As our kids have gotten older, we’ve noticed one exhausting thing. They never stop moving. Something we’ve found key for our sanity (and theirs) is to get our little bundles of joy involved in extra curricular activities that focus all that energy into something they really love. Which is why we picked up one of our bundles and took her off to Dance Co.
Dance Co is a large, integrated dance centre at the Arbutus Village Shopping Centre in Vancouver. The space is filled with six studios for a variety of levels of dancers, and has a dance shop within the centre. It’s a bit off the beaten path for the transit user, but is easy to get to for the Kits and Kerrisdale family with a car.
Our tester had previously taken ballet and gymnastics, and she gave the Hip Hop and Tap Dancing classes a try. She enjoyed the cool factor involved in kitting up in her baggy tee shirt and skate shorts for her Hip Hop class, and her Mum appreciated all the energy she spent tip-a-tapping in her tap shoes. The classes had a good gender mix, which is always great to see in a dance class. Our tester’s Mum was impressed with the level of focus and commitment from all the dancers, which can be hard to get from energetic kids. And our dance tester loved all her classes so much she hasn’t stopped moving since.
While the classes range from recreational to advanced, the primary focus is on competition and performance. We think the school is an excellent place for an aspiring young professional dancer, or someone truly passionate about the craft. The classes are on the expensive side when you factor in the cost for costumes, shoes, and dance uniform, so they are the perfect fit for the committed dancing kiddo or someone who wants to take his skill to the next level. They do offer classes for preschoolers, but unless you’re sure you have a mini Karen Kain or Sabian Glover on your hands, check out classes at your local community centre first before making the investment. Dance Co also offers adult classes for those Mums and Dads looking to dust of their dance shoes.
Dance Co: www.danceco.com
154 – 4255 Arbutus Street
604.736.3394
Yo, Mama! Looking for other classes to help your child expend their excess energy? Then check out:
It’s actually not difficult to get to by bus. The 16 Arbutus/29th Ave. goes right past, and the 25 UBC/Brentwood isn’t far. Just get your timing right.