Heather Sakai

Teaches Beg/Int Musical Theater

Heather Sakai serves as the Marketing Director for Cleveland Dance Project, as well as for Cleveland Dance Project Company. Heather has been a part of CDP since its inception, contributing as a dancer, choreographer, and instructor. Heather began her dance journey at the age of three, spending her early years training under Jeanne Ann Corrigan and later receiving the bulk of her education under Arlene Cassara, dancing competitively with the Rocky River Studio of Dance. She continued her studies at Baldwin-Wallace College before earning dual master’s degrees in Social Work (with a focus on Adult Mental Health) and Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. While at Case, Heather specialized in Graham technique and was selected to attend a summer workshop at the Martha Graham Studio in New York City. Heather began her dance journey at the age of three, spending her early years training under Jeanne Ann Corrigan and later receiving the bulk of her education under Arlene Cassara, dancing competitively with the Rocky River Studio of Dance. She continued her studies at Baldwin-Wallace College before earning dual master’s degrees in Social Work (with a focus on Adult Mental Health) and Contemporary Dance from Case Western Reserve University. While at Case, Heather specialized in Graham technique and was selected to attend a summer workshop at the Martha Graham Studio in New York City. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Heather has taught ballet, tap, modern, contemporary, musical theater, and gymnastics to students of all ages both nationally and internationally. She has also choreographed extensively for children and adults. Heather is also a certified SEATED RHYTHM™ instructor with Active for Life Fitness, a program dedicated to promoting healthy, active lifestyles for seniors and individuals with developmental disabilities. Heather also serves as an adjudicator for the Playhouse Square Dazzle Awards. Outside of her dance endeavors, Heather works as a Social Media Engagement Coordinator for Bright Beginnings. When she’s not dancing or working, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and her dog, Kuppy. Alexandra, who was born with Spina Bifida, is a 29 year old from Cleveland. She works as a secretary for a local community center and is an avid powerlifter. Alexandra also advocates for disability rights through her daily life helping to organize disability pride events and marching in parades. She was recently awarded the title Ms. Wheelchair Ohio where her platform is Dancing Through Disability, focusing on healing trauma and connectin with yourself again through dance. Her passions for dance and creative arts earned her an Associate of the Arts degree. Alexandra describes herself as Creative, Joyous, Determined, Thoughtful, and Loving.