We are excited to feature one of our amazing staff members, Gaby Ortiz, who has been teaching with us for the past year and is a valued member of our dance studio community. Gaby's passion for dance and teaching the younger generation of kids is truly remarkable, and we are thrilled to have her teaching our preschool and core classes in our upcoming June session!

Gaby's teaching style is distinguished by her welcoming and nurturing approach towards dance instruction. She is dedicated to helping her young students discover the joy of movement and encouraging them to grow into beautiful dancers. Her classes are filled with exciting and creative movements that keep our little ones engaged and eager to learn more.

At RDC, we are always looking to grow and improve our studio to provide the best possible experience for our dance families. We value the input and feedback of our community, and we believe that everyone has an essential role to play in building and enhancing our community. We encourage open communication and invite our families to share their thoughts, ideas, and suggestions with us. Our commitment to our community extends beyond the dance studio, and we believe that by working together, we can create an environment where everyone feels heard, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.


But don't just take our word for it - here's what some of our parents have to say about their experience at Royal Dance Conservatory:

"Love how RDC really is a family/community. Staff is amazing at making my daughter feel special" - Ashley P

"My daughter started dancing here when she was 4. I've seen her gain so much confidence over the years! And she looks forward to it every week!! Thanks to royal dance! Keep up the awesome work Miss Nicole!!" - Arnald M

"I appreciate all the thought and effort the owner, Nicole, has put into organizing the dance studio, so wonderfully. The reminders provided for busy families, taking into consideration affordable costumes/rentals and all the other details. Our daughter really enjoys it and is passionate about dancing. A passion created by the committed, caring instructors, as well as the culture that has been established in the facility; a community of successful dancers." - Mr. Dawson


​We are incredibly grateful to have such wonderful parents and dancers as a part of our community. Your support and enthusiasm are what make Royal Dance Conservatory such a special place, and we are committed to continuing to provide you with the best possible experience.

At Royal Dance Conservatory, we don't just teach dance - we build a community that supports and inspires everyone who walks through our doors. Whether you have been dancing for years or just starting out, we invite you to join us and become a part of our family. We can't wait to dance with you! Want to find out more? Send us a text at +1 431-430-0013.

1. Physical fitness: Dancing is an excellent way to stay physically fit, as it is a form of exercise that engages the entire body. During the summer, when many people are looking to stay active and enjoy the outdoors, dance can be a fun and refreshing way to get in shape.
2. Social connection: Dancing is also a social activity, and during the summer there are often plenty of opportunities to connect with others who share your passion for movement and music. Dancing can be a great way to make new friends and build relationships. At RDC, we prioritize community and pride ourselves on being an inclusive space for all and the summer is no exception!
3. Emotional well-being: Dancing has been shown to have numerous mental health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety and boosting self-esteem. During the summer, when many people experience increased feelings of happiness and relaxation, dance can be a powerful tool for enhancing overall emotional well-being.
4. Creative expression: Finally, dance is an art form that allows for creative expression and personal growth. During the summer, when many people have more free time and are looking to explore new interests and hobbies, dance can be a wonderful way to tap into your creativity and express yourself in new and exciting ways.
5. Have fun! Dancing with your friends not only allows you to soar on your dance journey but also allows you to have fun while doing so! Join RDC this summer and make long-lasting friendships and memories that will last a lifetime!
   

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Whether you're looking for your child to stay physically active, make new friends, boost your mental health, or express yourself creatively, there are many benefits to enjoying dance during the summer months. So why not join RDC for a FUNtastic summer filled with parties, day camps, and weekly classes?

​If you're not sure if your child will love dance as much as we do, why not give us a try? Your first class is on us! For more information, feel free to text us at +1 431-430-0013.

​Gala is an afternoon to enjoy with friends and loved ones. A moment away from phones, errands, and priorities to sit back and enjoy the magic of dance. We hope our dancers learn all of the wonderful feelings associated with dancing on a stage and all the confidence that comes with it! And don’t let us forget about you parents! You have been by your child’s side encouraging them every step of the way, so of course the gala is perfect for you to see your child shine and show off all of their progress!

