42 Years of providing confidence, personalized instruction and opportunity through the art of dance.

Nestled in Market Lane Shopping Centre, the Woodbridge School of Dance has become a cornerstone of artistic expression since its founding in 1983. Owners, directors and sisters Deandra Filippo and Olivia Filippo-Paternoster, both former students at the school, are dedicated to continuing its legacy. “We were absolutely in love with dance and ballet,” Deandra recalls of their early years. Their connection to the school, originally established by Gilly Chaplin, is both personal and profound.

The sisters initially knew Chaplin as a neighbour, but it wasn’t until an unexpected run-in that they discovered she ran a dance school nearby. From ages 4 to 18, the sisters attended her school under her tutelage. However, it was during the sisters’ university years that their inherited family entrepreneurial spirit would spark.

So, with the intention of creating their own dance school, they sought out Chaplin for advice. It was during that conversation that she revealed she was ready to move on and retire from the school and pass it on. The sisters became a part of her succession plan, and the rest is history.

The sisters emphasize the school’s philosophy of prioritizing education over competition. “One of the big things that sets us apart is our core values,” Olivia explains. “We don’t actually participate in competition or competitive dance.” Instead, they focus on creating a nurturing environment that fosters personal growth, resilience and a love for dance. With approximately 350 enrolled students, their commitment to high-quality dance education is evident.

A key component of their success lies in their faculty. “Our faculty means the world to us,” Deandra asserts. Their instructors’ diverse backgrounds and expertise enrich the students’ experiences, allowing them to explore various styles and disciplines. This collaborative spirit extends to their students, whom they describe as “dedicated and committed to their craft.”

As the sisters work closely together, their dynamic enhances the school’s atmosphere. “We have a lot of fun together,” Olivia says. “I couldn’t see doing this with anyone else. We’re best friends and best colleagues,” Deandra adds.

Their unique balance of management and creativity has led to the Woodbridge School of Dance being an institution that allows its students to thrive in dance and as individuals. The Woodbridge School of Dance stands as a beacon of community, resilience and passion for the arts in a world that often prioritizes accolades.

Market Lane Shopping Centre
140 Woodbridge Ave. Woodbridge, ON
905-851-5511
www.woodbridgedance.com
@woodbridgedance