JULIAN
Master Flexibility - Strengthening - Biomechanics Specialist
Julian Mireles, a world-renowned dancer and educator, has had a disciplined and competitive upbringing that has shaped him into the person he is today. His journey began at the age of six when his mother enrolled him in martial arts, focusing on Muay Thai, Taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which instilled in him a strong foundation in discipline and physical training.
However, Julian's fascination with dance led him to pursue training in the dancing arts. At the age of 16, he joined Stars Dance Studio, where he learned from renowned directors Victor Smalley and Angel Armas. Under their guidance, Julian honed his technical skills and developed into a professional dancer and educator. Alongside his training at Stars Dance Studio, he sought additional mentorship from Yumeisy Alvarez, a flexibility master and Dance Director of Arvida Middle School, who further refined his technique.
As Julian grew older, he was presented with a remarkable opportunity to assist Victor Smalley and Angel Armas on their global tours, where he learned to teach choreography and assisted in technique and flexibility classes. During this time, he completed his high school education through online courses and graduated with his diploma at the age of 17. He then pursued further studies at Miami Dade College, earning his associate's degree in Biology, followed by a bachelor's degree in Physiology and Anatomy.
While teaching at various studios, including Stars Dance Studio, Dancing XS, Dance Attack, Dancetown, and Equinox Dance Company, Julian established Bodybreaker privates at Equinox Dance Company. His unique teaching style and emphasis on flexibility and technique quickly gained attention, attracting clients from across Miami who traveled long distances to train with him. To accommodate the growing demand, Julian expanded his teaching to Stars Dance Studio, where he taught during weekdays and weekends, amassing a large following of 40-50 clients per day on weekends.
However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic forced Julian to transition to online teaching through Zoom classes and training sessions. Despite the challenging times, he cherished the opportunity to guide and mentor his clients, who were located not only in Miami but also around the world. Eventually, Julian resumed teaching at Stars Dance Studio while encountering a fortunate turn of events. A long-time client offered him a dedicated space where he could bring students from anywhere and utilize his equipment exclusively for his classes. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Julian began hosting Saturday and Sunday classes, providing an inclusive environment for everyone to participate in.
In summary, Julian Mireles's journey has been characterized by a lifelong dedication to martial arts, dance, and education. His disciplined background, combined with his technical expertise, has propelled him to become a highly sought-after dancer, educator, and trainer, both locally and internationally. Julian is a specialist in the fields of biomechanics, flexibility, and strengthening. What truly distinguishes Julian from others in this field is his unique and creative approach to these disciplines. His innovative methods and creative strategies set him apart, allowing him to offer a fresh and effective perspective on biomechanics, flexibility, and strengthening. Julian's commitment to thinking outside the box and pushing the boundaries of these disciplines showcases his dedication to helping individuals achieve their physical and biomechanical goals in a distinctive and impactful way.
Victor
Master Choreographer - Technique Specialist
Victor, a native of Miami, discovered his profound connection to the world of dance at the tender age of 14, spurred by the inspirational guidance of his mother. Commencing his journey as a Liturgical dancer, Victor's passion ignited a voracious appetite for knowledge, prompting him to delve into diverse styles such as Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Lyrical, and Contemporary dance.
In 2005, Victor took a pivotal leap onto the stage with the "Friends of Time Dance Company" in Dallas, where he delivered a mesmerizing performance before an audience of thousands. This transformative experience served as the launching pad for his illustrious dance career, propelling him towards new heights.
Victor garnered widespread recognition as a finalist on season six of the renowned television show "So You Think You Can Dance." During his time on the series, he had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed choreographers, including the likes of Mia Michaels, Sonya Tayeh, Tyce DiOrio, Travis Wall, and Stacey Tookey. It was Michaels, in particular, who left an indelible mark on Victor, serving as a profound source of inspiration that he credits with changing his life.
Elevating himself to prominence in the dance world, Victor has become a sought-after choreographer, particularly acclaimed for his captivating contemporary pieces. His choreographic brilliance consistently triumphs at both regional and national dance competitions, earning him accolades in various categories.
