Youth Dance Program

Which taxes apply to dance classes? Can I claim my child’s class fees on my tax return?

The majority of business services in British Columbia are required to charge GST, and dance classes are no exception. The rate of GST on services in British Columbia is 5% as of April 1st, 2013. However, the Government has introduced the “Children’s Arts Tax Credit” which allows parents to claim up to $500 per child, on their tax return.

Can I watch my child’s class?

We want to provide students with a rich learning environment and it can be quite distracting for them to have an audience. However, we do offer a parent/guest watching week once each semester to satisfy your curiosity and to see what they have learned.

Are private lessons available?

Yes they are, we offer both private and semi-private lessons for a variety of reasons some of which are: strengthening technique, exam preparation or festival (upon recommendation of the school).

If interested, Please contact the school to discuss private or semi-private lessons.

Adult Ballet Program

What should I wear to adult ballet?

Tight-fitting clothing such as ballet and yoga wear is preferred so teachers can see the shape of your musculoskeletal system. Typically, new students will wear yoga pants or leggings (or equivalent) along with a T-shirt whereas students who have been attending classes for some time tend to wear leotards/tights, and formal ballet attire. This isn’t a requirement, however, as students develop a deeper understanding of the movements and physical demands required of them, they usually end up choosing to wear formal ballet attire as it greatly aids them in the quality of their learning. As far as shoes go, there is no requirement for them for Adults, however, we strongly recommend split-sole, non-stretch canvas ballet slippers. If you are a new student with little or no experience or are not ready yet to invest in proper footwear, we recommend wearing a pair of socks (the socks will wear out very quickly!)

What do the levels 1A/1B/1C/1D mean? How do I know which class is the best fit?

If you are uncertain about which class to sign up for, please email info@mapleleafballet.ca and provide us with a brief description of your previous dance education/experience and we will be happy to place you in the class which best suits your needs. Also, remember, your first class is free. This is to give you an opportunity to get a feeling for the type of learning you will experience at Maple Leaf, and it also allows for an opportunity for the teacher or instructor to assess your present level and recommend the most suitable class to suit your development. Please remember that you must register online for your free trial class, using the form online.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1A

  For individuals with little or no ballet experience, or for those who wish to re-visit the basics. These classes emphasize the basics of classical ballet using the Vaganova method and ballet vocabulary, as well as focus on physical and mental development. Classes are 1 hour long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1B:

  For individuals with a little ballet experience and who have already learned some of the basic steps of the Vaganova method and ballet vocabulary in Level 1A. We strongly recommend that students attend at least 2 classes a week (Level 1A and Level 1B or 2 Level 1B for better development. Classes are 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1C

  For students who would like to progress beyond Fundamentals of Ballet 1A and 1B. We recommend this level for dancers who have one or more years of recent ballet training and were preferably taking class twice a week for the past year. Classes include full barre and some centre work and are 1 hour and 30 minutes long.

• Fundamentals of Ballet - Level 1D

  We recommend that Level 1D students register for the 1D class and at least one 1C.

  For students who would like to progress beyond Fundamentals of Ballet Level 1C. We recommend this level for dancers who have two or more years of recent ballet training and were taking class at least twice a week for the past year. Classes include full barre and some centre and are 1 hour and 30 min long.

Do adult students have to perform?

Yes, and no. Most adult students chose not to perform, however, there is usually an opportunity where Adult Ballet students may be invited as guests in our annual Christmas and Year End performances. These performance opportunities usually consist of character roles or specific roles in varying choreographies. There is never any pressure or requirement to participate in any of the performances and the level of participation is completely up to the individual student. Extra classes and rehearsals may be required by the instructor.

Adults who want to participate will need to make a firm commitment to any extra rehearsal or class times in addition to issuing a performance participation deposit which is refunded once the participant has completed all of the set performances required of them.

How do I register for an adult drop-in class?

On your Dance studio Pro (DSP) account you have the option to book a one time drop in class for a specific date. You may also purchase a drop-in pass for 10 prepaid 60 or 90 minute classes which will be valid from the date of purchase until the end of that dance season in June. Please note, if you are dropping in you will not receive email update should that class be cancelled. However, updates will be posted on the DSP announcement board and potentially social media.