March 2013 | Issue IV
: g n i m r info untangled
W in a p ho t oshoo t! page 19
r: Get ures g i F * Hai + s t ter: Fac ecklist * Wa Ch n o i t peti * Com
inspiring:
She Plans, Organizes, Teaches, Manages and Drives: March is all About Mom!
Israeli Dance: Sharing History
Through Dance
celebrating: Aiden Cass is in the spotlight
s t e g ! e c just dan
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INThISISSUE
Contents Publishers’ Letters.......................................................... 2 In the Spotlight: Aiden Cass......................................... 5 Water: Why When and How Much............................. 9 History of Dance: Israeli Dance................................ 10 Conquering Competition Chaos............................. 12 Dancing into Your Future........................................... 14
5 9
Hair: Untangle the Tricks............................................ 16 just dance! Wants to Know:...................................... 18 How Does Your Mom Support You and Your Dance? Learning to be a Leader........................................... 20 All About Mom Special Feature
Top right (5): GTFX, middle image (10) Adele Lewin Photography.
Learning from Mom................................................... 21 Learning from Mom Outside the Studio Learning to Let Go..................................................... 23 Driving Their Boys to Success: ................................... 24 The Moms Behind FRESHH just dance! Wants to Know:...................................... 26 How does your mom support you & your dance? FRESHH
10 16
Not Your Stereotypical Dance Moms:..................... 28 The Entrepreneurial Women Behind Dance in BC just dance! Directory Listing...................................... 34 Cover: FRESHH | Photo credit: Karen Fisher-Hagel.
24
March 2013 | just dance! 3
FromTheEditors
A
pproximately nine months ago I started to bring an idea, a simple vision, to reality; to publish a magazine that would help dancers and dance parents navigate the sometimes complicated world of this creative industry. Admittedly, my vision was somewhat lofty and altruistic. I believed there was a need for just dance! and that once published people wouldn’t be able to resist our content and would be scrambling to get copies of the magazine. Generally speaking, this is what has happened. Since publishing our first issue last October our readers have told us over and over again how much they love the magazine, enjoy our content, and are happy that we have come along to give a voice to young performing artists. And for those encouraging words and the enthusiastic support Andrea, I and our whole team are eternally grateful. The simple truth is that without subscribers and advertisers we would not have been able to publish our first issue let alone this, our fourth. Most of the women who we have written about in our special feature this issue are those who reached out to us early and continue to do so often. The success they have achieved in their lives has inspired us as much as the
A
s always, it’s been a busy couple of months with the wrapping up of audition season and the start of competition season! I’m so impressed with all the dancers and studios that compete in the early season competitions, as it represents a tremendous amount of organization and planning by the studio owners and instructors; hard work and dedication of the dancers; and support and encouragement (and lots of driving) from the parents! Which brings me to the theme of our March issue—it’s all about mom. We’ve got some great stories about supportive moms, ex-dancer moms, instructor and studio owner moms, business owner moms…and much more! We’ve made some inspiring alliances with various competitions and conventions allowing us to introduce just dance! to a huge number of dance families and helping us move forward with our vision of building a supportive
performers we get to meet and write about. It is because of the faith of these women and so many other businesses and organizations that we have been able to deliver on our mission of informing, inspiring & celebrating young performing artists. It is our sincerest hope that those who are already behind us continue to be, and that as time passes more of you choose to get to know us and get involved. We have worked hard to build mutually beneficial relationships with all kinds of industry partners so we can deliver on our commitment to our readers and advertisers. And with that, we are always happy to receive your feedback. Tell us what you would like to see in our pages, ask questions and share your knowledge—all our readers will benefit. Last but not least I would like to say a personal thank you to my team: my partner Andrea, art director Laura, staff photographer Karen, copy editor Hillary, dance mom cheerleader Brittany, my daughter and right-hand, Meagan, and, of course the rest of my family. I am very proud of everything we have accomplished, and I fully recognize we would not be where we are without all of your hard work, commitment, sacrifice, and belief. I often say that just dance! is more than a magazine, its an attitude – and I am very happy you all have the attitude!
Keep dancing, Racquel
and informative local dance community. Our readership is expanding weekly, our Facebook followers grow daily and we’re getting more traffic than ever on our website. Our expanding audience of motivated and enthusiastic local dancers, dance parents, instructors, studio owners, dance retailers and event planners provides great value to our advertisers without whom we wouldn’t be here. So thank you, as always, for your support. Let us know what you’re up to. We’d love to post some photos on Facebook of our local dancers working hard in the studio, rehearsing, auditioning or competing! just dance! is here to inform, inspire and celebrate YOU! As always, thanks to our readers and advertisers for your support; to Racquel and Laura for their steadfast commitment and vision; to my mom for being a delivery driver extraordinaire and special thanks to Hillary, our copyeditor and newest member of our team, for her enthusiasm and unfailing eye for detail which makes our jobs a whole lot easier!
Best, Andrea
CONTESTS SCHOLARSHIPS + MORE!
just dance! is all about our readers—we are committed to informing, inspiring & celebrating you! We want you to interact with us and we are giving you lots of reasons and ways to do just that. Check out the new contest page on our website, justdancemagazine.com, to find out how you can get involved and WIN great prizes! 4 just dance! | March 2013
ARock Publishing Group Ltd. 34A - 2755 Lougheed Hwy Suite 212 Port Coquitlam, BC V3B 5Y9 justdancemagazine.com facebook.com/jdmagazinebc General Inquiries & Sales info@justdancemagazine.com Co-publisher & Managing Editor Racquel Foran racquel@justdancemagazine.com Co-publisher & Public Relations Andrea Albanese andrea@justdancemagazine.com Art Director (Ad production, layout & image submission guidelines) Laura Bellis laura@justdancemagazine.com Copy Editor Hillary Wood Staff Photographer Karen Fisher-Hagel Operations Assistant Meagan O’Connor just dance! magazine is available for $24 per year (6 issues). To subscribe visit justdancemagazine.com Copyright © just dance! magazine 2013: Material appearing in this publication may not be reproduced in print or electronically without written permission of the publisher, and without proper credit given. Editorial viewpoints and opinions do not necessarily reflect the view of the publishers. Advertising and Photo Submissions: Ads must be submitted as a PDF’s or a high-res TIFF file. Photos embedded in ads must be converted to CMYK. All ads and photo submissions must be a minimum of 300 dpi. Please contact the art director at laura@ justdancemagazine.com with any questions regarding advertisement or photo submission guidelines. Printing provided by: Westwood Printing and Signs westwoodprinting.com sales@westwoodprinting.com Tel: 604 464 8840
{ i n the s p o t l i gh t }
Aiden Cass By Andrea Albanese
Aiden’s second year of dance competing at Peak Invitational, April 2010.
Fifteen-year-old Aiden Cass was invited by Chan Hon Goh herself to understudy the role of a Russian dancer for the Goh Ballet’s Nutcracker after she saw him perform at the Live Love Dance Fundraiser for Chelsea Steyns—the Artistic Director of the North Shore Academy of Dancing (NSAD) and longtime friend of the Cass family. Aiden ultimately didn’t perform on stage but says it was an incredible experience working with the Nutcracker cast and attending rehearsals. But most importantly, he says, “The ballet class was amazing! I learned a lot.”
GTFX
D
espite the endorsement of his ballet skills from “Miss Chan,” Aiden’s passion is hip hop and he counts his classes with hip hop teacher Dylan Steyns as his favourite though, really, he admits he enjoys all his classes a lot. Aiden’s introduction to dance was a hip hop class at a local community centre when he was about five but he didn’t really get into dance until he joined the North Shore Academy of Dancing (NSAD) in Grade 6 when his cousin Rachel—a
member of NSAD’s performing company— encouraged him to sign up. Aiden hasn’t looked back since, even though his cousin deserted him for the soccer pitch in his first year at NSAD! However, dance is still a family affair in the Cass household: Aiden’s younger sisters Grace and Clara dance at NSAD too, making the carpooling a lot simpler for his mom Suzie and dad Chris (who have also danced on stage in a specially choreographed routine for parents and teachers!)
Aiden’s classes range from RAD ballet to Broadway and everything in between. Most are ‘Elite’, audition-only classes that focus on more intense training and choreography. Elite class members need to have specific skills and technical proficiencies and must commit to regular attendance for class and rehearsals. The elite classes incorporate a variety of ages (10+) that are chosen according to ability. Aiden feels that having a range of ages works out okay in class because “the choreography is different and I still get to do stuff that’s hard for me.” He’s also happy because he always has some other dancers his age to hang out with. Aiden is in the Flex for Success program at Sutherland High School which allows him to leave at 12:40 each day, giving him time to do his homework before he heads to the NSAD studios. His jam-packed 21hour per week schedule includes hip hop (of course); jazz and jazz tech; Broadway; contemporary; modern (advanced); and last but not least, ballet (RAD advanced one). He has a busy competition season March 2013 | just dance! 5
Dance is pretty much my life...It’s what I look forward to and enjoy the most. Through dance I’ve learned to be myself and have confidence. I’ve also learned to be part of a team where we all work together.”
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ahead of him performing six group dances and a contemporary duo in every competition as well as for InMotion, NSAD’s year-end show. He’s already performed in NSAD’s winter performance, SnowMotion, as well as a paid gig at a wedding. In the summer, Aiden keeps busy with various local dance programs and classes—his favourite being Fresh Groove in Richmond…a long drive but well worth it according to Aiden. This summer he’s thinking about checking out some classes at Harbour Dance—hip hop, street jazz, b-boying, poppin’, locking, breaking, grooving and house—which would give him an opportunity to learn some new moves. He’s also hoping to fit in some drop-in classes at Fresh Groove if he can get a ride. Aiden speaks fondly of Chelsea Steyns— the heart and soul of NSAD—and says, “She has been a huge inspiration to me and how I approach life. Even when things don’t go the way they’re planned, she says you can always rise to the top and that ‘The Show Must Go On!’” Aiden says that a Christmas skating party hosted by Chelsea was really great because everyone got to see her and visit with her. “She knows everyone, even if you’re not in her class and the kids miss her a lot.” She even came into the studio before Christmas and choreographed a dance for SnowMotion in January. Chelsea is battling a rare cancer (PMA) that is usually only found in children. The school and the
GTFX
“
{ i n the s p o t l i gh t }
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{ i n the s p o t l i gh t } dance community have rallied around, raising funds for Chelsea’s experimental treatment only available in the US. Read more about Chelsea at sites.google.com/site/chelseasw01/ about-chelsea. “Dance is pretty much my life,” says Aiden. “It’s what I look forward to and enjoy the most. Through dance I’ve learned to be myself and have confidence. I’ve also learned to be part of a team where we all work together, to support one another and of course to have a lot of fun.” Aiden definitely sees dance in his future, “I’d like to work on a cruise ship so I can dance AND travel.” He’s also not opposed to checking out the dance scene in LA and putting his hip hop skills to the test. Judging by his success so far, he’ll have no problem at all!
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March 2013 | just dance! 7
8 just dance! | March 2013
{Balance}
Water, water everywhere! BLOOD: 83% water MUSCLES, BRAIN, HEART: 75% water BONES: 22% water LUNGS: 86% water
Water
By Andrea Albanese
Why? When? & How Much?
