Dance Styles / Fusion Choreography, Heels, Jazz Funk
Abady (he/him) is an artist, entrepreneur, and dance educator in Halifax, Nova Scotia, committed to serving underrepresented communities of dancers, dance educators, and creators.
He is the owner of House of Eights Dance Studio, and has been teaching dance in Halifax for over 8 years, primarily in the style of Jazz Funk, Fusion, and Heels. He has choreographed for the Halifax Thunderbirds Dance Team, as well as coached and choreographed many award winning pieces for Dalhousie’s Competitive Black & Gold Dance Team, and Maritime Dance’s competitive team and elite performance groups. Recreationally, he has instructed dance classes and workshops at Dalhousie University and in studios throughout HRM. His choreography has been featured at TedxHalifax, Atlantic Fashion Week, The Fuse Festival, Black & Gold Showcase, DalDance’s Annual Show, Halifax Pride events, and various concept videos and dance competitions throughout Atlantic Canada.
While primarily trained in Halifax, he has also trained in classes and intensives in New York, Vancouver, and Los Angeles, dancing under the instruction of some of the world’s top choreographers, including Keenan Cooks, Laure Courtellemont, Janelle Ginestra, Kaela Faloon, and Yanis Marshall.
As a leader in Halifax’s growing dance community, Abady is committed to providing dance education, community spaces, and mentorship, while constantly striving to spread empowerment, encourage authenticity, and facilitate progress-focused growth in his community.
What do you want people to get from your class?
I am all about performance and channeling your inner superstar. Whether you just nailed a crazy combo or you’re working on the foundations, I want you to feel confident and amazing. At the end of day, it’s never about the steps, but how good a dance makes you feel.
What motivates you to dance?
Dance for me started as a fun way to get fit and escape the world, but it’s grown to become so much more! I love getting to know our diverse dance community and learning from so many different people. And I especially love watching my students grow, not only as talented dancers but as strong and confident humans.
What are some highlights of your career as a dancer/choreographer?
Training at BuildaBEAST in Los Angeles was one of the best weeks of my life! I got to train with amazing instructors like Blake McGrath, Janelle Ginestra, Laure Courtellemont, Kaelynn “KK” Harris, and Miguel Zárate. I’m always seeking training opportunities so I can continuously grow as both a dancer and choreographer. I’ve also had the pleasure to choreograph for various performance groups and competitive teams in Halifax such as Dalhousie’s Black & Gold Dance Team, the DalDance Society, East Coast Salsa Team, and Maritime Dance’s competitive team and elite company.