Awards
Accomplishments
Testimonials

September 2008 -
Contemporary School of Dance was voted Best Dance Studio
in The Record's Readers Select Awards

June 2008 -
Contemporary School of Dance was voted the Best Dance Studio
in The Waterloo Chronicle's Reader's Choice Awards

September 2007 -
Contemporary School of Dance was voted the Platinum winner for
Best Dance Studio in The Record's Readers Select Awards

Christine Parker-Reid was voted the winner for
Favourite Teacher in The Record's Readers Select Awards

September 2006 –
Contemporary School of Dance was voted the Platinum winner for
Best Dance Studio in The Record’s Readers Select Awards

September 2005 –
Contemporary School of Dance was voted the
Best Dance Studio in The Record’s Readers Select Awards

September 2005 –
Contemporary School of Dance was voted the Silver winner for
Best Dance Studio in the Waterloo Chronicle’s Reader’s Choice awards

"When I first started looking for a dance school for my daughter, I called a number of studios, and asked a mess of "newbie" questions! I was impressed and surprised that my call to CSD was returned by the director, who, when asked what sets CSD apart from other studios, told me that the positive, caring rapport between staff members created a remarkable atmosphere of "family," and that that rapport was at the centre of the healthy, thriving environment at CSD. After 2 years as a parent with CSD, I couldn't agree more. The teachers at CSD clearly care in a personal way for each other, for the dancers--a special relief, as my daughter has severe food allergies--and for us as parents. They keep us well informed, welcome our questions and answer them promptly and professionally. They ask our opinions when it matters, and let us know how much they appreciate our support. Their assistants are genuinely interested in and adored by the younger dancers. I'm sure many of us "waiting room" parents would agree that the environment at CSD simply brings out the best in our kids! While the end result of the staff's obvious proficiency is excellence in dance training, it really is so much more...Thank-you CSD!"

- Charlene Neuman

"We have been with CSD since its inception, over ten years ago, because of the philosophy of Christine Parker-Reid, the studio's Artistic Director, which pervades both the studio and its teachers. As dancers first, the teachers have a passion for dance which they enthusiastically share with each of their students, in every class, regardless of the level. The attention paid to the syllabus for each course, in addition to the concern for proper technique, as well as the general health and well-being of each dancer, is admirable. The studio employs dancer/educators who are professional people. We love "our" studio and are constantly "pumping it up" in the community. At CSD everyone is made to feel welcome and as though they have a "right" to be there - in fact, as though they are part of a big family! We wouldn't dance anywhere else. We love the teachers, the warm "feel" of the studio and all of the amazingly creative, fun, innovative ideas that augment the dance programs. CSD is not only training dancers - CSD is training respectful, caring, civic-minded individuals who share a passion for dance to share their giftedness!"

- Dee Sproule

"Coming from the performance tonight, I just want to let you know that myself and my family were totally impressed! We were just amazed at the skill of the students and at the skill of you and the staff for putting together such a fantastic show! Even my baby was clapping! Just the sheer amount of work and planning was obvious from the start. We have only been here a year, but I hope that we can continue in such a wonderful school for some time to come!
Even watching the other girls helped confirm for my daughter that she wanted to do jazz and that she wanted to continue to learn to dance for another year. My little one loved it all as well. I wanted to express our sincere gratitude for the hard work, commitment and care you, your staff and volunteers provide even for the youngest dancer. In a world where good customer service is often hard to get, it's nice to know that my children are well looked after as they learn to dance. Thanks again!"

- Sincerely, Carole Clyde-Ellis

"Congratulations on an exceptional recital last night. The first half especially was truly an achievement,especially for the main girls. Well done. Our family has been involved with and attended many recitals and this was definitely the best to date. You've raised the bar."

- Toni Lemon

"I just want to say how much I appreciate CSD. I am so very thankful for the wonderful teachers like Heather, Georgie and Caitlin who have brought out the very best in Bryna. They treat her and all the students with such respect and dignity and have been so instrumental in building her self-esteem. It is a safe and supportive place where Bryna can happily grow and express herself. My heart swells with joy when I see her in her dance classes."

- Pauleen Payne

"Christine, Thanks so much for everything! These weeks during showtime must be so hectic for you. I think you and your teachers do an excellent job with the show and, of course, the students too!"

- Thanks again, Bridget

"Christine, I just wanted to say a BIG THANK YOU to both you and Georgie for all the genuine support and dedication that you both have shown towards my daughter, Alexie. She's had quite a lovely year at CSD and has actually opened up to telling her friends and family about her dance experiences. When we were looking for a dance place for Alexie, I knew the very first moment when we walked into the CSD studio that this was the place, it felt so right, bright, warm and happy. She truly loves Georgie who is an amazing person and a fabulous dance instructor. Alexie was thrilled to be introduced to jazz and it's cute to actually see her "prancing" around the house demonstrating what she just learned in class. It was a truly a magnificent show. Thank you for being such a gracious and truly genuine person Christine!"

