Frequently Asked Questions

What are classes like at DJD?
FUN! FUN! FUN! Our students do not participate in exams, compete or hold formal recitals. We do have observation weeks throughout the year where family and friends see how students are progressing. We focus on the various skills of dance along with instilling a love of movement. A number of DJD students have developed professional careers in dance; although our focus is recreational.

Who can dance at DJD?
We are fortunate to have a very diverse student base, from ages 2-82, male and female. Everyone is given a chance to "groove" the DJD way in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Many of our students have never taken any formal dance classes before and absolutely love it. Some students are working towards a professional dance career. Everyone works at their own level and is encouraged to have fun.

Are there any boys-only classes?
In the past, we have offered boys classes for certain age groups and we may do so again in the future. Currently, the classes are boys and girls together. Some classes have more boys than others, particularly Funk/Hip Hop and Breakin’ classes.

How young can someone start to dance with DJD?
Children can start at age 2 with a Mom (or Dad) & Tots class. They can start dancing on their own at 3 years in a Pre-Jazz class. After the Pre-Jazz program students move onto the jazz program at the age of 6.We offer Tap classes for 7 years and older and Funk for 8 years and older.

Breakin’ is available for 13 years and older – we don’t accept students younger than this as it demands strength and stability that younger students just don’t have. They run a much higher risk of injury.

Teenagers and adults have a variety of dance styles available for them to try.

What are the maximum numbers we allow in our classes?
Mom & Tots and 3 Yrs Pre-Jazz - 10 max.
4/5 yrs - 12 max.
6-14 yrs. - 15 Max.
Teen/Adult - varies from 14-25 depending on which studio and type of class.

Can I get a refund?
We will issue a refund up to a week before the first class. After that point, there are no refunds or credits toward a class in another session. We will make an exception for medical reasons with a Doctor’s note. The refund will be pro-rated based on the number of classes that have passed before we were notified. A $20 admin fee will be charged on all refunds and the membership fee is non-refundable.

If a student has signed up annually and wishes to cancel out of Winter, they will be refunded for Winter as long as the Winter Session has not started. We will charge them the Fall early-bird rate (not the pro-rated annual rate), as well as the admin fee and calculate the refund accordingly.

What if my child doesn't like the class and I can't get a refund?
We will do our best to accommodate everyone. However, once the class has started there will be no refunds. If a student does not like the class we will try to move them to another class or find a student to replace them off of the waiting list. If you have concerns you may want to wait and try the first class before registering. The only problem you may run into is the class being full by the time you wish to register.

What do I do if I have a credit on file?
When you register, your credit will automatically come up on our database and will be deducted from your tuition. However, it is a good idea to notify us that you have a credit when registering. To find out the amount of your credit, please contact our front desk. Any discrepancies, please refer directly to the Dance School Manager.

Why do I need to buy another membership when I just purchased one recently?
Memberships must be renewed annually. They are valid until July 31st of each year.  We encourage students to purchase a new membership valid for the following year. Spring or Summer memberships are less expensive as they expire within a couple of months. Students in Spring and Summer must purchase a new membership for Fall.

Can I register in Jazz 4?
Yes, if you took Jazz 4 last year or have been approved by the Artistic Director or Dance School Principal. If you are unsure please talk to the Principal. Auditions take place in the first Jazz 4 class in September. If you are concerned about getting a spot - go ahead and register but you may be moved to a different level if not approved.

My daughter/son has danced at another studio - would she be in your experienced level?
If your daughter/son has at least 2 full years of recent dance experience in jazz, then it is appropriate to register in experienced. If we find she/he needs to review some skills, we may move your child down a level. Ideally experienced levels are for students who have danced at least one full year within the same age group (Sept – May) with DJD.

Why do West African classes cost more?
It costs the School more to run these classes due to live accompanist fees.

What happens if I need to miss a few classes?
We have a make-up policy that allows you to attend any class appropriate to your level during the same session to make up for missed classes. It will also be important to meet someone in your registered class so they can help you catch up on material!

My child is 13 and is very advanced-can she take adult classes?
If you feel your child is mature and would feel comfortable being with adults ages 18–60, then it would be fine. If the teacher finds the level is not appropriate for your child, then they may ask her/him to move into to a teen class.

What do I do if I want to change classes?
If the teacher feels you should change to a different level or you want to switch to a different style of class, please notify the front desk and we will try to accommodate your request. There is no cost to switch classes. In the unlikely situation that a class is too full, we may make other arrangements with you. 

Is there a lost and found?
There are two boxes located in the coatroom for larger items. Small items such as jewelry are kept at the front desk. We give unclaimed items to a shelter at the end of each session.

Where do I leave my things?
Day lockers are available in the washrooms for student use while in class. You will need your own lock to secure your belongings. We suggest you do not bring valuables to the facility. DJD is not responsible for lost or stolen items. All personal items must be removed upon leaving the facility.

Can my family and friends watch me?
Approximately every six weeks, we have an observation week where family and friends can go into the studio to watch the class in progress. At the end of each session, there is a casual, informal, in-studio demonstration for family and friends followed by a social in our lounge.

School Schedule