WHY do we need to drink so much water anyway? Dancers spend hours training, conditioning, rehearsing, performing… and sweating. We lose water when we sweat—up to 2L during long classes and rehearsals. Our bodies need water to regulate our temperature, flush toxins, maintain circulation, lubricate joints and to keep our electrolyte levels balanced. Basically, water is essential to life, and before this starts to sound like a boring science class, let’s put this in dance terms: • Water helps injuries heal faster because it aids in blood circulation, which means that toxins and inflammation are taken away from the injured area more quickly. • Water lets you get the most out of dance class because good blood circulation keeps the brain oxygenated, boosting memory, concentration and energy levels. • Water helps your body get the most benefit out of those delicious green smoothies your mom makes you drink because it helps the body digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients which is the point of drinking green smoothies in the first place!
• Water cools the body during intense workouts because sweating is how your body regulates its internal temperature. When you don’t drink enough water your body becomes dehydrated. Dehydration causes all sorts of problems for dancers. It can make you tired and lethargic; affect your performance badly; cause cramping; affect your memory and—at worst—lead to nausea and vomiting. Here’s the science of water in a dance scenario: You’re working on some complex choreography but you don’t really feel like it and wish you were at home watching TV. You’re having trouble remembering the combinations and you can’t seem to land that back jeté you’ve been able to do since the summer. Your calves are cramping, you feel a bit dizzy and you sense the beginnings of a headache. Your old ankle injury is acting up again. The final insult—your teacher’s getting frustrated because you aren’t your usual perky and enthusiastic self. All for want of a simple glass of water!
WHEN is the best time to drink water? Always bring a water bottle to class because leaving class for a drink is disruptive and wastes time. Make sure
A nifty experiment. Weigh yourself before a class or performance. Weigh yourself again immediately after. The difference is the amount of fluid lost (that you need to replace). e.g., 1Kg = 1L of fluid.
you know the water etiquette of your school; most teachers offer quick water breaks and others are fine if you take a sip during class as long as you’re not missing any demonstrations and you’re ready to start when the music plays. Always ask if you’re not sure. Taking small sips of room temperature water throughout class is best for your body… and also helps avoid a sloshy stomach full of water. Drinking water doesn’t stop when you leave the studio. In fact, it’s important to keep to your water commitment on your off days. Starting and ending your day with a glass of water is a great habit to get into and remember, don’t wait until you’re thirsty…that means your body is already dehydrated! Warm or hot lemon water (fresh squeezed) is a great way to start the day as it helps with detoxification and digestion.
HOW MUCH water should I drink? The general recommendation for fluid intake is 2L or 8 glasses per day for an average person. Two things to note: it’s best if that ‘fluid’ is water and dancers can require significantly more water than an ‘average’ person. Experiment and see what works for you…though you may spend a little more time in the bathroom until your body adjusts to your new fluid schedule!
Good-bye Gatorade: Coconut water contains essential electrolytes that can be depleted after a hard workout AND has more potassium than a banana (potassium can help avoid cramping).
March 2013 | just dance! 9
{HistoryOfDance} Israel’s Hora Goel dances the Chagigat Aviv--a Chassidic wedding theme dance.
By Andrea Albanese
Israeli Danc I
srael is a young country, celebrating its 65th year of Independence and populated by (mainly) Jewish people from all over the world. After the Second World War, many Jewish immigrants didn’t have much to bring with them to their new home except their culture, which included traditional dances like the polka, the tarantella and the waltz. This culturally and ethnically diverse group of people—sharing only their faith—created Israeli dance as a new art form to honour, celebrate and document (through movement) the creation of Israel—their new homeland. 10 just dance! | March 2013
Dancing has always been important to the Jewish people as a way to celebrate, to forget about worries and to instill a sense of pride and belonging. The Horah is probably the best-known example of a celebratory dance. It’s a social dance—meant to be fun and easy so everyone can participate. Modern Israeli dance incorporates traditional folk dances like the Horah and its ethnic costumes with new choreography, dance moves and modern dress. Dances have themes like the building of Israel, the army, the Holocaust, Bible stories, religious ceremonies and weddings. They are inspired by stories and shared experiences, religious and historic events, feelings and memories—culminating in a dance style that is unique in its blending of culture, history and modernism. One of the formative ideas in Israeli dance is “Pioneers of Israel,” which celebrates through dance and choreography how the immigrants built a new country together. These dances take inspiration from the actions and ideas of farming, the harvest and manual labour, which are all things you might experience living and working on a kibbutz (communal farm) which were widespread in Israel.
Adele Lewin Photography x3
Israel’s Hora Goel dance the Kirat Shemona with local dancers in a traditional Hora costume.
{HistoryOfDance} The military is another common theme in dance as all Israeli citizens (with a few exceptions) are required to serve in the army once they reach their 18th birthday: two years for girls and three years for boys. Military-themed dances can also tell stories of historical significance such as Palmach—a piece which tells stories of the pioneer defense force of Israel and usually has costumes based on army uniforms.
ce
The Holocaust is a sober historical theme—an event never to be forgotten— that is seen in memorial dances to mourn Holocaust victims, and also as a means of commemorating the resilience of the Jewish people and celebrating survivors and their stories of grace, courage and perseverance.
to keep dancing and stay involved in the community.
The Ashkenazim: • Jews from Poland, Germany, Russia
The JCC also offers recreational dance classes for ages K-adult that perform at various festivals as well as operating outreach dance programs at Talmud Torah and the Richmond Jewish Day School. Though many Israeli dancers also take jazz, ballet and lyrical classes, for some, Israeli dance is the only form of dance they do as well as their only connection to the Jewish Community. The dancers perform mainly in the Jewish festivals and events such as Yom Ha’Atzmaut (April 15, The Centre for Performing Arts in Vancouver), which is a gala performance to celebrate the anniversary of the creation of Israel. Dancers also perform in local festivals such as the Children’s Festival, Bhangra Festival and Ignite Festival. The biggest cultural festival in the Jewish
and Eastern Europe. • Dance style: folk dance/character dance, circles and formations, holding hands. • Costumes: brightly coloured skirts/dresses.
The Sephardim • Jews from Spain, Portugal, Greece, Ethiopia, Yemen. • Dance style: sharp, defined movements (Spanish); flowing Middle Eastern movements. • Costumes: flowing Spanish/Middle Eastern inspired dresses.
The Hasidim • Orthodox (very religious) Jews from Eastern Europe. • Dance style: formations, folk dance,
community is the annual spring Festival
religious themes though men and
Ha’Rikud (April 28-29, Norman Rothstein
women dance separately and
Biblical stories—another important theme in Israeli dance—can be recognized by the use of tambourines to represent music from the biblical era. Many biblical dances tell stories of shepherds and their time spent in the desert. Costuming also reflects biblical times, using cloaks, long skirts and bare feet.
Theatre), which is the main showcase of
perform only to audiences of the
Israeli music and dance in the city. The
same sex.
Certain religious events (wedding, birth, and coming of age)—both traditional and modern—are also represented and celebrated through dance. Some dances, particularly those of the deeply religious Hasidic Jews, use props that are actual religious articles like a prayer shawl. This is not seen as disrespectful as long as the dance honours Judaism and tells its story. Wedding dances are also popular and incorporate movements from a wide range of cultures that are reflected in the music and costume selections.
dance workshop for both local dancers
In Vancouver, the Jewish Community Centre (JCC) sponsors and supports Israeli dance. There are three performing groups which are formed by audition only: • Or Atid (Light of the future) for Grades 7-9 • Or Chadash (New Light) Grades 9-12 • Shalom (Peace) dancers for Grades 12+ to encourage Or Chadash alumni
festival is open to performers of all ages ranging from recreational to professional and has hosted dance groups from far and wide including Israel, Miami, Mexico,
• Costumes: flowing white dresses with long sleeves and attached capes and/or scarves on their heads.
Argentina, Winnipeg and Edmonton. During the festival, the Vancouver Israeli Folk Dance Society (VIFS) sponsors a 2-day and visiting guests. The workshop features classes taught by an Israeli choreographer who also sets a finalé piece everyone performs together on stage. Ultimately, Festival Ha’Rikud offers Jewish youth an inspiring opportunity to come together to celebrate their culture through dance—both as participants and audience members— and perhaps to experience the creation of new choreography to commemorate their experiences.
Shalom dancers performing the Spanish-influenced Adió Kerida. March 2013 | just dance! 11
Conquering
Competition Chaos Andrea Albanese & Brittany Leavold
C
ompetition season started early this year with the Chilliwack Festival, Pac-West, Victoria Danceworks and YAGP, but things will REALLY start to ramp up in the next few months— some competitions even overlap! Being organized and prepared beforehand is the key to a successful season so you can focus on doing your best on stage knowing your backstage set-up is ready to roll. just dance! has a few tips and tricks to help your competition season run as smoothly as possible! Don’t leave organizing to the last minute—make your lists well before your first competition. Having fun and doing your best at competition means you need to do a little work before showing up at the theatre with your costume.
GETTING ORGANIZED First, make a list of ALL your dances and note the following information for EACH dance: • Name of the dance, style, music and length • List of dancers • Costume: Note how many pieces • Tights or leggings: colour • Undergarments: special bra, nude coloured bodysuit • Shoes • Jewellery: earrings, bracelets • Accessories and props: hats, scarves, hair band • Hairstyle: bun, high ponytail, French braid, wig • Special make-up: glitter, specific lip or eye colours • Competitions and dates: update this information as you receive your dates and times from each event When organizing your costumes, label every single piece of the costume in an inconspicuous area that will not be seen when you’re wearing it. Use a laundry marker or a silver Sharpie for dark coloured 12 just dance! | March 2013
costumes. Keep your accessories attached to the hanger of your costume in Ziploc baggies labelled with your name and the name of the dance. Once you’ve got your costumes organized, it’s time to pack your competition kit. Check our website to download your copy of the just dance! Competition Checklist. (justdancemagazine.com ) Go through the list, note which items you might need, then start getting everything ready. Some studios have a class mom or studio representative who attends all competitions so you might not need EVERYTHING on the list, but it’s always good to be prepared.
AT THE COMPETITION Always check your bag before you leave the house and make sure you have everything you need for your day at the competition. Don’t bring valuables if you can avoid it; iPads, iPhones, cameras, jewellery and expensive dancewear often go missing. If you want to do some backstage photos, see if an adult can hold your camera. All competitions forbid photography if you’re on stage and some will even disqualify dancers if anyone connected with their studio is caught taking photos or recordings. This is a rule you don’t want to break! Bring homework instead (who’d want to steal that?) and the latest copy of just dance! magazine. When you’re at the competition make sure you have time to warm up. Some studios do warm-up at the studio if it’s close by or they meet at a specific time to warm up together at the event. If you’re leaving from school and you’re in a rush, try and do a little stretching in the car. Sometimes it’s easier to get dressed, do your make-up, and warm-up at home— especially if it’s a really busy competition or if you’re going to do a solo. Check with your studio if you have any questions. And remember, being organized and prepared lets you focus on what you’re there to do…just dance!
