Dancer etiquette is about creating an environment of respect, teamwork, and being present while in the studio. We need all of the points below to get the most from dance and to prepare for our big show!

• Attendance is necessary.
  In order to keep the caliber of the show you are signing up for, attendance is necessary for the respect of the instructor, the choreography, and other dancers in your shared journey toward the show. Except….

• If you are sick, please stay home.
  We dance in an enclosed space and don’t want to spread illness. If you are sick and need to attend by Zoom, please text Lise by 4:00 pm. A Zoom link for performance classes will be sent out at the beginning of the semester.

• Good personal hygiene.
  Again, since we dance in an enclosed space and sometimes enter each other’s “personal bubbles”, it is essential that everyone maintains good personal hygiene in every class.

• Absolutely no alcohol, drugs or vaping allowed

  At Ammena Dance Company, we prioritize the well-being and enjoyment of every dancer. That is why we kindly ask all our guests refrain from alcohol, drugs, or vaping within the studio and any venue that we are guests in. Our goal is to create a space where everyone feels safe, comfortable, and free to express themselves fully on the dance floor.

• Cell phones turned off or muted!

• If for some reason you need to use your phone, take your phone to the reception area and use it quietly. Do not sit and text during a class.

• Help keep our mirrors clean for everyone!

  Please do not touch or lean on mirrors.

• Don’t leave and come back into your class multiple times.
  If you wander in and out of class for personal breaks it is disruptive to the students in the class and the instructor.

• Do not quit dancing  in the middle of the combination.
  Go with the flow if you’re lost or confused. NEVER STOP. Other dancers may hit you by accident since they will expect you to be moving with the group.

• If you have missed a class?
  We upload key class teachings in the Google Drive. Learn from the Google Drive and be prepared to do your best without expecting the teacher to repeat the missed lesson or choreography.

• Don't teach other students in class.
  While we know you're only trying to help, students who try to teach during a class when the instructor is also trying to teach, only creates disruption in the class. Instead, students should ask the instructor for clarification.

• Don’t talk while your teacher is teaching.
  Please don't chat or whisper while the teacher is speaking or demonstrating. If a student asks a question this is not your invitation to start chatting. Be respectful, listen and learn from the question being asked and the answer being given. Talking before class or during water breaks is fine. Just be aware enough to quiet down when the teacher is ready to start.

• No recording or photos without the permission of everyone in the room.
  Some students do not want to be photographed or video recorded. Ask the instructor if it is okay to record during class.

• Costumes

  All dance costumes for pieces without specific assignments must receive prior approval from the studio owner. To seek approval please submit an image of the proposed costume by May 1. Costumes ordered through the studio are not to be altered in any way and must be worn according to the direction of the studio owner.

• Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
  Ammena Dance Company provides a safe haven for dance students to come and enjoy dance and self-expression. Acts of bullying, harassment, and other forms of aggression and/or intimidation will not be tolerated. We promote a respectful environment based on trust. Bullying or harassment is considered any gesture or written, verbal, graphic or physical act (including electronically transmitted acts such as cyber bullying via internet, social media, direct messaging, hostile, threatening behavior or otherwise that would provoke fear of physical harm or emotional distress. Any negative or disruptive behavior such as this will result in the immediate dismissal of the student without refund.

• Respectful Conduct Policy at Outside Facilities

  In utilizing the Yates Theatre and Sterndale Bennett, it is imperative to recognize them as an extension of our studio space. As such, we must approach these facilities with the utmost respect. This entails refraining from alcohol consumption, vaping, or drug use on the premises. Additionally, maintaining clean and positive conversations is essential, reflecting the values and ethos of Ammena. Let us collectively act in a manner that upholds the integrity of these spaces and aligns with the principles of our community. Abuse of any prohibited substance at any of our venues will result in expulsion from the event and the studio.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

I've never danced before, what can I expect?

Anything new is challenging, but dance can give you great rewards if you stick with it! You might be surprised what your body can do with time (and what it struggles with!). Give yourself lots of time to learn and be patient with yourself. Learning the basics is key to advancing, so put your energy into building a strong foundation. This may mean you take a recreational class first to try a new genre before signing up for a performance class. Recreational classes are offered in spring sessions and also as one-time classes, also known as workshops. Try to attend your weekly class without missing a week. If you do miss a performance class try to catch up by watching the video on Google Drive within the same week so you don’t fall behind on the choreography. And of course, practice what you learn at home. It's all about building muscle memory and this will help you build strength, endurance, flexibility and coordination. Most of all have fun!

May I try a class before committing to a course?

If you would like to try a class you can register for a one time drop-in class. Drop-ins are $20 plus GST. Payment must be e-transferred in advance. There are no refunds or transfers for no shows.

What should I wear to class?

Wear something comfortable that you can move freely in. We recommend something form-fitting so your instructor can see your body moving. Leggings, Yoga pants, tank top, t-shirt, or crop top. We dance in socks or use ballet slippers, jazz shoes, heels or dance sneakers.

How do I register for my performance classes?

If you are a returning student, you can register online through our website. If you are a first timer (Welcome!) you will need to attend an in person meet and greet with Lise-Anne.

Refund Policy

Absolutely no refunds, transfers, extensions, carry-overs, credits on classes, workshops, or unused classes including drop-ins. Once you are registered all sales are final.

Where are you located and what are your hours of operation?

Click here for our location info. We are open during our class times.

Are your classes for all sizes and age groups?

Ammena Dance Company is an all adult dance company. Our students range in age from late teens to people in their 7th decade (or more!), and are all sizes, shapes and nationalities. We come together to share the universal language of dance.

How many students are in a class?

A minimum of fourteen students is required for a performance class to run, minimum of eight students for a recreational class to run. Ammena Dance Company reserves the right to cancel or change a class that is under-registered.

How do I know how I am doing/progressing in the class? Will I get individual feedback?

Your instructor is the best judge of your progress in relation to the rest of the class. If you have concerns or questions about how you are doing, we recommend you chat with your Instructor to go over how you are doing and map out a plan for your advancement if this is important to you.

Is there a dance recital?

Ammena Dance Company has an annual show for our students to perform in. The show is titled An Explosion of World Music and Dance, and is usually the first Saturday in March at the Yates Memorial Theatre. The show is more than a recital - it is fully produced with lighting, background projection, costumes and props. Every student registered in performance classes will perform during the show.

We also feature a Students Showcase annually in the fall where students may perform a solo, duet or group piece choreographed by themselves or Lise-Anne according to the private dance lessons pricing.

How physically fit do I need to be to start taking dance classes?

Before starting any new workout or physical activity you should talk to your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough to start dance classes. We think you'll find that most physicians will encourage you to start. Being gentle with yourself and listening to your body is key.

Will I feel comfortable with my body?

Our goal is for every dancer to love and appreciate their body, how it moves, adapts and expresses. Lots of people in society struggle with body image issues and we know from experience that dance is a genuine catalyst to help you love and appreciate your body more. Movement through dance builds body awareness, connection and self confidence over time. Ammena is a safe space for all body types. We aim to create an environment where you can embrace the body you have, honor it and let it enjoy the movements.

Can't find the answer to your question? Call us or email us. We're here to answer your questions.