With a new season approaching, new and returning students at Sheridan Dance Academy have opportunities to experience happiness and self-expression through a variety of programs.
A nurturing environment enhances learning and provides dancers with a place to make new friends and evolve as performers and people.
“More than half of our staff members are parents,” says Mariah Sheridan Runions, owner and director of the academy. “They understand how to care for a child and offer support when needed.”
As one of two accredited dance instructors in Powell River, Mariah is ADAPT-certified in jazz and tap. She leads a group of teachers focused on instilling confidence in students and providing a positive atmosphere, allowing them to feel and express joy through performance.
“Seeing the looks on their faces as they perform is amazing,” says Mariah. “A chance to shine on stage builds pride, confidence and a sense of self worth.”
The academy opens for regular classes on Monday, September 12, with programs available for children ages 18 months up to adult.
Toddler and preschool-age classes include instruction on balance, coordination and interaction. A special one-day event on Friday, September 23, features a royal ball for those youngsters.
“They will experience what it would be like at a royal ball and then perform at the end for their parents,” says Mariah. “Because they are so little, much of the focus is on the merriment of the occasion.”
Later that day, a one-time-only rock star training class for ages six to 12 takes place.
“If you ask my eight-year-old what she wants to be when she grows up, she will tell you she wants to be a rock star,” says Mariah.
The rock star class offers a fun, enjoyable experience for children interested in learning more about the academy’s Showstopper Musical Theatre program, where dancers partake in singing, dancing and acting in action-packed classes.
“It will give kids a taste of what our dance studio experience is all about,” says Mariah. “It’s on a professional development day, too, which will work well for people who need an option to keep their school-aged kids busy.”
All students enrolled in musical theatre will be part of the academy’s holiday production, All Aboard the Polar Express, premiering at Evergreen Theatre in December.
In the New Year, students in all classes will focus on rehearsing for annual spring recitals to end the season.
After debuting AcroDance last year, the popular class returns to the schedule with more age categories, taught once again by accredited AcroDance instructor Robin Behan.
“Kids enjoyed it so much we’re expanding the program,” says Mariah. “We have classes for preschoolers, moms and babies, and sessions for all school-aged children.”
Sheridan Dance Academy hosts Community Information and Registration Fair from 5-7:30 pm on Friday, September 9, with several organizations on hand to provide information to visitors.
“Our goal is for people to be able to take care of all their fall registrations in one place,” says Mariah. “Tables will be available to any groups wishing to join.”
More information about the academy is available at sheridandanceacademy.ca or by calling 604.485.0023.
“People are welcome to stop by the studio to see us as well,” says Mariah.
The studio, located in unit 101 at Crossroads Village (behind Quality Foods), has an apparel shop fully stocked with dance-related items, including bodysuits, leotards, tights and shoes for ballet, jazz and tap. Hours are 4-7 pm, Monday through Thursday.