• Bring a small sewing kit, scissors, glue gun, etc. • Always have an extra pair of black booty shorts, black socks & tights (someone will forget!). • LABEL everything... if it doesn’t have a spot to label– make one. • Only take as many hangers as you need (that way if something’s missing–you’ll know). • Keep your group together; show up early, and get a good spot for your group/ studio. • Rolling racks aren’t necessary if you only have 3 numbers, but if you have more than 3 or you’re sharing, they’re a great idea. • We usually have a bag & a basket; we put the stuff we’ve already used into the basket and then put the bag on top.
st dance! Com petition Checkl ist f copy of the ju m to print a pd
Make-up
r r r r r r r
r Water bottle r Homework, act ivity
Foundation Cover-up Contour powder/blu sh Black and white eye liner Eye shadow(s) Lip liner and lip col our Mascara
FIRST AID KIT
Make-up accessories
r Brushes (powd er, angle, eye sha dow, lip) r Make-up rem over wipes r Cotton swabs and pads r False eyelash es and glue r Make-up rem over lotion r Towel, tissues and wet wipes r Nail file and clip pers r Nail polish rem over (dip-in) r Clear deodor ant
HAIR
r Hair spray and gel r Brush and com b r Bobby pins, hai rpins, hair clips (match your hair colour) r Elastics (match your hair colour) r Hair nets (ma tch your hair colour ) r Empty spray bot tle (for water) r Curling iron if necessary r Clear plastic hai r elastics
CLOTHING
r r r r r r r
emagazine.co
• Have a spot for everything you need and be consistent; if you know hairpins are in the purple case, then they need to be in the purple case!
Sweatpants/warm -up wear Slippers/fuzzy soc ks Extra tights Underwear Studio tracksuit Clear bra straps Flesh tone bodysu it
MISCELLANEOUS
• It’s best if you can put each costume in its own pouch/ zippered bag (we use the hanging closet organizer when we bring the rack). • Have you heard of the Dream Duffel®? It might be a good investment if you compete a lot. • DONT TAKE COSTUMES YOU DONT NEED....they’ll go missing.
r Second Skin spra y r Blister treatme nt r Ice/heat pac ks r Stretch flesh ton e first aid wrap r Tensor bandag es r First aid tape r Ibuprofen, Tyle nol, allergy medic ation r Band-aids r Antibiotic cre am r Tweezers r Muscle relief pat ches r Sanitary supplie s
COSTUMES
r Costume (for the day only) r Tights or leggin gs r Undergarment s r Dance shoes r Jewellery r Accessories r Props r Hair accessories r Special makeup r Hanger and cos tume bag r Bin for worn cos tumes r Rolling rack if necessary r Copy of music
SNACKS (non-staining ite
ms)
r Sewing kit (thr ead to match cos tumes) r Tide stain rem over stick r Safety pins (dif ferent sizes) r Duct tape and electrical tape r Scissors (for fab ric) r Glue gun and stapler r Double sided tape r Black laundry marker r Highlighter r Elastic: pink, cle ar and nude r Money: progra m and parking r Small screwdrive r r Ziploc baggie s (assorted sizes)
Visit justdanc
Here’s some great advice from Brittany Leavold—mother of Kaylyn Leavold-Wall, our very first ‘In the Spotlight’ dancer for our Summer Sneak Preview in 2012. Kaylyn dances at K & S Dance and has a pretty busy season coming her way. Her mom’s a pro.
Competition Checklist
r Water or clear juice r Dry cereal r Crackers, rice crackers r FRUIT: grapes, bananas, apple slice s, pineapple chunks r VEGGIES: celery , carrot sticks, cuc umbers, pea pod r Nut-free granola s bars r Healthy shake (use a straw) r Trail mix (no nut s) r Dried fruit, fruit leather r Hard boiled egg s r Cheese strings, Babybel® r Pretzels, veggie chips r Sushi (no soy sau ce)
Remember!
r Do NOT bring jewellery, laptop/tab let computer, cam phone (unless nec era, essary), purse, exc essive cash… r Label everyth ing (even your ma ke-up, hair brush water bottle). and r Put your costum es away immediate ly after use. r The latest cop y of just dance! ma gazine to read whi you’re waiting! le
• Highlight your program, make copies and tape it up so everyone knows the schedule. • Have extra copies of your music; if at all possible have it on CD AND iPod. • Don’t overdo or underdo your makeup—make sure everyone in the group looks the same. • No jewellery; leave it at home unless it’s part of your costume. March 2013 | just dance! 13
By Andrea Albanese
Dancing Into your
Future
Y
ou love dance. It’s been a big part of your life for as long as you remember. Did you know that many dancers quit after graduating high school—and live to regret it—because they believe there’s no reason to take class if you’re not going pro? Knowing your options will help you decide how and if dance is in your future as a hobby, a career, or something in between. To be a professional dancer, there are some realistic barriers to consider; if you want to dance on Broadway but you can’t sing, you won’t get many jobs. However, if you’re talented, passionate and willing to work harder than you’ve ever worked, the top two very different options are auditioning to either join a company (RWB, Ballet BC, BJM)*
or to dance in a show (Billy Elliott on Broadway)*. Company members are usually on a yearly contract, take class daily and perform in whichever shows they are cast in. Dancers in a show are on contract for that show only; they take (and pay) for daily class on their own and perform almost every day (sometimes twice) until the run is over. However, most dancers are not quite ready—emotionally or technically—to make the jump from amateur to professional immediately after leaving school. To pursue dance at this level, consider a bridging company (Victoria Academy of Ballet)*, training program (Arts Umbrella)* or preprofessional company (The Source)*. Ballet-based bridging programs are usually designed to refine technique and build stamina for those 8–12 hour days—giving dancers a taste of company life and a realistic idea of what companies look for in a dancer. Commercial training programs and pre-professional companies train dancers to be versatile and technically strong, prepare them to audition for stage and screen, and help them to identify and market their niche in the professional world—whether it’s playing an ingénue on Broadway or dancing in music videos. University dance programs offer BA and BFA degrees with major and minor concentrations in dance studies. There are more than a dozen– university programs in Canada (SFU, Randolph Academy, Ryerson)* and over a hundred in the United States (see Dance Magazine College Guide) producing not only dancers, but also choreographers, educators, dance teachers and a host of other professionals. For teacher-training there are a number of options ranging from 2–3 year on-site programs (NBS, RWB)* to online and workshop-based accreditation from various dance societies (ISTD, RAD)*. For modern and
14 just dance! | March 2013
Keep an open mind, be creative and think outside the box while you consider some of these possibilities: • Dance, theatre or arts manager (front of house) • Stage manager, stagehand, lighting or sound technician/engineer (backstage) • Makeup artist or hairstylist • Photographer or videographer, • Costume or set designer • Choreographer, rehearsal mistress, dance coach • Composer, sound mixer, musician • Artistic Director of a company, theatre or dance school • Seamstress, tutu maker or wardrobe mistress • Dancewear designer, retailer or manufacturer • Pilates, Gyrotonics®, yoga instructor or studio owner • Physiotherapist, massage therapist, chiropractor, homeopath, nutritionist • Doctor, orthopaedic surgeon, podiatrist specializing in dance • Accountant or lawyer for the arts or non-profits • Advertising, marketing or public relations for a dance company, school or theatre • Event planner for dance conventions, competitions or festivals • Dance writer, blogger or reviewer Do some research and see what ideas you come up with…start here: www.artsalive.ca; www.thedancecurrent.ca (under links). contemporary dancers there are many local companies to choose from. Most do not have the funding to pay dancers to train and perform full-time (Lamondance, Modus Operandi, 605 Collective,)* though this may be a great option for students and part-time workers. As you dance into the future, consider the many ways to keep dance in your life: as a hobby, a part-time job or as a lifelong career. If you’re thinking of dance as a hobby, consider university dance clubs or teams, adult classes and workshops, or local amateur theatre productions. As a part-time job consider becoming a dance instructor at a studio, community centre or camp; a competition team/staff member; a theatre usher; or a sales clerk at a dance retail store. As for career options, there are many arts-based jobs—some directly dance-related and some not.
*These are only a few of the options available.
Stacey Tookey will be inducted into the CPAF Choreographer’s Guild Hall of Fame May 19, 2013 “It is the most warming feeling - coming full circle. CPAF is about inspiring the next generation. I am flattered and honoured to be part of the beginning of something important.”
Stacey Tookey is the quintessential Canadian: polite, humble, generous and kind. She is an ideal ambassador for dance, an inspiration for aspring performing arts professionals, as well as a great role model for all young women. She has moved gracefully from her mother’s Edmonton dance studio, to dance professionally with Ballet BC, the NBA’s Grizzlies Dance Team, and Celine Dion’s Las Vegas show “A New Day” before famously being hired to choreograph for “So You Think You Can Dance Canada” which then led to her working on the American version of the show too. For all this and more Stacey Tookey has been nominated by the Canadian Performing Arts Foundation (CPAF) to be the first inductee into the Choreographer’s Guild Hall of Fame. The Edmonton native and Emmy award nominated choreographer will be honoured at a gala event hosted by CPAF on May 19, 2013 as part of their first annual May Long Weekend Competition and Hall of Fame Gala. Dancers and choreographers will not only have an opportunity to meet Stacey during the event but will also be performing for Stacey as she sits at the judge’s table. Registration for the inaugural event is open until May 1 - don’t miss this great opportunity to celebrate dance with Stacey!
New non-profit organization is dedicated to supporting the performing arts. The Canadian Performing Arts Foundation (CPAF) was formed with the primary objective of supporting up-and-coming Canadian choreographers and performing artists. This year CPAF will host its first May Long Weekend Competition and Hall of Fame Gala in Edmonton, Alberta. The competition will bring together young dancers from across Canada to showcase their talent while competing for thousands of dollars in cash prizes. And, choreographers will get a special opportunity to battle against each other in a competition judged by Hall of Fame inductee, Stacey Tookey.
Canadian Performing Arts Foundation Inaugural Event The May Long Weekend Competition and Hall of Fame Gala May 15 to 19, 2013 Grant MacEwan University - John L. Haar Theatre 10045 - 155 Street Northwest, Edmonton, AB Canada
Register: cpaf.ca
March 2013 | just dance! 15
Hair: Untangle the Tricks By:Racquel Foran Most performers will agree, what is happening on top of their head during a performance is just as important as what’s going on inside it. A stray hair, lopsided bun, or twisted wig can be a major distraction for both the performer and the audience. But getting a hairstyle right, sometimes under immense pressure, takes some serious skill. Performers twist, tug, squeeze, tie, pin, spray, gel, and even colour their hair into different styles and forms – using any tools they can to make their hair do what they need it to do for the sake of the act. And all this is really hard on the hair. Here are some tips to help make it easier on you and your hair.
Spray or Gel?
The two most common hair products in most dance bags are hair gel and hairspray, but what is the purpose of each of these products? Hair gel is perfect for keeping hair tidy and in place, particularly when pulled back in a ponytail or up in a ballet bun. Applying a small amount of gel along your hairline and then brushing it back will help your hair lay flat. Applying gel to the top of your head and nape of the neck as well as around your hairline before brushing it back into a ponytail also helps tame stray hairs. Gel can build up quickly and look sticky or gooey, so always apply small amounts at a time. Also be careful not to get gel on your face, as it will leave shiny patches on your skin that will show up under stage lights. 16 just dance! | March 2013
When it comes to holding hair firmly in place, hairspray is king. Hairspray comes in three different formulas: working; styling; and finishing. Working spray is the lightest hold and great for holding loose curls. Styling sprays are medium hold and are best for building updos. Finishing sprays have the strongest hold and should be used only on styles that you don’t want to move, like your ballet bun. When applying hairspray hold the can 12 to 14 inches away from your head. Cover your eyes and take a deep breath before you start spraying and be sure to cover your entire head with a steady stream. Avoid strong hold hairsprays if you have to change hairstyles several times during a performance because it will make it difficult to brush out your hair.
