The regular dance season for Eurhythmics Dance Studio is officially over. 

Wrapping up their competitive season and year-end recital, Jodi Aasen, Owner/ Instructor, says this season she witnessed growth in a variety of ways. "This past year, I think everyone was thrilled with the growth both individually and as a team. With having dancers participate in festivals regardless of their mark, it has had them reach out, make friends, and cheer on other studios. It was just a really great team atmosphere this year. We have always had it, but this past year I just saw such a significant improvement."

When it came to festival season this year, Dance Instructor, Heather Gordon, shares the teaching team couldn't be more proud of all their students. "They have worked hard, shown incredible teamwork, and have improved consistently throughout the year. We have a remarkable group of kind, respectful, and humble young dancers. We’re so grateful for our big dance family."

One of the top highlights for the studio was competing in the 'Dance for Dreams' festival in Calgary April 10th to the 14th with both the pre-competitive and competitive teams, shares Gordon. "We took home many medals and awards, but our highlight was the ability to dance for our chosen charity 'Ups and Downs: Calgary Down Syndrome Association.'  Our two highest scoring numbers were asked to perform in the festival showcase on the last day of the festival, and it was our Senior Jazz (Circus) and our Senior Contemporary (What We Believe) that took to the stage to represent Eurhythmics. With the closing of the showcase, overall high scores and individual scholarships were awarded, and 'Circus' placed within the top three routines of the festival. Their top three placement secured a 1,000 dollar donation to Ups and Downs."

Ups and Downs holds a special place for Aasen and Eurhymics. Certified in the 'Rhythm Works Integrative Dance Program,' Aasen shares the program Happy Hearts is open to any child with special needs such as autism, down syndrome, sensory integration disorders, ADHD, and other developmental challenges. Providing a safe, positive, and welcoming environment for students to create lasting friendships, build self-confidence, and experience joy through movement is something Aasen is thrilled to offer. "We are going into our third year, and it is so rewarding to work with these dancers. That is why we called it Happy Hearts because they make us happy, they try so hard, and they are always happy."

This summer and fall will bring about some new opportunities for dancers, new and existing. Preparing for their inaugural travel experience, twenty-five dancers (ages 9 to 18) are putting the final touches on their routines they will be showcasing. "We are going to Mexico in July. It is our first trip, so we are pretty excited about that. It was open to anyone nine and up that wanted to go, and of course, being the first trip you don't get as many but that's okay. I am okay with a small group to start with to get our feet wet with the travelling part."

Recently adding on to their square footage, Eurythmics Dance Studio will also be adding a new program this fall, shares Aasen. "We just opened up a small space that was available right next door to the current studio, and that is where we are bringing in our musical theatre program. It is a separate class and will be theatre-based. It will include acting and vocal and we are offering it to beginners that have never danced before as well as teens. We are hoping it will help with their drama performances and stuff in school."

Looking forward to next year's dance season, Aasen, says dancers and dance families will see more of the same. "We are pretty content with how things are run and offering everybody an opportunity to perform and do something they want to do. I like to be inclusive, where everyone is included at all times. With growing, I just think it is wonderful that we will have more classes and different options for the kids to take, and not just inclusive to one discipline."

If you would like more information on Eurhythmics Dance Studio fall programming, go HERE.