When the COVID-19 shutdown took effect in Ontario, Dance Steps London was forced to figure out how to help its dancers continue to learn and develop without being able to gather at the studio.
“The shutdown of businesses and schools happened so quickly, but I am so proud of our teachers and how quickly we got online and learned a new way of teaching classes,” says Donna Bayley, the owner and Artistic Director at Dance Steps. “Teachers had to buy new equipment, including iPads, wireless speakers, and more.”
The club held a couple of test classes with its Intermediate and Senior dancers the week after March Break. Then, the following week, Dance Steps offered more than 30 hours of online instructional classes – from all of its available staff members.
“We chose to offer the classes during the day, including over lunchtime, when the students would need a break from their schoolwork and when parents could relinquish the computer,” said Bayley. “Students, as well as teachers, have been using iPads, phones, computers and big screen TVs to watch and instruct classes.”
There have been some minor bumps in road, as is expected with technology, but Dance Steps instructors, like Pamela Garcia, Krista Conti, Chimira Andres, Sophia Noguera and Megan Gregor, have tackled the transition with creativity and enthusiasm.
“We have been advised by dance industry physiotherapists and sports doctors to keep the dancers strong and flexible, and not to worry about artistry/musicality and new steps,” says Bayley. “The experts believe that, once the dancers are back to regular classes, they’ll be able to pick up the artistic components if they are in shape.”
Feedback from parents has been very positive, says Bayley.
Said one parent: “Thank you for taking the time to set this up for the students. I know my girls love that they can still dance. This is their first year, and I can see it making a positive first impression. Many thanks.”
Bayley believes online instruction may just catch on and continue – in some form – even once physical distancing measures for COVID-19 are no longer in place.
“Nothing replicates live performances and classroom experiences, but I think with the dance world being so connected around the world, we may branch out more in an online capacity.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dance Steps also started a private Facebook page for its registered dancers.
“The group has been posting photos/instructional info/fun games, colouring pages, and more!” says Bayley. “We have been trying to stay connected and feel like we are all in it together!”
Contributions by Donna Bayley