Beautiful Ballet Bun
The ballet bun is the most common hairstyle there is for dancers; even non-dancers rely on this elegant hairstyle as a favourite standby—but getting the bun right takes practice. For a classic ballet bun you need a water spray bottle, hairspray, gel, bobby pins, hair elastic (same colour as your hair), a comb and brush, and a hairnet (also the same colour as your hair).
1 Lightly spray your hair with water. Slick back your hair with gel using a comb. Pull all your hair back into a ponytail so it sits on the crown of your head. Use more than one elastic to get a firm hold. A neat, tight, secure ponytail is the foundation of a good ballet bun.
2 Apply a little more water and gel to
the ponytail and brush it into one tight tail. Twist the tail so it coils around the base of the ponytail. Use bobby pins all around the coil to fasten it into place and apply hairspray to hold.
3 Wrap a hairnet around the bun as
many times as needed to hold the bun firmly in place. Apply a few more bobby pins to secure the bun and finish with hairspray. Visit justdancemagazine.com for photo instructions.
Luxurious Locks
Katy Joynes, Stylist at Eccotique Coquitlam Centre warns just dance! readers that using products like gel or hairspray often and in abundance can be very damaging to the hair. She suggests not washing your hair the day you have to style it. “This will ensure that your hair has a lot of natural oils to protect the hair from over-styling - and it’s free!” She also recommends using a repair serum before hair spraying your hair. Hair serums seal the hair cuticle, ensuring that the hair does not absorb hold products like gel and hairspray. Thermal protection sprays like Aveda Daily Hair Repair and Aveda Brilliant Damage Control help prevent your hair from getting dry and brittle from overstyling. And finally Katy says, “It’s important to always use a treatment masque at home once a week to ensure that your hair is receiving nourishment to replace what is lost from over-styling. Or you can get a deep treatment in a salon; they last
for approximately 30 washes and leave hair soft, shiny, healthy and repaired.” Always remember, just like every other part of your body, you need to take care of your hair if you want it to stay healthy, strong and beautiful.
Wigging out
Competition and performance season also means getting into character. Nothing helps transform a performer’s character like a wig, but nothing is more distracting for an audience than a twisted wig. Christine Hackman, wig maker and owner of Hackman’s Head Office, shared a few tips with just dance! on how to wear and care for your wig. Getting it on and keeping it on: If you need to wear a wig during a performance, then you must have a wig cap. Wearing a wig without a wig cap underneath will guarantee a hair mishap during a performance. As Christine noted, without a wig cap, you have nothing to secure the wig to.
1 Tuck all your hair underneath the wig
cap. Using seven u-shaped hairpins (not bobby pins), pin the cap into place: one pin above each eyebrow, one pin above each ear, and three pins across the back of the hairline.
2 Place the wig on your head and shift it into the right position. Use four u-shaped hairpins to attach the wig to the wig cap: one pin above each eyebrow, and one pin behind each ear.
3 Give your head a shake to make sure the wig stays in place and you are ready to go! Keeping it clean: Most stage wigs are made from synthetic hair, so it isn’t necessary to use expensive shampoo on them. Add a splash of laundry detergent to a sink full of warm water. When the detergent has dissolved, place the wig in the water and let
it soak for five to ten minutes. Gently agitate the wig for about a minute and then rinse with cold water. Repeat this procedure again but replace the detergent with liquid fabric softener and do not rinse after soaking. Leaving the fabric softener on the wig removes static, but we recommend scent-free and environmentally safe
products, as they are easier on your skin. Let your wig air-dry on a wig drying stand; a 2-litre soda bottle works well too. Never brush or comb your wig while it is wet. Once your wig is dry you can use hot rollers to style it. Never use a curling iron on synthetic wigs; the hot iron will melt the hair.
Celebrating 14 Years of Dance 1999 – 2013
Tri-City Dance Centre
Complete Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Ballet Exam Program from Pre-Primary to Solo Seal
Jazz, Lyrical, Contemporary, A.I.D.T. Tap & Musical Theatre with Vocal Coaching Recreational and Competitive Programs Professional Training Program from Age 8+ Lots of Performing and Competing Opportunities! Half Day Intensive Program from Age 14+ Summer Contemporary Intensive ~ August 19 to 23, 2013 Junior Intensive ~ August 26 to 30, 2013 Pro-Training Auditions ~ Saturday, May 25th (Pre-registration required)
Artistic Director: Shannon Stewardson (RAD TC, RAD TD, CDTA) 98 Brigantine Drive, Coquitlam ~ Phone 604-523-6868
(Just off United Boulevard between Ikea & the Home Depot)
Email: tricitydance@telus.net
Website: www.tricitydance.com
Dr. Linda Drake Dance focused functional/postural assessment and treatment Prevent injuries before they happen! Foundation for Integrated Health
604.988.7080
#200-123 Carrie Cates Crt. North Vancouver in Lonsdale Quay (2nd floor) www.foundationforintegratedhealth.com 2013-2014 AUDITIONS June 15th & 16th
The Sock Bun:
If you have thin hair, a great and easy way to build a bun is by using a sock. Sock buns are particularly good for rehearsal because they require fewer bobby pins and can be pulled together really quickly. To get started you will need to cut the toe off of an old sports sock. Roll the remaining sock tube into a donut and then visit our website— justdancemagazine.com—for stepby-step instructions.
OPEN TECHNIQUE CLASSES July 8th - August 1st
SUMMER DANCE INTENSIVE August 12th - 23rd
910 Sherwood Ave | Coquitlam, BC 604-525-5289 | www.dancelab.ca | www.dancelab.ca
Open to ALL dancers! March 2013 | just dance! 17
just dance! wants to know… Tygre Perl Age: 14 Idyllwild Arts Academy
My mom Tamara Lechner supports my dance in every possible way. My mom helps me stretch, takes me to dance conventions, teaches me jazz, and supports me going to ballet summer intensives as well as a dance boarding school. My mom has choreographed lots of dances for me, takes me to auditions and she even ran a program so that I could get more jazz and contemporary training. This picture is of us at a modeling job we did together a few years ago.
Lara Olcay Age: 18
North Shore Academy of Dancing My mom has supported my dancing by coming to every performance, competition, and class that she is able to watch. She has always encouraged me to do what I love and supported how passionate I am about dance. This past year, my mom flew with me from Vancouver to Lethbridge, Alberta to attend the Tara-Jean Canada Workshop where I was able to be taught by some of the most amazing professional dancers. The workshop was such an amazing experience and I am so thankful that my mom is so supportive of my dancing.
Natalie Smith
Defy Gravity Dance Company My mom supports me and my dance by spending her time driving me to and from the studio every day and being so supportive when I perform (even if she cries)! She also is able to afford for me to dance and without dance I would have nothing to do! I love you Mom - thanks for what you do <3 18 just dance! | March 2013
Summer Sheehan Age: 13 Absolute Dance Academy
I dance about 16 hours a week. My mom Robyn is a very supportive dance mom. When I have extra dance practices my mom will change all of her plans just so she can bring me in time. If I have a regular practice and one of my siblings has one at the same time she always makes sure she can bring and support both of us. She is always there to support me and even if I am down about the way I think I dance my mom will always find some way to make me happier! Because I do so many classes and my mom is a single mom with three kids sometimes its very hard for her, she has got extra jobs just so I can keep dancing. In return for all that she does for me, this year I got two paper routes to help pay and I get paid to help teach a class. Thanks mom! You’re amazing and I love you so much.
How does your mom support you and your dance? Jenna Mazur Age: 16 Armstrong Dance Academy
My mom supports me in dance just by making it possible for me. She pays for my classes, drives me to and from the studio, and watches all my performances. She is always glad to listen to me tell of the new techniques we learned in class, even if she has no idea what they are! Without my mom I would never be able to dance like I do. She is supportive, encouraging and will always tell me I stole the show.
Nicole Hall Age: 18 K&S Dance
I would like to give a huge thanks to my mom (Tracy Shaler) who has always supported me and my dancing. She has never forced me to do anything I haven’t wanted to and has always encouraged me to follow my heart by doing what I love. Last year when I was performing my first dance piece of the year in the Thunderstruck Vancouver Competition, I had been on stage for about two minutes performing my jazz solo when I did a switch split jété and landed on my foot sideway— I heard a crack and felt a pulling sensation. I got back up to try and continue but when I had stepped on that left foot a pain shot through my body that I had never felt and had to hop off stage. I began to tear up and through my teary eyes I looked at that backstage door only to see my mother standing there. She ran over to me and stayed with me until the ambulance arrived to take me to the hospital. That evening my mom joined me at the hospital after my sisters’ dances had finished: the doctor told me I wouldn’t be able to dance for a whole year! But with a little support from my mom and some mental healing I got back on my feet quite quickly. Before I knew it two months had past and I was back on that stage performing for the Peak Invitational Championships at the Red Robison Theatre. I will never forget how much my mom supported me during my time off while I couldn‘t dance and was taking the time to heal. Now as I come to my final
Zoe Anderson Age: 15 Ballet Bloch & Shift Dance Academy
My mom is the greatest supporter of my dancing dreams. She always makes sure that I have all of the gear I need for dance class, a healthy snack and a ride to the studio. She even hand sewed a ballet costume for one of my solos last year. It would not be possible for me to dance as much as I do without the help of my mom. I am grateful for her everyday!
years of dancing my mom very much encourages me to continue with my dancing as she has always said I’m the most beautiful dancer, and my mom truly makes me feel like that. If I didn’t have my mom with me on my dance journey the past 13 years I don’t think I’d be the dancer I am today. My mom is very special to me and I know that she will continue to help me get through all my dancing as I plan to go into it professionally. I love you mom and I am so grateful to have you by my side.
Respond to Win!
For our May issue just dance! wants to know...What was your favourite dance routine of the season?
Send your response along with photo of yourself to info@justdancemagazine.com. All respondents are entered to win a photoshoot with Nadine Inkster Photography and a $20 gift certificate from Live Love Dancewear. Thank you to, Nadine Inkster Photography, Jazz Ma Tazz Dance & Costume Supply and your world in order for their March prize donations. March 2013 | just dance! 19
Dance & Costume Pointe Shoe Centre
Bloch | Capezio | So Danca | Gaynor Minden
Bloch Hannah
Capezio Aria
to be a Le ader
his past January I had the honour of attending the very first Peak Leadership Project Seminar (PLPS). Dancers of all ages from various studios around the Lower Mainland were nominated by their studio to attend this exciting event. Studios nominated dancers because they thought they were leaders. I attended as a junior reporter for just dance! which was very exciting for me. I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect, but I was still glad to have the opportunity to attend the very first PLPS.
by Meagan O’Connor
Jazz-Ma-Tazz
Learning
Madeleine Shaw from Lunapads who talked about the joy of helping people who are less fortunate than us. And Alex from Girlvana Yoga talked about ways to handle stress, how to look at situations that you may think are bad and turn them into something great, and about being open to trying new things because you just might discover something new you enjoy doing.
I loved the positive and fun atmosphere the event had and how happy everyone was that attended. It was great hearing people’s advice about what to do in difficult situations. I loved listening to everyone’s opinions about the topics we discussed. It felt like a very safe environment where anyone could say what they felt and share their stories without being judged. Overall, it was a very positive, fun and informative day and I would be very happy to attend again in the near future. I believe others should go because it is a great way to connect with other dancers and adults. You learn useful tips and tricks and the speakers were very inspirational to listen to. If you are ever nominated by your studio to attend a Peak Leadership Project Seminar you should definitely take the opportunity because it is a great event. I’m thrilled I got this opportunity and I would recommend this event to anyone.
