GDance Academy is a renowned sports club located in Canberra, offering a wide range of dance programmes for children aged 3–12 years. Led by Jo McKinley, a passionate and highly skilled dancer, this academy is known for its excellence, artistry, and integrity.
The academy's flagship programme, Dance. Play. Grow. ™, is an innovative pre-school dance programme that introduces classical ballet and the performing arts through imagination and creative movement.
It is a unique and creative syllabus that nurtures each child's individuality and brings out their very best. Each week, the classes have a new theme, making them exciting, dynamic, and varied. Some themes include Outer Space, Fairy Garden, Jungle Safari, The Olympics, and the Teddy Bear's Picnic. Students learn essential dance and performing arts skills while having an amazing time.
Elements of ballet technique, jazz, singing, drama & mime, improvisation, and games are incorporated into each class, creating a well-rounded learning experience. The children maintain an enthusiastic and energetic approach to their learning, making every week a new adventure.
GDance Academy offers two specific programmes within their Dance. Play. Grow. ™ framework.
The “Tiny Stars” programme is designed for children aged 3–4 years and provides a gentle and imaginative introduction to dance through creative movement, basic music appreciation, mime, and following instructions related to dance classes. This class introduces your child to a disciplined environment and teaches the basic elements of classical ballet using props and a new class theme each week.
The “Shooting Stars” programme is for pre-school-aged students, aged 4–5 years, and builds on the concepts introduced in the Tiny Stars programme. It focuses on total body awareness, self-expression through movement, dance technique, musicality, and mime. This programme combines ballet and jazz segments to provide a well-rounded introduction to the performing arts. Students participate in technique, song, dance, music, games, and drama, using props and exploring a new theme each week.
GDance Academy prides itself on creating a friendly and supportive community for its students. The academy emphasises the importance of developing not only technical skills but also lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. The teachers at GDance Academy push their students to their limits while providing endless support and encouragement.
For those interested in joining the Dance. Play. Grow. ™ programme at GDance Academy, it is recommended to visit their website to find the timetable and enrolment information.
The academy also offers a tuition page for further details. GDance Academy aims to provide an exceptional dance education for young children, instilling a love for dance and the performing arts in a nurturing and inclusive environment.
