Our Vision & Commitment
Newcastle Family Connection (NFC) is a non-profit, charitable organization offering affordable recreational dance classes for the families of Clarington. Operating for over 25 years, NFC is run by a volunteer board of directors.
Our prices reflect the commitment our of board of directors and volunteers to keep prices reasonable. A pay one price for the year helps eliminate further expenses associated with dance classes. You don't have to worry about paying for pictures or costumes later in the year - it's all included in the price. Discounts are available for multi-classes and multi family members.
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Our Dance Season runs from the end of September to the end of April/beginning of May when we break over the summer. Students will have an opportunity to showcase what they've learned on stage at a year end performance. Costume rental is included in the registration fee as well as a professional photo page; there are no other cost requirements. Copies of the performance are available for purchase.
NFC is proud to offer programming for both children and adults, providing a safe space for all who attend to enjoy. We are LGBTQ2S+ friendly.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of volunteers who are passionate about providing affordable recreational dance opportunities for families in the Clarington area. Thanks to our volunteers for taking on the administrative work which costs so much at other dance studios, we are able to keep our fees low.
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Board members attend approximately nine meetings per year to discuss and decide on the class line up, song lists, fundraising, costumes and organize the year-end performance. There are many different types of tasks to suit everyone's talents and interests!
Our Instructors
Casey Edgington
Casey started her dancing career studying gymnastics at the age of 4. Throughout the years she competed in artistic gymnastics, and eventually auditioned for the Performing Arts program at O'Neil CVI High School. She spent 4 years studying modern dance, improvisation and choreography while also training in various dance forms after school. Post secondary she was accepted into York University's Fine Arts Dance program where she continued her studies in ballet, modern dance, improvisation and pedagogy. Casey graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Dance and Philosophy. She has been teaching with NFC for over 10 years.
This year Casey is teaching our Monday and Thursday night classes: Creative Dance, Acro, and Contemporary
“As a teacher I've always enjoyed watching students grow (both literally and within their creative journey), learn new skills, gain confidence and make new friends. The best part is watching the transformation from day one to recital and watching the dancers shine on stage! Looking forward to a fun year and welcome to the new dancers!”
MacKenna Wood
MacKenna has been dancing for the last 23 years. She danced competitively at Hoofers Performing Arts in Oshawa from the age of 4 and auditioned for the O'Neill performing arts program and was accepted as a Dance Major with a music minor. During her time there she continued to develop her technique, studying new styles of dance and fell in love with the art of Dance choreography. Her time at O'Neill also allowed her to foster her love of Dance and Theatre. During her undergraduate studies MacKenna continued to teach and practice dance through the University Dance team as well as workshops at local studios. When she moved to Toronto in 2016, MacKenna continued with her training and began taking/teaching Women's Empowerment Heels classes with the Army of Sass Toronto. She joined NFC in 2018 and has loved teaching kids of a variety of ages, developing their skills/technique and helping them find a style that they love! She is also a registered Vinyasa Yoga teacher with the Canadian Yoga Alliance.
This year MacKenna is teaching our Tuesday & Wenesday classes: Movement to Music, Creative Dance, Jazz Funk, Hip Hop, and Musical Theatre.
"I love watching the excitement, creativity, and confidence grow in a dancer every week. Seeing the passion for dance in young dancers is inspiring, and I love being able to nurture that. Having the opportunity to share something that I love with my students is what fuels my motivation and passion for teaching dance I am looking forward to another AMAZING season at NFC, filled with fun, passion and hard work!"
Sam Kreslin
This is Sam's first year teaching at Newcastle Family Connection Dance. Sam has been 10 years of dance experience. She trained at Hype Danz Studio in Courtice.
This year, Sam is teaching our Saturday classes: Movement to Music, Creative Dance and Intro to Hip Hop.
"I love to encourage kids in their love for dance! I can’t wait to create memories with each student."