Breaking and Hip-Hop training
Beat Street is an integral part of our ultimate Street Styles dance program, designed for kids from Kindergarten to grade 7. This program offers more weekly classes than our recreational options, along with additional opportunities for battles and performances. Conveniently scheduled from Monday to Friday between 4 and 6 pm, Beat Street is available through our Full-Time After School Arts Program.
Goals of the Beat Street Program
We aim to strengthen dancers through weekly conditioning, preparing them for advanced skills and performances. It offers exposure to various street dance styles and community events including our By the Rock Battles. The program inspires children to challenge themselves creatively, physically, and intellectually, while teaching life skills like teamwork, leadership, and goal setting. Dancers learn the value of skill development, building confidence, and realising their potential as artists.
Opportunities & Commitments
At The Heart, we prioritize exceptional arts programming and ask for the same level of dedication from our students. To ensure everyone benefits from the program, regular class attendance is essential. Students are also expected to participate in two mandatory performances throughout the year:
- Polar Night: at the Yukon Arts Centre: January 12–25, 2026
- Art from the Heart Festival: at the Yukon Arts Centre: May 19–31, 2026
Level 1A and 1B participate only in May.
For new students in Kindergarten
Beat Street 1A is an introduction to street dance for kindergarten-aged children. Through playful and engaging lessons, young dancers explore the foundations of breaking and hip hop. This sub-program focuses on building coordination, confidence, and creativity in a fun and nurturing environment.
Schedule
| Mondays (3:45-4:40PM) - Breaking with Riley Simpson-Fowler in the Dojo |
| Wednesdays (3:45-4:40PM) - Hip Hop with Sasha (Oleksandra Trofimova) in the Dojo |
For new students in Grade 1
Beat Street 1B is designed for Grade 1 students to expand their street dance skills. This program introduces fundamental techniques in breaking and hip hop while encouraging self-expression and artistic identity. Students learn in a supportive atmosphere where teamwork and personal growth are celebrated.
Schedule
| Tuesdays (3:45-4:40PM) - Hip Hop with Violetta Umanes in the Dojo |
| Thursdays (3:45-4:40PM) - Breaking with Riley Simpson-Fowler in the Dojo |
Important Dates
For new students in Grade 2
Beat Street 2 takes returning dancers in Grades 2-3 deeper into street dance techniques, adding new elements house. With frequent classes and additional opportunities for community performances, students refine their skills, develop strength, and build confidence as individual artists and collaborators.
Schedule
| Tuesdays (4:45-5:45PM) - Hip Hop with Sasha (Oleksandra Trofimova) in the Purple Studio |
| Thursdays (4:45-5:45PM) - Breaking with Riley Simpson-Fowler in the Dojo Studio |
Important Dates
For new students in Grade 3
Beat Street 3 is designed for Grade 3 students. The program introduces breaking, hip hop, and house in a welcoming and supportive environment. Dancers build foundational skills while exploring their creativity and discovering their unique style.
Schedule
| Tuesdays (4:45-5:45PM) - Hip Hop with Violetta Umanes in the Dojo Studio |
| Thursdays (4:45-5:45PM) - Breaking with Oleksii Ogarov in the Purple Studio |
Important Dates
For new students in Grade 4
Beat Street 4 welcomes new Grade 4 students to the world of street dance. This program covers breaking, hip hop, and house, with a focus on conditioning and technique. Students develop strength and self-expression, preparing them for performances and collaborative dance projects.
Schedule
| Mondays (5-6PM) - Breaking with Oleksii Ogarov in the Purple Studio |
| Wednesdays (5-6PM) - Hip Hop with Violetta Umanes in the Purple Studio |
| Fridays (3:45-4:45PM) - Choreography with Sasha in the Blackbox |
Important Dates
For new students in Grade 5/7
Beat Street 5 introduces Grade 5-7 students new to street dance to foundational and intermediate techniques in breaking, hip hop, and house. With an emphasis on confidence-building and teamwork, students learn the value of dedication and self-expression in a fun, encouraging atmosphere.
Schedule
| Mondays (4:45-6PM) - Breaking with Riley in the Dojo Studio |
| Wednesdays (4:45-6PM) - Hip Hop with Sasha (Oleksandra Trofimova) in the Dojo Studio |
| Fridays (4:45-6PM) - Choreography with Sasha in the Black Box Theatre |
Important Dates
Every Beat Street Program includes the option to register for After School Care which consists of a walking school bus from Riverdale elementary schools, a healthy snack, outdoor play, activity centres, homework support, and Playspace time. Find out more by following the related programs tab at the bottom of this page.
Required Supplies
- Comfortable clothes including a hoodie and toque
- Clean, indoor sneakers/running shoes
- Water bottle
- Hair brush, hair ties, pins, barrettes, etc. for students with long hair
- NO skirts or dresses unless you have proper shorts underneath
*Please label EVERYTHING, including shoes and water bottle, with your dancer’s name!