The 5 Best Dance Studios in Winnipeg That’ll Turn You Into a Regular
As a gift for my niece’s 6th birthday, I paid for her ballet classes for the entire summer. It was her first time, so she felt a little shy and apprehensive. But after two to three sessions, she warmed up to the class.
The instructors really brought her out of her shell. Aside from nurturing a love for dance, they helped build her confidence, especially in group settings.
When I was looking for a studio, I was surprised to know that we have quite a lot of options around. I narrowed down my search by rounding up my top picks and reviewing each one. Here, I’m sharing my list, hoping that you, too, will find the right fit for your needs.
How much do dance classes cost in Winnipeg?
1. Exhale Dance Studio
Address: 1188 Dakota Street, 26 Molgat Ave
Phone: +12049968115
Business Hours: 24 hours
Exhale is a leading studio for dance education, offering a diverse range of classes like hip hop, jazz, and ballet for all ages. They’re certified by the Youth Protection Association for Dance, which proves their nurturing and non-competitive environment.
According to clients, it’s a fun place for dancers as young as 3 years old to learn the basics. The instructors here go above and beyond to bring out their students’ confidence, including sending personalized notes of encouragement.
We like that Exhale is a space for professional development as well. Because, beyond the fun workshops, their performance company can hone students through intense technical training. This is an important path for dancers who dream of going pro.
That said, we’re aware of a complaint about teachers yelling at students. We can’t, however, verify if this happened at the regular workshops or the specialized training.
Everyone feels like family – staff and students alike
Exhale is such a fun and welcoming environment. Everyone feels like family—staff and students alike. The teachers are awesome, and not only have I learned so much from them, but they are such great influences and easy to talk to. I look forward to my classes each week, and I’ve made some great friends here. I highly recommend it for newbies, experienced dancers, and those who just want to try it out. Can’t wait to see all you guys again.
- E Ens, Google Review
The staff are all full of energy and compassion
The studio has been incredible for our girl. She’s made friends, built confidence, social skills, and a joy for dance! The staff are all full of energy and compassion. Fully recommend!!
- Marc Levesque, Google Review
2. Drop In Dance Winnipeg
Address: 1379 Portage Ave
Phone: +12047757911
Business Hours:
- Monday-Friday, 6–10 PM
- Saturday-Sunday, 9:30 AM–4 PM
If you’re a recreational mover who incorporates dance into your fitness routine, Drop In is the spot for you. This studio is known for its high-energy sessions, which you can participate in without fully committing to workshops for an entire month.
We appreciate how they incorporate a lot of contemporary and trendy music in their classes—from K-pop and hip hop to jazz funk. These fun, feel-good workshops can lift your spirits and confidence after every session.
Plus, they don’t have a dress code, giving you the creative freedom to dress as you want.
Clients are happy that they offer a bunch of adult workshops for different skill levels. Because most studios offer beginner programs, this space gives them an opportunity to refine their techniques and explore their artistry.
On the downside, drop-in classes can get pretty crowded.
You always feel welcome, no matter where you’re at in your dance journey
Been dancing here since 2019. There are classes for every level, and you always feel welcome no matter where you’re at in your dance journey. Whether you want to perform, improve your technique, get fit, or have fun, Drop In Dance is the place to be.
- Jonathan Bedder, Google Review
They offer classes from absolute beginner up to advanced in different styles
A great place for anyone looking to try or get back into dance. They offer classes from absolute beginner up to advanced in many different styles. Each teacher has their own unique style, and they are all very supportive. I like the ability to drop in and take classes when it works for my schedule, and they also offer longer programs if you are looking for more of a commitment.
- Daniel Klauke, Google Review
3. Kickit Dance Studio
Address: 986 Lorimer Blvd #3
Phone: +12042699003
Business Hours:
- Monday-Friday, 3–7 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–12:30 PM
- Sunday, 9 AM–3 PM
Voted as the Top Choice dance studio for 10 years in a row, Kickit is a local favorite, known for its professional programs and fun summer camps. It’s on our list of the best dance classes in Winnipeg for a good reason.
We were pretty impressed with the number of workshops they hold each week. Compared to other studios, you’ll find a wider range of options here—for ballet, hip hop, tap, musical theater, and more.
On top of that, we like that the adult sessions don’t stop at the intermediate level. Their experienced instructors can offer intense training, focusing on technique and choreography.