Beyond his personal successes, Victor's devotion to nurturing the next generation of dancers is evident in the substantial time he dedicates to his students. His mentorship has created a legacy of champions, with his students clinching victories at The Dance Awards since 2010 in the Mini, Junior, Teen, and Senior categories. Post-graduation, his proteges have achieved remarkable success, securing roles in major motion pictures and serving as trusted assistants for Break the Floor Productions for many years. Victor's impact extends far beyond the studio, leaving an enduring imprint on the global dance community.
Master Choreographer - Technique Specialist
Angel
Hailing from Sagua La Grande, Villa Clara, Cuba, Angel's journey to becoming a prominent figure in the American dance scene is nothing short of a remarkable tale. Arriving in the United States in 1995 at the age of eleven, Angel's early departure from Cuba granted him a unique perspective that fueled unparalleled drive in all facets of his life. Embracing what he proudly calls "living the American dream," Angel's story is one of resilience and passion.
At the tender age of twelve, Angel delved into the world of dance with lessons in Ballroom Dance, providing him with a gateway into the vibrant realm of dance competitions. Intrigued and inspired, he expanded his repertoire by studying Jazz, Lyrical, and Modern dance, showcasing a versatility that would become a hallmark of his career. As a burgeoning young teacher, Angel drew influence from the legendary Martha Graham, quickly earning recognition for his innovative style and the seamless integration of diverse dance genres.
Angel's choreography swiftly became a sought-after commodity, gaining popularity on local Miami TV shows, at South Florida Magnet Schools, and in concerts and collaborations with various artists. His exceptional talents were duly acknowledged when he was crowned "Top Jazz Choreographer" by the National Dance Alliance in 2004 and "Lyrical Choreographer" in 2005.
Under Angel's visionary leadership, Stars Dance Studio emerged as a powerhouse, securing numerous victories in both regional and national competitions. His dancers consistently earned multiple titles at competitions across the United States, a testament to Angel's ability to nurture and elevate emerging talents.
In a testament to their commitment to the next generation, Angel and Victor joined forces to co-found the nonprofit organization Stars for Artists. This philanthropic endeavor is dedicated to raising funds to support the dance dreams of children of all ages in South Florida. Together, they represent the vanguard of the "new" generation of dancers, leaving an indelible mark on the dance community and inspiring young artists to reach for the stars.
Nicole
Choreographer - Turns Specialist
Nikki
Nicole is a highly accomplished dancer and professional who hails from Allendale, New Jersey. She embarked on her dance journey at the tender age of 3 and honed her skills through rigorous training and competition at Studio L Dance Company in Waldwick, NJ.
Her academic pursuits led her to the University of Alabama, where she earned a bachelor's degree with a double major in public relations and dance. During her time at the university, she was a dedicated member of the Alabama Dance Team, which achieved national recognition.
Nicole's remarkable dance career includes notable performances and appearances. She had the privilege of participating in prominent events such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade and even graced the screen on Lifetime's reality TV show, Dance Moms. Additionally, she has been involved in numerous commercial ventures, showcasing her talent to a broader audience.
One of the highlights of her career was being selected as a backup dancer for the iconic Mariah Carey, performing at the esteemed NBC Rockefeller Center. Nicole also contributed her expertise as the assistant coach for the United States Football League Cheerleaders during their inaugural season.
Currently, Nicole serves as a staff member for the Universal Dance Association (UDA), demonstrating her commitment to advancing the art of dance. Her extensive experience and passion for dance have led her to join the team at Bodybreaker as the Turns and Jumps instructor. In this role, Nicole is poised to introduce fresh and innovative techniques to enhance the skills of aspiring dancers.
Doctor of Phyiscal Therapy
Dr. Nicole Garcia is a highly qualified professional with a strong background in sports medicine and rehabilitation. She earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2019 from Florida International University, following her Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training and Biomedical Studies from Averett University. During her time at Averett University, she excelled not only academically but also as a starting shooting guard for the NCAA Women's Basketball Team.
