The Flourish Team!
Amy Briggs
Owner and CEO
With 31 years of dance experience, you can say this has not only been my passion but my entire life. I am living my dream of becoming an entrepreneur and providing children with the same opportunities my mother gave me. My greatest passion is inspiring and motivating children through dance and the arts, helping them build confidence, creativity, resilience, and a love for movement that extends far beyond the studio walls.
I have completed my CDTA Advanced Jazz and CDTA Advanced Tap, as well as my CDTA Tap Associate and Tap Licentiate. I have also traveled to Vancouver for further dance education and completed all Graded RAD Ballet exams up to Grade 8 and Vocational RAD exams up to Advanced.
As I enter my fifth year as a studio owner, I am incredibly grateful to continue building a positive, inclusive, and family-focused dance community where every child has the opportunity to shine.
Today, I am proud to create an environment where dancers can grow not only as performers but as kind, confident individuals. My philosophy has always been that we don't just teach dance—we help shape good humans.
Elizabeth Erker
Artistic Director and Dance Educator
Beth is a highly experienced dancer who has trained under Sitters School of Dance in Saskatoon, SK. She has over 27 years of experience! She has completed numerous exams, including all CDTA Jazz and Tap exams up to Advanced, all Graded RAD Ballet exams up to Grade 8, and Vocational RAD exams up to Advanced 2. Currently, she serves as the Jazz Coach for the U of S Dance Team and teaches Aerial Hoop and Adult Dance Classes at Saskatoon Pole & Dance Studio. Beth has performed in several musicals, including Beauty and the Beast, Fame and All Shook Up, and has been part of many dance groups and teams, such as the Saskatchewan Rush Dance Team, the Saskatchewan Rattlers Dance Team, the University of Saskatchewan Dance team, and Inspired Movement Contemporary Group. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and is continually advancing her education in dance and fitness training.
Lauren Gartner
Dance Educator
My name is Lauren Gartner, and I am 25 years old. I was born and raised in Unity, SK, where I began my dance training at Unity School of Dance and continued at Revolution Dance. I danced for 11 years and had the opportunity to assist in many classes with younger dancers. I have trained in various styles such as tap, jazz, ballet, and pointe, but my greatest passion has always been tap.
Throughout my dance career, I completed my Intermediate RAD ballet exam and my CDTA Advanced Tap exam. I’m currently in the process of completing my CDTA Tap teacher training, further expanding my knowledge and love for tap dance.
After graduating high school, I pursued post-secondary education at the University of Saskatchewan. I successfully completed a 3-year Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and recently graduated with a Bachelor of Education, specializing in secondary education with focuses in mathematics and biology. Currently, I am continuing my education, by working on my Master of Education in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership, through the University of Regina.
I’m now proud to be a full-time educator at Unity Composite High School.
Kristi Forbes
Dance Educator
We are beyond excited to welcome Kristi Forbes to the Flourish family! Kristi brings a truly unique double-threat skill set to our community: elite dance training and deep anatomical expertise. She spent 10 foundational years training in ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and hip hop at JDs Academy of Dance in Stettler, AB, starting at just 8 years old.
Her passion for movement naturally evolved into a career helping bodies heal. As a Registered Massage Therapist with over a decade of experience in therapeutic massage, sports recovery, and myofascial release, she understands exactly how a dancer's body ticks. This season, Kristi is bringing that wealth of knowledge to our studio, taking on Jazz choreography and Jazz technique classes. Your dancer will learn how to build strength safely, master body mechanics, and prevent injury. Kristi’s infectious energy and massive heart for her students shine through in every class. We can’t wait for you to experience her magic!
Margaret Stephen
Dance Educator
Margaret Stephen Royal Academy of Dance, Registered Teacher & Practical Teaching Supervisor
Mrs. Stephen trained in Ballet, Tap, and Highland dance in Scotland, performing in classical ballets like Les Sylphides, Giselle, Nutcracker, La Fille Mal Gardée, and Swan Lake. She also competed in Scottish Highland Games at various renowned locations.
She holds Highland Dance qualifications from the United Kingdom Alliance and ballet qualifications from the British Ballet Organization. After moving to Canada, she earned her teaching credentials from the Royal Academy of Dance and now supervises the Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies Program.