Parents it is time to watch your child giving it their all up on that stage! You can watch them dance on a screen anytime. Take this moment to watch them live and look up from that phone screen.

We cannot wait to inspire you! Pulling off this gala has taken a ton of hard work from everyone from the students to the teachers, to the volunteers! We hope it shows and you can feel the magic in the air! 

We wish all of our dancers luck on this day. We know how amazing you will all be! Now go out there and have fun!

Nicole Gornik
Owner/CEO
Royal Dance Conservatory

I for one thought that it would be a great way to get the word out about our dance studio and it was a lot of fun. It was a new experience. It was amazing going thought the tunnels and onto the field with all the people cheering. But at the same time it was scary, I was a little nervous when the camera men were walking around showing all of us on the jumbo-tron. It was a cold day but the nervous energy kept us warm while we were laying on the field and crawling out of our 'graves'. The only thing that would have made it even more perfect would be if the Bombers had won.

Stephanie S. (Age 13)
Dance Student
​Royal Dance Conservatory

1. Don’t Rush Participation
   ​Every child learns and adapts to new situations differently. Some children jump into class right away, while others need time to observe before they will participate. This is often related to their learning style. No learning style is better than the other, just different. It can be frustrating to see your child watching rather than participating but it is best if children are given time to come into the activities in their own time as they will be more successful in the long run.
   
   
2. Talk About Class Ahead Of Time
   ​It’s a great idea to talk about the new dance class beforehand so that your dancer knows what to expect. It is important your dancer knows ahead of time that you will not be going into the room. Offer ongoing encouragement such as “I will be right outside if you need me.” or “You are going to have so much fun.” This way, there are no surprises.
   
   
3. Meet The Teacher
   After meeting the teacher the first week use the teacher’s name when talking about the class ahead of time. Show them the dance teacher’s bio and picture to get your tiny tot excited to see their teacher each week. If they are very apprehensive about attending then arrive early to get them accustomed to the environment so that they will be ready to begin class at the same time as the rest of the dancers.
   
   
4. Use The Bathroom Before Class!
   Take your child to the washroom right before leaving the house before class. When children are feeling anxious they may constrict their bowel muscles and may not fully relieve themselves. Nothing creates a more negative experience for a young child than having an accident in class.
   
   
5. When Your Dancer Is Too Nervous To Enter Class
   I suggest parents help by walking their dancer to the studio door and let the teacher assist from here. We however do not suggest parents sit and watch class because it can give the child validation that this is something than can be done every week. It also can be disruptive to the rest of the class creating a domino effect. Every child learns and adapts to new situations differently and in time will become confident in dance.

Nicole Gornik
Owner/CEO
Royal Dance Conservatory

At Royal Dance Conservatory is not just learning how to dance it's an experience your teacher isn't just your teacher your dance friends aren't just your dance friends. You all become family and RDC becomes your home, your safe place, your happy place, where you don't feel like every one is against you, you feel welcome. When you walk through the front doors of the studio you know your home. When I dance I can leave what ever is bothering me on the dance floor I truly know why are slogan is "dance to express not to impress”.

There's no better feeling than feeling like you've killed a routine your teacher hand choreographed for you although is dance is fun Royal Dance Conservatory is a really great place to learn how you are and what you want to become as a dancer. All the teachers at Royal Dance Conservatory are not only supportive and caring but they encourage you to step outside your comfort zone, to break from your shell and to be your own dancer and to dance to the best of you ability and not to compare your self to anyone but yourself because you are the best dancer you could. 

There's not one night I want to go home after dance class because I love Royal Dance Conservatory so much be no matter how old I grow or how many memories I loose I will never forget RDC it has a very special place in my heart. I’m very happy my mom chose to put her little dancer at Royal Dance Conservatory. I'm very proud to tell all my friends and family that I'm apart of the Royal Dance Conservatory family. 

Katia H. (Age 14)
​Recreational Dancer

Training during dance’s off-season will give them a “leg up”
All Athletes need to train in the off season. Summer dance sessions provide a great opportunity to strengthen, keep their skills sharp and improve their balance & coordination. It also helps further develop previously taught dance concepts, and be ready for the fall season. Why wait around until next season to become a better dancer? Start this summer!​

The affects of coming back to dance, after a summer of little or no activity, can be a very difficult adjustment.  Some students may find themselves struggling to get back into the rhythm of school, extra circular activities and of course dance classes.  And they will most likely be addressing a tired, sore body as they are getting back into their active lifestyles.