“It felt like a very safe environment where anyone could say what they felt + share their stories without being judged.”
The objective of PLPS is to engage, inspire and empower young leaders in the dance community. Throughout the day we did various activities revolving around what a leader is and how you can be a leader at school, the dance studio, or anywhere else. Along with the leadership activities we stretched out with some yoga, got our blood flowing with some Zumba, and learned the 2013 Peak Invitational Dance Party. We also listened to some motivational speakers including
So Danca
Gaynor Minden
jazz-ma-tazz.com Maple Ridge: 604-466-0861 22374 Dewdney Trunk Rd Abbotsford: 604-855-9166 3 - 2543 Montrose Ave 20 just dance! | March 2013
just dance! junior reporter Meagan O’Connor at the first Peak Leadership Project Seminar.
PLP attendees practice some yoga under the guidance of Girlvana owner Alex.
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ALL ABOUT MOM
S
ince launching just dance! our team has had the opportunity to meet a lot of people involved with the performing arts. It didn’t take long for us to learn that mom is always behind the scenes doing what needs to be done, often with little recognition. With International Women’s Day having just passed, and Mother’s Day around the corner, we thought it would be a good time to say “thanks mom!” for all you do and all your support. This feature shares the stories of mom teachers, mom managers, mom drivers and “mompreneurs”; we hope you enjoy getting to know them as much as we did.
Learning from Mom Jennifer Hill + Erika By Andrea Albanese Jennifer is the mother of 12-year-old Erika, the owner of the danceLAB, a graduate of The National Ballet School (NBS)…and Erika’s ballet teacher. Jennifer re-evaluates Erika’s training on a year-by-year basis. She says, “I do enjoy teaching her because it gives us time together. I know that if I wasn’t teaching her I would have very little time with her. But then, as her teacher it is not my undivided attention; it includes many other dancers...so I’m not sure if that is quality time for my daughter!” She admits it’s getting more difficult as Erika gets older, spending more time in the studio and taking daily ballet classes. The time spent with ‘Miss Jennifer’ begins to surpass time spent with just plain ‘mom’. Erika’s ballet classes are also filled with her friends, which, according to Jennifer, makes for “interesting relationships”, though everyone works hard to move forward and stay focused on ballet. Jennifer has brought in additional teachers to allow her to step back from Erika’s training and development and Erika does private coaching with a well-respected teacher. “I will not do any privates with Erika,” Jennifer says. “She needs that sort of mentoring from someone other than her mom because, after all, I do have to live with Erika!”
Erika’s training is also varied by attending summer school. Jennifer says, “She can go away and be anonymous. When she’s away, she is simply just another ballet student.” However Erika didn’t get to be too anonymous for her first two summers away; she went to NBS—her mother’s alma mater—where all Jennifer’s former teachers quickly figured out Erika’s identity. Jennifer did enjoy hearing stories about Erika’s training—her corrections and challenges—being a normal kid in a regular ballet class. Jennifer says, “It was almost fun to hear about her struggles and even better when she asked for my opinion on how to fix her corrections! It was even a breakthrough when she called me one afternoon to simply tell me that she knew I was a good ballet teacher...because I wear “proper” ballet clothes, which she appreciates because she can really see what she needs to do! (By “proper” she was referring to my general teaching uniform of tights, skirt and ballet shoes!)”
Jennifer corrects Erika’s position in the danceLAB’s studio.
Jennifer doesn’t know what future holds or where it will take Erika. As far as teaching Erika, that’s a choice she says they’ll make together each year.
Learning from Mom Outside the Studio Suzanne Ouellette + Siobhan Adams by Racquel Foran Siobhan Adams has grown up in a very creative household. Her father, David Adams, is an actor of stage, film and television, and her mother, Suzanne Ouellette, has worked with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Germany’s Stuttgart Ballet, and Ballet BC (among others) over the course of her career in dance. Since birth Siobhan has been exposed to writers, directors, actors, dancers, choreographers – all of the people her parents worked with. Despite this, Siobhan’s parents were never keen on either Siobhan or her older sister pursuing a career as a performing artist. It seems to always be, however, that children either want to follow exactly in their parent’s career path, or they don’t want to have anything to do with it at all. This is certainly the case in Suzanne Ouellette’s home. Her oldest daughter didn’t want to have anything to do with her parents’ line of work, but somewhere along the way Siobhan shifted from simply having fun with dance to something March 2013 | just dance! 21
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } more serious. Now at 17—and much to mom’s surprise—Siobhan has decided she wants to pursue a career as a professional dancer.
experience and have more good things to say about it than bad. Siobhan appreciates the “real critiques” she gets from mom and says her mom has done a good job of preparing her for what to
Suzanne has seen her fair share of young
expect at a professional audition. She
dancers’ dream of becoming professional
does admit, however, that sometimes
– she’s been teaching ballet at the
she wishes her mom was just one of those
Richmond Academy of Dance for 17
“two-thumbs-up moms” and not dance
years. She has also helped to develop the
teacher.
Academy’s musical theatre program and
For her part, as a teacher and
it is in this capacity that Suzanne is also
professional Suzanne knows that
Siobhan’s teacher. Mother and daughter
Siobhan is good enough to succeed
both seem to enjoy the teacher-student
professionally, but the mother in her
Tri-City Dance Centre • • • • • •
Jazz & Lyrical, A.I.D.T. Tap and Musical Theatre with Vocal Coaching Complete R.A.D. Ballet Exam Program from Pre-Primary to Solo Seal Recreational and Competitive Programs Professional Training Program from Age 8 Lots of Performing and Competing Opportunities Half Day INtensive Program from Age 13
Artistic Director: Shannon Stewardson (RAD TC, RAD TD, CDTA) 98 Brigantine Drive, Coquitlam, British Columbia V3K 6Z6 Phone: 604-‐523-‐6868 | Website: www.tricitydance.com Email: tricitydance@telus.net (Just off United Boulevard between Ikea & the Home Depot)
Siobhan and Suzanne pose for a photograph at the end of a long competition day.
worries. “It’s difficult for me because I know what it takes—physically, emotionally, technically. My intimate knowledge of the industry makes it scary.” But it is this perspective of a professional that also provides Siobhan with extra valuable insight. For example, Suzanne firmly believes that diversity is the key to success in the performing arts, noting that “you might be at a dance audition when out of the blue they ask if you can sing; it ends up being the one person who can sing that gets the part.” She is teaching Siobhan the value in being versatile, flexible, and open to new things. There is a genuine affection and comfort between mother and daughter; they even finish each other’s sentences. When asked the best thing about teaching Siobhan, Suzanne smiled and looked at her daughter. “She has become part of my world. She understands me – the creative, the fun, the quirky…” Siobhan then picked up where her mom paused: “She has opened so many doors for me. She inspires me. I wouldn’t be the person I am without what my mom has taught me.”
MONDOR Tights E L SA st
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22 just dance! | March 2013
Blue and Red packages 2 for 1 while they last...
STOCK UP NOW! •RAD exams •competitions •recitals
4750 Main Street, Vancouver 604.874.2462 www.avalondance.ca info@avalondance.ca
“There is a genuine affection and comfort between mother and daughter; they even finish each other’s sentences.”
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LearningToLetGo By Andrea Albanese
Tammy Lechner & Daughter Tygre - Age 15 Tammy definitely misses Tygre—her second child (of 4)—who left Victoria this past January to become a boarding student at the Idyllwild Arts Academy in California. But Tammy’s belief in fully appreciating each day—“for what is here and now”—allows her to focus on how happy Tygre is pursuing her dance dreams. Tygre majors in ballet but also does jazz, tap and modern in addition to daily academics from 8–1 at the small and personalized private school populated with all kinds of arts students. Prior to Idyllwild, Tygre attended a local school and studied dance privately but lacked a peer group of like-minded dancers. In addition to a peer group, Tammy believes that children need teachers who are life mentors. Tygre herself notes, “One of the main reasons that we chose Idyllwild is that it respects our family values. It’s important to us that our teachers are role models and mentors as well as educators and that’s what the dance and school teachers do here.” Tammy is also passionate about the importance of strong technique, careful training, a healthy body image without dieting, and a positive and supportive atmosphere in the studio. Her beliefs come from her experiences as a dancer, instructor and studio owner. The director and dance program at Idyllwild, along with its strong academic the Los in LA for Tygre off nsive. g in p p dro Inte Tammy er Ballet Summb Angeles
offerings, met Tammy’s expectations— which is no mean feat. Of course she had concerns: sending Tygre to a place she’d visited only once; the mid-year transition; making friends; managing the workload. But most importantly, what if it wasn’t what Tygre wanted it to be? Happily, it’s all worked out. Tygre loves it. She’s made friends, adjusted to the schedule and enjoys her dance classes. And, despite her busy schedule, Tygre still finds time to talk to her mom a few times a day. Of course she misses her family and friends: “I think it was definitely a big change for my mom to let me go away but I think she knows that this is the best place for me to pursue my dream of becoming a dancer. Of course, there are dance training programs that would be considered more advanced, but it’s important to me to get a great dance education as well as school. You can’t be in a dance company forever and you need to have a good education to get a job afterwards.”
Jill Hoube & Daughter Lelia - Age 11 Jill admits it’s lonely having her only child live away from home—attending the Ecole Supérieure de Danse de Cannes (ESDC) in France—though they keep in touch regularly by phone, email and text. Last year, 11-year-old Lelia and her family started thinking about half-day dance programs, as it was difficult for Lelia to study piano, violin, and preprofessional dance; attend full day school; and still have time for friends and fun. After Lelia attended the NBS summer school and an ESDC workshop in Cannes, the family chose to enrol Lelia at ESDC last September because of the quality of life, the multicultural school environment, access to the European dance community and the opportunity to travel. “I’m impressed with Lelia’s maturity, independence, problem-solving abilities and work ethic,” Jill says, adding, “Eleven- and twelve- yearolds are quite capable and, in fact, may be better off developing
Jill and Lelia getting organized befo re heading to the airport for Lelia’s flight to Cannes via London.
independence and self-direction rather than having their parents do everything for them.” Her biggest frustration is the inability to liaise with Lelia’s instructors and health care professionals (even though she is fluent in French) to “troubleshoot anything from broken violin strings to sprained ankles to viral illnesses.” She feels Lelia, despite her young age, is truly happy in Cannes and finds it much less stressful than traveling between households after a 2011 divorce. In terms of dance, Lelia is enjoying her first exposure to jazz and contemporary classes, though she is more advanced than her peers in ballet. Lelia explains the ESDC philosophy,: “They are training strong and technical dancers who can have long careers without getting hurt. That’s why it’s slower.” While she misses her teachers and dance friends, she finds that ESDC is very similar in its own way. “My favourite thing about living in Cannes is the people,” Leila says. “Although it is culturally different with everyone having different views and perspectives, they are so nice.” Lelia’s not sure what she wants to do when she grows up (though she is sure she wants to stay at ESDC). “I’m very sure I want to be a dancer, preferably ballet, but I would also like to become a writer or even a teacher. I’m thinking of mixing them all up and seeing what I get.” She likes the feeling of self-accomplishment she gets from being independent and her biggest issue so far is discovering that “I have a huge phobia of blood and I don’t know how I’m going to get through science class.” March 2013 | just dance! 23
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } The FRESHH crew teach their moms the FRESHH hand symbol.
