Denise Lester Dance Academy

This place is fantastic! They give my 4 year old much needed special attention. Making sure she is participating to her full ability.

My favorite friend from 1984 Terri Thiemann (age 16) went to this dance academy. I know I must think of her as fond memories since 1984. Terri Thiemann is a great dancer.

This dance studio has operated in Durham region longer than any other. The friendly, qualified adult staff are extremely knowledgeable and talented. I danced there and now my daughter dances there. Their senior dancers are great role models as are the teachers. Quality training in a genuinely friendly and caring environment.

My two daughters have been going to DLDA pretty well since they could walk. The studio is great and all the staff are caring and lovely. Seeing the performances and going to competition is awesome

Denise Lester Dance Academy was like a 2nd home to me. Having trained as a recreational dancer until the age of 12, switching studios to move to a competitive program seemed intimidating. By the end of my first year at DLDA, the improvement was astounding. Not only are you being taught by some of the best choreographers, but you are also able to take B.A.T.D dance exams. Exams can not only improve technique, but be a stepping stone for moving forward with a dance teaching career. If it wasn’t for Denise, Suzie, and all me other teachers, I don’t think I’d be where I am today in my dance career, and I owe it all to them.Overall, they have a strong balance of recreational, pre-competitive, and competitive dance programs. They balance business with a family dynamic and I couldn’t imagine having a better environment to grow as a dancer.

My three daughters have been dancing with the Denise Lester Dance Academy for the past 23 years. It is our second home and a wonderful safe environment that we have been privileged to participate in. We knew we made the right decision for our children as they never wanted to miss or be late for a class. Not only do they receive excellent training in ballet, jazz, acro, tap, lyrical, musical theatre and hip hop, they have a greater appreciation for the arts. The wealth of experience the teachers and guest choreographers share with the students is outstanding. My two eldest daughters have both earned their Associate Degrees to teach dance and remain members of B.A.T.D and are proud to pop into the studio and join an Alumni Dance. Their dance friends are their friends for life. My youngest has a few years left to train and is enjoying every minute.Excited to see how the next few years of this dance journey unfolds and proud to be part of the DLDA family.

I grew up dancing at the Denise Lester Dance Academy over 30 years ago and still take part in the amazing Ladies Classes. My daughter began dancing here at 2 years old and is finishing up her last year this year before she is off to University. This studio has an amazing family atmosphere with caring, positive and creative teachers. Whether signing up for recreational, competitive or adult classes, you can't go wrong. Best dance studio in Pickering! Highly recommended.

Denise Lester Dance Academy holds a special place in my heart as both a student, parent and adult dancer at the studio. The teachers are knowledgable, supportive and truly care about their dancers. My daughter is a recent graduate and has so many positive memories of nightly classes, successful competitions and memorable events. She has made life-long friends in this nuturing environment and we both feel lucky to have been mentored by such amazing people. I would highly recommend this studio to anyone looking to dance at any age or ability.

Amazing studio! Friendly instructor & great programs.