Keep students active 
Summer dance sessions are a great way to keep your child stimulated, sharpen their ability to focus and provide a concept of discipline and consistency throughout the summer. This is great practice for young students that are about to start, or have just started school for the first time! 

Footloose and Fancy Free
Summer is a stress-free time and a summer dance program is a great opportunity to experiment. See what programs feel good and try a new class that may stretch your dancer outside their comfort zone. Summer is a short commitment and therefore is an easy way to sample various styles. 

Beat the Summer Boredom
Do you have a kid that could sit at home all summer?  Sick of your child watching TV all day and having way too much bundled up energy that they can’t put to use? The benefits of even having a regular routine for them to get out of the house, something to look forward to and the ability to see their friends, is enough of a reason to get them involved.  Keep them moving!  

Keep your Weekends Free
All of RDC’s Summer Dance Programs are designed to give dancers something to do during a week night and leave the weekends free to enjoy summer activities. Click here to learn more about these classes.

RDC’s summer dance programs help provide a structured creative outlet, consistency to maintain their dance skills, and not to mention, a weekly outing for dancers to keep in contact with their dance friends! Take the opportunity to hang out with friends, try new dance styles, and get inspired for next our dance season. We work hard to make our summer programs active, challenging and full of everything fun. Come join us! 

Nicole Gornik
Artistic Director/Owner
​Royal Dance Conservatory

Practicing in the studio will of course improve your skills, but at a much slower pace than if you dedicate time outside of the class to applying these corrections and going over new movements. Think of how much faster you could improve if you have your dance or new exercises mastered by the next class every week! Your teacher can then spend less time with repetition and more time teaching you new and more difficult things!
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1. Nothing is more important that practice.
   Take the time to repeat your exercises/dances while applying corrections your teacher has given in class. This is important to keep your growth as a dancer moving in the right direction!
   
   
2. Set a schedule for when you practice.
   This will hold you accountable. Without a schedule it is easier to put it off and eventually forget. This will make practicing a conscious priority to yourself.
   
   
3. Practice when you feel fresh and energetic.
   Nothing will discourage your more from practicing than when its a late night, right after a long day of school, sluggish from dinner etc.. Pick a time when you feel you will be able to focus. This will insure you actually accomplish something when you practice.
   
   
4. Make sure your practicing is fun and motivational.
   Try envisioning yourself mastering the moves you have always wanted to, performing at your best and shining on stage. This will give you a vision of your goals and you can dance toward that vision!
   
   
5. Set dance goals.
   Whether this is a series of steps, a jump or part of routine you find challenging, make a plan of when you would like to accomplish this by. If you have always wanted to do centre splits, then set a goal of getting half way down within a month. This will push you do work hard and follow your schedule!
   
   
6. Record steps or routines in class.
   If you cannot remember your dance, it makes it harder to practice. Ask your teacher to take a video of your class doing their dance so that you can watch it at home. You can then dance along with it or refer to it for parts you cannot remember.
   
   
7. Use music YOU like.
   If you only use the one song from your dance over and over and over, you are more likely to get bored and quit! Try putting your dance to your favourite song, this will add more flavour to your practicing and challenge you to think outside the box.
   
   
8. Don’t just dance!
   ALL forms of exercise help your mind and body. Try different sports to build muscle and stamina. Remember that any progress you make in a different sport will transfer into your dancing in one way or another! Staying fit and active between dance classes is always important.
   
   
9. Wear proper clothing and shoes.
   When working out, playing sports or practicing dance, make sure to be wearing the right equipment and clothes. Injuries are easy to avoid if you take the right processions. If you feel a muscle pulling or a pain in your body, let yourself take a rest. Nothing is worth an injury!
   
