience, AJ hopes to cultivate an environment at AMP where everyone can come as they are.

Maria Antonieta is a vibrant and passionate dance professional who's all about making the world move!

In 2024, she became a certified master teacher of the DanceAbility method. This unique approach ensures that dance is for everyone, no matter their abilities, making sure no one misses out on the joy of movement.

Maria is all about community and connection. She spends her days teaching inclusive dance classes across Lane County, spreading her love for dance to students from all walks of life.

Nina Persin (they/she) is a dancer and student at Lane Community College studying Environmental Science. Their favorite color is yellow, and her favorite activities include dance, swimming, and getting outside. She has a dance background in competition dance, jazz, contemporary, musical theatre, ballet, and hip hop, and is excited to teach for AMP this fall!

Isabella Shaft (she/her) is a local queer artist and dedicated educator currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology and Dance at the University of Oregon.

With a rich background in dance, Isabella has trained extensively in ballet, jazz, modern, African, tap, musical theater, aerial, hip hop, and street styles. She spent several years teaching youth dance classes and has choreographed for community performances across Eugene.

Isabella has also performed and competed as a member of the Dance Contraption Repertory Company, bringing both artistry and athleticism to the stage. Passionate about movement, community, and expression, she continues to use dance as a powerful tool for connection and celebration.

Veronica Dutton (she/her) is a local queer Latina artist based in Eugene, Oregon, currently working towards a Bachelor of Science in Dance and Human Physiology at the University of Oregon. She is a part of multiple student organizations on campus, including Dance Oregon and Oregon Athletics Bands, serving in leadership roles in both.

Through her studies at the university and her time apart of Contraption Repertory Company, she has developed an deep emphasis on dance within community, heritage, and education. Emphasizing dance is the expression of human movement for everyone, by everyone and is unique for each individual.

Veronica has and is currently training in multiple styles both in the studio, university and her kitchen including improvisation, composition, African forms, Ballet, Jazz, Latin forms with an emphasis on hip-hop and contemporary dance. Although new to her teaching journey, she hopes to open a continuous space for students and educators to grow, develop and learn.