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FAQ
how many dancers are typically in a class?
For the recreational company, our classes have a capacity of 12-18 children. If the class has more than 7 dancers, then additional support (assistant) will be present. There are exceptions to this in the competitive company (i.e. large groups, productions, etc.).
are classes determined by age or ability?
Both age and ability are considered when selecting the appropriate classes for each dancer. Placement decisions are derived from many years of teaching experience. Often a child is placed in a particular group or class where they will feel confident, in order to promote the development of self-esteem. Some students who are placed in a higher level become discouraged, only to lose their passion for dance. Others respond to the challenge of being in a class with students who are more proficient by pushing themselves to work harder. Placement is highly individual and the factors that go into the decision are complex.
is there a dress code?
Dancers must be in fitted clothing for their classes. Sports bras, tanks, fitted tees, shorts, crops, tights, bodysuits etc. are all acceptable choices. Baggy/loose clothing is required for hip hop class, however is not to be worn in any other class. Hair must be neatly secured back. More information that is specific to dress code for competitive company dancers is available in the FDC Competitive Handbook.
do you have a recital and/or other performance opportunities for recreational dancers?
There is a year end recital where all recreational dancers will have the opportunity to perform for their family and friends.
how do you communicate with parents?
We primarily communicate with parents via email (foundationsdancecompany@gmail.com). We also frequently post on our Facebook and Instagram accounts.
what does the cost include and what additional costs can i expect?
For both the competitive and recreational companies, the monthly cost includes your child’s instruction within the classroom for the duration of the season. In addition to the monthly tuition, each dancer will require a costume for their performance(s) and that fee is paid in two installments over the course of the season. A shoe list will be provided within the Recreational Handbook received upon registration and it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to purchase the required shoes for their child’s class. Each dancer will also be encouraged to purchase the recital T-shirt for the year end show, which would be due nearing the recital date. There is also a media fee ($22 + HST) which covers the recital video footage.
For the competitive team only, in addition to the above fees, you will also be responsible to pay for any competition or convention entry fees. These are also divided into installments and paid over the course of the season. If your child is offered an “extra” (solo, duet, or trio) the cost of that instruction is separate to that of the regular class instruction, and is broken up into installments and paid over the course of the season. Further information is available in the Competitive Company Handbook.on.
if my child cannot attend classes for some reason, is there a refund?
If a child is unable to come to one or multiple of their classes for whatever reason, there is no refund of any fees paid to FDC. If a child is no longer able to continue with their classes for the year, there is no refund, however the account will be severed and no future payments will be required. Written notice of withdrawal from any class should be communicated to Foundations Dance Company via email.
do you have tuition subsidies for families that cannot afford the costs associated with dance?
We want to see kids doing what they love! If financials are a hurdle, we are happy to sit down and come up with a plan that works for your family income.There is also funding available through Canadian Tire JumpStart.
competitive-specific faq
my child loves to dance. How do i know if they are ready to perform at a competitive level?
If your child has a true passion for dance that you feel is out of the realm of a simple after school activity, they are likely a candidate for the competitive team. The directors of FDC, along with their faculty, are always looking for students who show promise for the competitive stream. We are always willing to take time to assess a student.
what is the difference in time commitment between recreation and competitive dance?
There is difference in commitment level when comparing the recreational company to the competitive. While a recreational student can very well be training in the studio as much as a competitive student, depending on the number of classes they take, there are other factors that come into play. For example as a competitive dancer, you are required to take certain classes depending on what you are competing in. For each choreography class a dancer has, they will typically have a corresponding technique class. Therefore the schedule tends to be more than a one day a week requirement. Also, you are required to be at competition 4-5 weekends from February - May.
how are dancers chosen to be on the competitive team?
Dancers will be assessed by the directors through mandatory summer programming, and in one on one setting when appropriate. The directors can then decide, along with the rest of their faculty, if the dancer is ready for the competitive team, to what capacity they are ready, the division that is most appropriate, and the offers that will be made to them.
does my child have to compete in all disciplines?
Each year, students receive offer letters stating what dances they are invited to partake in. This can include all genres but it is not always the case. The letter is laid out in order of priority. Meaning, the dancer has to accept the dances at the top of the list in order to accept anything at the bottom. While we encourage our dancers to train in all genres, dancers will have the ability to communicate their intentions prior to the start of the season.
how many competitions do dancers attend and are they mandatory?
Each season we do 4 full team competitions with an additional solo, duet and trio competition for those that are interested. We also do a convention as a team. These are all mandatory. A confirmed list of dates will be released via email as soon as they are available.
**Due to Covid-19, this may be affected
if my child is transferring from a competitive dance program at another studio, are they guaranteed a spot on your team?
If the child has experience competing, they will still need to be assessed by the directors and go through the same process as a dancer with no experience.