Jess & Neil Robles

Based in Toronto, Jess Ortaleza-Robles and Neil Robles are a husband and wife duo, passionate about movement and storytelling. Together, they continue to make a significant impact in the Arts & Entertainment industry as Filipino-Canadian artists, from teaching internationally to landing opportunities in Film & TV. They aspire to share all that they’ve learned with their students, facilitating environments where dancers can explore their authentic artistry and potential. 

Since the age of 11, Jess grew up competing and training in styles such as: Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Floorwork, Modern, Hip Hop and House. In pursuit of her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance degree from York University (2013-2018), she continued to train with industry professionals such as Joe Tuliao, Leah Totten, Kaela Faloon and Apolonia Velasquez. Select TV and Film credits include: Fubar (2024), Skymed (2023), Work It (2020), Quaker Oats, General Motors, Walmart, and Finger Eleven. Jess was an Ensemble Dancer for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Ovation of the Seas (2022), and has danced in industry shows such as Gadfly, Fever After Dark and Choreographer’s Ball. With a love for storytelling, her choreography has received recognition across regional competitions, receiving special awards and overalls. 

Acting and dancing since 2013, Neil’s best known for his role as Chris Royo in the Netflix Original Work It (2020), starring alongside Sabrina Carpenter, Liza Koshy, and Jordan Fisher. Neil has appeared in multiple films and TV shows, including: Thanksgiving (2023), 13: The Musical (2022), Super Wish (2022), Sneakerella (2022), Spin (2021), Locke & Key (2020) and Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent (2024). Neil has collaborated with major choreographers and worked with Filipino artists like Sam Milby and Maja Salvador for live tours. His dance training includes Contemporary, Floorwork, Hip Hop, and Street Styles like Popping, Locking, Breaking, House & Krump – learning from notable educators such as Andrew “Pyro” Chung, Aakomon Jones, Derick Robinson, and Apolonia Vasquez. Neil was also an Ensemble Dancer for Royal Caribbean Cruise Line’s Ovation of the Seas (2022) and has performed in many industry shows. He has competed and directed hip hop teams for numerous competitions such as World of Dance and Hit The Floor since 2015, and his choreography has received recognition across regional and international competitions.