   
10. Stop when it stops being fun.
    Our RDC motto is ‘Dance To Express Not Impress’. It is important to make sure you are having a fun time. If you stop having fun when you are practicing, take a break for 10 minutes or even the rest of the day. Dancing should always be fun, forcing yourself past enjoyment can create a negative dance experience. Don’t push yourself just for the purpose of impressing other people, instead, dance to impress yourself. Feel the movements and the music, live in the moment and always, always make sure you love what you are doing.
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Nicole Gornik
Artistic Director/CEO
Royal Dance Conservatory

When I came to RDC I was immediately challenged and pushed out of my comfort zone. I was challenged in a way I had never been before. My passion for dance only grew stronger thanks to RDC. I had a great connection with my teachers and other dancers. I loved coming to dance. As the year went by I started to improve dramatically. I joined the advanced jazz and lyrical class and my teacher helped me grow so much as a dancer. My teachers helped me improve physically but they also helped me gain confidence and self esteem. 

My first year are RDC I auditioned for the competitive team. And I made it! My first year competing at RDC was and amazing experience. I felt like I had so much practice time in the studio and when it was time to compete I felt ready to go. I love competing, the costumes, the quick changes, makeup, and cheering on my teammates. I love every minute of it! I didn't care what I won or what we placed I was just happy to be there doing what I love. 

RDC has become my second home and family. I have made some life long friends. I love the whole team at RDC. We all get along so well and are such close friends. I love going to dance everyday and seeing my friends. We have some great memories together, like going on trips, almost ripping the barre off the wall, and the random things we talk about in class. I love being around my team and teachers, it is my happy place. 

The next year at RDC, big changes happened and I was really exited because Miss Nicole was taking over RDC and I was looking forward for all the new and exiting changes! I auditioned for the competitive team again and I got my first solo! I was so happy because this is what I have worked for. A little into the year miss Nicole noticed all the hard work I was putting into my routines and decided to give me a second solo! A jazz solo.  was so happy because I knew that I earned it. It made me feel great that Miss Nicole had noticed my hard work. That is what I love about RDC. We are a small studio so dancers get so much individual time and teachers notice your hard work. I am not just a number at RDC and I love that. 

I wouldn't have improved as much as a dancer in that last two years if it weren't for Miss Nicole. I love working with Miss Nicole, all of her classes are my favourite, not only is she a great teacher she's a great choreographer too! Working with Miss Nicole has helped me improve so much. She is always there to encourage me. She helps me boost my confidence and self esteem up. When it was time for the first competition of the season I was so nervous, this was my first time competing a solo. I was scared that I was going to forget my dance and I started to panic. Miss Nicole was with me the whole time she calmed me down by making me laugh and telling me that I got this. She pushes me to do my best. She works so incredibly hard and puts everything into the studio. That inspires me work hard at everything I do. Miss Nicole has helped me grow so much as a dancer and a person by encouraging me not only to push myself physically but to stop thinking negatively and believe in myself. 

I love my dances this year. Especially my jazz solo because it's super challenging and has pushed me. When I was first learning it there were some tricks I had never done before and didn't think that I could even do, but with a lot of practice, hard work and the support of Miss Nicole, I surprised myself with the amount of improvement I made. It was because of her confidence in me that I believed in myself and by competition I was ready and excited to perform my solo. 

I love going onstage and performing because I know the whole team will cheer and support me. 

RDC has changed my life completely. Dance means everything to me, and has helped me in every aspect of my life. Dance is my outlet, it is my way to express myself and release my feelings. Dance has shown me that working hard you can accomplish anything. I can't wait for next season to start.

Taylor W. (Age 16)
Competitive Company
​Royal Dance Conservatory

Congratulations to all of the girls from the Royal Dance Conservatory Competitive Company! They survived our longest competition yet and did it with such grace. We at RDC are so lucky to have such a dedicated and passionate group of dancers. Thank you to CNDC for having us at your wonderful competition and congratulations to all others who participated. ​

It is such a positive atmosphere, everybody is so supportive whether it's in the studio or backstage at a competition, we always make sure to cheer super loud when any member of our studio in on stage! I love being surrounded with all my best friends at dance doing the thing that we love the most. All the girls at Royal Dance Conservatory are literally one big family, they are like my sisters and some of my favourite people to be around and we always have a great time together. RDC is such a great place to learn, I have not only learned how to dance but I have learned self-discipline, proper etiquette, balance and coordination and many other very useful components that could be involved in my everyday life. All the teachers at RDC really push you to your fullest potential and want you to do your best but while still having fun. Royal Dance Conservatory is more than just the studio I dance at; it is a huge part of my life.

