2124 Hamburg Turnpike Wayne, NJ 07470

Meet the Dedicated Teachers

At Next Generation Dance Company is a team of dedicated teachers whose commitment and passion for dance education set them apart. Each instructor brings a unique background and expertise in various dance styles, ranging from tap, jazz, and ballet to hip hop and lyrical. These passionate teachers are not only well-versed in their respective genres but their commitment ensures that both recreational and competitive dancers receive top-tier instruction, preparing them for a bright and promising future in dance.

Christan Meyer (Studio Owner-Preschool/Lyrical/Jazz/Ballet/Company)

With over 20 years of teaching experience and a profound background in Lyrical as well as working with our Preschoolers as, Ms. Christan attributes her growth and dedication to the inspiring educators who shaped her journey. Her approach to teaching both competitive and recreational dancers emphasizes on technique and emotional expression, ensuring that her students not only master the steps but also convey the story behind each movement. As a dance educator, she also feels learning how each student reacts and adapts to their environment around them does not only help to teach them, but more important, it forms a trust between her and the student.

Ms. Christan began her dance training at GFSOPA at the young age of 3. Throughout her time as a dancer she trained in Tap, Jazz, Ballet & Lyrical and performed both competitively and for the community. At the age of 12 she started assisting in classes and that’s when she knew where her love of dance was going to bring her. While a member of the Dance Edition she was the recipient of many awards including “Top Soloist” at various competitions both regionally as well as nationally. Her students have also been the recipients of many awards including “Overall High Score,” “Best Choreography” & a “Perfect Score” routine. When Ms. Christan is not here, she is a busy Mom to her twins, Aliyah & Anthony!!

Gloria Frances (The Legacy- Tap/Company)

Ms. Gloria has been professionally teaching for over sixty years. Her students have performed at the PNC Bank Center, Resorts International Hotel in Atlantic City and in hit musicals both on and off Broadway. Recently, her students have appeared in commercials as well as hit TV shows. Her students have also been the recipients of many awards, both regionally and nationally, including “Overall High Score,” “Best Choreography,” & “Best Precision” to name a few. In addition to the many awards her students have won, Gloria is proud of her international recognition, having had her students invited to perform in Italy and China.

Melissa DeFranco (Tiny Dancer/Preschool/ Hip Hop)

Ms. Melissa brings vibrant energy not only to her classes but to our studio. Teaching our Tiny Dancers, along with our Preschool & Hip Hop classes, she encourages a fusion of creativity and discipline, allowing kids to have fun learning. While a student here, she was also one of the first Dance Edition members. She is rich in history of the school! When you see her, ask her to tell you some of the stories from the early days with Miss Gloria & Miss Stefania!!

Estefano Gil (Ballet)

Estefano Gil was Born in Caracas, Venezuela where he began his training at Ballet-Arte School. In 2005, he joined Ballet Teresa Carreño performing demi-soloist and soloist roles. In 2007, he joined Caracas Contemporary Ballet under the artistic direction of María Eugenia Barrios. In 2008, he traveled to Colombia where became a member in Colombian ballet company INCOLBALLET directed by Gloria Castro, performing as a soloist. He has been part of international ballet festivals in Cali, Colombia and his native Venezuela. He has performed with these companies in Belgium, Holland, Russia, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, among others. Since 2012, he has performed as a guest artist in Staten Island Ballet, New England Ballet, and FJK Dance company. His repertoire includes: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Our Waltzes, among others.

Jaleel McRae (Hip Hop)

Jaleel embarked on a quest to surround himself with like-minded artists who could elevate his craft. It was during this quest that he encountered the legendary Marquise Scott, whose influence would prove to be profound. Under his online mentorship, he delved into the mesmerizing world of animation and ventured into various street styles, driven by an unquenchable curiosity. His journey reached new heights as he found himself on the grand stage of “So You Think You Can Dance” (SYTYCD), where he showcased my artistry to the world. He has also has performed alongside musical legends such as Rakim & Lil Uzi Vert. Jaleel remains committed to pushing boundaries and sharing the magic of dance with the world.

Trish Tookmanian (Tap/Company)

Ms. Trish, our tap dance specialist, has been a cornerstone of our dance school. Her dedication is reflected in her meticulous attention to detail and her patient teaching methods. Ms. Trish emphasizes the importance of rhythm and precision, guiding her students to develop a strong foundation…and did we mention she’s an incredible tapper!!! Also starting with Gloria at the age of three, Ms. Trish’s hard work and dedication in dance earned her a place in the Dance Edition. As a member of the Dance Edition, she was the recipient of many awards both as part of the group as well as individually. When Ms. Trish is not here teaching dance, she can be found teaching Special Education for the Paterson school district.