Joy McIlwain has been involved in the dance industry since the age of three.  First beginning Ballet lessons as a shy little girl, this turned out to be a lifelong activity and career.  Taught in Calgary by the Allan Cozzubbo Academy of Dance, Joy realized that dance was something that had become a part of her.  Joy has many accomplishments behind her and her hope is to share her knowledge of dance with her students in order to give them the same opportunities and encouragement that her teachers and mentors have given her.  Throughout her career, Joy was able to gain much recognition and success.  Winning many highpoints and scholarships as a young dancer lead to her dancing with the Calgary City Ballet which has now been integrated with the Alberta Ballet Company. She was able to attain her Advanced Certificate with the RAD Ballet syllabus, in which she received Honours ~ one of only five Canadians to have achieved this standard until that point in time.  Joy has been asked to adjudicate many dance competitions throughout Alberta.  Although known especially for her extensive knowledge of Ballet / Lyrical, she also has much experience and knowledge in Jazz, Tap, Acro and Baton.  She teaches the RAD Ballet Syllabus and has her teachers certificate with this organization which is headquartered in London, England.  She also teaches Tap and Jazz with the ADAPT syllabus.  Joy feels that these two exam syllabus’ are the most beneficial to the students and finds that they include excellent training exercises to fully strengthen and train young students in their technique.

    Joy thoroughly enjoys every aspect of dance and loves to see her students performing at various competitions and festivals, as well as the wonderful opportunities her students have had of performing in Disneyland.

    Joy would like to wish all of her students the best of luck and enjoyment throughout their dance year and encourage them to dance truly from their heart!!   Dance is a gift, so go share it with the world!!