My name is Ayaka Kamei. I’m a dancer, choreographer, teacher and performer born in Japan, living in Germany.
A lifelong dancer, I began taking ballet lessons as a child.
In 2005, I moved to Canada to study at the Quinte Ballet School of Canada under the direction of Gizella Witkowsky and Owen Montague.
The following year, I spent a year at the École Supérieure de Danse de Cannes Rosella Hightower in France, directed by Monique Loudières and Monet Robier.
My professional dance career began in 2010 with a six years engagement at Noism Company Niigata in Japan under the direction of Jo Kanamori.
In 2016, I relocated to Europe and joined Dance Company Theater Osnabrück in Germany, where I worked for eight years under the direction of Mauro de Candia, and later, Marguerite Donlon.
Now, I’m a freelance dancer, teacher and choreographer.
dancer and choreographer
My artistic journey has been enriched by collaborations with numerous inspiring individuals. From renowned choreographers to emerging talents, these partnerships have shaped my unique voice as a dancer. Here are a few of them.
In addition to performing, I’ve had the opportunity to share my own choreographic vision with audiences. View my choreographic work here.
teaching
With years of experience as a dance teacher, I specialize in technical training, artistic expression, and movement development. Since 2019, I’ve taught non-professional dancers, and since 2021, I’ve worked as a ballet mistress at conservatories, dance schools, and professional companies, including Dance Company Osnabrück. Since 2024, I’ve also taught as a technique and dance trainer for a dance sports club.
In my classes and workshops, I focus on precision, creativity, and individual development, drawing on approaches like “Dynamic Phrasing” to meet dancers where they are. My goal is to offer a space where exploration and technique grow together, whether you’re a professional or new to dance.
dynamic phrasing
I’m a certified Dynamic Phrasing teacher. Click here to learn more about this method. I’m doing workshops and company classes with this method. Please contact me, if you are interested!
References: Institute of the Arts Barcelona, Architanz Tokyo, CCJ Tokyo, Tanzcompagnie Volkstheater Rostock