Many parents find themselves wondering what questions to ask when searching out the right studio for their children. Most studios offer physical activities accompanied by music, a fun atmosphere, and friend making potential. But is there really a difference between dance schools? Absolutely. This report is full of facts that will help you choose the right studio for your child. A studio that keeps the safety of students in mind at all times and creates an environment that facilitates the best possible dance experience which can be carried throughout a lifetime.

1.   What type of dance floor does the studio use?

Safety is an important issue with parents and students when it comes to choosing a dance studio. Dance is a very physical activity full of many jumps and high impact movements. Since dance foot wear offers no cushioning or support these high impact activities can put much strain on bones and joints, if precautions are not taken. The best way to prevent against injury from repetitive motions is to choose a studio with a professional floating floor. A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high density foam. A floating floor absorbs the energy that returns the body during high impact activities. Without this absorption the energy would directly return to the body increasing fatigue and the potential for injury to bones and joints. A non-energy absorbent floor or flooring system laid over concrete cannot absorb this harmful energy, increasing the risk of injury, fatigue, and potential knee and back problems. What is under the dance floor is not the only factor to consider. The top layer of the dance floor is also important. A “Marley” floor which is a vinyl composite is accepted worldwide as the best surface layer for recreational to professional dance. Facilities such as the Royal Winnepeg-Ballet, The Royal Academy of Dance in London, England and Riverdance-the Touring Show, all use Marley floors. Marley floors offer controlled slip which decreases fatigue, and the risk of falls and injury. Few studios use professional Marley floors due to the high expense, and opt for common tile floors. Floating floors are also superior to “sprung” floors, which usually consist of a wood structure built on a regular floor. The floors in our studio are floating floors suspended on hundreds on high density foam blocks, with a professional Marley surface. Our floors help reduce the potential for injury, and decrease fatigue associated with the high energy activity of dance.        

2.   What size are the dance rooms?

A proper size dance room is important for teaching proper dance technique. Small dance rooms do not offer students enough space to properly execute all the movements associated with the many types of dance. Full execution of all movements being learned is extremely important to avoid developing bad habits that may become difficult to correct over time. Small dance rooms also tend to get warm due to high energy level of dance, and the close proximity of the students. This hot, humid environment can cause students to fatigue early, decreasing their concentration, and increasing their risk of injury. Our studio offers over 1500 square feet of dance space, so students may execute all dance techniques properly, without holding back due to lack of space. Our rooms are air-conditioned to help students remain comfortable and dance longer.

3.   Are master classes taught?

Many students learn from only one or two instructors in a studio with virtually the same dance backgrounds. This will significantly limit the students ability to develop as a well rounded dancer. This student will lack creativity and the ability to develop their own dance style. The more exposure a student can get from different artists, the more well rounded, enthusiastic and motivated the student will become. Guest artists teach master classes at our studio throughout the year. Students are able to learn the latest from NY, Chicago and LA without the hassle and expense of travel. Past artists have included Broadway Star Jimmy Tate from “Bring on “Da Noise Bring on ‘Da Funk” with Savion Glover and “The Tap Dance Kid,” and Jarret Ditch company member of the world renowned Gus Giordano Jazz Dance Chicago, which created Jazz Dance World Congress.