ABOUT US.
WE’RE ALL ABOUT COMMUNITY, GROWTH, AND HAVING A HELLA GOOD TIME.
Culturally Defined is a dance training company for adults that goes far beyond typical drop-in dance classes. We offer smaller, more personal class sizes and prioritize the quality of movement over quantity. Our approach, known as the CD method, shifts the focus from only choreography to building a deeper understanding of the movement and brings back the fun, social aspect of dance with a like-minded community. By setting clear focuses in class, providing practical tools, and incorporating body mechanics, we help our dancers become well-rounded and versatile in multiple class settings.
At our new CD CLUBHOUSE, we are dedicated to dispelling the myths that you have to be young or have lots of free time to learn dance. Our studio is tailored to meet the needs of busy adults, with expert instructors who are passionate about delivering top-notch training.
We believe that dance is more than just a hobby; it's a way of life. We are committed to making dance accessible to everyone who shares a passion for it.
THE TEAM.
CHRIS WONG | FOUNDER, CO-OWNER, & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
With over 15 years of experience teaching and dancing professionally, Chris has a huge vault of knowledge across many styles of dance. He is the creative mastermind behind Culturally Defined— crafting our training method, live showcases, and overall vision for the company.
A captivating dancer, choreographer, and performer, Chris’ dance style blends together elements of hip hop, house, popping, locking, and stage dance. Be ready for a good mental and physical challenge in his classes. He loves helping his students rise to the occasion and you’ll often leave his classes surprised with what you were able to achieve.
BRIGITTE LEONG-CHUNG | CO-OWNER & OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
Brigitte (aka. Brigs) is known for her warm, welcoming nature, all the while, pushing your boundaries to make sure you get the most out of your training. A professional multitasker, she is at the forefront of the operational side of Culturally Defined and bringing the community together.
Brigitte took her first tap class at the tender age of 5 and has since developed a groovy, soulful dance style with influences from jazz, hip hop, house, & waacking. Her love for feel-good music and bringing great people together are at the forefront of the CD experience.
CHRIS MORELOS | FACULTY
Heavily inspired by some of the biggest pop stars— Usher, Justin Timberlake, and Michael Jackson, Chris fell in love with music, dance, and performance at an early age. He’s trained all over the West Coast and has worked on some amazing projects along the way.
Chris’ classes are always full of strong shapes, big movement, and fun footwork. He’s all about making a big impressions on stage and in person, and pushes for diversity in all aspects on his dance journey.
BETA CHAN | FACULTY
Beta is a multi-talented mover and choreographer full of passion for all things dance. She has years of experience performing on stage and in film, and has been teaching both locally and overseas for almost a decade.
Her background in ballet, jazz, heels, and hip hop is blended to create a perfectly diverse dance experience. Beta’s warm energy and feel good choreo make her classes a guaranteed good time. She’s committed to nurturing and sharing her craft with the community.
JARRETT CARLINGTON | FACULTY
Jarrett took the stage for the first time at the age of 8, sparking his love for performance back at home in Bermuda. Since then, he has established an incredible dance career in film and on stage, training with the best talent across the city.
Full out, intense, and sexy— Jarrett’s movement style will push you to get out of your comfort zone and find your own style within. His generous and loving personality makes him an incredible instructor and he hopes to one day, return to Bermuda to share his knowledge with other aspiring dancers.
HARU NAKAJIMA | FACULTY
Born and raised in Japan, Haru started her dance training at the young age of 6 and has not slowed down since. As a teenager, she moved to LA to train and refine her craft before finding her place in Vancouver, where she’s taken the city by a storm.
Dynamic, strong, & confident - Her classes exude infectious energy and are full of big shapes and grooves. Don’t mistake Haru’s sweet personality for an easy class - she’s committed to pushing boundaries and propelling her students towards personal growth.
SHAQUEEL LAWRENCE | FACULTY
Shaq is a dancer, choreographer and instructor born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Most notably, he performed as backup dancer for the popular KPOP band BTS in New York and New Jersey, and has traveled all over the continent to teach classes across various cities.
Shaq’s classes are high energy and full of grooves, isolations, and swag 🤘🏾. The focus for each varies but the overall intent is always to grow, share energy and have a good time.
PETER D’SOUZA | FACULTY
Since the age of 7, Peter’s strong passion for the performing arts has led him to pursue a career as a movement artist, choreographer & teacher. He is a Richmond, BC native and went on to spend 10 years training in Toronto, ON, where he found great success in the commercial industry (film, TV, & live performances). Janet Jackson, Ariana Grande, & Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies, just to name a few.
Peter is always looking for a new challenge; he is constantly improving and taking his movement vocabulary to the next level. He is known to be a very dedicated and high-spirited dancer, teacher and choreographer.