Markham School of Dance - Markham, Ontario

s K.

I’m so glad we found this dance school. The staff are wonderful, and Jackie goes above and beyond to provide a high level of programming for the students. My daughter started this summer and thoroughly enjoyed her classes. We were so proud to see how much she grew in such a short time. What I especially appreciate about this studio is its welcoming and inclusive environment. The staff are attentive, respectful of each student’s needs, and do their best to make every child feel that they belong. I would highly recommend this studio to other families!

Melissa V.

Ms Jackie and the Markham school of dance has become a second home for my daughter. She has flourished this summer under the care and knowledge of all her instructors. We can't wait for this competitive season to begin!

MaryJane S.

My daughter found “dance” a little later than most, starting Musical Theatre in September 2022 when she was already 9-years-old. From the beginning, the staff and students at the Markham School of Dance welcomed her with such encouragement and positivity that she quickly felt at home, even as a newcomer.

In 2024, she added Lyrical dance to her schedule and it’s been incredible to watch her grow! Not only has she improved her technique, but also her confidence and love for dance and theatre. She has a natural talent that Markham School of Dance has helped foster and elevate! The teachers here are not only talented and professional, but also genuinely supportive. They’ve created an environment where effort, progress, and passion matter just as much as skill.

What’s truly special is the way Ms. Jackie and her team manage to make each dancer feel seen and heard, even with so many students and events happening throughout the year. It never feels impersonal; our daughter feels valued and encouraged every step of the way.

Now, at almost 13-years-old, she is inspired to take things even further. She has set her sights on joining the Markham School of Dance Company & Competition team, a goal that comes directly from how empowered she feels by what she’s learned and experienced here.

We’re so grateful for this community and the way they have nurtured her potential. She truly feels like she belongs! The school’s motto, “Every ‘Body’ Can Dance”, is one you can feel confident about!

KAY

I am very disappointed with the level of professionalism at Markham School of Dance, particularly from the owner, Jackie. It’s clear that she struggles to separate personal conflicts with her staff from the needs of the business, and unfortunately, the students are the ones who suffer because of it.

Three weeks before the end-of-year showcase, we were left in the dark about the sudden absence of our amazing child’s teacher to supplies that did not even greet my child at the door, waited for someone to come for 5 mins. On the day of the show, it was completely disorganization—no one available to sign in the children, and the teacher, who we hadn’t seen in weeks, appeared overwhelmed and unsupported. Basic elements needed to run the show smoothly were missing, and it was so chaotic that parents were offering to help just to keep things moving.

To make matters worse, it felt like there was clear favoritism. The musical theater program received dollar store bags for their costumes, while ALL other programs in the studio were given the standard purple studio bags that are handed out every year. When I brought my concerns to Jackie, she seemed unaware of the situation—despite having been present both earlier and later that morning for the other showcase.

That kind of disconnect from your own event is unacceptable.
Another major concern was the lack of microphones—there weren’t enough for the kids to perform properly. If I hadn’t spoken up, I truly believe nothing would have been done. Communication is also a major issue—emails go unanswered, and follow-up is almost nonexistent. I sent an email over a month and a half ago and never received a reply.
You can't say all children are treated equally when that's clearly not the case. It's frustrating and upsetting to spend money and time supporting a school that doesn't show the same care in return. The morning performance ran from start to finish with no issues full staff, The evening event felt like an afterthought. Crickets, just the teacher. It seem in that moment you were like I guess I have to help! Than you mentioned yourself and a few people will come back. You were not coming back, just pack up and done.

At the end of the day, regardless of any internal issues, the children should always come first. Sadly, that’s not the environment I want my child to be in. We have since left the studio.

I had to give you 1 star to post this, it is not deserved.

Sally T.

We found this studio when we moved to Markham in 2007. I was looking for a dance school that would teach you to love and appreciate Dance that would remain with you even into adulthood. This studio does just that. The staff are a family of dancers who love dance and foster that love in the hearts of all their students. The focus is on artistry and personal development not on winning competitions as is the focus of most dance studios today. The emphasis is on the joy and satisfaction of dance. From age 2 up to 72, dancers enjoy the time at the studio, building warm relationships and lasting friendships. Truly a place where "every body can dance".

John G.

My 8 year old daughter has been going to Markham School of Dance for 3 years now. I've always found the staff to be friendly and helpful. My daughter enjoys her classes and has made quite a few new friends while going as well! The recitals are always lively and colourful and they put on a great show. I would recommend this school to anyone 🙂

Quincie-Alysha

I love this studio, I've been going here since I was 9 years old in their summer camps. The owner is a great lady, always making sure her students are enjoying themselves. The studio motto is "every 'body' can dance!" which is a great way to encourage everyone to get active and feel confident. The other teachers are great at making sure their students understand the dance moves but most importantly are also having fun. I would recommend this studio to anyone who asks.

Catherine T.

My daughter has been dancing here since she was 4. It's been 7 years with the school. We decided to continue dancing at this school due to the friendliness of all the teachers, students and parents. My daughter was very shy at first but the teachers are very patient and positive. Now she enjoys all the classes and this is like a second home to her.