Our Team

Marie Ann Longlade-Link

Marie Ann’s remarkable career in dance is a testament to her deep passion and unwavering dedication to the art form. Starting at the tender age of 2, she has made a profound impact on the dance world both as a performer and as a teacher. With extensive training from esteemed institutions like the National Ballet School and under the guidance of renowned instructors such as Betty Oliphant, Celia Franca, Frank Hatchett, and Gus Giordano, Marie Ann’s expertise spans a wide array of dance styles, from ballet and jazz to tap, acrobatics, and contortionism.

Her legacy is not just in the performances she has given but in the countless dancers she has mentored and shaped. Marie Ann has led her students to success on some of the biggest stages in the world, including Broadway, Radio City Music Hall, Disney Cruises, and major musicals like The Lion King and Crazy for You. Her studio, the Marie Ann School of Dance (MALSD), has produced graduates who have gone on to have illustrious careers, and now, the next generation is following in her footsteps. Many former students are returning to study under her guidance, bringing their own children to the studio, ensuring that her influence will continue to ripple through generations.

Marie Ann has also played an active role in dance education on a national level. As an examiner and life licentiate with the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA), she has contributed to the development of dance standards in ballet, tap, jazz, and acrobatic dance. She’s served on the CDTA National Board and holds membership in prestigious organizations like Cecchetti Canada and Dance Educators of America.

Outside of her professional achievements, Marie Ann’s deep appreciation for the support of her family, mentors, and colleagues is evident. Her gratitude extends to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who have been integral to her journey. The continuation of her legacy through her daughters, Lee-Ann and Gail, as well as the third generation of dancers—Paige, Camryn, and Chloe—ensures that Marie Ann’s passion for dance will endure for many years to come.

Her commitment to the art of dance, to nurturing talent, and to fostering a community of dancers is unmatched, making her a truly inspirational figure in the world of dance.