Ballet is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent against potential injury is by choosing a studio with a professional sprung floor covered with Marley to prevent slipping. These floors help reduce the risk of injuries and allow students to dance longer without getting tired. Five of our six floors at DanceWorks Performing Arts have these floors, which give as the students move on them. Our tap room has a floating floor subsystem with hard wood.

If the dance class has fewer students in it, each child will receive more personalized attention, learn more, and have more fun. With younger students, it is easier for a teacher to maintain control over the class and make sure each student understands the concepts and instructions when there are fewer students per class. Our studio limits our classes (ages 6-12) to a maximum of just 12 students per class. With our younger classes (ages 3-5) we limit all of our classes to a maximum of just 10. We also have an assistant program in which our senior students demonstrate and assist in classes, which provides the teacher with more opportunity to watch and correct the students.

Most studios put on a year-end show at an outside venue. Students performing in the show need a costume for their dance number. Some studios require parents to sew their child’s costumes, pay extra, or find a seamstress. This can be frustrating for parents who are busy or can’t sew. At DanceWorks/VCB, we order our costumes ready-made to save parents costume woe. Most studios require parents to purchase tickets separately for the performance. At DanceWorks/VCB, 5 tickets and a DVD are included in your showcase fee.  Extra tickets can be purchased for a nominal fee.

Office staff is on site during all class times to answer questions.  All of our information is also posted on our Notice Board. Our website – www.vancouvercityballet.com – www.danceworksperformings.com – is full of information.