KIRSTY PARKES

Miss Kirsty Parkes, Member S.D.T.A.
1A-33820 South Fraser Way
Abbotsford, BC, V2S 2C5
Tel: 604-859-3312 Fax: 604-859-3191 email: ddance@shaw.ca
RAD ballet, jazz, lyrical jazz,tap,theatre,hip hop,highland,Irish,Flamenco, Celtic fiddle
Kirsty's website: www.dynamicdance.org

Mission Statement

At Dynamic Dance we believe that each student is entitled to receive the best instruction possible in whatever medium they choose. Our goal is to provide a studio where both student and family members can feel comfortable and where staff is accessible if there are any concerns.

However, dance class is not just about learning a dance, it is about learning technique, self discipline, working together and caring for each member of the group and working towards your maximum potential.

Our classes range in age from 3 years to adult and we strive to make each class a rewarding experience.

Competitions

Each year we work hard (students, teachers, parents and staff alike) to make our year-end show memorable. Every student performs in this show which is usually held at Abby Arts Centre at the end of June. Costumes, make-up, hair styles all go towards the end result of an exciting, fulfilling show, one which seems to get better each year!

Some of our students will perform in the community at local events, hospitals, Seniors Homes, etc. This is good, not only for the community, but for the dancers that share their talents with others. Some of our dancers have performed professionally and we encourage them in their endeavors.

Some of our more advanced students perform in competitions, namely Coquitlam Dance Festival and Surrey Dance Festival as well as private competitions held locally.

We also encourage our dancers to attend any Dance Conventions that are available and currently we are fundraising to go to Las Vegas.

QUESTIONS MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED

The cost of classes?

This will vary from studio to studio. At Dynamic Dance we offer family rates and a ceiling on unlimited classes for serious students.

Teachers qualification and experience?

A teacher's qualifications and experience are an important aspect of choosing a dance studio for your child or yourself. A good teacher is aware of the importance of placement and technique in conducting a class where quality of dance, strength, flexibility and general knowledge and understanding of a dancer's body are just some of the aspects of good teaching skills. Safety is also an important aspect in not allowing students to go beyond their abilities but challenging them to become better.

Class size?

Most technical classes optimally should have no more then 12 to 15 students so individual attention can be given. However, classes such as Hip Hop and breakdancing can usually accommodate more.

Facility?

A studio should have some of these options; cleanliness, safety (this includes following fire regulations, special floors to absorb shock when dancing and the ability to attend to injuries if they occur). Having someone on staff to oversee things is also an advantage.

Competitions?

Some students like to compete, others do not. This should be taken into account when registering for a class. At Dynamic Dance we feel competition can be a good thing if it is approached in a positive way but is not for everyone.

Performances?

Most studios do a year-end show or recital. Performances in the community are also worthwhile both for the audience and the students as it encourages dancers to do their best.

These are just some of the questions one should ask before deciding upon a dance studio. We hope this is helpful in your search for the studio that is right for you.

Instructors

Denise Lafortune

Royal Academy of Dancing Ballet syllabus taught by Denise is an R.A.D. qualified teacher with many years' experience, not only in teaching but in performing in Canada, England, and Japan. Denise brings her Extensive knowledge of ballet training and understanding of the dancer's body to all her classes.

Lyrical Jazz is an expressive and creative form of dance which is also taught by Denise. These classes encourage the dancer to experience free movement in a more relaxed atmosphere. She is a wonderful teacher and choreographer and all her students enjoy her classes.

Kirsty MacGregor Parkes

Traditional Highland dancing is taught by Kirsty. She is a registered Member of the Scottish Dance Teacher's Alliance and as such is Qualified to enter students into competition and for Medal Tests. Kirsty has won many medals and trophies over her 18 years of Highland Dancing and she has performed as far away as France.

Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Theatre is also taught by Kirsty and she brings her years of dancing experience and love of dance to all her classes. These classes are fun and exciting for all ages (including adults!).

Michelle Kilby

Michelle is our Irish Dance teacher. She not only is an accomplished dancer in her own right having performed professionally both on stage and in movies but is an inspiring teacher able to bring students to a competitive level and instill in the students her love of Irish Dancing.