Clients were impressed with the recitals, particularly with the quality of the performances. After seeing the seniors, they were really amazed by their exceptional technical skills and artistry.
The only drawback is that some of the workshops are huge, especially the invitationals. With so many people in the room, the instructor can’t provide personalized feedback.
Lovely seating area to view the kids in practice
Wonderful dance experience for my 4-year-old. Lovely seating area to view the kids in practice, my daughter loved to have me watch her. Just attended her year end dance recital, which was amazing. The 4-year-olds were cute, however, I was truly amazed at the top quality dancers, choreography, and performance all around. I had no idea it was such a top notch dance studio. The recital was amazing.
- Denise Crosbie, Google Review
The choreography, music, and sound were spectacular
The recital was incredibly well done with truly amazing performances by each class and every performer. I was extremely impressed with the calibre of skill displayed by the senior classes who danced at a level on par with professional dancers. The choreography, music, and sound were spectacular. We totally enjoyed every aspect of this professional production.
- Wayne Deslauriers, Google Review
4. Encore Studios
Address: 130 Marion St
Phone: +12042350879
Business Hours:
- Monday-Thursday, 4:30–8:30 PM
- Friday, Closed
- Saturday, 8:45 AM–4 PM
- Sunday, 9:45 AM–12:30 PM
Encore Studios focuses on development programs for kids of all ages. For 21 years, they’ve been the go-to for aspiring dancers in multiple disciplines, such as Broadway, acro, lyrical, and ballet.
We found their instructors to be very patient and professional, especially those handling pre-school workshops. Because they accept kids as young as 3 years old, the teachers really go the extra mile to prepare fun and creative activities for them.
Aside from young learners, they offer classes for advanced dancers. They also invite guest teachers for drop-in sessions, perfect for those who don’t want to commit to a full program.
Clients told us that they really liked the atmosphere here. Not only was it welcoming, but it was also non-judgmental.
On the other hand, we heard complaints about the staff not greeting parents during drop-offs. They weren’t too happy about it, to say the least.
It’s a positive, energetic, and fun environment for dancers of all levels and ages
Overall, very positive experience for my daughter, who has been coming here for 4 years. Talented and supportive staff, and great dance programs. Encore Studios is a positive, energetic, and fun environment for dancers of all levels and ages! Highly recommend.
- Pedro Lopes, Google Review
The staff and teachers care so much about the development of each individual
I would highly recommend Encore Studios to anyone looking for a highly-quality dance studio. The staff and teachers care so much about the development and growth of each individual, and they tailor the needs of each student in a way that will enable them to experience success. I credit a lot of the confidence my daughters have gained as individuals from being a part of this amazing dance family. It takes a village, and I’m glad to have Encore Studios as part of ours! Top-notch studio for sure!!!
- Juetta Heslop, Google Review
5. The Dance Method
Address: 714 Watt St
Phone: +12045001932
Business Hours:
- Monday-Thursday, 4–9:30 PM
- Friday, 4:30–7 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–2 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–2 PM
The Dance Method is a boutique dance studio known for its intimate, specialized classes. Focused on personalized instruction and high-quality training, they’re a great choice for students who want to work closely with the teachers.
We like that they have recreational and competitive programs here. Whether you’re in it for fun or the technical training, their instructors will do their best to support your growth and hone you into a well-rounded performer.
The studio also offers drop-in classes taught by guest teachers. These are usually for advanced learners in contemporary and commercial jazz styles.
When we asked the clients, they told us that they liked how inclusive the workshops are. Because of the warm and welcoming atmosphere here, dancers of all abilities can build their confidence and explore their creativity.
Just take note that most of these classes are geared towards children.
The staff is very friendly, and the building is kept clean
This is my daughter’s second year at the dance method. The staff is very friendly and the building is kept clean/organized. I had the pleasure of doing the You and Me class last year and enjoyed dancing with my girl. She looks forward every Wednesday for dance class, and we can’t wait to sign her up for more classes in the fall.
- Brooke Skoleski, Google Review
They’re wonderfully inclusive, welcoming dancers of all abilities
This was both of our daughters’ first year at The Dance Method, and it has been fantastic! The staff greeted us warmly and made us feel part of the dance family from day one. The school is wonderfully inclusive, welcoming dancers of all abilities. The teachers are not only knowledgeable but also kind and encouraging, creating a supportive environment where our daughters feel motivated and valued. Overall, a very positive experience.
- Mack Fam, Google Review