Catherine's Dance Studio

Since opening her studio in 2002 Catherine McRae, owner and operator of Catherine's Dance Studio, has proudly offered her students qualified and professional dance instruction in a Professional Studio environment. She is happy to provide a studio setting that is warm and welcoming, while continuing to set the standard for dance education in Conception Bay North.

CDS provides programs for recreational dancers as well as those seeking more intensive training who may be interested in pursuing dance as a possible career. CDS offers an Examination Program with the Imperial Society for Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) in Jazz, Modern Theatre and Tap, and is proud to have a record of extremely high standard Exam results. In September 2009 CDS will also be providing Cecchetti Ballet workshops and classes with Ms. Sandra Blackmore, L.I.S.T.D (CF)

We are happy to offer a diverse curriculum for our students, providing opportunities for dancers to achieve well rounded dance education and technical strengths. Class sizes are small, which allows the teacher to give a more hands on approach to each student. Our programs are offered for children ages 3 years and up and include: Dance Discovery Program for Boys and Girls, Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary & Lyrical Modern, Ballroom and Latin American.

In addition to the weekly schedule, CDS regularly offers workshops with visiting Teachers and Choreographers, giving students the opportunity to learn from other Professionals in the industry. We have opened our doors to many Guest Artists including; Liz Murphy T.C.R.G (Irish Dancing), Andrea Tucker A.I.S.T.D (Contemporary Modern, Graham and Limon Techniques), Lenny De La Pena (Hip Hop & Funk Flava), Matthew Power from East Rock Crew (Breaking) and more. CDS is currently planning its Workshop schedule for the 2009/2010 Season.

At Catherine's Dance Studio we embody a Passion for dance that runs deep in the heart of every student. Each dancer's needs are unique, and the studio prides itself on maintaining a fun, motivating environment where students can develop their technique and reach their individual potential.

We are committed to providing our students with the highest standard in dance education and inspiring each one to be the best that they can be.

UPCOMING EVENTS!

2010 Student Showcase

We are so excited to bring you another memorable Showcase as we celebrate 8 years of Dance!

Friday June 4th and Saturday June 5th

Rehearsals June 1st-3rd inclusive

More info coming soon!

Next Class with Ms.Blackmore, LISTD

***RESCHEDULED***

SUNDAY FEB 7TH

Class A: 1:00-2:30PM

Class B: 2:30-4:00PM

Choosing a Dance Studio

Below are some important points to consider when choosing a Dance Studio & Teacher.

IT IS IMPORTANT TO MAKE SURE YOUR DANCE TEACHER IS TRAINED AND QUALIFIED!!!

• Does your specific dance teacher have proper training in the genre s/he is teaching? Don't be afraid to ask.
• Does the instructor have certification as a teacher and professional college training in DANCE? Many dance teachers do NOT as there is no law that governs who can and can not open a dance studio and teach dance.

•What levels of examinations have been completed by the teacher and what grade was awarded? When you take a professional level dance exam the grade you are awarded determines the standard of technique and performance quality a dancer has. REMEMBER, a dance 'certificate' does not indicate that an insturctor is a Qualified Teacher with a governing body for dance education. Any diploma which is hung on a studio wall should state "is Qualified as a Teacher of" following the teacher's name. Any other certificate is just that, a certificate for dance tests, not teacher qualifying exams - otherwise known as Associate Examinations.

What kind of background does the teacher have: a) teaching, b) dealing with children, c) performing?

Does the dance teacher still perform and/or take classes to stay current and maintain/improve his/her dancing and teaching techniques? A good dance teacher is not always a good performer. A good performer is not always a good dance teacher. Having a teacher who has the ability for both creates the best learning environment for students.

Does the dance teacher teach what they are truly qualified to teach? You wouldn’t want a ballroom teacher to teach ballet, tap, or jazz; nor would you want a teenage student teaching the class.

Does the dance teacher have patience in dealing with students?

What type of space will you be dancing in? A professional studio should have adequate space and above all a proper dance floor. A studio or dancing space with tile or industrial type flooring is putting the students and their teacher at risk of injury. Ideally,a dance studio should have a sprung wood floor. Some studios may have a professional floor surface installed on top of the wood - this creates the ideal studio floor.

Is the dance teacher caring, knowledgeable, patient, and willing to work with EACH student?
Does the dance teacher have a working knowledge of anatomy?
Does the dance teacher provide a disciplined, encouraging, and FUN learning environment?
Does the dance teacher inspire, motivate, and instill a joy of movement in his/her classes?
Does the class have a moving spirit?
Does the dance teacher encourage individual expression?

If you are interested in more information, please email info@catherinesdancestudio.com