Vancouver is home to a lively, thriving dance scene. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or looking to try something new, drop-in dance classes offer an incredible way to stay active, nurture creativity, and connect with your local dance community. In this blog, we’ll explore three of the best drop-in dance classes in Vancouver with links, locations, price ranges, and an introduction to their offerings. 

  1. Harbour Dance Centre

Location: 

927 Granville St, Vancouver, BC

Dance Styles & Class Offerings:  

Harbour Dance Centre is a renowned dance studio in the heart of downtown Vancouver, right on Granville Street and easily accessible by public transit. Their reputation precedes them, with acclaimed instructors, beautiful studio spaces, and high-quality classes. The community is strong, with many of its students returning day after day, week after week. They offer perhaps the widest range of drop-in dance classes in the city:

  • Jazz
    • Jazz Funk
  • Contemporary 
    • Contemporary Jazz
  • Ballet
    • Ballet Technique
    • Turns & Jumps
    • Pointe 
  • Hip-Hop
    • Grooving
    • House
    • Poppin’
  • Keep it Sexy
  • Heels
  • Tap
  • Choreography 
  • Improv
  • Afro Fusion
  • Bollywood

& More! You’d be hard-pressed to seek a dance style not offered at Harbour Dance Centre. Most of the above styles are also offered in numerous levels, more on that below. 

Experience Levels: 

Harbour Dance Centre splits its classes into 6 experience levels. Here’s how they describe them: 

Absolute Beginner (Abs. Beg.): For beginners who have never danced before. You’ll learn all the basics at this level.

Beginner (Beg.): For those with little or no dance background. A slower-paced class.

Beginner-Intermediate (Beg./Intm.): Fast beginner. 

Intermediate (Intm.): For dancers with anywhere from one to four years of experience who enjoy a class with less complex dance steps.

Intermediate-Advanced (Intm./Adv.): Fast Intermediate. This class is for those who prefer a fast-paced and complex class.

Advanced (Adv.): Directed towards long-time enthusiasts and professionals.

Price Range: 

Regular Class Prices:

  • 1 Hour Class: $19
  • 1.25 Hour Class: $21
  • 1.5 Hour Class: $23

Intro Offer:

  • 3 x 1 Hour Class: $38
  • 3 x 1.5 Hour Class: $46

Class Cards:

1 Hour Classes

  • 5 Class Card: $90
  • 10 Class Card: $175 
  • 20 Class Card: $330

1.25 Hour Classes

  • 5 Class Card: $100
  • 10 Class Card: $185
  • 20 Class Card: $350

1.5 Hour Classes

  • 5 Class Card: $105
  • 10 Class Card: $205 
  • 20 Class Card: $390

Young handsome man with outstretched arms doing one of dance exercises on background of his classmates in studio

  1. iDance Vancouver

Location: 

iDance Mount Pleasant: 257 E 7th Ave, Vancouver, BC  

iDance Kitsilano: 102 – 2083 Alma St, Vancouver, BC 

Dance Styles & Class Offerings: 

iDance Vancouver operates out of 2 studio spaces, one in Mount Pleasant and another in Kitsilano. This is great, because all class cards are redeemable at either/or location, so depending on your plan for the day, you can drop-in to whatever location is easiest for you to access and try both out for size. iDance Vancouvers offers a diverse range of drop-in classes, including the classics (Contemporary, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Modern etc.) as well as unique offerings like Bellydance, KPOP, Broadway Jazz, Burlesque, Cabaret, Latin and more. 

Experience Levels: 

Community: iDance Vancouver prides itself on being, in their words, “the only non-intimidating dance studio in Vancouver.” They prioritize an inclusive and welcoming environment where every student feels empowered. Whether you’re dancing for fun, fitness, or personal growth, you’ll find a supportive group of fellow dancers to share your journey with.

Price Range: 

Regular Class Price:

  • 1 Class: $25

Intro Offer:

  • 1st Class: $10
  • 30-Day Unlimited: $85

Class Cards:

  • 5 Class Card: $115
  • 10 Class Card: $180
  • 20 Class Card: $300
  • 50 Class Card: $700
  • 30-Day Unlimited: $250

Smiling Asian and white adult ballet dancers standing and doing gymnastics in ballet class.

  1. Community Centre Dance Classes in Vancouver

Location:

Various locations throughout Vancouver – Use the City of Vancouver’s community centre “dance studio near me” navigatable map here! 

Dance Styles & Class Offerings: 

Vancouver’s local community centres offer a variety of drop-in dance classes, including everything from ballroom to Bollywood to barre fitness. For parents looking to dip their kids’ toes into dance without committing to an annual program, it’s likely the community centre near you is hosting children’s dance and gymnastics classes. These classes are a great way to stay active and try out different dance styles in a very low-stakes, low-impact environment while staying close to home. 

Experience Levels: 

Community: Participating in drop-in dance classes at local community centres is a fantastic way to get involved not just in the dance community but in your neighbourhood.  People of all ages and backgrounds attend these classes, creating a diverse and inclusive environment.

Price Range: 

The drop-in prices range significantly based on class and community centre location. Around $10 – $20 is the average. 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Vancouver’s dance scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself. Whether you’re looking to learn a new style, improve your existing technique, or just have fun and move your body, Vancouver drop-in dance classes offer something for everyone at every age at every level. As part of an ongoing series, check out our Best 3 Drop-In Dance Classes in Winnipeg.