Driving Their Boys to Success The moms behind FRESHH
Joining dance as young boy isn’t the easiest thing to do; there is still a lot of stereotyping associated with male dancers. But every single one of their parents supported their decision. Most of 24 just dance! | March 2013
the FRESHH guys have experienced some level of harassment, some worse than others. Ironically, all of them say that adults are far worse than kids their own age. Most kids they come across, even non-dancers, think what they do is pretty cool, but they have been called names and teased by adults. This is why so many of the guys said that their mom “has my back.” Their moms are more than willing to stand up for their boys and their passion for dance—not that they have to, because the guys are great ambassadors for themselves. Recognizing their boys had something special and enrolling them in dance classes isn’t the only thing these moms have done to support their boys. To get to the level where you are a runner-up act on Canada’s Got Talent, you have to put in long hours of travel and rehearsal, commit a lot of money, and make many sacrifices. Kids between the ages of 13 and 18 would not be able to do any of that without tons of help. This is where the moms come in.
The crew’s schedule can get pretty crazy. None of them drive yet so their moms shuttle them everywhere. All competitions, practices and appearances must be coordinated with everything else in their lives including school, family obligations and their parents’ work. Making sure they get where they need to be on time isn’t always easy, especially since they are guys and costumes pieces are involved. As Zac’s mom Erica explained, their choreographer and coach, Cezar Tantoco, is trying to get the crew to take more responsibility for themselves but “until the boys start driving on their own it takes a lot of ‘mom management’ to make it all run smoothly.” Erica has also taken on the role of managing the crew’s bookings. She coordinates with various organizations to find performance opportunities and engagements for the crew. MC’s mom, Marianne, volunteer manages the front office of the studio where the guys practice, Fresh Groove. And then there is the financial commitment. There are the usual lesson
Karen Fisher-Hagel
E
ach of the seven guys that make up the hip hop crew FRESHH is an individual, but they also have something very important in common. All of them have been tapping their toes since they were tiny tots, and their moms noticed. The boys just couldn’t help themselves. It was like there was something inside them that just had to come out. Whether it was Devan doing back flips and head stands on his parents’ bed (apparently it was really bouncy), MC running away from his mother at Safeway to go watch the dancers practicing in the studio next door, or Zac tapping his feet to every beat of music he heard, these guys all just had to be moving. Lucky for them their mothers did something about it and enrolled them in dance class.
By Racquel Foran
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } fees, costume costs and entry fees, as well as more than usual travel expenses. Because the FRESHH crew want to bring their act to the whole world, they take any opportunity they can to compete or perform outside of BC. And even success has costs. Although the production covered
the boys’ flights, accommodations and meals for their appearance on Canada’s Got Talent, the costs for family members to join them was not covered—and flying across Canada is not cheap. FRESHH does occasionally earn an honorarium to perform at corporate or private events, The FRESHH crew strike a pose with their choreographer Cezar Tantoco (in hat) at his Fresh Groove studio.
but any money earned is channelled back to the group to fund their passion. What their moms do for them does not go unnoticed by the sons. They are all
Choreographer Cezar Tantoco borrowed the name FRESHH from his studio because the boys are “young and fresh;” the HH stands for Hip Hop and represents a long ending on the word as in FRESSHHHH.
very comfortable showing their affection for and appreciation of their moms. They have warm relationships with their mothers and seem willing to listen to and take their advice. And the moms couldn’t be more proud. As Erica said, “They are compassionate human beings and great ambassadors for dance. They are dedicated and driven and have learned how to communicate with the public.” Of course they would be none of those things if their moms weren’t driving them and didn’t have their backs.
March 2013 | just dance! 25
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just dance! asked the guys from FRESHH our question of the month…
How does your mom support you & your dance?
“MC” McLelland & his mom Marianne Ray Kadono & his mom Summer
Unfortunately Ray’s mom was in Japan the week of the just dance! photo shoot and interview; his answer to our question shows how much he was missing her... “My mom is both a physical and emotional pillar in my life. She feeds me and drives me everywhere. You can tell the difference when mom 26 just dance! | March 2013 isn’t in the home.”
“My mom drives me everywhere, pays for everything, wakes me up. She has always got my back. She stands up for me.”
Justin Nicolas & his mom Marites “My mom always has my back – she supported me dancing when initially she pushed me towards basketball. She drives me everywhere and pays for everything. And, mama knows best.”
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Ryan Morissette aka Electric-M & his mom Teresa “My mom does everything . She is always there. She drives me everywhere, makes sure I ha ve my clothes, makes sure I ha ve drinks – everything.”
“Gabe” Galedo & his mom Xynia “My mom trusts me and gives me the freedom to dance, allowing me to take the bus and even travel alone when needed. She also supports me financially. This takes a lot of funding.”
Devan Isaac & his mom Jeanette “My mom is my rock for dance. I wouldn’t be able to do what I do without her. She drives me everywhere; fam ily vacations are even schedule d around my dance.”
Zac Vran & his mom Erica With a huge laugh while bear-hugging mom... “Oh my god, I love my mommy! She has driven me to every performance, every practice – even when we train seven days a week. She is always there and I can always trust her to give me good advice.”
March 2013 | just dance! 27
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Not your stereotypical dance moms: The entrepreneurial women behind dance in BC By Racquel Foran
Some of the happiest people are those who are fortunate enough to turn something they love into a career. Many young dancers dream of turning professional, and some will achieve this dream. Most, however, know that the opportunities are few and the challenges great. But that doesn’t mean you can’t turn your love of dance into a fabulous career. The following pages are full of stories about local women—former dancers and/or dance moms— who were smart enough to open the door when opportunity knocked and use their creativity to turn their passion into a profession. These women proved that if you know what you want and set your mind to achieving it, you really can love your work... “Dance is the fi rst languag e we sp eak.”
supportive.” “Be open &
“Dedication.” “I faile d many times; that’s wh y I suc ceeded.”
“Turn everythin g into a positi ve.” “Passion
.”
on arati p e r p when ity.” s i k n “Luc opportu ts mee “Commi tment.” it yet.”v o d ’t an “You c
Creative & Performing Arts Employment Facts According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) there will be more job opportunities in the fields of creative and performing arts between 2010 and 2020 than there will be people looking for that work. It is projected there will be 44,789 jobs for producers, directors, choreographers, conductors, composers, musicians, singers, dancers and actors but only 36, 947 seeking employment in these fields. Keep in mind that most of these positions still tend to be on the lower end of earning scale. 28 just dance! | March 2013
“Leave
it at the door.”
.”
“H
work ard
“Patience.”
Taking Mom’s Advice and Dancing her Way to Happiness Tammy Lechner, Lechner Syndications
When I met Tammy Lechner the first words that popped into my mind were tall, blonde and confident. Once we started talking, however, it became clear that she is much more than those three simple words. She has been a model, actress, dancer, dance teacher, choreographer, studio owner, entrepreneur and publisher. She is also a wife and the mother of four children between the ages of 6 and 17, all of whom put their own special demands on Tammy’s time and attention. But she doesn’t appear to be overly impressed by her own accomplishments or overwhelmed by her responsibilities. It is clear that she is happy with her place in life and dance has something to do with this. Tammy grew up in dance studios. Her mother, Ruth Anne Rogerson, has danced her whole life. Ruth Anne taught ballet and, over time, learned how to teach jazz and tap as well. Tammy started dancing at the age of five; her mother taught her jazz and tap, but she trained in all forms of dance. As she grew older her interests expanded to include acting and modeling. At the age of 17 she left home to pursue these things in Toronto. She found work modeling and also appeared in commercials, television shows, and movie and stage productions. It didn’t take her long, however, to realize that she wanted a more stable lifestyle and that she needed a “real job.” She moved back to her hometown of London, Ontario where she started to teach dance. Within a couple of years Tammy had enough loyal students that she was able to open her own small studio.
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } Tammy brought a unique philosophy to running her studio that her students still appreciate and respect. That is: dance and the love of dance comes from the heart and that it should be taught as an art focusing on both technical skill and the sheer enjoyment of movement. She values the positive things that her students learn from dance, including grace, posture and presence as much, if not more, than the professional success stories. Over time her style and approach became more popular and she
One of Tygre’s favourite things to do at night when she is away is to read. She particularly likes reading stories about dancers and dancing. But Tygre had read the few books available, and Tammy couldn’t find anything new and age-appropriate for her. So, Tammy decided she and her husband should publish a series of dance books. With that she launched Lechner Syndications and within a short time Tygre had reading material again. In two years Lechner Syndications has published seven titles in their Dance Series, all of which are available as eReaders for less than $3.
The Lechners enjoying some fam
was able to open a larger studio, Dance London, where her mother joined her in the business. They expanded their philosophy to cater to a niche market of dancers. The students of Dance London do not take exams and they do not compete. The focus of classes is on technique and preparation for real world experiences, particularly professional work. Tammy and Ruth Anne take pride in the fact that their faculty and students are one big
ily time. Tammy taught me that being
a dancer doesn’t mean that all you can do is dance. She took the lessons she learned in the dance studio—poise, passion, patience—and has used them in diverse ways that both satisfy her creative energy and feed her compassionate soul. And she has shared this with her students and her own children. On the Dance London website there is a quote from Ruth Anne: “Dance your way through life and you’ll be happy.” Tammy obviously took Mama Tap’s good advice.
extended family who are enthusiastic
Tygre on her mom Tammy:
about dance, but also know how to
What is the best lesson mom has
keep it fun. Making dance accessible to
taught you?
everyone is part of that. Tammy’s oldest daughter, Kilee, is autistic. Knowing all the
“The best lesson my mom has taught
therapeutic benefits of dance, Tammy
me is that we can choose to be happy.
felt it was important that it was something
My mom is always positive no matter
Kilee do. So she started a dance program for special kids, once again serving a unique niche market.
what is happening and she has taught me to be the same way. This has really helped me with my
However, the ocean and mountains
dance as sometimes I can get
were calling Tammy and her husband,
frustrated if I can’t figure out
so in 2009 they packed up their children
how to do something and my
and moved to Victoria, BC. Ruth Anne,
mom always says “you can’t
who is known as Mama Tap, continues to
do it, ‘yet’.”
run Dance London, but Tammy wanted a break from teaching and running a studio. Her second daughter, Tygre, is a dancer and many of Tammy’s early
How does mom inspire you? “My mom inspires me by doing
days in BC were spent exploring the local
the best she possibly can at
dance scene and finding the best fit
everything. Whether it’s related
for Tygre. She was also trying to decide
to her dancing or anything
what she wanted to do next. Her answer
else, my mom always puts in
came while preparing Tygre to travel to a
100% and this inspires me to
dance camp.
do the same.”
