The Team

Who We Are

Ashlieya Hanelin (Mariano)

Owner, Studio Manager

Owner of Dance Masters Performing Arts since 2017, Ashlieya is a professional actor and dancer who is committed to building a better world.

Lieya is a meditation facilitator, hypnotherapy practitioner, and creative guide devoted to helping individuals access clarity, emotional regulation, and embodied presence. Her work blends meditation and hypnotherapeutic techniques with creativity and flow-state principles, supporting participants in understanding and working with their emotional landscape rather than suppressing it. With a background in emotional literacy and somatic awareness, Lieya teaches meditation as a practical, accessible tool for nervous system regulation, focus, and inner alignment—bridging science, intuition, and creative embodiment.

In addition to her passion for wellness, Lieya is also an actress, mind coach, dance instructor, performer, dog mom and is newly married as of August 2024. Originally from Minnesota, she enjoys calling sunny southern California home.

Lieya

Neff Fisher

Studio Manager, Artistic Director, Dance Instructor

With over 30 years of experience in the world of dance, Neff Fisher has built a distinguished career as both a performer and educator. A winner and finalist in numerous national and international ballroom dance competitions, Neff combines technical mastery with a passion for inspiring excellence in others.

For over a decade, Neff served as a director for one of the nation’s largest dance studio chains, where he was instrumental in training dance instructors, developing curricula, and shaping programs that elevated both student and teacher performance. His expertise in pedagogy and program design continues to influence studio education.

In addition to his teaching and leadership achievements, Neff has also established himself as a respected music director for prestigious DanceSport and ballroom competitions throughout the United States and abroad. Known for his acute musicality and deep understanding of rhythm and movement, he has helped create the dynamic, inspiring atmospheres that define premier dance events worldwide.

Today, Neff continues to share his passion for dance through performance, direction, and mentorship—dedicated to cultivating the artistry, discipline, and joy that make dance a lifelong journey.

Book with Neff

Jackie Dennis

Dance and Wellness Instructor

Jackie was born and raised in Chicago and is now based in Los Angeles. She began her formal dance training in Chicago before continuing her education at the North Carolina School of the Arts and Point Park University, where she earned her BFA in Dance.

Following her training, Jackie performed and taught internationally, with experience spanning the U.S., Israel, Morocco, and Sri Lanka. She later spent several years in New York City, working as a performer and educator in contemporary dance and physical theatre.

Jackie is passionate about fostering strong technique, artistry, and embodied expression in her students, and she is excited to be part of the faculty at Dance Masters.

Book with Jackie

Neff

Jackie