Nicole's expertise extends to her role as a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC), where she served as the Head ATC for the Florida Soccer Soldiers in the United Premier Soccer League. Additionally, she worked as an assistant ATC at Ronald W. Reagan Doral Senior High School, her alma mater. Notably, Nicole also gained valuable experience as an ATC within Royal Caribbean's entertainment productions, highlighting her versatility in providing healthcare support.
What sets Dr. Garcia apart is her unwavering commitment to athlete-centric care. Her approach to sports rehabilitation and orthopedics is characterized by a personalized focus on injury prevention and tailored rehabilitation plans designed to facilitate a safe return to the sporting arena. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Certified Athletic Trainer, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, she employs a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to help athletes achieve their specific goals, whether that involves returning to recreational activities or competitive sports. Nicole Garcia's dedication to optimizing athletes' performance and well-being underscores her impressive qualifications and passion for her field. Dr. Nicole Garcia extends her expertise to the performing arts community by offering injury prevention classes on weekends in collaboration with Bodybreaker Corporation. These specialized classes are designed to cater to the unique needs of performing artists, aiming to safeguard their physical well-being during rehearsals and performances. Dr. Garcia's commitment to injury prevention and her collaboration with Bodybreaker Corporation underscores her dedication to ensuring the health and longevity of individuals within the performing arts, further highlighting her multidisciplinary approach to healthcare and her passion for facilitating peak performance in this specialized field.
Shamus
Acro - Technique Specialist
Shamus is an exceptional talent, distinguishing himself as a remarkable technical and acrobatics specialist within the dance industry. With a dedicated commitment to his craft, Shamus underwent rigorous formal training under the mentorship of renowned instructors Victor Smalley and Angel Armas, shaping his expertise over an impressive span of 7 years. Serving as their right-hand assistant, Shamus not only became an integral part of their team but also emerged as the go-to technical superstar, showcasing a unique blend of precision, innovation, and artistry.
His journey in the dance world has been marked by numerous commercial successes, where Shamus has seamlessly integrated his technical prowess and acrobatic finesse. Through these experiences, he has earned widespread respect and admiration within the dance community, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after professional.
Beyond the stage, Shamus continues to contribute significantly to the dance scene, sharing his knowledge and passion with aspiring performers. His dedication to his artistry, coupled with his undeniable talent, makes Shamus a standout figure in the world of dance, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Zara
Jumps Specialist
At the age of 11, Zara embarked on her formal dance education journey by joining the renowned Dance Empire in Miami. Throughout her dance career, she has continuously expanded her skills and knowledge. Zara has had the privilege of receiving both one-on-one and group training from accomplished dancers such as professional ballerina Kimberly Thompson, known as "The Redhead Ballerina," and acclaimed Miami dancer Julian Mireles, recognized for his appearances on "So You Think You Can Dance," among others.
These pivotal experiences have molded Zara into a versatile dancer proficient in a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, acrobatics, jazz, hip-hop, and contemporary dance. Over the years, she dedicated herself to refining her skills under the mentorship of Julian, who is affectionately known as "Bodybreaker." Through rigorous training and dedication, Zara has developed a winning formula for perfecting her jumps and maximizing her abilities in dance, showcasing her commitment to excellence in the art of dance.
Leydis
Ballet Instructor
Leydis Sanchez, Ballet Mistress, and Professional Classical Coach, commenced her dance journey at the age of 6. A graduate of the National Ballet School in Cuba and the University of the Arts, she pursued a distinguished professional career in classical ballet across Cuba, the United States, Europe, and South America until the age of 26. With 15 years of teaching experience, Leydis has imparted her expertise in ballet through classes at various dance conventions and as a guest instructor in over 30 studios across the US and Canada.
Specializing in coaching classical repertoire for ballet competitions such as YAGP and UBC, Leydis has earned multiple recognitions and awards. Presently, she directs the ballet program at Stars Dance Studio, a leading pre-professional program in the country. Her students graduate to renowned dance colleges, professional ballet and contemporary companies, TV shows, and more.
Beyond her achievements, Leydis also possesses expertise in ballet barre instruction for young dancers, fostering a robust foundation for a successful professional dance career.