This past year we have received a new director, Miss Nicole. She has made so many positive changes to the studio and has really made me feel comfortable and confident with my dancing. She has pushed me so hard throughout this past year which has resulted in me improving a lot. I am very glad she has believed in me and given me all the opportunities I have received this year. Miss Nicole is a wonderful teacher with lots of dance training and experience and is not only a teacher but a friend. In classes we not only dance but do hard corewarmups which I love! They prepare our bodies for the dancing. We do lots of great workouts and stretches to improve our arms, legs, abdominal etc., which in the long run makes us stronger and more controlled dancers! 

I am constantly wishing I'm at dance, when I'm not at dance I still find a way to dance even if it's clearing my entire bed room and putting music on and doing some improv or making up dances in my head while I'm at school or in the car. When I say I that I live dance and that it is my life, I truly mean it. I am so thankful that I got blessed to have such a strong passion for a sport, I don't know who I would be without dance or what I would be doing with all my spare time, I would always be bored that's for sure! I am also so grateful that I dance at such a wonderful studio because Royal Dance Conservatory is much more than just any other studio; it's a safe place and a home to many including myself. I can't imagine dancing anywhere else, nor would I want too. I am and always will be extremely proud to say I dance at Royal Dance Conservatory.

Hannah M. (Age 15)
Competitive Company
​Royal Dance Conservatory 

Royal Dance Conservatory is an amazing dance studio! It’s not only a place to dance but a second home to many of the dancers and a place to meet great people. When I started at RDC I only took one Hip Hop class. I had absolutely no idea hat I was walking into. It was my first time joining a dance class anywhere. When we began the class I instantly loved it! The next year I decided to take more classes in addition to Hip hop, so I took Jazz and Lyrical as well. As I thought I would, I fell in love with those styles too! I am now on my fourth year at RDC and I’m loving every minute of it! 
When I started at RDC I was not only introduced to dance moves and styles but I also met some amazing people at the studio. Some of my closest friends I have now are from RDC! Over these past few years dancing I feel like I improve more and more each class. Miss Nicole especially likes to push all the dancers here to their fullest potential. She has taught me so much about dance and performing. Some of my favourite dances that I have performed at the annual recitals have been choreographed by her. She is so sweet and makes you feel great about trying something new. She is not just a dance teacher to us girls but a true friend. I think I speak for everyone when I say Miss Nicole is the best! We all love you! 

When I’m in the studio with everyone it is so much fun! When we are learning choreography there is almost no time when we can get through it without bursting out with laughter. The staff at RDC are all so nice! I have made a great bond with all the teachers who have taught me. Here at RDC we don’t just work on looking pretty, pointing toes or straightening our legs, we also work on getting fit and strong. You know what they say: athletes lift weights but dancers lift people. If you want to learn to dance, meet new people and have fun then RDC is definitely the place for you! All the girls and boys who dance here are so kind as well. They all welcomed me with a huge smile when I first walked through the RDC door. I can always count on my great friends here to put a smile on my face as we are dancing! There is never a time when you can feel down when you’re in the studio. We all work very hard and try our very best at everything we do and it’s always a great time. I have made so many memories at RDC and I cannot wait for so many more to come.  
I’m so excited for the upcoming recital this June. All the dances are looking great and we all have been working really hard to get them done. Can’t wait to get the costumes and hit the stage! Royal Dance Conservatory is an extraordinary studio! Thanks to our owner Miss Nicole! She has put so much time and effort into making not only the studios but us look great in our dancing. Thank You RDC for everything you’ve given me. From laughs to sobs from falling once or twice, I always get right back up and continue to work harder and harder each class I have. We are always told to push our limits and dance like no one is watching! :) Dance to express not impress.

