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The Dance Factory 

The Dance Factory was founded in 1982 and is owned and managed by Studio Director, Katie Sawka.

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The Dance Factory has a rich history of teaching, nurturing and challenging dancers of all levels and all ages. TDF is one of Calgary's most accomplished dance studios. Alumni of the Dance Factory currently own or teach at most dance studios in Calgary and the Dance Factory’s reach and influence on Calgary dance training has been extensive.

What makes the Dance Factory unique? It is newly owned and managed by Katie Sawka and her entire family. The family atmosphere creates a space that is welcoming and exciting for each dancer that comes through the doors. Every dancer, whether they take one or ten classes is made to know that they belong and are a special and important part of the TDF Student family. Character, perseverance, teamwork, commitment, dedication, fun and friendship are some of the traits the Dance Factory helps form.

As the studio enjoys its third decade of dance, I look forward to continuing to invest in young students lives, and allowing dance classes to be the best part of their day and even further what they remember as their best part of childhood! 

Studio Director: Katie Sawka

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Accomplished Faculty

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Accomplished faculty who take the time to learn about each dancer, their strengths and their weaknesses. As a dancer's training progresses, faculty are able to work with a dancer’s growth in important ways. Our accredited faculty include instructors with certifications in RAD (Royal Academy of Dance), ADAPT (Associated dance arts for professional teachers), PBT (Progressing ballet Technique), and Acrobatic Arts. Our teachers strive to make lasting mentoring relationships with each student s to help them reach their maximum potential and push them to achieve their goals. 

Competition Program

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The Dance Factory has a competition program and a commitment to participate in Four Calgary-based competitions, one optional event, and one Dance Factory competition show. These opportunities provide a balance of performance opportunities, giving the dancers confidence and enjoyment as they shine and perform on stage. Being a part of the TDF company Team provides dancers with extra training as well as team involvement that encourages, dedication, commitment, and the love of Dance. Taking on this additional Company Team requires dancers that want to take their dance further to dedicate additional time and energy to enhance their individual training as well as team work. We are currently accepting new company students ages 6+, ask us today about how you can audition and further information!

RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) ballet Program

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 The Dance Factory offers students outstanding ballet training, an important foundation for other dance disciplines.

Workshops, Conventions, and Camps

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Dance Factory alumni have staged lyrical and jazz workshops for Dance Factory dancers. Summer camps provide additional opportunities for training and improvement. The Dance Factory is a supporter of high level dance conventions that offer dancers different and versatile training to enhance their level of dance.

The TDF Parents Association 

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 The Dance Factory’s parents’ association raises funds to offset dance costs and fees. Activities include shoe sales; socials; and other fundraisers. The association is guided by an executive team and a charter. More information can be obtained by contacting the Dance Factory.

S.T.E.P.

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The Dance Factory’s Student Teacher Education Program is designed to provide mentoring opportunities for senior level dancers. STEP dancers assist Dance Factory faculty during regular classes for younger students

Exam Program and Auditions

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 TDF manages a full exam program for dancers seeking designations and certificates for their dance training. The Dance Factory is guided by the ADAPT (Associated Dance Arts for Professional Teachers) dance teaching syllabus. The Dance Factory is a founding member of the Wild Rose Dance Arts Association. The Wild Rose hosts an elite dance competition each spring and other activities during the year including teacher training and education and auditions.

Separate Year-end Shows

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Separate Junior, Intermediate and Senior year-end shows. The Dance Factory year-end shows are enjoyable, high energy events that allow dancers to be their best and are entertaining for family and friends.

Travel

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 The Dance Factory has undertaken many out-of-town trips for dancers and their families. Previous travels have included Spain, Disneyland and Triple Threat Conventions in the United States. The Dance Factory’s latest travel agenda included performances at Disney’s Magic Music Days in Disneyland.

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