Tanya Durbin is an accomplished dancer and teacher with an impressive career in the world of ballet. She had the privilege of being invited to dance with the New York City Ballet for the opening of Segerstrom Center for the Arts, formerly Orange County’s Performing Arts Center.
Dance Education/Training:
Tanya’s dedication to her craft is evident through her extensive dance education and training. She has been awarded scholarships and studied at renowned institutions such as the School of American Ballet in New York, the Pacific Northwest Ballet in Seattle, the Boston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet School in New York, Bolshoi Ballet, Miami City Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, Washington Ballet, and the Houston Ballet.
Professional Experience:
Tanya’s professional journey has been marked by remarkable achievements. She was invited and contracted to dance with the prestigious Los Angeles Ballet before embarking on a successful freelance career. As a freelance dancer, she had the privilege of collaborating with renowned choreographers and dancers worldwide, participating in numerous projects.
Her repertoire includes notable roles such as the Sugarplum Fairy in “The Nutcracker” for Long Beach Ballet and West Coast Ballet, the Snow Queen in “The Nutcracker” for Inland Pacific Ballet Theater, and principal pas de deux performances like “Melodia” choreographed by Kasian Goleizovsky. She has also graced stages internationally, premiering works in Italy and performing with esteemed ballet companies such as Ballet Theatre of Chicago, Pacific Northwest Ballet, and New York City Ballet.
Tanya’s talent extends beyond the stage as she has also made appearances in national television commercials and movies, including notable works like “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” and “17.” Additionally, she has been commissioned to create choreography for esteemed organizations such as the Crystal Cathedral and the Pacific Symphony, earning high acclaim for her work.
Teaching and Coaching:
With over two decades of teaching and coaching experience, Tanya has made a significant impact on aspiring dancers. She has held positions at renowned institutions such as the Jimmie De Fore Dance Center, Maple Conservatory, Orange County High School of the Arts, Southland Ballet, Huntington Beach Academy of Dance, and RJAD. Tanya’s students have achieved remarkable success, receiving scholarships and acceptance to prestigious schools such as the School of American Ballet, Pacific Northwest Ballet, Royal Ballet School in London, and many more. Her students have also garnered medals and honors at prestigious ballet competitions and gone on to pursue professional careers in renowned dance companies worldwide.
Awards: Tanya’s talent and dedication have been recognized with numerous awards throughout her career. She achieved the highest honor and first-place award at the esteemed Blackpool Dance Festival competition in England, where she and her dance partner made history as the first Pro-Am Latin champions. They have also secured a “U.S. National Title” and claimed multiple first-place awards in regional competitions. Tanya has had the privilege of performing in Rome, Italy for the elite Gaynor Fairweather Cup and has been commissioned by renowned choreographer Elena Samodanova to perform at prime events.
Current Endeavors:
Tanya continues to contribute to the dance community as a certified Instructor with Fred Astaire. She is honored to be on staff at Fred Astaire Dance Studio’s Laguna Hills location, where she imparts her knowledge and passion to aspiring dancers.
