Danceability in Saint John, NB, offers an AMAZING dance experience for students of all ages.
Danceability competitive dancers.
Dance is never just about the physical movements or just the classes. Dance is an expression, a way to channel emotions, build connections, and grow both individually and as a community. It’s about the relationships that are built, the challenges that are overcome, and the personal growth that occurs along the way.
Dance is a powerful force that extends far beyond the walls of a studio. At Danceability, this philosophy is deeply ingrained in everything they do. Founded by Anne Stephen, a respected figure in the local dance scene, Danceability is much more than a dance school—it’s a place where love, respect and inclusivity thrive.
Anne's core values of love, respect, and community continue to be the guiding principles of Danceability. Now led by her daughter Heather Allen, the studio has seen significant growth in student enrollment and continues to make a positive impact in the dance community. Heather's leadership has maintained the integrity and spirit of Danceability, fostering a welcoming environment where every dancer can flourish. Under Heather’s guidance, Danceability remains a pillar of the Saint John dance community, known for its commitment to providing a nurturing space for dancers of all ages and abilities.
Here are 5 Reasons Why Danceability stands out as an amazing dance school:
1.Experience: Enriching Lives Through Dance
At Danceability, the experience goes well beyond teaching steps and routines. When Anne decided to create her own studio, she did so with a clear vision of what dance education should be—a journey that nurtures the whole person, not just the dancer. After years of teaching The Eileen McGrath School of Dance, she recognized the need for a space where the focus wasn’t solely on perfecting technique but also on personal development, emotional expression, and building lifelong skills. At Danceability, every class is designed to teach more than just dance; students learn the values of perseverance, confidence, and teamwork.
The lessons learned here—such as the importance of resilience and the value of community—extend far beyond the studio, shaping students into well-rounded individuals who carry these qualities into all areas of their lives. Danceability offers an experience that students cherish long after they leave the studio, making it a truly transformative place. Just ask their recent grads and alumni.
Danceability competitive troupe on stage at Limelight Dance competition.
2.Inclusion: A True Sense of Belonging for All
Inclusion is a fundamental part of the studio’s identity. The studio prides itself on being a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of ability, background, or body type. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in every aspect of the studio’s operations, from the way classes are taught to the atmosphere in the studio itself. Danceability has a proud history of supporting dancers with learning challenges, ensuring they can participate in end-of-year shows safely and successfully.
The environment at Danceability is intentionally designed to be positive, supportive, and free from the pressures and negativity often associated with body image and appearance. At Danceability, everyone is encouraged to be their true selves, and this ethos creates a community where dancers feel accepted, valued, and respected.
Some of Danceability's Teachers.
3. Teachers: Passionate, Dedicated, and Experienced
The strength of Danceability lies in its exceptional team of teachers. With thousands of teaching hours under their belts, Danceability’s instructors bring an unparalleled depth of experience to their classes. Many of them are not only passionate about dance but also understand the unique needs of young dancers, as they are parents themselves. Having grown up immersed in the world of dance, they bring a genuine love for the art that goes beyond teaching technique—they are committed to fostering a love of dance in their students.
This dedication is evident in the way they connect with their students, often receiving heartfelt gifts and thank-you notes that reflect the deep impact they have on their lives. At Danceability, the teachers are more than just instructors—they are mentors who inspire, encourage, and uplift their students, making dance an enriching and memorable experience.
4. Adult Dancers: A Thriving and Growing Community
Danceability is home to a large and active community of adult dancers, many of whom have been dancing for years and continue to find joy in the art. This group includes dancers of all levels, from beginners who are rediscovering their passion to advanced dancers who have been practicing for decades. The fact that so many adults choose to dance at Danceability speaks volumes about the studio’s inclusive and welcoming environment.
Adult dancers are often drawn to Danceability because of the supportive community, the high-quality instruction, and the opportunity to continue pursuing their love of dance in a positive space. The presence of such a strong adult dance community is a testament to the studio’s ability to create an environment where dancers of all ages feel connected and inspired. Dance at Danceability isn’t just for kids—it’s a lifelong passion that continues to grow and evolve.
Advanced Adult class posing in the studio.
5. THE Founder’s Legacy HAS A Lasting Impact ON CULTURE AND VALUES
The spirit of Anne Stephen, the founder of Danceability, continues to be a guiding force at the studio. Anne was a visionary who believed in the power of dance to bring people together, create joy, and foster a sense of community. Although Anne is no longer with us, her values and vision live on through her daughter Heather, who now leads the studio. Heather has carried forward Anne’s legacy with the same passion, dedication, and commitment to inclusivity that Danceability was founded on. Every class, every performance, and every event at Danceability is a reflection of the love, kindness, and respect that Anne instilled in the studio.
The values that Anne championed continue to shape the studio’s culture, ensuring that Danceability remains a place where everyone feels welcomed and appreciated.
Studio Founder, Anne Stephen.
Conclusion: Danceability is where the dance experience meets passion and purpose in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Danceability is a community built on a foundation of love, respect, and inclusion. Whether you’re a young dancer just starting out or an adult looking to take your first class or reconnect with the joy of dance, Danceability offers a supportive environment where you can grow, learn, and thrive.
Danceability is a dynamic and welcoming dance studio located in the heart of Saint John’s east side. Each year they serve over 300 dancers, including several competitive teams. Offering classes in tap, jazz, ballet, lyrical, contemporary, acro, and hip hop, they strive to provide students with high-quality instruction while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
ABOUT DANCEABILITY DANCE STUDIO LOCATED IN SAINT JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK
Danceability was established by Anne Stephen in 1997. Her love for dance was contagious and she was a mentor to so many dancers and teachers still active in the city of Saint John. She dedicated 30 years of her beautiful life to making everyone feel like they were special, heard, and appreciated. She loved her students and called them her pumpkins - picking up the title of Mother Pumpkin along the way.
In September of 2018, Anne left us for a better place, and her daughter, Heather is now the Director of Danceability. Heather carries on her mother's legacy with Danceability and brings the same love and passion for her students and dance.
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