THEINSTRUCTORS
LEARN FROM OUR AWARD WINNING & CHAMPION INSTRUCTORS
Karissa Spinola
K.H.O.M Founder
Karissa is a highly accomplished dancer, instructor, and choreographer with a lifelong passion for the art of movement. With years of experience both on stage and in the studio, she has choreographed dynamic performances for high-profile events, including halftime shows at the Barclays Center and showcases at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Her work in competitive dance has led to numerous award-winning routines and title-winning solos, solidifying her reputation as a sought-after choreographer.
Karissa’s dance journey began at the age of 3 when she trained and performed with elite dance companies. By 11, she was assisting instructors, and at 16, she discovered her true calling—teaching. Her dedication to mentorship and technical excellence laid the foundation for her teaching philosophy.
Driven by her love for dance and her commitment to fostering personal growth in her students, Karissa founded Karissa’s House of Movement. Her vision extends beyond skill development; she strives to inspire confidence, self-esteem, and mutual respect among her dancers. Karissa believes in creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student not only reaches their full potential but also experiences the deep camaraderie of a true dance family.
Alexis Racanello
Director
Alexis Racanello began her formal dance education at the age of five and then continued to perform and compete for over ten years winning numerous regional titles.
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Alexis graduated from the University at Buffalo with a BA in Dance and minors in Health and Wellness and Counseling. While at the University at Buffalo, she was a member of Zodiaque Dance Ensemble and performed and choreographed for Dancer’s Workshop and Digital Poetry and Dance, where she was also a soloist. At Buffalo, Alexis trained under Thomas Ralabate, Melanie Aceto, Kerry Ring, and many others.
Alexis has a love of choreographing and performing, as well as a true passion for teaching and spreading a love of movement and self-expression through dance!
Carlie Irwin
Instructor
With 19 years of dance experience, Carlie is a national and world champion specializing in hip-hop. She spent nearly a decade competing at elite levels and has trained in hip-hop, ballet, contemporary, lyrical, and jazz. She has also attended and performed at top conventions such as Monsters, Kaos, and World of Dance.
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For the past five years, Carlie has taught at Karissa's House of Movement, shaping dancers with her expertise in hip-hop. Passionate about movement and creativity, Carlie continues to inspire and push dancers to their full potential.
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Carlie's choreography has won numerous first-place awards in solos, duos, trios, and group dances, including a National Title in 2024. Each year, she presents her work at competitions and recitals, choreographing for dancers ages 4 to 18.
jULIANA mORMILE
Instructor
Juliana Mormile is a passionate and dedicated dance instructor and choreographer. Juliana has been dancing since she was just two years old and has trained extensively in a variety of dance styles including ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, and hip-hop. Juliana performed in numerous shows and competitions throughout her dance career so far.
Juliana was a competitive dancer for 15 years and then continued her dance training in New York City at Broadway Dance Center, Brickhouse, Ripley Grier, Royal Thieves , Peridance, and Alvin Ailey. Juliana received many awards and scholarships at events such as Step Up 2 Dance, Maverick Workshop, Monsters of Hip-Hop, and more.
In Juliana's dance career her credits include Reebok, Bobby Newberry, World of Dance, Brytiago, Anuel, Alyssa Gomez, Carnival, Sybrite, and more.
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Vako Gvelesiani
Instructor
Vako Gvelesiani, born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, is a graduate of LaGuardia High School and NYU Tisch School of the Arts for Dance. From 2022 to 2024, he toured internationally with the production of "West Side Story", captivating audiences around the globe with his dynamic performances.
Currently, Vako serves as an Assistant Coach and Choreographer for the Brooklyn Nets, where he brings his creative vision and expertise to the team. In addition to his work with the Nets, Vako is dedicated to teaching and inspiring the next generation of dancers through his classes in Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Jazz.
bIANCA bUSA
Student Instructor
Bianca has been dancing since the age of 2 and fell in love with performing after her very first recital. A competitive dancer since she was 5, she has earned an impressive eight titles and has trained with top choreographers on both the East and West Coasts. Her favorite dance styles are Hip Hop and Contemporary, where she thrives in both technique and expression.
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Bianca's talent has taken her to major stages and screens—she has appeared on Good Morning America, performed on The Ellen DeGeneres Show at just 8 years old, and was the runner-up on Episode 2 of Dancing with Myself. She has also been featured in multiple music videos, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
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Beyond performing, Bianca is passionate about sharing her love of dance with others. As a student instructor, she is dedicated to inspiring and guiding the next generation of dancers.
