When the business owner first set foot in the huge, vacant unit on Innovation Drive, she knew the space was a perfect fit for Dancemakerz. And almost two months to the day since the renovations began, the new dance facility opened its doors to students eager to boogie on the new dance floor.

Converting the bare warehouse unit into a dance studio was a labour of love, noted McKay. But thanks to contractor Cecil Kalyn, all of McKay’s visions were included.

Prior to Monday’s grand relocation, Dancemakerz students practiced their dance moves at three locations, including in a gymnasium on Flatt Road in Burlington. Now, all classes will take place under one roof.

The 6,200-square-foot facility boasts three large studios with 14-foot ceilings, hardwood sprung floors, a reception area, a girls’ and boys’ change room, an office and washroom.

“It has everything that we were looking for,” said McKay of the new location, which is also wheelchair accessible.

“We can grow even more now.”  

More than 75 tradesmen were needed to convert the bare space into a “prestigious facility,” said Kalyn. “It was a little bit of a task but not insurmountable.”

Looking back at all the time, energy and hard work invested in the business’s relocation, McKay laughed: “We are not moving for a while.”

Thrilled to provide her students with a new facility, McKay hopes to offer more programs and expand the business by offering classes for adults. “Right now, we are keeping everything the same as it was and then... we are going to start growing our existing program,” she said.

Next week (January 11-15), Dancemakerz is hosting its Bring a Friend week, where current dancers are welcome to bring a friend for a dance lesson. The dance company is also offering trial classes.

“Just give us a call and we can arrange to give you a free trial lesson,” said McKay.

Community residents interested in seeing the new facility are welcome to stop by the 12 Innovation Dr. business on Sunday, January 31 between 2 and 4 p.m. during its Grand Re-Opening Gala. Dance performances will be carried out throughout the two-hour celebration and refreshments will be served. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 3 p.m.

For more information or to book a free trial dance lesson, please call Dancemakerz at 905-690-4777.