A Family Affair Mona D’Amours, 5678 Showtime
With a name that literally translates to “my lady loves,” it is no surprise that Mona D’Amours has turned her passion for dance into a family love affair. It wasn’t that Mona necessarily planned it that way, but life takes funny twists and turns and sometimes lands us in the most wonderful places. As a young girl Mona danced for the pure joy of movement and to escape into a world where she felt safe to express her feelings. She believes dance is the first language we speak and she loved to be able to express herself without words. Although dance was her first creative outlet, she didn’t define herself as a dancer. She says she was more of a jock than a dancer; she was an avid athlete in swimming, track, basketball, gymnastics, and figure skating. She was also very highachieving academically; she started high school when she was only 12 years old. This led to a series of achievements including becoming the youngest person in her high school graduating class and youngest college professor at 23 when hired at Mohawk College in her early career. Dance, however, remained part of her life. She studied the Martha Graham style of modern dance, enjoying its freedom of movement and was hired by Club Med as a choreographer in Italy. This is where she met her future husband Desiderio Fortunato. First he was her hut neighbour, next her roommate, then her dance partner, and finally her life partner. They decided to make their home in Coquitlam, BC. They had three children— Menina, Sheu, and Santé. Desiderio opened a dance studio and Mona put her university degree to use for management work with the Canadian government.
Mona enjoys a laugh with daughters Men ina and Sante.
Life went along March 2013 | just dance! 29
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Mom Owns the Place... Most dance related businesses including studios are owned and operated by women, many of them moms. Here are just a few of the mom-owned studios around town.
Lisa’s School of Dance Langley Owner: Lisa Dew Studio community involvement: the Langley Foodbank and the Langley Christmas Bureau
Dance FX Maple Ridge Owner: Teresa Morrisette Studio community involvement: School District 42 “Partnership in Learning”
Defy Gravity Richmond Owner: Rishell O’Brien Studio community involvement: “Giving Tree” – the studio supports the education of a female student from Uganda, Zam, by collecting donations each Christmas.
C.A.P.A. Dance & Drama Schools Coquitlam Co-owner: Ginny Marshall Studio community involvement: Share Family & Community Services Christmas Toy Drive.
30 just dance! | March 2013
as expected for about a decade. Her children all danced, Desiderio ran his studio and Mona continued with her job as Training Consultant for the BC/Yukon Region, Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC). In 1994, as fortune would have it, a bulletin crossed her desk from the Economic Services Branch that stated, “Dancers and choreographers are among the top 10 growth occupations in Canada. In fact, it ranks 4th with a 5.3% annual growth rate.” Mona read opportunity. She was convinced she needed to start hosting dance events. Her oldest daughter, Menina, who was 12 at the time, was excited by the idea. Her husband, on the other hand, thought it was risky and cautioned her to keep her stable job until she was sure the new venture would succeed. Mona explained that she started 5678 Showtime with “one competition one dream.” She has a large sign in her basement that reads: 5678 Showtime - Dancers Worldwide Unite. According to Mona, everyone thought she was crazy. For four years she worked at her full-time day job while building 5678 Showtime on the side. It wasn’t easy, but twenty years later Mona can say she achieved her dream. With the support of her family, all of whom have “done everything over the years,” Mona and Desiderio have built Canada’s only coastto-coast competitions. Their mandate is to promote excellence and diversity. They have hosted more than 300 events involving almost 1⁄4 million dancers in Canada and have awarded outstanding performers $1,412,400.00 in cash awards since 1994. They have also initiated summer dance tours in Hollywood, New York, London and Paris. Perhaps the most fascinating thing about Mona’s choice to change career paths is the influence it has had on all of her children’s lives. Each of her children became immersed in the creative world of dance and each has taken that experience down different but related paths. Menina toured the world as a performer for a decade before showing the same diversity and out-of-the-box thinking as her mom, and started three different ventures: Websites 4 Entertainers; the Hollywood Summer Dance Tour; and, most recently, Prenatal Dance with Menina. Sheu, who stopped dancing at 13, got his post-secondary degree in advertising, but he too has followed
in his parents’ dancing footsteps. He hosts seven iDance Conventions across Canada each year and has organized the New York, London and Paris Summer Dance Tours through his company SDF Productions. The baby of the family, Santé, has taken dance to a new level. A graduate of the National Circus School, she has fused her early dance training with her circus training to create diverse and much sought-after acts that include hula hoop, contortion, aerial hoop and silk. She has performed in Asia, Europe and South America and is currently on tour with The Ark. Choreographed by Cirque du Soleil choreographer, Julie Lachance, the production is supported by the Canadian Commission for UNESCO to raise awareness of the environment. Their very demanding schedules mean that the family members aren’t often all in the same city at the same time. They are a close family though, so they make the effort to connect. They all flew to Germany this past Christmas to spend the holidays together before the busy dance competition season began. When I asked Mona how they all get along, she threw back and head and laughed, “Five creative minds, five leaders, five Latins— we fight, we argue. But we love each other so we work it out.” 5678 Showtime has given Mona the opportunity to travel across Canada and from that, she explained, she received the most unexpected gifts of all: “I discovered myself, my family, and my country.” Imagine if that bulletin had never crossed her desk way back in 1994…
Menina on Mona & 5678 Showtime: Menina shared her thoughts with just dance! about her mother’s influence and the impact that 5678 Showtime has had on her life. “I work well with my mother since we are very much alike. She is driven by passion and has a strong work ethic. She knows how to get things done. “5678 Showtime was a huge influence in my life choices. It was the best dance business education I could ever get. I started working in the family business at age 13. I was doing administration work, dealing with clients, working on site either as an MC, adjudicator, convention teacher,
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } judge, backstage manager, [or] assistant... I learned almost every aspect of the business before I graduated high school. “5678 Showtime also connected me to other dance industry professionals who offered career opportunities for me as a professional dancer, teacher, choreographer etc. Later in my dance career, I too started dance businesses of my own. I have never had a 9-5 job. All I have ever known is being self-employed in the dance industry—whether as dancer, teacher, choreographer, producer, director, judge etc. Even today as a new mother, I work long hours from home as well as travel often for work, just like my mother did and still does with 5678 Showtime I think I am following in my mother’s footsteps unintentionally—using my passion for dance and making a living doing it.”
Stitching her Way to a New Career
Beverly Todd, Jazz Ma Tazz Dance & Costume Supplies Imagine having two children under the age of five and a job that requires regular travel. That was Bev Todd’s life for a time. With her two- and three-year-old girls at home with her husband, she would hit the road and travel BC as a salesperson for a pharmaceutical company. When she wasn’t on the road she worked from home, but that wasn’t easy with two kids in the house either. This is perhaps the reason dance entered Bev’s life.
well received and the next year Bev was sewing costumes for several classes. Then, as these things often go, she suddenly found herself working 18-hour days to complete costume orders on time. It was the early 1990s and dance supply stores were few and far between. Bev, who lived in Mission, would have to travel to Surrey, Burnaby or Vancouver to get dancewear and shoes. This, combined with the number of costumes she was asked to sew, convinced Bev that she should open a dance supply store in Mission. Bev said goodbye to pharmaceutical sales and found a lady with a consignment store who wanted to share retail space. They split the store down the middle, one side consignment the other side dance. Bev started with only two suppliers, Capezio and Mondor, but that was enough to draw clientele from the area that had been eagerly waiting for a store to open closer to their homes. It was these very customers who convinced Bev that she needed to expand and move her store. In 1995 Bev stopped sharing space and opened her own store in Abbotsford— Jazz Ma Tazz Dance and Costume Supply. By all accounts it was a great decision. Bev commented that she could spend more time with the girls, with the added bonus of doing something they liked. Kelsey fondly remembers going to the store and playing dress-up with her sister. And of course both girls got all the dance supplies they needed. Over time the girls wanted to work in the store and what started as their dress-up closet evolved into a part-time job as they grew up.
Bev has grown the business over the years. She has a second location in Bev wanted the girls’ in an activity, but Maple Ridge and she now offers a huge she also needed something to keep range of dance and them busy in the afternoon theatre products so she could work. She found from all the major the perfect solution—dance suppliers. Kelsey class. It turned out that dance and Brittany, now class was less expensive than in their early 20s, daycare and, as a bonus, her both still work in two girls, Kelsey and Brittany, the stores, but they loved it! also have their own career paths. After With the girls involved in receiving a diploma dance, it didn’t take long for in hospitality Bev’s passion for sewing to management and merge with her girls’ dance. It started when she volunteered marketing from Bev and Kelsey pose in the to sew costumes for one BCIT, Brittany now Jazz Ma Tazz Maple Ridge store. class. The costumes were works full-time in a
related field. Kelsey plans to complete her Bachelor of Arts and carry on to get a teaching degree. Whether or not either or both sisters take over from mom one day is still undecided, but for now the women are content with what Jazz Ma Tazz has brought to their lives: an opportunity to work in an industry they love with the people they love. Kelsey on Bev: While draped over her mother’s shoulder with a huge smile on her face, Kelsey described her mom as honest and a good friend. Kelsey also acknowledged all her mom did when she and her sister danced: “She drove us everywhere, made all our costumes, and gave us free dance supplies.”
Strength in Diversity
The Wharton Family, Janice, Barb & Sydney Peak Invitational, Next Level Hip Hop, Festival du Ballet, MOVE Athletics and BC Dance Educators Association are just a few of the events and organizations under Wharton family management. What started as “something for Barb and Sydney to try” has turned into a diverse group of family-run dance businesses. In talking with family matriarch, Janice Wharton, and her two daughters, Barb Quinn and Sydney Swan (and Sydney’s 10-day-old baby girl Mackenzie), it is easy to understand where her daughters’ confidence and drive comes from— Janice Wharton is a powerful presence in a room. When Janice became a mother she knew one thing for sure—family first. This meant that although bringing in a little extra income was a good thing, work must fit around her girls. Spending time with her daughters was more important than any job. She also knew, as most parents do, how it important it was for her girls to be involved with something. She considers herself lucky that they both fell in love with dancing; this meant she didn’t have to split herself between two different activities. As is often the case with the mother of a dancer, Janice found herself drawn into helping out at the studio. Sewing was March 2013 | just dance! 31
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } Janice’s thing. In the mid-‘90s there wasn’t well as husbands and kids) under their a vast selection of costume catalogues to belts, the women worked together to thumb through each season; it was difficult grow the business. WEM now hosts nine to find age-appropriate and creative competitions a year and in 2013 they costumes. As soon hosted the first Peak Leadership Project as Janice started Seminar. Janice sold her share sewing costumes in her dance studio a couple of the demand for years ago and started working her services grew on a new project, the BC and she was soon Dance Educators Association. making costumes And, putting their educations for her own girls’ to further good use, Sydney studio as well and Barb launched their own as several other company, MOVE Athletics. There local studios. is no doubt about it—these are Her work with full-steam-ahead ladies. her daughters’ When asked where they Sydney, Barb and Janice studio led to an pose at found the confidence to follow a PEA K event. opportunity for their goal of opening their own Janice to own the studio, business, Barb and Sydney said one of the one that she did not pass up. Janice ran most valuable things their mom taught the back office while her girls danced and them was that they could do whatever competed under the studio’s banner. Barb they set their mind to. She also taught in particular enjoyed helping out in the them that when faced with a problem office knowing at a young age that she they should “figure it out.” On the other wanted to be a business woman. Sydney hand, Janice says that dance taught wanted to be a dancer. her daughters to “leave it at the door,” Owning a studio and watching her meaning that if they had a problem with daughters dance allowed Janice to someone in their dance class they had see the dance industry from different to leave the problem at the studio door perspectives. It became clear to her and go in and dance with the person that a lot went into judging a dancer’s like a pro. All three women agree this is a ability and that a dancer’s age definitely valuable life-lesson. makes a difference. She decided that The Whartons are a profoundly close she wanted to develop a new dance family. Janice’s family-first philosophy competition that categorized dancers resonates through all of them. They work by both the number of years they had together, play together, vacation together been dancing as well as age. In 2001 and support each other, proving that mom PEAK Invitational was launched with goal has had her priorities straight all along. of “Ensuring dancers of all ages and ability levels reach their PEAK, receive Barb & Sydney on Janice: recognition, and have fun.”
