Classes at Rise 21 Dance Company
At Rise 21 Dance Company, all classes are structured according to age and ability. We are committed to placing each dancer in the appropriate class to support their growth, development, and success.
We offer a range of programs, including:
Company classes *
Examination programs *
Professional Half-Day training *
Our Foundation and Recreational Programs are open to everyone—whether you’re just beginning or building on years of experience, we have a class for you!
*Placement by assessment only
Photo credit: GTFX
Class Descriptions
COMPANY PROGRAM, AGES 5+ FOUNDATION PROGRAM, AGES 5+ RECREATIONAL PROGRAM, AGES 2+
Our Company Program is geared toward dance artists who are seeking a solid education that is fully competitive, provides technical training, offers exams, and goes all the way through to pre-professional training.
Our Foundation Program is a fun and challenging program that introduces dancers to the competitive side of performing. Dancers will compete in one competition and will also perform in our year-end recital.
Our Recreational Program focuses on creating a place where young dancers can comfortably explore the elements of dance within a non-competitive program. These classes will showcase their dances in our year-end recital.
REGISTRATION FOR THE 2025-2026 SEASON IS CLOSED
Acrobatics • Ages 5+
Acro is a dance style that blends classical technique with precision acrobatic elements. Known for its athleticism, Acro combines dance and gymnastics in seamless choreography.
We follow the guidelines of the BC Gymnastics Association and the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA).
Ballet • Ages 3+
We teach ballet using the Cecchetti Method, which emphasizes graceful lines and coordinated movement of the entire body.
Tiny Tots, Creative Movement, & Primary Ballet (Ages 2–5): These early classes focus on imagination, body awareness, and coordination in a fun, energetic environment. Students are introduced to basic ballet technique through dancing, singing, and play.
Progressive Ballet Program: As dancers grow, they continue through the Cecchetti levels: Primary/Standard 1, Grades 1–6, Intermediate, Advanced 1 & 2, and Diploma.
Ballet Exam Program
Our classes follow the Cecchetti Method, a respected and internationally recognized syllabus that builds strong foundational technique, musicality, and artistry. Exam classes provide students with a sense of discipline, accomplishment, and progression within their dance training.
Students in the exam program receive focused training while preparing for formal evaluations through the Cecchetti Society of Canada.
Participation in exams is by teacher recommendation, and dancers are assessed on their readiness before being entered into the exam program.
Ballet Pointe • Cecchetti Grade 5
Pointe* classes are available through teacher recommendation, generally beginning at Cecchetti Grade 5. These classes are offered to students who are technically ready and adequately prepared. Ballet dancers may be enrolled as part of our Ballet Examination program which follows the Cecchetti Syllabus.
*Exam classes are by invitation only.
Contemporary • Ages 10+
Contemporary dance is a dynamic, expressive style that blends elements of modern, ballet, and jazz techniques. Dancers explore musicality, improvisation, and storytelling through movement, with a focus on fluid transitions and emotional connection.
Prerequisite: Ballet and/or Jazz is strongly recommended.
Hip Hop • Ages 4+
Students learn popular Hip Hop techniques inspired by music video choreography and commercial styles, with an emphasis on rhythm, coordination, and a funky expression. R&B, Rap, Electronic and Popular music create the vibe that makes Hip Hop so much fun.
Jazz • Ages 4+
A high-energy dance style that emphasizes strong body lines, flexibility, dynamic footwork, isolation of all of the body parts, combined with exaggerated and expressive movements.
We follow the CDTA syllabus, and students in our Company program may be eligible for CDTA Jazz exams. Exams are by invitation.
Lyrical • Ages 8+
Lyrical dance is an expressive and emotional style that blends the technique of ballet, the strength and rhythm of jazz, and the fluidity of contemporary movement. Dancers learn to tell a story through movement, connecting deeply to the music and its meaning.
This style emphasizes gracefulness, control, and flexibility, encouraging dancers to move with both precision and freedom. Lyrical helps students explore artistry, emotion, and personal expression.
Prerequisite: Ballet and Jazz required.
Tap • Ages 5+
Tap dance focuses on rhythmic footwork and percussive sounds, building coordination, timing, and creativity. Please contact the studio regarding style of tap shoe.
We follow the CDTA syllabus, and students in our Company program may be eligible for CDTA Tap exams. Exams are by invitation.
Stage (Musical Theatre) • Ages 8+
This program combines dance and theatrical performance, introducing students to the exciting world of Musical Theatre.
Prerequisite: Jazz recommended.