The Russell Children’s Ballet School has officially reopened in a new, larger location at 1027 Notre Dame in Embrun, offering students expanded facilities and a wider range of opportunities.
After years of operating out of smaller rented spaces, including a garage on Bay Street and St. Mary’s Church in Russell, the school now has a dedicated building with two main studios, a homework area, and space for future growth.
For Cass Marks, owner and director of the school, the move marks both a personal and community milestone. Marks purchased the school last year from former owner Trisha, who had long dreamed of finding a larger home for the program.
“I’m excited and just really, really happy,” said Marks. “When I bought the studio from Trisha last year, her mission over the last few years, has been trying to find a bigger location. Unfortunately, she had to sell but fortunate we’re still really good friends. (…) We’re here now. We can relax. I can breathe. There are a few little things to finish up, but that’s all right.”
Marks said her long-term vision includes creating one, possibly two more studios in the building and eventually expanding to the upstairs. She also hopes to introduce new disciplines, including Scottish dance and musical theatre. “Who knows what the future holds,” she said.
Teacher Theresa Ramsarup echoed the excitement as she guided visitors through the new facility. “This is really cool and really exciting especially because we were in a small studio for so long and now the students have this space and it’s big for them and they can really get out there now,” she said.
The school currently offers four main disciplines, ballet, jazz, tap, and hip-hop, with hopes to expand into other styles such as Highland dancing in the future. Classes run from September to December, and again from January through May, with dancers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, following structured programs and examinations.
To make the space welcoming and functional, Ramsarup explained that the school is adding new lighting, decorations, benches, and lockers. A homework and lounge area with tables, bean bags, and even a small kitchen is also being created to support students who spend long hours at the studio.
“Some of our dancers are here for several hours at a time, especially those taking multiple disciplines,” Ramsarup said. “We want them to feel comfortable, whether that means doing homework, having dinner, or just taking a moment to relax before their next class.”
The new studios are also designed with flexibility in mind. One room is equipped with mirrors for jazz and hip-hop, while the ballet studio intentionally has none, encouraging dancers to focus on technique and movement across the large open space.
The school employs five teachers, with class sizes capped at around 15 students. Demand is strong, with many classes already at or near capacity, particularly for younger students enrolled in popular combination classes like jazz and tap.
Beyond classes, the school plans to deepen its ties with the community. Monthly themed social events, such as salsa nights and country line dancing, are in the works, and the school continues to bring performances to retirement homes and community events across the region.
Unlike competitive dance schools, Russell Children’s Ballet School emphasizes performance and community over trophies. “We love being out in the community and giving our students the chance to perform,” said Ramsarup.
With a new space, growing programs, and a clear vision for the future, Marks said the school is ready for its next chapter. “This is just the start,” she said. “It’s exciting to imagine how far we can go.”