Margaret has trained students to Advanced 2 level through RAD's Children’s Grades and Vocational Graded syllabi. She regularly attends workshops to stay updated and believes dance is a lifelong passion.
A dedicated teacher, Margaret is proud of her students’ achievements, many of whom have pursued careers in dance, performing in movies, TV, music videos, and concerts with artists like Michael Jackson, Drake, Britney Spears, and Feist.
Margaret values the broader life lessons learned in dance, such as confidence, time management, teamwork, and respect. An experienced adjudicator, teacher, and award-winning choreographer, she has contributed extensively to the dance community in Western Canada. Now semi-retired, she continues to teach, coach, mentor, and adjudicate.
Meet the staff behind the scenes
Jacy Worobec
Dance Educator
Hi everyone! My name is Jacy, and I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the team at Flourish Studios Dance Academy this upcoming year.
Dance has always been a huge part of my life. I began dancing at just three years old in my hometown of Cut Knife, Saskatchewan, and throughout the years I’ve had the opportunity to train and compete in a variety of genres including tap, ballet, jazz, lyrical, contemporary/modern, and hip hop. I graduated from Dance Connection in North Battleford, where I continued to grow both technically and creatively as a dancer.
In 2019, I was lucky enough to be crowned Miss World Saskatchewan, which gave me the incredible opportunity to share my passion and talent for dance on the national stage in Toronto. Over the past two years, I have participated as a professional dancer in the Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation’s “Swinging with the Stars” competition. Being involved in those performances reignited my passion for dance and reminded me just how much I missed being part of such an inspiring and creative environment.
When Amy reached out and asked if I would be interested in joining the Flourish team, I knew it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I am so grateful to be part of such an amazing studio and community, and I cannot wait to meet everyone, share my love for dance, and bring an exciting year to life together.
See you all soon!
Avery Strus
Dance Educator
I started dancing at age 3 and grew up in a studio environment, training through RAD and CDTA programs with experience at Revolution Dance and Wilkie School of Dance. My training includes ballet, including pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, and acro.
Alongside my own training, I’ve spent time assisting in classes and choreographing for both competitive and performance groups. Being in the studio for most of my life has shaped my love for dance and my understanding of how much consistent training and encouragement matter.
I enjoy working with dancers of all ages and helping them develop strong technique, confidence, and a solid work ethic in class.
My goal is to help dancers grow, feel proud of their progress, and stay excited about learning and performing.
Devyn McLean
Choreographer
My name is Devyn McLean. I am 22 years old and was born and raised in Unity. I began dancing at the age of 5 at Unity School of Dance and continued my training at Revolution Dance until Grade 12, when I trained at The Dance Connection in North Battleford.
I have trained in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, and hip hop. While I enjoy all genres, tap holds a special place in my heart! Throughout my years of dancing, I completed my CDTA Advanced Tap Exam.
After graduating from high school, I attended the University of Saskatchewan's College of Kinesiology, where I studied for three and a half years. I am currently living in Minneapolis and completing my Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University.
I am excited to share my love of dance with all of the dancers and help them grow in both skill and confidence while having fun in the studio.
Josh Capulong
Choreographer
We are beyond thrilled to welcome the incredibly talented Josh Capulong to the Flourish team! Josh isn’t just a dynamic choreographer with passion and precision—he’s also the amazing business partner of Richard Andries!
This duo is bringing next-level energy, creativity, and experience to our students, and we cannot wait for you to learn from Josh’s unique style and expertise. Get ready to be inspired, pushed, and celebrated!
Welcome to the team, Maui hehe jk Josh! We’re so lucky to have you!
In 2009, Josh Capulong joined his first hip hop crew NXG Company. Not long after he would become a Co-Director for the Company and compete at an international level. He would later join White Chocolate as well to compete and do live performances with. Over the years Josh has shared his craft of teaching throughout Canada, Korea, Singapore, and the United States including Millennium Dance Complex in Los Angeles. As a dancer, Janet Jackson, Tsar B, Nelly, Sean Kingston, Ace Hood, Fanny Pak, Supreme Soul and Jabbawockeez are just a few of the artists in the industry that Josh has performed alongside.
