Ms. Shanda Aalbers has been involved in the arts for over fifty years and is one of Alberta’s top ballet instructors.
Her dedication to dancers is undeniable. We have been fortunate at DES to have her share her wealth of knowledge with our students for the past six years.
Ms. Aalbers was the owner and artistic director of the Academy of Dance in Wetaskiwin for 10 years. Since then she has been a freelance teacher for studios throughout Alberta. She is well known in the dance community for her innovative choreography and unique creative talents.
Although her early training covered many facets of dance including tap, jazz, lyrical, contemporary, highland and more, it was her enduring love of ballet which led her to specialize in the teaching of this art form. She uses her Royal Academy of Dance ballet background as a basis for creative, inspiring, ballet technique classes. Her positive, sensitive approach encourages dancers to work to their potential and develop their natural gifts. – Students trained by Ms. Aalbers can often be recognized by their emotional quality and strong sense of performance.
Ms. Shanda Aalbers cares deeply about her students and is passionate about her art. Some of her greatest rewards as a teacher are the accomplishments of her students. Many of her dancers have graduated from renowned performing arts programs, including the Juilliard Academy. Former students have become professional dancers in companies such as Les Ballet Jazz De Montreal, the Alberta Ballet, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks, Radio City Rockettes, Disney Productions, as well as a variety of cruise lines around the world.
She has mentored numerous aspiring teachers over the years and takes great pride in knowing that many of them have become successful teachers with a genuine compassion for children.
Ms. Aalbers is delighted to be joining the DES Dance Family for another exciting year!

“You just feel so great in her care…you feel like you can do anything.”
Jenna Hanson
Dancer – Age 14