Business Details
Premier Dance Classes for All Ages in Grande Prairie
DansConnection was founded with a vision to create a joyful and inclusive environment where children can develop dance skills, self-esteem, and life potential. Our mission emphasizes not just technical excellence but also the cultivation of respect, confidence, and community engagement. With over 500 students annually, we offer programs for ages 3 months and up, including preschool, recreational, and competitive dance training.Our instructors, recognized for their expertise and passion, prioritize creating a supportive atmosphere that fosters both artistic growth and personal development. We are committed to safety and innovation, co-founding Dance Safe Alberta and adhering to national safety standards. Through performances, camps, and community initiatives, we aim to nurture well-rounded individuals who thrive both on and off the stage.
Services
Dance Classes
Preschool Programs
Competitive Teams
PD Day Camps
Dancewear Sales
Highlights and features
- We offer age-specific programs from infants to adults with experienced instructors.
- Our curriculum develops life skills like confidence and teamwork alongside dance technique.
- Flexible options include short-term classes, camps, and competitive teams.
- Co-founders lead industry safety initiatives through Dance Safe Alberta.
- Award-winning choreographers produce top competition performers annually.
Associations and certifications
- YPAD Certified
- Safer Studio
- Dance Safe Alberta
Services
Dance Classes
DansConnection offers comprehensive dance instruction for all skill levels from beginners to competitive performers. Our classes develop technical proficiency while emphasizing life skills like discipline and teamwork. Students benefit from a curriculum that combines artistic growth with personal development in a supportive environment.
Preschool Programs
Specialized programs for children aged 1-5 years focus on motor development, musicality, and social interaction through playful dance activities. Parent-participation classes strengthen family bonds while introducing foundational movement concepts in a nurturing setting that prepares children for future dance education.
Competitive Teams
Our competitive dance teams provide advanced training for students aged 5+ with experienced choreographers who have produced multiple award-winning groups. The program emphasizes technical excellence, performance quality, and teamwork while maintaining focus on dancer well-being and safety standards.
PD Day Camps
Full and half-day camps operate on professional development days with dance instruction, crafts, and games led by first aid-certified staff. Flexible scheduling options include early drop-off and late pick-up to accommodate family needs while keeping children active and engaged.
Dancewear Sales
Our onsite store provides essential dancewear, shoes, and performance accessories for all training levels. Customers receive expert guidance to select appropriate gear that meets technical requirements while ensuring comfort and proper fit for various dance styles.
People
Shelly Rutherford
Co-Founder CEO
Award-winning choreographer and dance educator with 18+ years experience. Co-founded Dance Safe Alberta to establish safety standards. Transformed studio from 90 to 500+ students while maintaining focus on life skills development and community impact.
Lorraine Stapleton
Co-Founder COO
Royal Academy of Dance certified instructor with extensive performance background. Specializes in teacher mentorship and curriculum development. Maintains focus on creating safe, respectful learning environments that foster confidence and artistic growth through dance education.
Questions
What age groups do you offer dance classes for?
We provide classes for children starting at 3 months old through adults, with specialized programs for preschoolers, recreational dancers, and competitive teams.
Do you offer short-term dance programs?
Yes, our Mini Mester sessions and PD Day Camps provide flexible, short-term options without long-term commitments.
Are your instructors certified in dance education?
Our co-founders hold Royal Academy of Dance certifications and have trained hundreds of award-winning competitive dancers.
What safety measures do you implement?
We co-founded Dance Safe Alberta and maintain national safety standards with first aid-certified staff and secure studio practices.
Do you have performance opportunities for students?
All students participate in December Winter Showcases and May Spring Recitals to demonstrate their progress.
Reviews (5)
Lisamarie Maguire
Apr 04, 2020
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Cannot say enough great things about the studio, my daughter isn’t the best dancer or actively engaged but going to “ballet” is her favourite 30 minutes of the week bc her instructor has been phenomenal at including her with the other students and keeping them all engaged which is a big tasks for 2/3 year olds
Shayleen Rose Smedley
Sep 14, 2019
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Everyone who works there is always helpful, dance teachers are amazing with my child's growth and development in dance. everything is always clean and organized.
Melissa Coombs
Nov 24, 2018
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My daughter Darby just performed at the Festival of Trees 🎄 I did a total mom-fail and showed up in pigtails. When Darby showed up onstage she was sporting a perfect bun ❤ She looked so happy and I am just so grateful to have my daughter enrolled here. I am very excited for the upcoming recital. Thanks DansConnection!
Nancy Rich
Nov 02, 2017
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The staff is amazing, they always make sure you feel welcome. The studio is like one big family and always willing to help each other out. Can’t say enough great things.
Jenn Webb
Oct 10, 2017
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Great customer service. Eager to help and give all the information up front. Very clean and professional!