Linda Jess
Founder
With over four decades of experience as a dancer, choreographer, and teacher, Linda has been instrumental in shaping the lives of countless students.
Who we are
A dance community generations have grown up with
Cadance Academy has welcomed Annapolis Valley dancers since 1979, creating a place where movement builds confidence, creativity, and lasting friendships.
5,000+
dancers since 1979
130+
current students
40+
weekly classes
Ages
1.5 to 90+
Our history
Cadance Academy was established in 1979, founded by Linda Jess, who has over four decades of experience as a dancer, choreographer, and teacher. Linda was also a founding force in bringing the Canadian Dance Teachers Association (CDTA) syllabus to the Annapolis Valley, choosing its structured approach over the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) for our region, a decision that still shapes how we train dancers today. Gaea Jess is the current Artistic Director & Owner, holding a double honours degree in Dance and Kinesiology/Health Sciences from York University in Toronto. Linda's daughter, Gaea, grew up in the studio herself before taking the reins, and today Cadance still operates out of a studio attached to the family's own home, the kind of place where staff know your dancer's name and families feel like part of the household.
Mission
"To inspire a lifelong love of dance while building talent, discipline, and respect," providing "strong leadership and inclusive learning for all ages."
Vision
"To make dance accessible to all, fostering body awareness, self-discipline, and teamwork" through quality performing arts education that builds "self-confidence, character, and friendships through dance."
Values
- Passion and creativity
- A positive and inclusive environment
- Teamwork, pride, and leadership
- Etiquette, self-esteem, and positive body image
- A strong sense of community
A place for every dancer
At Cadance, we believe dance belongs to everyone. Alongside our thriving adult program, our studio is proud to include many boys across every style we teach, and we welcome many more. Our student community reflects the diversity of the Annapolis Valley itself, and every dancer who walks through our doors, regardless of age, gender, background, or experience, is family here.
Meet our team
Gaea Jess
Artistic Director & Owner
Holds a double honours degree in Dance and Kinesiology/Health Sciences from York University in Toronto. A highly skilled dancer and educator dedicated to dance and wellness.
Sydney Ewert
Dance Teacher
Recently graduated from York University's BFA dance program in Toronto. Performed in contemporary pieces across Canada, Portugal, and Iceland. Shares a passion for dance with at-risk youth.
Kara Friesen
Dance Teacher, Dancer & Choreographer
Associate Teacher of the Russian Society of Ballet in Canada (completed teacher training in 2018). Graduate of Concordia University's Contemporary Dance Program. Studied the Vaganova syllabus and CDTA. Has taught at various studios for 15+ years, from beginner to advanced. Performed with Sonia Balazovjech Dance Company, Votive Dance Company, and Mocean Dance.
Netanya Backhouse
Dance Teacher & Choreographer
Dancing for 17 years, starting at age 5. Studied under Robert McCollum (Ballet Bob) and Ballet Jörgen faculty members. Performed all across North America. A former Cadance dancer, now teaching and choreographing for studios and theatre companies.
Jennah Larkin
Dance Teacher & Choreographer
Started at Cadance Academy and became an assistant teacher. Pursued her Bachelor of Science at Acadia while teaching ballet for Acadia Dance Collective. Studied ballet, contemporary, jazz, tap, modern, and lyrical. Trained with Robert McCollum through the Dance Summer Dance program at Ross Creek (2016).
Celine Porter
Dance Teacher & Choreographer
Started training at age four with DancEast in Moncton; member of DancEast Young Company in high school. Danced with Dance Acadia, Acadia Dance Collective, and UNB Reds Dance. Teaching dance for over fifteen years, across Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, and Hip Hop at multiple studios; ran school programs for six years in New Brunswick.
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