Discover Crescendo Dance — where artistry meets empowerment. Located in Santa Cruz, we offer a nurturing, inclusive space where every dancer is part of a community redefining dance training for a new generation of confident, resilient performers
We focus on a problem to be solved, not a person to be blamed. Our goal is to foster confidence and create a sanctuary where children can feel at home while learning how to dance.
Driven, accomplished, and deeply compassionate, Tanya Treseler is the visionary director of Crescendo Dance Academy.
With an impressive track record of leading multiple dance teams to both state championships and national titles, she combines competitive excellence with heartfelt mentorship and technical attention to detail.
Tanya has danced professionally as a leading dancer across the Bay Area, and has held principle roles in ballets such as Cinderella, Paquita, and Stars and Stripes Forever. She is trained by leading artists from the most prestigious programs including San Francisco Ballet, Julliard, Dallas Black Dance Theatre, and Berkeley Ballet Theater. She brings that wealth of artistic experience and technical mastery to her students.
Beyond the trophies and accolades, Tanya believes dance should be a sanctuary, where children can find emotional refuge, express their truest selves, and feel seen. Under her guidance, every dancer is not only trained to perform—but to heal, grow, and thrive.
Education:
Brigham Young University: BS in Marriage and Family Studies with an emphasis in Child Development
Certification:
International Trauma Training Institute: Trained Trauma Professional
Gottman Method: Level 1 and 2
Darkness2Light: Stewards of Children
Ryin Kent (They/Them)
A native of Santa Cruz, Ryin Kent is our lead instructor for Storybook Dance and Acro. They bring over 10 years of experience in acrobatics, musical theater, and competitive performances, with a deep love for movement that keeps them exploring new disciplines, including classical ballet and aerial arts.
Ryin is especially passionate about working with young children, particularly those with special needs. They volunteer at a special education preschool and kindergarten and have worked at summer camps with young children since the age of 13.
Ryin joined Crescendo Dance Academy to help create a welcoming, inclusive environment where every child can feel safe, supported, and excited to learn. Through their work and the Crescendo community, they hope to help shape gymnastics and dance into kinder, safer spaces for dancers, teachers, and families.
Gianna Geary (She/Her)
Gianna is our community outreach coordinator. She brings years of experience working with children, including those on the autism spectrum.
Working with children keeps Gianna grounded. She loves witnessing how they explore the world, engage with curiosity, and grow in confidence and independence. This passion led her to join Crescendo Dance Academy where she helps cultivate a safe and empowering space for children to move their bodies and express themselves freely.
While at UC Santa Cruz, Gianna specialized in Sociology and community engagement working with and advocating for marginalized groups.
As a child, Gianna always felt like her body didn’t fit the expectations she saw around her in the dance classes she attended. That experience now fuels her commitment to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community at Crescendo. One where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to participate in something joyful and meaningful.
Education:
UC Santa Cruz, BA in Sociology
Junior Acro Dance Certification from Acro Dance Teachers Association
Location: Capitola Mall Suite G07
1855 41st Avenue, Capitola 95010
