Dance fun for all on offer

JACQUE’S Dance School at Lethbridge is inviting local children to take part in a series of workshops.

Held throughout October, November and December the sessions include toddlers’ classes, dance, craft, bubbles, games, acrobatics, tumbling and group stunts.

Priced at $10 for toddlers and $12 for children, the aim of the sessions is to get children moving in a pressure-free, fun environment.

“I’m basically trying to change the reputation around dance that it’s about competing and getting on stage and instead it’s about development, social skills and building confidence,” said founder Jacque Gill.

“People think dance is all about putting makeup and hair on a two-year-old but ours is all about promoting self-worth in children.”

The decision to run the dance school in this way stemmed from Gill’s own experiences in the dance industry.

“I grew up with dancing and it was at a place that was very much oriented with getting on stage and performing with people, you get off, get rushed around and change,” she said.

“For me that’s not good for children to grow up with and dancing doesn’t have to be like that.”

Gill is offering a range of classes for toddlers and older children which allow them to explore creativity.

“Our toddlers do a bit of warming up stretching, they do some art and craft activities and then we usually get stuck into a little dance routine,” she said.

“We also have an acro class which is gymnastics crossed with dancing and it’s helping children learn to understand their body more.

“For our over fives we make a little performance but it’s more to show their parents what they’ve done throughout the day and it’s not enforced if they don’t want to get up and show the parents.”

It is hoped the relaxed nature of the classes will make them accessible to the broader community.

“You don’t have to commit to every week because you pay week by week,” said Gill. “There’s also no additional cost like concert fees to it’s a much cheaper option.”

To find out more about the sessions visit Jacque’s Dance School on Facebook.