Studio PAVAS offers a wide range of dance for all ages.
Scroll down for a brief description of our dance disciplines. All classes are generally one hour in length.

Pre-Dance/1st year (3 to 5 year olds): An introductory class to the fundamentals of Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Acro with strong emphasis on creativity and interpretation.

Pre-Dance (2nd and 3rd year - 4 to 6 year olds) Jazz / Tap / Ballet/Acro: One half hour each of Ballet, and/or Tap, and/or Jazz, and/or Acro.

Acro: Students learn gymnastic floor skills that are later combined with dance skills in an acrobatic dance routine. Ages 6+ (3 to 5 yr olds see Pre-Dance)

Ballet: For ages 6 to adult. Ballet is a technique learned through barre and centre work. Exercises are used which improve agility, control, balance, musicality and general muscle strength and is the basis of all dance. It is taught with Performing Arts Educators of Canada (PAEC) syllabuses and is available in the following levels:

Pointe: A supplement to the Ballet class, learning the basic concept and steps of pointe work. Emphasis is on adage, to get a sense of lines and finesse, turning steps and complex allegro steps. Previous Ballet technique is required for students 12+

Ballroom / Latin / Swing: The focus is on technique, rhythm and styling with a natural progression from beginner Latin to a variety of Ballroom Dance, Swing (East Coast, West Coast, Lindy). Dances and emphasis may vary with instructors. Ages 10 to adult

Chinese Dance: The class is designed for studens with no Chinese dance background, but with a minimum of 1 year of either ballet, jazz, or contemporary training. Ages 8+.

Class is divided into two parts:
Classical Dance - Chinese classical dance dates back almost 5,000 years to the royal courts. For centuries, dance styles and techniques were passed down among the common people. It wasn't until the early 1900's that Chinese classical dance began to be systematically documented and would eventually evolve into a national syllabus. Currently, Chinese classical dance includes influences from ballet, Chinese folk dances, operas and matial arts. Students will be introduced to classical Chinese dance movements and positions, eye focuses, facial expressions and movement styles.

Folk dance - There are 56 ethnic groups in China, each with their unique style of folk dances. Students will be introduced to only one or two of the many styles of folk dances with emphasis on hand gestures, body shapes, and petterns.

Hip Hop: A kind of jazz created from street dancing. Ages range from 6 to adult. It is used in most videos by artists such as Janet Jackson, Backstreet Boys and most R & B artists. There is less emphasis on aesthetic line and more on quality of movement and agility. Jazz technique is part of the curriculum.

Break dancing is part of the curriculum for more advances students. Boys-only classes may also be available.

Modern:
Beginner: In beginner modern we explore different movement styles and qualities through teacher instruction and through student improvisation. Freedom of movement and personal uniqueness in movement is emphasized. Basic class structure includes floor work, stationary exercises and traveling sequences. A minimum of 2 years of Ballet is required . 10+

Intermediate: This modern class is for those with more than 2 years previous Ballet dance experience and/or for the more technically advanced dancers in Ballet and Jazz. As with beginner modern, different movement techniques and qualities are explored and improvisation serves to expand dance possibilities. The class structure is similar to beginner modern, however the pace is much faster and the combinations are more complex, and contrasting.

Musical Theatre: The culmination of acting, music and movement. Good examples of this are shows such as Phantom of the Opera, Fiddler on the Roof, Cats and Rent. Classes include exercises which emphasize the use of facial expression, presentation and singing. A Dance and Music/Drama teacher will be part of the class curriculum.

Pilates: The Studio is now offering pilates classes. Pilates is an exercise program where mind and body work together in a series of specialized exercises that combine stretching and strenghtening. A Pilates mat workout will condition and strengthen every part of your body and help to increase flexibility and core stability.

This one hour mat workout set to music will help to develop longer, leaner muscles, and leave you feeling more centered and calm.