Nataya D. (Age 14)
Dance Student
​Royal Dance Conservatory

​I started off my first day of competition by waking up and doing my makeup. Then I hopped in the car to get to the competition. I got lost, but eventually arrived ready to compete. All of my routines were scheduled in one day.  It was kind of nice but was definitely a super tiring. The day started off a little slow, but quickly escalated. I had lots of fun performing all my numbers and doing what I love. The time just flew by. One funny memory from that competition is when they announced my name as "Jim" instead of JM. 
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Awards were awesome and super fun. We did so well! We got two judge's choice awards, and placed several times! Even if we didn't, I would still be just as happy, because I know I tried my best and gave my all on the stage. I was so happy because I got one of the two judge's choice awards! I was so happy and tired that I had a mind-blank on stage and forgot who choreographed my dance! My friends had to yell out the choreographers name while I awkwardly stood there in silence. I will definitely never forget that funny moment!
During the 2 days, as usual, my teammates and I had some fun bonding time. We went out for dinner and just hung out at a team together at the hotel. That's one of the reasons why I love dancing at RDC. Our dance family is so close and has an amazing bond. 

Overall Ovation Dance Competition was great and I would enjoy doing it again next year.

JM A. (Age 13)
Competitive Dancer
Royal Dance Conservatory

Congratulations to all of the girls from the Royal Dance Conservatory Competitive Division! Their passion, dedication and showmanship really showed this past weekend. Thank you to Ovation Dance Challenge for having us at your wonderful competition. 

Miss Nicole, Bobbi (Hannah L) and I were the first ones to arrive in Toronto so we checked in fast and explored our hotel! It was so big and it had so many rooms. We decided that we were going to practice our dances in the basket ball court that they had when everyone got there. The next day our team went to the CN tower, the view was so amazing and we took a lot of pictures. It was the coolest thing I've ever seen in my life that was definitely a day to remember.

Friday morning was a day to rehearse. We could really nit pick and go through final corrections for all the dances before we performed. After rehearsals we relaxed for a bit and got ready for the movie we went to go see altogether. Next was the team dinner that was in walking distance from the theater. Going to a movie and dinner was really great bonding time with all the girls they are all truly my best friends. We made sure to all get a good night of rest for our first day at competition.

Saturday morning Miss Nicole did Bobbi's hair first while I did my makeup. Then when it was my turn I got my hair done in a gorgeous bun with french twists. I performed six dances that day and it went by super fast. We were having so much fun showing what we love to do and that is expressing something we are so passionate about. I was so proud of how everyone did. Bobbi and I volunteered to play a game was that whoever dressed the fastest and then ran back to the other side with one of our feet the costume bag. Whatever pair got to Rosco the mascot would win the surprise! Bobbi and I ended up winning and we got a huge thing of skittles!

Miss Reanna came to support us since she moved to Toronto a few years ago. She has always cared so much about us students. I love her and she's one of nicest and funniest people I know. It was great to have her there to support the team and we are all so happy that she got to see our contemporary group Say Something. It is a routine about bullying and it truly has so much meaning to all of us. Later that evening my friend Taylor performed her jazz solo and the music totally stopped! She kept going like a pro so Miss Reanna, Miss Nicole, the moms, and the rest of the team cheered her on the whole time. She did something very amazing that evening. It was so impressive and when she got a chance to perform it a second time she killed it again.

The next day I only had two dances and they were great I always love the feeling of being on stage. My duo partner Hannah M had to get lipstick off super fast and we couldn't find any make up up wipes so she had to use a pad to wipe it off it was so funny! After the long day the team and I got subway from the amazing moms. We decided we wanted to go swimming but swimming got boring so we sat in the relaxing sauna. The rest of the night we enjoyed amazing skittles. The next day we got all packed up and left for the airport to go home! 

I am so thankful that I got to experience this with my amazing team. We did so great this past weekend and it got even better when we ended up in the top 5 studios of the competition! Without Royal Dance Conservatory I wouldn't have gotten to have such great experience with friends!

Jayde L. (Age 13)
Competitive Dancer
​Royal Dance Conservatory

Congratulations to all of the girls from the Royal Dance Conservatory Competitive Division! They did such a great job over the weekend and got RDC into the Top 5 studios of the competition!

Everyone showed such passion, commitment, hard work, and such great showmanship. Thank-you to Kick It Up for putting on such a great competition. It was an experience all of the girls will forever cherish.