Workshops + Programs

Dance Programs

8-10 Week Sessions run throughout the year. Culminating in optional performance opportunities such as “The Spring Showcase” that gathers artists and youth together for a celebration of the performing arts. Stay tuned for Fall Performance Opportunities!

Jillian Peever, Instructor

Accreditations: DPL. Canada’s Nation Ballet School Teacher Training Program, DPL. School of Toronto Dance Theatre Professional Dance Program.
Click the photo to read more about Jillian!

Age Dates + Time Location Cost Register
Dance Basics A supportive, inclusive space for all ages to build body awareness, creativity, and confidence through movement—whether introducing young learners to fundamental skills or inviting adults to let go of expectations and try something new. Includes optional performance opportunities as the session comes to an end.
3–6 8 Mondays
Sept 28–Nov 23
4:30–5:10pm		 South River Community Centre $45 Register
3–6 10 Thursdays
Sept 17–Nov 26
5:15–6:00pm		 Kearney Community Centre $70 Register
3–6 8 Saturdays
Sept 19–Nov 28
9:15–10:00am		 Burk's Falls $80 Register
7–8 8 Mondays
Sept 28–Nov 23
5:10–6:15pm		 South River Community Centre $45 Register
7–13 10 Thursdays
Sept 17–Nov 26
6:15–7:30pm		 Kearney Community Centre $70 Register
8+ 8 Mondays
Sept 28–Nov 23
6:10–7:15pm		 South River Community Centre $45 Register
Adult 8 Mondays
Sept 28–Nov 23
7:30–8:30pm		 South River Community Centre $75 Register
Emerging Dancers Program A commitment to dancing twice a week with goal setting for skill, strength, and flexibility. *MUST BE enrolled in 1 additional weekday class in either South River or Kearney to attend.
All Ages 8 Saturdays
Sept 19–Nov 28
10:00am–12:00pm		 Burk's Falls $120 Register

Workshops

Celebrate the joy of movement. Movement and dance build confidence and creativity by fostering body awareness, self-expression, and inner calm. To learn more about our workshop offerings, or to book a workshop, please email us at thespaceupstairs.nearnorth@gmail.com.

 

Curious Components & Playful Perspectives

Artists Jillian Peever and Corinne Penstone bring an interactive music and movement workshop to schools and communities, using props, costumes, improvisation, and play to spark curiosity and creativity. Participants explore movement, music, observation, and artistic decision-making, culminating in a collaborative performance shaped by their ideas. By seeing their contributions influence the creative process, participants build confidence, connection, and a sense that their unique perspectives have value.

Originally developed with support from the Ontario Arts Council and Kawartha Credit Union's Community Involvement Fund.

Supports: Creative risk-taking • Youth well-being • Community connection • Access to the arts in rural communities

Movement Reset: Connect, Reset, Re-Energize

Designed for conferences, meetings, and professional gatherings, this energizing workshop offers participants a physical and mental reset through simple, creative movement activities that are accessible to all bodies and experience levels. Together, we explore connection, play, and shared movement as tools for breaking down barriers, boosting engagement, and re-energizing the room. Jillian Peever also shares insights into how The SPACE Upstairs uses dance and the arts to foster resilience, creativity, and belonging in a rural community.

Supports: Well-being and focus • Community building • Creative engagement • Rural arts leadership and inspiration

Moving Together: Group Choreography for Connection

Create lasting memories through the shared experience of dance. This workshop guides participants through accessible choreographed movement tailored to your group and event. Designed to strengthen relationships, celebrate collaboration, and spark laughter, it offers a fun and meaningful way to connect at retreats, celebrations, team-building events, and community gatherings.




Embodied Flow: Dance for Yoga Retreats

Expand your yoga practice into new realms of movement. This workshop blends contemporary dance with somatic awareness, encouraging participants to explore a fuller range of motion, presence, and expression. With a mindful and gentle approach, the session deepens body-mind connection while inviting joy, creativity, and freedom in movement.

Slow Dance with the Forest

Step into the woods with curiosity and presence. This meditative workshop combines contemporary dance with the principles of forest bathing, guiding participants to embody the natural world through mindful movement and gentle observation. Discover a deeper sense of wonder and connection as you move with the trees, insects, mushrooms, and earth itself.

What our students are saying about classes with the SPACE Upstairs

“My kids have loved being part of the SPACE Upstairs with Jillian since it opened. It's so much more than just a dance class for them. Rather than just learning steps, they have cultivated a true love and joy of movement through working with Jillian. Her love for the arts is clear and the kids are soaking it up. They have so much fun being able to express themselves through dance and their confidence in how they move their bodies has grown exponentially since starting there. We are so thankful to be part of such a special experience.” ~ Rachel

“I feel fortunate to be able to attend Jillian’s adult dance classes through the SPACE Upstairs. As someone with previous dance training, I’m impressed by the calibre of teaching that Jillian offers but also love that previous experience isn’t at all necessary. Jillian invites us all to try new movements, creating challenges if we want them, offers wonderful visual cues to help us understand the steps, and makes it fun and easy to follow along. Her classes are warm and welcoming and her enthusiasm for dance and play is contagious. I always come away feeling grateful for moving my body in new ways, getting some exercise, and connecting with the community Jillian has created.” ~ Stephanie

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • In Burk’s Falls, classes take place at 39 Copeland St, Burk’s Falls, above the Burk’s Falls Library. We offer classes on Wednesdays in Burk’s Falls.

    In South River, classes take place at the South River-Machar Community Centre, 1-A Lincoln Ave, South River (Upstairs at the arena)

  • Our age groups are thoughtfully designed to provide the best experience for each developmental stage, but we understand that every child is unique. These are guidelines, not rigid rules. If you feel your child would be a better fit in a different class, we’re happy to discuss options and find the right fit together. Please reach out to us before registering so we can chat!

  • Yes, we do! Classes may not run if registration is below 10 students. We will be in touch as soon as possible if you register for a class that does not meet the minimum student count.

  • Yes, we can! Please reach out to thespaceupstairs.nearnorth@gmail.com to discuss.

  • Yes! We have an annual “Spring Showcase” where local performers collaborate with us to bring dance and live performance to the community. Youth have an opportunity to participate and we encourage a low-stress experience where focus is on process, not product.

    We also have additional performance opportunities that may come up for both youth and adults! Email us if you are interested!