“Just Keep Jumping In”: How Perseverance Led to Personal Growth through the Universal Language of DJD’s Adult Dance Classes

We sat down with DJD student, Myriam Boutin, who reconnected with dance through DJD. Myriam was candid about her experiences restarting dance as an adult student, and as someone new to Calgary. Beyond just learning the styles and steps, DJD has proved to be a great source of inspiration, confidence boosting, and connection…all with an amazing view! 

How did you discover DJD, and what made you try your first class?

I discovered DJD while searching for a dance studio to get back into dancing. I had just moved to Calgary, and I was intrigued that a place specialized specifically in jazz dance. That really drew me in, so I decided to give it a try.

What were you hoping to find when you returned to dance as an adult?

I started dancing as a teenager and fell in love with it. After high school, I continued studying dance, but then I also began studying music. Over time, I slowly stepped away from dance, and my life became more focused on music.

At a certain point, I realized I really missed dance. I wanted to come back to it because it brought something important to my life. When I moved to Calgary, finding a dance studio became a priority, and I decided to make it DJD! 

What was your first class like, and how did you feel?

Honestly, I didn’t love my first class. It had been a long time since I danced, and I felt very out of practice.

I took a jazz class, and I felt lost. The style was different from what I had learned before, and I struggled to connect with it at first.

After that, I decided to explore as many classes as I could. I wanted to find a style that felt right for me and something I could continue long-term.

What is the energy like in a typical class at DJD?

It really depends on the class and the instructor. Every class has its own energy.

For example, West African classes are very high energy. Afrobeats and house classes are also very groovy and fun. Overall, people are there to enjoy themselves, so the energy is very positive and engaging.

Was there a teacher or moment that had a lasting impact on you?

I took a class with Sabrina Naz, who is part of the company, and through her I discovered Dancehall, which eventually led me to take classes with Jae Blaze when I lived in Los Angeles. 

It was after one of these classes one night that Jae asked me where I was from. My first reaction was to acknowledge my accent, and my bad English, but she stopped me with her ‘badass confident self’ and said, “Girl, that’s okay! Be proud of where you’re from and what you sound like and be proud of how you speak. That makes you unique.” 

Doing that sounds so simple, and something we should all know, but for me, I was always travelling a lot, and always aware of the sound of my voice, so it resonated so much and changed my outlook. Now I’m like, “Who cares?” If someone judges me, that’s on them. I wouldn’t have found this perspective without taking that class. So while it’s not a clear cut answer, it’s a butterfly effect that Sabrina started.

How would you describe the teaching approach at DJD?

There are different approaches depending on the program.

Evening Adult Classes are more relaxed and focused on expression and enjoyment. The Professional Training Program (PTP) is more focused on growth and development.

If someone is looking for something more serious, PTP is a great option. But the evening classes are amazing for exploring and enjoying dance.

Did you discover a style you didn’t expect to love?

Yes, House.

It’s all about groove and feeling and music. When I came to LA, I found House classes, and I saw people just rocking it; people were bringing so much style to it. We dance to one of my favourite genres: 80’s and 90’s dance. That’s what it’s all about. It’s just so much fun. 

Did you feel welcomed at DJD?

Yes, absolutely.

I remember Ingrid, the PTP director, being incredibly warm and welcoming. She takes the time to talk to people and makes you feel at home. She has a radiating smile. It never feels forced, it feels genuine, but everyone at DJD is like that too. Very welcoming. 

Have you built friendships or connections through DJD?

Not deeply, but mostly because I’m shy and English is a second language.

When you speak another language, it can be harder to express your personality fully because when you jump in to speak, you make a lot of mistakes which can make deeper connections more challenging. But it’s like dance…you need to continue to jump in!

What would you say to someone nervous about their first class?

It’s completely normal to feel nervous. Dance can feel intimidating at first.

But you just need to jump in and not listen to that ego thing we all have. Everyone else is also focused on themselves too, so not judging you.

I would also recommend trying many different styles. That’s how you find what works for you. They have a $5 Class Week that’s a good opportunity to do this. $5 per class for a week to try out as many styles as you want. 

How is DJD different from other studios or fitness experiences?

The space itself is a vibe. The studios have amazing views. I haven’t taken dance everywhere in Calgary, but I know this vibe and views of the city buildings is not something you find anywhere else. I think anyone visiting Calgary should have booking a class at DJD on their list of ‘Things to do in Calgary!” 

What kind of community do you see in your classes?

It’s very diverse.

There are people of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels…and languages spoken, because when people hear my accent, they know I speak French, so they start to speak French to me, or sometimes I hear Spanish too. 

How do you feel after a class compared to before?

I’ve gotten my dopamine and serotonin boost. That’s why I like fitness. I feel like I need to run, run, run so I can sleep at night, so I like that it’s super active. Dance is kind of like my focus pill. 

Who would you recommend DJD to?

Anyone who loves dance or even just movement.

West African classes are popular and fun, but you need to be ready to sweat and  feel a bit lost at first. I still feel lost sometimes. Whenever that happens, just focus on your feet, the rest can come later. No matter your level you can find some moves and enjoy the community that the teachers and musicians are here to build.

What do you say to someone who thinks they’re too old or not good enough?

That’s not true at all.

Anyone, at any age or experience level, can dance. I really believe we are all dancers, we just don’t know it. We just need to learn more vocabulary. Coming to a dance class is an expansion of vocabulary and connection. Dance is a universal language. It’s our minds that create barriers.