Ascension Dance is a dance studio in Chatham that offers high-quality dance instruction in an encouraging, friendly and inclusive environment. Classes are offered for ages 2 to advanced years, with a variety of dance styles presented as single event drop-in classes, monthly commitments and full season program.

A personal message from studio owner Brianna Cernanec:

In the midst of the lockdown uncertainty in the spring of 2020 I knew that there were many kids (and adults) who just wanted to move and needed some joy and music in their lives. Ascension Dance started as an online-only studio to help support people’s physical and mental health with weekly videos aimed at many different ages and dance styles. Students were encouraged to watch and follow along as many times as they wanted with new videos posted every Monday morning. More experienced dancers connected one-on-one via Zoom. As things started to open up we rented one studio space, installed mirrors, taped social-distancing boxes on the floor, and implemented policies to keep our dancers and teachers safe. Our hybrid model meant that some students danced in their living rooms while others were at the studio. We also partnered with local elementary schools to teach entire classes of children over Zoom! Through it all we have intentionally woven a thread of creating a safe, inclusive and welcoming space where people can belong.

Less than 3 years later, we have grown to include 6 staff members and a handful of volunteers, and we occupy two busy studio spaces, an office, and a lobby with TV’s for parents to view their children’s classes while they wait. We continue our deep commitment to the video technology that launched us: our Winter Holiday Showcase is a video production with lights, cameras, sets and costumes; some soloists have opportunities to dance for on-location video shoots; we host dancer photo shoots; summer dance camps include digital showcase downloads; and parents have many opportunities to take home pictures and videos featuring their dancers.

We have weekly recreational classes for people of all skill levels and ages range from under 2 to over 70. Summer camps are always a favourite, with children enjoying themes drawn from favourite movies, shows, and artists and other content that kids are excited about. We hold P.A. Day camps with similar fun themes, and an expanded version for March Break. Adult drop-in classes and youth month-long theme classes give families a low-commitment opportunity to get to know us and meet new friends. One-off birthday parties, Zumba, Barre fitness and Yoga broaden our offerings and keep people moving. This spring a few of our most dedicated dancers will be competing in local dance competitions, a first for many of the dancers!

We are proud of the friendships and connections that have developed over the years. We look forward to the new adventures and opportunities that 2023 will bring!

For more details about our upcoming classes and events such as adult drop in classes, day camps and themed youth classes – visit our website: https://ascensiondance.ca/ or email us at studio@ascensiondance.ca to find the class where you belong.