About Us
Essence of Dance was founded in 1997 as Victoria's Ballet School, a leader in the Russian Ballet method. Taken over in 2005 by Sonja and Talia, EOD expanded in size and genres to become one of the most diverse studios in the Vancouver area. Located in the South Surrey/White Rock, our facility offers 7 spacious studios with natural light and sprung dance floors, each with a separate entrance/exit, and waiting area.
Specializing in Russian Ballet (based on the Vaganova technique) and AIDT Jazz syllabus, the school also offers Contemporary, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Acro, Modern, Musical Theatre and Tap classes. With a Pre Professional Half Day Program, Ballet and Jazz examinations, a competitive youth company, and classes for recreational dancers; Essence of Dance caters to students of all levels, from ages 3-18 years.
Want to dance abroad? Miss Talia and Miss Sonja have organized studio trips for students to train at the Cuban National Ballet School in Havana, The Hawaii State Ballet School, The Edge Performing Arts Centre in Hollywood, The Martha Graham Studio of Contemporary Dance in New York City, The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre in New York City and Broadway's Dance Centre in New York City. Miss Talia and Miss Sonja have arranged workshops with the Cast Members of Broadway's Lion King both in New York City and here at EOD, with some of Disney's top choreographers in Disneyland's Magic Kingdom, the Cast Members from Wicked, Matilda, the world renowned Radio City Rockettes and So You Think You Can Dance's All Stars.
Aside from offering students the highest quality in dance education, we provide a personal and family-like atmosphere; a place where students can grow friendships, confidence and a passion for dance.
programs
RECREATIONAL
Recreational dance classes offer a fun and collaborative learning environment, where dancers are treated like family and encouraged to achieve their fullest potential both inside and outside of the studio. Our goal is to provide a nurturing and safe space for students to gain a lifetime love of dance. Recreational Classes work towards an onstage performance at the end of the season.
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The Recreational Program is open to all dancers.
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AGES 3 AND UP
COMPETITIVE
Our Ignite Youth Company dancers train anywhere from 4 - 20 hours a week, in styles such as Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, Tap, Hip Hop, Acro and Musical Theatre.
Our competitive team is made up of motivated and inspired dancers wanting to take their performance to the next level. Competitive Dancers will participate in 4 competitions per year.
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Acceptance to the Competitive Program is by audition.
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AGES 7 AND UP
PRE PROFESSIONAL
Our half day program is designed for the serious student who wishes to pursue dance to their highest level.
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Students are expected to participate with a professional attitude and will be evaluated on their technical and artistic progress. We care about the overall well-being of each student and therefore instruct in a manner to promote confidence and growth in technique and performance skills. Along with training dance technique, this program develops life skills such as perseverance, resilience, teachability, self-discipline, work ethic, and responsibility. This program is in addition to standard training.