How does your mom support you?
Twelve years have passed since that first event and a lot has happened in that time. Both Barb and Sydney graduated from high school. Sydney spent some time working on cruise ships but eventually decided to turn her creative energy elsewhere and got a diploma in fashion design from Blanche MacDonald. Barb got a diploma in marketing and business management from BCIT and went out into the world to get some work experience—both women taking a little piece from mom’s skill sets. Wharton Event Management continued to grow and eventually Barb and Sydney joined their mom full-time at WEM. With education and experience (as 32 just dance! | March 2013
“She supports us in different ways; we are different people and have different needs. But she is always there for us, helping with the kids, supporting the family. We are all super close.”
Facing Adversity with a Smile Shannon Stewardson, Tri-City Dance Centre
Nothing has come easy for Shannon Stewardson. Despite dancing most of her life, she was hardly born to be a
dancer. Knock-kneed, pigeon-toed, and flat-footed, Shannon wore nothing but orthopaedic shoes, soccer cleats, and ballet slippers until she was 10 years old. It was an orthopaedic surgeon that suggested she take up ballet, a somewhat unlikely path for the daughter of a professional basketball coach. But Shannon enjoyed ballet and basketball and continued to participate in both activities until her life took a dramatic turn. At 12 years old Shannon was diagnosed with a rare liver disease. She was in Children’s Hospital for three months. As a child she knew she was ill, but looking back on the experience from the perspective of an adult and a mother, she now sees how serious and scary things were. When she finally recovered, her doctors told her to avoid all contact sports for two years. “If not for that, who knows? I might have been a basketball star.” But she couldn’t play basketball so she immersed herself in dance and set her sights on becoming a ballet teacher. Shannon worked hard to achieve her goal of teaching dance. She studied Royal Academy of Dance Ballet and travelled to gain education and training from the Royal Winnipeg School, York University Dance Department in Toronto, and the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York. She then returned home to achieve her goal. She started teaching dance at various studios around Greater Vancouver, but Shannon wasn’t prepared to stop there. In 1999, after her husband found a great location, Shannon opened Tri-City Dance Centre. It was only two studios and a tiny office at the time, but it was hers. Soon after, her first daughter, Rebecca, was born and three years after that Kate entered the world. The studio continued to grow under her philosophy of putting the children first by “making sure that the individual needs of each child is met Kate, Shannon and Rebecca share a smile.
{ M om : S p e c i a l F eature } through support, encouragement and inspiration.” Over the years the studio has grown to occupy 8,000 square feet and offer a full range of dance and performing arts classes. Shannon commented on what a great dance family she has and added proudly, “Everyone is really positive here—there is nothing negative energy can feed off of.”
Rebecca and Kate on Shannon:
As any new business owner knows, there
How does your mom support you
are more long hard days than short easy
Shannon is careful to point out that “it isn’t a one-woman show.” Tragically, she lost her husband to cancer two years ago, leaving a huge hole in her life. Many people have stepped up to help Shannon and her girls any way they can. Shannon describes her mother, Heather Stewardson, as her rock. “She is one of those people who is always asking ‘What can I do to make life easier?’” In addition to helping Shannon with Rebecca and Kate, Heather also works one day a week in the office at Tri-City Dance Centre, and every Monday she brings dinner in for the entire staff. Shannon also relies heavily on her Assistant Director Ryan Berketa, her office manager Lynn Maitland, and the rest of her faculty, and they don’t let her down. “People are always offering to help, to drive the girls… I am never stuck.”
K: “She does my make-up and always makes sure I have snacks.”
Shannon also believes in giving back. In 2007 she established the Backstage Youth Performers Society with a few other like-minded folks. BYPS is a not-for-profit that was formed with two objectives: to provide financial assistance and opportunities to young performers in the fields of dance, music, and theatre; and to pass on the knowledge of Master Teachers from around the world to young artists by bringing them to BC to conduct workshops. The Society also funds an Artist in Residence program that provides emerging young adult performers with studio space to rehearse in. Since its inception BYPS has awarded $9,000 in scholarships. On March 2 they hosted A Night of Stars at the Massey Theatre in New Westminster where local young emerging talent and seasoned pros performed their hearts out to raise money for BYPS. When asked if she thought her childhood illness shaped her and her life, Shannon responded, “Without a doubt. It shaped my life.” She calls herself a glass-half-full kind of person and says, “Life has to be optimistic – turn everything into a positive.” Difficult advice to dismiss when you consider everything the person delivering the message has been through.
and your dance? R: “She practices my solos with me and has good pointers for helping me improve. She is strict, but I know that makes me a better dancer.”
ones. It is the happy faces of little ones leaving her store that makes the tough days easier for Janet. She truly enjoys dance being part of her
Jada, Janet & Jordan Nacario.
career and she loves seeing new faces come
Retail Dreams
through her doors. She is also proud of the fact that she is able to
Janet NACARIO, Live Love Dancewear
give young dancers part-
As any dance mom will confirm, there is nothing more frustrating than having to drive to multiple cities to find the right pair of tap shoes, only to have to drive to what feels like the opposite side of the world to get fitted for pointe shoes. But frustration aside, this is a common occurrence. Although Greater Vancouver has many really great dance supply stores, not all stores carry all products, stores run out of inventory, and most communities only have one dance supply store if they have any at all.
time jobs and that her two girls are able
Janet Narcario was one of those mothers who felt she was spending too much valuable time driving long distances to find dance supplies for her daughters; the nearest store to her home was more than a 30-minute drive away. She had always wanted to have her own business and she saw firsthand how the popularity of dance was increasing; dance was her chance to fulfil her dream.
they have to work it off,” Janet explained.
Janet’s two daughters Jada (14) and Jordan (12) will confirm that Janet knew nothing about dance. Her working background was in administration and marketing. She had a clear understanding of the paperwork involved with running a business, but there was a lot to learn about retail both before and after she opened the doors of Live Love Dancewear in Port Coquitlam in September 2011. Discovering what customers are looking for, learning how to manage inventory levels, and building relationships with suppliers have all had their up and down moments, “but I have faith in the market,” Janet smiled optimistically.
to share the whole learning experience with her. Jada remarked, “She always used to ask why we needed new things for dance, why we had to have a certain type of something.” Janet laughed in agreement as Jada continued, “But she’s learning now, now she understands.” There are no freebies for Jada and her sister, though. “If they want something, “It’s not free for me. They need to learn the value of these things.” All okay with the girls though; they enjoy their time at the store as much as they love new dance stuff. Janet has a simple recipe for success— customer service first. She knows there is a lot of hard work ahead of her but feels confident because everything is moving in the right direction. I know that I sure am one happy dance mom to finally have dance store within minutes of my house!
Jada & Jordan on Janet: How does your mom support you and your dance? Jada: “My mom gives really good positive feedback and constructive criticism after we perform.” Jordan: “My mom drives me everywhere, always encourages me, and helps me with my facial expressions.” March 2013 | just dance! 33
ACADEMIES, SCHOOLS & STUDIOS Armstrong Dance Academy armstrongdance.ca info@armstrongdance.ca 250 546 0308
COMPETITION & EVENT ORGANIZERS
professional companies
Fresh Dance Intensive freshdanceintensive.com fresh.danceintensive@gmail.com
balletvictoria.ca info@balletvictoria.ca 250 380 6063
Next Level Hip Hop
diskordanse
dancelab.ca
nextlevelhiphop.ca info@nextlevelhiphop.ca 604 868 1426
info@dancelab.ca
Showtime Promotions
604 525 5289
showtimedancepromotions.com info@showtimeancepromotions.com 250 768 7202
The danceLAB Studios Ltd.
910 Sherwood Ave, Coquitlam
Danzmode Productions danzmodeproductions.com info@danzmodeproductions.com 604 294 4677 7209 Curragh Ave, Burnaby
Debbie Lee Dance Company
Synergy Dance Competition synergydance.ca 1 888 413 3666
Thunderstruck Canada thunderstruckcanada.com/BC 1 888 688 5442 Ext. 201
debbieleedance.com
Wharton Event Management
info@debbieleedance.com
wemlive.com 604 868 1426
604 312 4408
Defy Gravity Dance Company defygravitydance.ca office@defygravitydance.ca 604 272 0808
5678 Showtime 5678showtime.com info@5678showtime.com 604 945 7469
30 - 11151 Horseshoe Way Richmond
DANCE SUPPLIERS
Douglas Ballet Academy
Avalon Dance Shop of Canada
douglasballet.com
202 - 4199 Lougheed Hwy, Burnaby
avalondance.ca info@avalondance.ca 604 874 2461 4750 Main St, Vancouver
Fusion Force Studio
En Pointe Enterprises
dba2@telus.net 604 420 0204
fusionforce.ca fusionf@telus.net 604 533 1863 101 - 19670 Landmark Way, Langley
Place des Arts placedesarts.ca info@placedesarts.ca 604 664 1636 120 Brunette Ave, Coquitlam
Pro Arte Centre proartecentre.com office@proarte.ca 604 984 2783 3 - 1225 E. Keith Rd, North Vancouver
en-pointe.com facebook.com/danceproducts 1 866 491 9019
Jazz Ma Tazz jazz-ma-tazz.com jazzma@telus.net Abbotsford: 604 855 9166 Maple Ridge: 604 466 0861
MOVE Athletics moveathletics.com moveit@moveathletics.com Greater Vancouver: 604 812 1382 Toll Free: 888 267 0576
Non-profit organizations
Tri-City Dance Centre
Backstage Youth Performers Society
tricitydance.com
backstageyouth.org
info@tricitydance.com 604 523 6868
Canadian Performing Arts Foundation
98 Brigantine Dr, Coquitlam
cpaf.ca
34 just dance! | March 2013
Ballet Victoria
diskordanse.ca nela@diskordanse.ca
SUPPORTS & SERVICES Adele Lewin Photography adelelewinphotography.com adele.lewin@me.com 778 833 3983
Dr. Lawrence Chan Naturopathic Doctor for Ballet BC integrative.ca Integrative Healing Arts, Vancouver: 604 738 1012
Lechner Syndications thedanceseries.com tammy@lechnersyndications.com
Dr. Fred Meinzer Chiropractor for Ballet BC drfredmeinzer.com Integrative Healing Arts, Vancouver: 604 738 1012 Aldergrove Wellness Centre: 604 856 5299
Dr. Harold Meinzer Chiropractor for Ballet BC thunderbirdwellnesscentre.com Back2Health Chiropractic, Vancouver: 604 742 0111 Thunderbird Wellness Centre, Langley: 604 881 2404
Nadine Inkster Photography nadineinksterphotography.com 604 722 7337
your world in order yourworldinorder.com info@yourworldinorder.com 604 472 1000 (staging & organizing the Tri-Cities & beyond)
THEATRES Evergreen Cultural Centre evergreenculturalcentre.ca info@evergreenculturalcentre.com 604 927 6550 1205 Pinetree Way, Coquitlam
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TELL US WHY YOU DESERVE TO WIN... Capture your “inner cirque” in a photograph and post it on the just dance! or RMDP Facebook page along with the ending to one of these 3 sentences by July 1, 2013: 1. I will benefit from this year’s cirque components – tumbling, gymnastics and silks – because…
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