Taylor Austin is a born-and-raised Sudbury dancer whose passion for the art form began at a young age. The Ida Sauvé Dance Studio—now Dance Evolution—became her second home at just four years old. By eight, she was dancing competitively, and by eleven, she was assisting in classes, sparking her love for teaching.
Throughout her competitive career, Taylor performed across Ontario until the age of 21, earning numerous special awards and medals for both group and solo work. Over her 17 years of dance training, she developed a deep commitment not only to shaping strong dancers but to supporting the overall well-being and future of every young person she teaches.
As Owner and Director of Dance Evolution, Taylor continues to expand her dedication to high-quality dance education. She is a certified ADAPT (Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers) instructor in Tap and Jazz, and is extensively trained in Tap, Jazz, Acrobatics, Lyrical, Contemporary, and Hip Hop. She also holds YPAD (Youth Protection Advocates in Dance) certification, ensuring age-appropriate, safe, and healthy practices in all areas of her work—from choreography and music selection to costuming and studio culture.
Taylor’s passion for mental health advocacy led her to earn her Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) certification, equipping her with the tools to recognize changes in mental well-being, respond supportively, and take practical action in times of crisis. She believes mental health support is essential in dance education at every age and level.
Beyond the studio, Taylor is an active contributor to the Sudbury community. Through Dance Evolution, she has supported numerous charitable organizations, including NEO Kids, NOFCC, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Blood Services, the Northern Lights Festival, Easter Seals Ontario, Camp Quality, and Infant Food Bank.
She also founded The Affordability Fund, a grant program designed to remove financial barriers and ensure all young artists can access dance training. To date, the fund has supported over 100 local families, donated 8 scholarships to Easter Seals Families and helped launch an inclusive movement program for dancers with developmental and/or physical special needs. These classes provide a supportive, adaptive space for children to enjoy movement and music tailored to their abilities—an accomplishment Taylor holds among her most meaningful.
Taylor remains committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and motivating environment where students can grow into confident, empowered young people. She is honoured to lead Dance Evolution and is dedicated to continuously sharing her love of dance and knowledge with her students, colleagues, competitions and community!
