At my dance studio, Port Macquarie Performing Arts, we embody a nurturing, passionate and enjoyable environment catering for a wide variety of students. But not all dance studios have the same values and ideals.

Here are 5 Things to look for when looking to join a Dance Studio

1. What qualifications do the teachers have?
It is extremely important that your childs’ Dance Teacher is fully qualified in many dance and fitness fields. Your teacher must also promote safe dance practise in all classes. Poor technique from poor teaching can ultimately lead to injury and take many years to “unlearn” and correct. Check whether your teacher has received appropriate teacher training. Teachers should have years of training and performance experience. They should also continue their education by attending conferences, seminars, and shows.

2. Does the dance studio practise safe dance?
As with any physical activity, there is a risk for injury. But a good dance studio will take great efforts to reduce the risks. Classes should be age and ability appropriate. Advanced techniques, especially pointe work and acro dance, if learned to early or incorrectly can be damaging for a dancer. At PMPA we offer structured and carefully planned classes to insure the safety of every dancer we instruct.

3. Fully Equipped Professional Studio
A professional dance studio should be equipped with ballet barres, mirrors, stereo system and special dance flooring.
Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, special dance flooring absorbs the shock of jumping.
PMPA’s dance specific flooring helps reduce injuries and allow students to dance longer and safer. All our rooms are equipped with ballet barres, mirrors, stereos and mats for acro dance.

4. Does the studio provide performance opportunities?
PMPA offers performance opportunities all year round, from community events to eisteddfods and trips to perform in NYC and at Disneyland. We offer two dance performances a year at The Glasshouse plus the opportunity to perform in our professionally run Musical and/or Ballet annually. We recognise that dance is a performance art and we provide a diverse range of opportunities for all of our dancers.

5. Teachers, Parents and Students are happy, encouraging and friendly!
Your Dance Studio should have a fun, friendly and inviting atmosphere. Teachers should be warm, encouraging and approachable. Dance is a team sport and friendships in dance class last forever.