Rhythm Dance Academy is a bright, spacious and inviting dance studio located right in the beating heart of Ladysmith, BC. Discover the passion for dance and explore the various opportunities in the many disciplines that Rhythm offers.

Owner, Artistic Director Elise Samson operates Rhythm Dance Academy which provides classes for all ages three to adults in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, and Performing Company.

Elise has been a part of the dance world for 25 years, starting at age 3 in a baby ballet class at the studio formerly known as “Beat Street”. Now called Harbour Dancentre, Elise continued to dance and her passion grew and expanded to include more genres outside of ballet including: jazz, tap, lyrical, modern, and contemporary! Elise competed several solos each season from a multitude of talented choreographers, and also completed all RAD ballet examinations with distinction. At age 16, she began teaching dance for Parks and Recreation programs, and at a local community centre, Upon being accepted to the RAD teaching program, Elise was also hired and mentored by Irene Booth of Tempo Dance Academy in Nanaimo. After 6 wonderful years at Tempo Dance (and Rhythm), Elise purchased Rhythm Dance Academy and has had the pleasure of becoming the new owner and artistic director of this amazing little school. During this time she passed and completed her certification in Ballet teaching studies from the Royal Academy of Dance, and also became certified in jazz teaching studies with Performing Arts Educators of Canada. Elise very much enjoys continuing education in the art of dance, and continues to learn more and bring her very best to her talented students!