In partnership with Georges-Vanier High School
Dance and Study, Without Having to Choose
Dance and study,
without having to choose
For several years now, École Enkdanse has offered its dance-study program to student-athletes at Georges-Vanier High School in Laval.
A minimum of 7.5 hours of training per week, spread over three days, to progress seriously in dance without setting their academic path aside.
The Program at a Glance
- Jazz, contemporary, ballet, technique class, and physical conditioning
- Creation and theory classes every week
- Three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced
- Renowned choreographers invited to lead workshops
- Participation in shows
- Possibility of competing, depending on level
What Sets the Program Apart
Measurable progress, year after year
Students in the program stand out for the precision of their training and the depth of knowledge they build up over the years.
We're proud to say that all of our dancers progress at an impressive pace, year after year. The program has proven itself and shows that quality teaching makes all the difference.
A complete training, built into the school week
Our dancers take part in a variety of classes throughout their training week. The choreography presented is mainly jazz and contemporary, but students will explore other styles throughout the year, in addition to classes focused on creation, conditioning, and theory.
All students learn one or more choreographies. Some are performed in competition, others are reserved for end-of-session shows. Either way, they build their memory and speed of learning, while refining their technique, sense of rhythm, and coordination.
Three levels, a placement made with care
Placement takes place during the training camp at the start of the season. It's based on the student's physical and artistic abilities, as well as their attitude and potential. Prior dance experience is an asset, not a requirement.
Beginner
Possible Competition
Students work on their technique and performance skills. They take part in end-of-session shows in various styles, where their artistic abilities are showcased.
Intermediate
Possible Competition
One jazz competition and one contemporary competition, plus the shows. These students are paired with the advanced group for the jazz choreography we call "La Production," and are eligible for solo-duo auditions.
Advanced
Competitive
Two contemporary competitions and one jazz competition as part of La Production, plus the end-of-session shows. These students are also eligible for solo-duo auditions performed in competition.
A fair placement, for every student
The process is carried out without discrimination. No aspect related to origin, sex, or gender identity is taken into account. The artistic world is full of diversity and acceptance, and it's something we constantly raise awareness of with our students.. We firmly believe that pushing a student above their level is counterproductive.
Each student needs to develop at their own pace, following requirements suited to their level. Expecting a student to perform beyond their abilities poses a risk to their physical and psychological health. Moreover, the program prioritizes academic success above all, and a fair placement lets each student progress at their own pace, both in school and in dance.
Recent seasons' results
Ensemble
Special mention and 1st place — RepreZent Québec 2025
Choreography: Florence Brais
Sisterhood Gossip
Special mention and 1st place — RepreZent Québec 2025
Choreography: Sandra Beaulieu
Spring
Judges' Favourite — Bravissimo Terrebonne 2024. 2nd position, 3rd highest novice score, and a spot at the Gala des Étoiles — iDance 2024
Choreography: Lara Haikal
I Have to Leave
1st position and Platinum mention — The View Dance Challenge 2024
Choreography: Jade Perreault-Vaudrin
Tango
2nd position — iDance 2023
Choreography: Marjolaine Barbeau
Bad Dream
2nd position and Emerald mention — Bravissimo Terrebonne 2023. 2nd position — RepreZent 2023
Intermediate Group
Disco — La Production Jazz
1st place in its category and 2nd for the morning's Top Score, with 93.33% — RepreZent Laval, Place Bell, May 2022
Choreography: Natalie Gladu
Little Voice
4th position — iDance, April 2022
Choreography: Marjolaine Barbeau
Debout
3rd tied place — iDance, April 2022
Choreography: Marjolaine Barbeau
What students work on every week
Jazz
All students practice jazz. Regardless of level, they work on basic technique, flexibility, turns, and jumps.
Technique
Offered to everyone. Dancers work on their overall technique, jumps, turns, and more advanced technical combinations.
Contemporary
Students work on their performance and their ability to bring emotion into their movement, through exercises, combinations, and improvisation.
Creation and Theory
What's learned is put into practice through personal and group creative projects. A good portion of evaluations comes through this class.
Ballet
Dancers work on body carriage: posture, placement, and alignment, to build strong technique.
Academic Success First
We want to ensure our students succeed both academically and artistically. That's why we have strict rules and close support in place.
A student who falls behind and ends up short on course credits must attend the supervised study periods offered by the school whenever they're not in training.
If a student falls behind in their coursework, measures will be put in place in collaboration with the school. To continue in the regular Dance-Study program, the student must meet deadlines and keep up with their academic obligations. Ongoing delays may lead to reduced training or restricted participation in certain shows, events, or competitions.
Commitment and Responsibility
Being part of a program like Dance-Study is a serious commitment. Expectations are high, both artistically and academically.
At the start of the season, we clearly set out our expectations for students, and they commit to meeting the program's requirements, deadlines, and rules.
Our students stay passionate and have a lot of fun practicing their sport several times a week. That enjoyment is essential to our dancers' balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the program for?
Students at Georges-Vanier High School in Laval who want to combine their schooling with serious dance training. Prior dance experience is an asset, but not a requirement.
When do auditions take place?
Auditions for new admissions take place in January. The exact date is confirmed on our social media during the fall. For more information: enkdanse@yahoo.ca or 450-663-2673.
How many hours of training per week?
A minimum of 7.5 hours, spread over three days, from 1:00 to 3:30 pm, in 1 hr 10 min classes with a 10-minute break between them.
What dance styles are taught?
Mainly jazz and contemporary, along with technique class, physical conditioning, creation, and theory. Students may also get to try hip hop and ballet.
How are the groups formed?
During the start-of-season training camp. Placement — beginner, intermediate, or advanced — is based on each student's physical and artistic abilities, attitude, and potential. Students already in the program also go through this evaluation every year. Level placement is based on an overall evaluation of the student, including their ability to balance academic requirements with the program's commitments. Academic success and progress are therefore a full part of the placement process.
Do all groups compete?
It depends on the level. All levels of the Dance-Study program may take part in competitions, depending on the students' level and the year's goals. Usually, the advanced level competes in at least two competitions, while the intermediate level competes in one or two. Beginners generally get a first year to adjust to the program's demands and learn to balance school, coursework, and dance. They may still be included in certain productions that go on to compete.
The whole program, in nine pages
The information brochure covers the program, group placement, competitions, rules, support, and a description of each class.
Or by phone at 450-663-2673.