About the Course:

Foundations & Ensemble is a high-energy, movement-focused class that introduces students to the essential vocabulary and style of musical theatre dance. Using age-appropriate choreography drawn from both classic and contemporary musicals, dancers will learn how to connect technique, storytelling, and performance all while building confidence and presence on stage.

Each class begins with a strong foundation in jazz technique and warm-up practices, then moves into choreography that challenges students to think like storytellers as well as dancers. Students will explore formations, spacing, and precision as part of an ensemble, and experiment with contrasting Broadway styles from the elegance of the Golden Age to the energy of modern pop-infused shows.

Over the course of eight weeks, dancers build their skills step by step, working toward a fully choreographed routine. Along the way, they’ll strengthen their technique, practice choreography retention, and develop the expressive performance skills that make musical theatre dance come alive. The session culminates in an in-studio Open House performance for families and friends.

By the end of the program, students will have developed key jazz fundamentals, learned how to infuse character and story into movement, and gained the confidence to shine as part of a dynamic dance ensemble.


Where:

Union Studios
290 Picton Ave Unit 102
Ottawa, ON K1Z 8P8

When:

Ages 11 - 13 years
Sundays November 2 - December 21, 10:30am - 11:25am

Cost:

Regular: $160.00

Orpheus Members: $140.00
Discount will automatically apply after selecting Regular Fee

*PAY WHAT YOU WANT 1: $100.00

*PAY WHAT YOU WANT 2: $50.00

*Orpheus Schoolhouse courses are intentionally the lowest priced in town to ensure affordability and accessibility for all. Read Our Philosophy below. PAY WHAT YOU WANT options are intended for those who require the accommodation. If you can afford the full price, we ask that you be honest and leave the PWYW options for those in need. If the PWYW options are still out of reach for you, we have bursaries available. Please contact J.T. Morris at jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca for more information on bursaries.

Course fees are non-refundable

About the Instructor:

Laura Merani

Bachelor of Arts, Middlesex University

Laura has been dancing for over 25 years and knows first-hand the joy that it brings. Originally from the UK, she trained at the Leicester College of Performing Arts, completing a three-year professional dance and musical theatre program. After graduating, Laura went on to work professionally in India, Germany, and the UK. Since moving to Ottawa in 2013, Laura has become a certified ADAPT and acrobatic dance instructor. She has extensive experience teaching and choreographing in both recreational and competitive settings. Her love of musical theatre has also led her to work on local productions, including Mary Poppins and The Prom. Alongside teaching with Orpheus Musical Theatre’s Schoolhouse program, Laura is the Owner and Founder of Union Studios, an Ottawa-based dance studio dedicated to providing welcoming, inclusive, and professional dance classes for adults. She is thrilled to share her love of dance and theatre with the Orpheus community!


Our Philosophy:

Quality arts education should be available and accessible to all! Orpheus Schoolhouse courses are specifically designed to provide the opportunity of quality training by accredited and experienced instructors at lower cost rates. Bursaries are available to those who qualify. For information on bursaries, please contact J.T. Morris at jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca or by phone at 613-729-4318.

Orpheus welcomes individuals from equity seeking communities, intersecting identities, and people with disabilities. Orpheus is committed to providing a space that is free of discrimination and harassment, and fostering a supportive and inclusive community. Please advise us of any accommodation required which will enable you to participate. 

Musical Theatre Dance: Foundations & Ensemble (Ages 11 - 13): Fall 2025

  • Sunday Nov 02 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Nov 09 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Nov 16 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Nov 23 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Nov 30 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Dec 07 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Dec 14 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
    Sunday Dec 21 2025, 10:30 AM - 10:30 AM
  • 290 Picton Ave. Unit 102
    Ottawa, Ontario
    Canada
    K1Z 8P8