For as long as Livia Avrith can remember, she has loved to dance. Her passion was ignited as a young child after taking classical jazz and ballet classes. But beyond the technique and time counts, Avrith found herself fascinated by the power of dance in terms of expressing feelings, building confidence, and bolstering learning. It was this affinity, combined with an interest in early childhood development, that led to the birth of Funky Feet, Avrith’s brand of dance instruction.
The Funky Feet program is designed for children from the time they can walk up to age 12 and represents a method of instruction that is far from conventional. It throws technique out the window in lieu of fluid, creative movement, replacing time counts with singing and word-associated movements.
“The underlying goal is to empower children to feel good about themselves,” Avrith says. “We see how, when they do the classes, they’re smiling, interacting with one another, and exercising. It’s about having fun to music.”
Avrith and her instructors have been offering Funky Feet classes in schools, daycares, community centres and private homes for more than 14 years and as of this past spring, they have a ‘home’ called The Studio by Funky Feet. Located in D.D.O., it features a reception area, two large studios, and baby gym, all of which are wheelchair accessible. A variety of dance classes will be offered this fall, including traditional programs such as jazz, hip-hop and ballet, which will put emphasis on proper technique.
The studio also offers specialized dance courses, including an all-girls Kosher Zumba as well as a mom and tot class. There will also be a dance program for children with intellectual disabilities. “We’re working with a speech pathologist and ABA therapist to come up with a special program for kids with high-functioning autism or other special needs,” Avrith says. “I know parents have been dying to get their kids into something like this.”
The fall session begins Sept. 12. The studio can also be booked for special events, such as birthdays, Zumba and other themed-parties with packages starting at $330.
For more information, call 514-684-7300 or visit thestudiobyfunkyfeet.ca.
The Baby Gym