- Paige Harrison

"Christine, we really enjoyed the production. What a tremendous effort put forth by all. We were particularly impressed with the caliber of talent and the “joy” we saw on the stage. That is tribute to your dedication to the studio."

"I was first led to Christine by the recommendation of a colleague, and with no hesitation we followed her to the Contemporary School of Dance. When the children were younger, dance was one of the many activities they tried rather than part of a grand plan. Little did I know that eleven years later, both kids would still be dancing!
In fact, I was a little wary of the dangers of the eating disorders associated with certain activities. Any doubts I might have had were dispelled by the sight of the range of body types in classes, and the support and encouragement of dancers at all ages and levels. I am particularly pleased about the adult classes and the beginner teen classes, opening the door to dance to those who might not have had the opportunity to start when very young.
Over the years, I have watched a community grow, or rather several communities, among groups of dancers and among parents. The values of the school are reflected in those of the families who have chosen year after year to have their children study at the Contemporary School of Dance. Dancers have a way to connect with younger dancers and to share the sense of community through well-monitored volunteer opportunities in which the volunteers are themselves mentored by the teachers.
The Contemporary School of Dance benefits from an extremely high standard of organization and a keen sense of what is appropriate for each age group and dance level. At the end-of-year dance show, parents and volunteers are supplied with detailed instructions on how to ensure that the show runs smoothly and with the greatest enjoyment of the dancers. Themes, music, and costumes are well-suited to the interests and ages of dancers, with economy, reusability, and good taste ever in mind.
Thank you for all the years of dance, and we look forward to many more!"

- Naomi Nishimura

"My daughters have been dancing with the Contemporary School of Dance since it’s opening in 1997. As a parent, it is easy and accurate for me to fully endorse the studio. CSD offers a non-competitive environment where the students work to improve their own individual level of dancing. The class size is limited, and each dancer is encouraged to improve their technique at their own level and is recognized for all of their accomplishments. The qualified teachers’ love of dance is contagious. My only problem is trying to limit the amount of time spent at the studio…they want to take as many dance classes as possible! The dancers are always encouraged to be the best that they can be, but are never pushed into something that they do not want to do. The results are solid friendships, personal satisfaction, and a true sense of accomplishment. In all their years of dancing, my daughters have looked forward to every class."

- Jane Grieb

"I don’t even know where to start in thanking you and the school for such a great experience for both my niece and I! She has found something she loves to do, and it has done wonders for her self esteem this year. We both find the school so welcoming and the teachers and assistants so friendly, and so good at what they do!
When my niece began, she was excited but apprehensive, and I reassured her that this was to be a fun experience, so she didn’t have to do anything that she was uncomfortable with. I was amazed when she was eager to do both the exams and the final show!
The show was fantastic! What really struck me was that the choreography was a perfect fit to the dancers’ abilities, so they were all great! My mother said that the ticket price was money so incredibly well spent because it wasn’t just a dance recital, it was a really good show and a fine evening’s entertainment! I totally agree. My other little niece in the school, who is so shy when people are looking at her, actually enjoyed the experience of dancing on the stage! I was surprised to see how far she and her class have come as well, considering their age. She sat with us for the second half and was completely focused on watching the dancers and clapping along with the audience during certain numbers and fully participating in the "Happy Birthday" event!
Both of my nieces are intent on studying dance again with your school next year. I think it’s great for the dancers to see the older girls and more advanced classes, and see what they can learn, or why they are learning the things they do right now. Thanks so much to you and the teachers, assistants, and even the other students and their parents for this amazing year of dance!"

- Elizabeth Bolt-Martin

"That was such an exciting time! Congratulations should go to you and your dance teachers. The show was artistically balanced on all levels…colour, texture, line…all the elements were fully integrated. As well, the teachers reflect a confidence and warmth that is passed on to all dancers. My daughter loved the excitement of it all and her smile still prevails. I told her that I was truly touched that you took me aside, during your busy stage management, and pointed out the beaming beauty in the tutu. Thank you.
There is a human touch to your school that is most valuable to all the dancers who attend. My daughter loved her jazz dance this year too. Having had the same teacher for many years has helped build her confidence and self esteem."

- Jane St. Amour Raymond

"The 2008 performances were really top notch. All of my family has worked in theatre - my parents, for all of their lives. Everyone was fully impressed. We all agreed that it was in a different league than many other performances of its kind."

- Justine Heinrichsberg