Most recently he played the role of “Tondo” in the world premier of Prison Dancer the Musical (Citadel Theatre, National Arts Centre) in addition to assistant choreographer, dance captain, and fight captain. He has also choreographed and been a part of the production for a live circus, several artists, commercials, and music videos. Some of his work includes K-pop group NCT Dream (Korea), Juno nominated Josh Sahunta(Canada), Lia Cole(Canada), Opening acts for "Immortal Pursuit" One championship Singapore, Energy(Los Angeles), TSN Special Olympics, Alberta Winter Games, Luminos the Light of Inspiration (Circus), “It looks like me” United way campaign kickoff, United way #UNIGNORABLE Kickoff, Coca Cola Presents WEMFest and commercials for Mattress Mattress and Ford. Not only has Josh achieved numerous successes in his dance career, but he has also utilized his passion for dance to give back to the community at a local level with the opening of Ra Stylez Studio, a co-ownership with Richard Andries. In addition to this, Josh has combined his love for fitness and dance by creating Street Step Fitness, a unique program offering an innovative way to stay active, have fun, and get an effective workout, all while enjoying the atmosphere of a hip hop class fused with a step fitness workout.
Incorporating many aspects of his surroundings into his own, Josh’s utilization of new age style, emphasizing on intricacy, musicality, and versatility gives him a unique touch as a dancer and choreographer.
Richard Andries
Choreographer
We are beyond excited to welcome Richard Andries to the Flourish team this season! Richard is a true icon in the hip hop dance scene across Edmonton and Alberta. His energy, authenticity, and dedication to the culture of hip hop are unmatched, and his passion shines through in every class he teaches.
Richard Andries stands as a prominent force in Edmonton's Hip Hop dance scene and throughout Alberta. Infusing his classes with vibrant energy and unwavering passion, he remains committed to sharing his vision of the positive influence of hip hop culture in daily life. His personal dance style draws deeply from the foundations of hip hop, encompassing popping, locking, breaking, house, and newer forms like Krump and Street dance. This influence has driven him to seek guidance and training from distinguished figures such as Popin' Pete, Suga Pop, Mr. Wiggles, Caleaf Sellers, Bradley Rapier, and Duece, among others.
Credits:
Richard has graced the stage alongside international acts including Chris Brown, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, Sean Paul, Chingy, 112, Boyz II Men and Ashanti, showcasing his versatility. He has also toured Canada with Snoop Dogg and The Game. Notably, White Chocolate performed at the Alberta centennial event in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II. Richard's star power extends to Kreesha Turner's "Bounce With Me" music video, directed by the esteemed Little X.
In 2005, Richard was chosen to assist Bradley Rapier at the Dance Xtreme convention in Detroit. Co-leading "Rhythmic Flow Productions" with Urban Metropolis, he has orchestrated captivating shows featuring renowned groups like Jabbawockeez, Super Cr3w, Fanny Pak, and Supreme Soul from America's Best Dance Crew, where his crew, White Chocolate, mesmerized audiences.
In a realm where he's honed his craft, Richard has also given back to the community. He's the owner and director of "Represent," one of Canada's premier street dance competitions in its 10th season, attracting the nation's top talents. Through his street dance company, RA Stylez, partnered with Josh Capulong he imparts his expertise. Additionally, they have established a comprehensive dance studio (RA Stylez Studio) where enthusiasts can receive training and master the fundamentals of hip hop. With extensive experience, Richard Andries continues to elevate the hip hop landscape while nurturing the next generation of dance talent.
Richard Andries stands as a prominent force in Edmonton's Hip Hop dance scene and throughout Alberta. Infusing his classes with vibrant energy and unwavering passion, he remains committed to sharing his vision of the positive influence of hip hop culture in daily life. His personal dance style draws deeply from the foundations of hip hop, encompassing popping, locking, breaking, house, and newer forms like Krump and Street dance. This influence has driven him to seek guidance and training from distinguished figures such as Popin' Pete, Suga Pop, Mr. Wiggles, Caleaf Sellers, Bradley Rapier, and Duece, among others.