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Brittany Lavigne and Jillian Harrison met 20 years ago when they were first introduced to dance. Fast forward and the two young entrepreneurs are still sharing their passion for dance and movement. The two lifelong freinds own and operate one of Barrie’s fastest growing dance studios, Elite Danceworks.
While owning and operating any new business can be difficult, Brittany says they are happy to have a third studio now after just under 3 years. “We are seeing tremendous growth and that’s encouraging. Jillian says while nothing is easy, they are seeing rapid growth on the business side and the people side of it. “We love sharing our passion with young aspiring artists, it’s a super rewarding experience to see our young dancers grow in their craft. The trophies, smiles and friendships we are fostering is amazing,” said Harrison.
Both Barrie natives fell in love with dance at a young age. Brittany received most of her formal dance training with The National Ballet School, and George Brown College. I graduated from the triple threat Commercial Dance Program and had the privilege to study under respected artists such as Andrew Parker, Derek Sangster, Dana Bondy, Gadfly and Stephanie Galpern.
Jillian has developed a special love for jazz, tap and theater. Her special love for rhythm and sound has taken her across Canada and the US to train in tap. ” I’ve had the privilege to work with many renowned tappers and master teachers,” said Harrison. Jillian is a certified acrobatics instructor, member of United Taps and a certified Barre Fitness Instructor and recently completed Mather Dance Company Teacher Intensive in LA.
COMPETITIVE PROGRAM
The Elite Danceworks competitive program will be available for dancers that range in age from 5 to 18. A focus on teamwork and personal growth will be emphasized in this program.
RECREATIONAL PROGRAM
The recreational program introduces students to a variety of different mainstream dance styles such as Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Acrobatic. This program provides a great way to get fit and have fun.
HIP-HOP PROGRAM
All classes feature stylized technique and fresh hip-hop combinations to the latest music. These popular classes are sure to be a great workout.
ACRO PROGRAM
Acro is a combination of gymnastics and dance. It focuses on concentration, balance, flexibility and control. Students at will work on strengthening their minds and bodies to perform a variety of tricks and exercises such as head/hand stands, aerials, back bridges, cartwheels, handsprings, and more. Acro students will experience the joy of accomplishing hard earned personal goals with the techniques
CONTEMPORARY/LYRICAL/MODERN PROGRAM
Elite Danceworks offers an innovative contemporary, lyrical and modern program which involves contemporary, jazz, modern and ballet technique. Students explore combinations and choreography to find their own style and tell their own story through movement.
TAP PROGRAM
This program will allow students to find their rhythm and create their own sounds. The Elite Danceworks tap program will provide students with the proper awareness of intricate sounds, syncopation and musicality.
BALLET PROGRAM
The ballet program at Elite Danceworks is held at the highest regard. This program will include formal ballet training for students to develop proper technique which will carry over into other styles of dance. The ballet program follows RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) syllabus.
JAZZ PROGRAM
Through traditional jazz technique, students will develop their skills in leaps, turns, kicks, jumps. This program provides a fun, upbeat environment that combines technical elements and creativity.
PRE DANCE PROGRAM
Pre Dance is a combination of Ballet and Jazz technique for ages 18 months – 3 years old. This is a great way to introduce your little dancer to rhythm and movement in a safe, encouraging and fun environment. 30-45 minutes of singing, dancing and play.
