Premiere Dance Academy in Calgary provides a supportive and professional environment for dancers of all ages and skill levels. The studio focuses on building confidence, skill, and endurance through a variety of dance disciplines, fostering a strong community among students and parents. With state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated instructors, it aims to help each dancer reach their full potential in a welcoming atmosphere.
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Location
19 Royal Vista Link NW #310, Calgary, AB T3R 0N2, Canada
This is a money robber. They charge you the first month and the last month’s fee altogether without telling you the last month’s fee is non-refundable. I got charged for June 2026! But someone I know wasn’t charged for June. When I sent the withdrawal request, they wanted to also charge me the next month’s fee on top of the June 2026 fee. Two office staff gave me two different answers regarding the fee. The weekend lady told me next month’s fee won’t be charged, but a weekday lady told me I will be charged for next month and the June 2026 fee is non-refundable. This is unacceptable. There is no transparency and consistency in their fee, and I didn’t receive any email confirmation or policy regarding my registration.
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Penelope Raugust
via Google
· 12 months ago
I dance at premiere dance academy and it’s safe to say that it is the best studio I have ever danced at. The staff and parents and kids are all so supportive and it’s a really great community to be in, when I started comp, I didn’t have any friends at dance but right away I had so many supporters and friends that I could count on. PDA has improved my confidence, skill and endurance and has taught me to support myself and others, I am so grateful that I am a part of the PDA community and I am so excited for this years season! (Also all of the parents have been so nice and helpful so shout out to them!!!)
Ms Lisa has been so nice and really supportive of everyone! She knows how to push you out of your comfort zone and have fun at the same time! She has really been the best manager ever.
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Astrid Roe
via Google
· 1 year ago
At the end of last season we made the decision to transfer to a new studio.
My daughter (9) has never been enthusiastic when it comes to anything Ballet related. Our first class she still wasn’t sure. Fast forward to her second class and she smiled the whole time. The dancer that attended class that day stood Tall. Emulated Confidence. Every move reflected Pride.
I’ve never seen this version of her and it truly excites me. She’s come home everyday this week, more excited for the next. Has even expressed loving Ballet.
Thank you for the opportunities and warm welcome. The PDA dance family is truly impressive, and we’re grateful to be apart of it🩵
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Skye Robson
via Google
· 1 year ago
Honest Review from a Former Premiere Dance Academy Parent
My daughter attended Premiere Dance Academy for nearly three years. I’m writing this review to provide transparency for current families who may be questioning their own experiences, and to offer potential new families a clearer picture of what to expect.
First, let me say that our time at Premiere included many wonderful connections — both with fellow dancers and other families. There are some dedicated and talented faculty members, and for that, I’m grateful. However, our overall experience was overshadowed by ongoing issues that should not be dismissed or minimized.
Unfortunately, the owner, Lisa, consistently presents herself in a manner that is curt, dismissive, and at times, openly rude — even to parents who are simply trying to pay fees or pick up costumes. What’s worse is the way students are spoken to and about — both directly and behind their backs. I’ve personally witnessed and heard her belittle children, make comments about their bodies (including remarks like “lay off the McDonald’s” or “she needs to eat more”), and share confidential information about payments and fees with other parents she considers her “favorites.”
Even those favorites are not immune — I’ve heard Lisa speak poorly about students’ appearances, behavior, and even their intellect, all while smiling to their parents’ faces.
Two beloved teachers — Miss Shae and Miss Laura — were both abruptly let go mid-season, which was upsetting not only for students, but for families who saw them as a critical, positive presence in the studio. These teachers acted as buffers and brought professionalism, warmth, and consistency. Their absence speaks volumes.
Let me be clear: students don’t attend Premiere for Lisa. They come for the convenience, the friendships, and the few dedicated faculty members who remain. Lisa’s choreography is outdated, and the environment she fosters is not one of support or growth, but fear and favoritism.
You may see glowing reviews online, but be mindful: many of these come from families who are given preferential treatment — often in exchange for loyalty. However, even those families are not safe from behind-the-scenes gossip and judgment.
If teachers can be dismissed so easily — regardless of their value to students — current staff should take note: Lisa has shown loyalty to no one. Her pattern of behavior is well-established.
She frequently cites achievements such as choreographing for the police/fire games or other ceremonies — most of which happened over a decade ago. Her business, Top Hat, is often touted as a sign of professional success, but in reality, it’s a small operation with minimal staff, used primarily to facilitate adjudications and summer intensives.
There is a lack of oversight in the studio. Some parents are permitted to access costumes without permission, ignore guidelines, and even purchase unauthorized alternatives — all without consequence. This favoritism breeds division and distrust.
When dancers forget routines at competitions or need support, Lisa does not provide comfort or constructive follow-up. Merchandise this year was overpriced, took months to arrive, and was of mediocre quality — continuing a trend from previous years where items were dated and cheaply made.
This review is not an act of internet bullying, despite how Lisa may attempt to spin it (as she has with other critical feedback). It is a candid account meant to validate the experiences of those who may feel alone in their concerns — and to warn prospective families of the red flags.
If you’re wondering if there’s better out there — there absolutely is. There are higher-quality acro programs, studios with respectful leadership, and environments where feedback is welcomed, not punished. There are dance families who support each other, not whisper behind one another’s backs.
And if you’ve heard rumors about others — rest assured, similar things are being said about you and your child too.
Choose wisely. Your dancer deserves better.
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Leah Kennedy
via Google
· 1 year ago
My daughters (age 10 and 12 currently) joined Premiere's competitive dance team after a not so good experience with another Calgary dance studio. From day one the owner, assistant director, front staff, dance teachers and dancers have been so welcoming and kind to myself and my girls. This is our second year with the this studio's dance team and I feel like we truly hit the jackpot not to mention the state of the art studios and warm and welcoming waiting area. I did not know a dance studio and dance family like this existed! The parents and kids all support and encourage each other and we are so lucky to have Premiere as our second home. The owner (Ms. Lisa) puts so much love and care into this space and gives each dancer the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.
via Google
