Calista Phillips

We can't wait to have Calista back at Carlson's for another season!

Calista began dancing at a young age and hasn’t looked back. She quickly fell in love with the musicality of dance and the art of choreography which inspired her first piece at age 12. Throughout her training, Calista competed with solos and groups at competitions across Vancouver Island in Tap, Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Musical Theatre, and is the 4 time winner of the “Tap Award” from the Cowichan Music Festival. Calista has completed her Grade 8 and Intermediate RAD Ballet exams with distinction as well her Advanced 1 and 2 ISTD Tap exams with distinction. She is grateful for mentorship and guidance from Ricki-Lee Allison, Bryony Blake, Lorraine Blake, and tap master Leo Manzari. Calista continues to dance at prestigious training centres such as Van Tap, the Rhythm Room, West Coast Tap, and Pineapple Studios London. In 2024, Calista traveled to England for training with the International Society of Teachers of Dancing, and in 2026, Calista accomplished her ISTD Tap Associate under Lorraine Blake. Currently, Calista is studying Religions and Journalism at the University of Victoria. In every class, Calista works to create an uplifting environment and empower students to achieve their goals with strong technique.