A bit of history
Jane teaching the first pre-school class in 1986
PDS was started with the philosophy that creative expression is an essential part of childhood development. From our preschool to our highest level dancers, our first priority is to create a positive space where children are able to explore, create, and express their inborn creative spirit through the arts. We pride ourselves on being what social scientists call a "third place"–a place where lifetime friendships are made, confidence is created, and creativity is nurtured.
Pegasus Dance and Art Centre was founded in 1986, by the mother and daughter team of Lynda Johnson and Jane Davis-Munro. Classes were first held in Lynda's basement and were primarily, what is now, the renowned Preschool Arts Program. As the centre grew, and more classes were added, Pegasus eventually needed more space and moved to a store front studio at Greenwood and Queen St. Jane taught Ballet, Jazz and Creative Movement upstairs and Lynda taught children and adult Art classes in the basement studio. Pegasus soon expanded again and started hiring teachers to grow the Jazz, Tap and Modern dance programs.
In 1992, due to lack of space, Pegasus moved to its present location behind Kimbourne Park U.C. at Coxwell and Danforth. The studio slowly took over more space and, from originally occupying only two rooms, now has four professional dance studios, an art studio, offices, change rooms and waiting rooms.
In 1996 Lynda retired from teaching at Pegasus. She continued her career as a painter until her passing in 2013. Lynda will always be a strong presence at Pegasus and her philosophies on teaching children will continue to inspire us to offer the best classes we can.
Jane continues as Artistic Director of the school, which is no small task these days. Pegasus Dance Studios is now one of the largest dance schools in East Toronto. With a full schedule of Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Hip Hop, Preschool and Art classes running every week, Pegasus has earned its reputation for quality arts education without losing its community and family feel. Jane prides herself on making dance a positive experience for all children and to ensure that all of her teachers share her philosophy of providing an atmosphere where children can explore, create, express and develop their inborn creative spirit through the arts.
We are proud that we have been able to add a management team which currently includes Carolyn Pratley as Curriculum Manager, Lara Munro as Customer Care & Studio Manager, Lia Munro as Business Manager, and Briar Munro as Marketing Manager. Please see Our Team page for their bios.
Pegasus Dance and Art Centre was founded in 1986, by the mother and daughter team of Lynda Johnson and Jane Davis-Munro. Classes were first held in Lynda's basement and were primarily, what is now, the renowned Preschool Arts Program. As the centre grew, and more classes were added, Pegasus eventually needed more space and moved to a store front studio at Greenwood and Queen St. Jane taught Ballet, Jazz and Creative Movement upstairs and Lynda taught children and adult Art classes in the basement studio. Pegasus soon expanded again and started hiring teachers to grow the Jazz, Tap and Modern dance programs.
In 1992, due to lack of space, Pegasus moved to its present location behind Kimbourne Park U.C. at Coxwell and Danforth. The studio slowly took over more space and, from originally occupying only two rooms, now has four professional dance studios, an art studio, offices, change rooms and waiting rooms.
In 1996 Lynda retired from teaching at Pegasus. She continued her career as a painter until her passing in 2013. Lynda will always be a strong presence at Pegasus and her philosophies on teaching children will continue to inspire us to offer the best classes we can.
Jane continues as Artistic Director of the school, which is no small task these days. Pegasus Dance Studios is now one of the largest dance schools in East Toronto. With a full schedule of Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Modern, Hip Hop, Preschool and Art classes running every week, Pegasus has earned its reputation for quality arts education without losing its community and family feel. Jane prides herself on making dance a positive experience for all children and to ensure that all of her teachers share her philosophy of providing an atmosphere where children can explore, create, express and develop their inborn creative spirit through the arts.
We are proud that we have been able to add a management team which currently includes Carolyn Pratley as Curriculum Manager, Lara Munro as Customer Care & Studio Manager, Lia Munro as Business Manager, and Briar Munro as Marketing Manager. Please see Our Team page for their bios.
We don't teach kids to make great dancers, we teach dance to make great kids. - Misty Lown
In memory of Lynda Johnson
Co-Founder of Pegasus Studios & Art Teacher
Born and raised in Toronto, Lynda was first inspired to pursue visual arts during World War II. A fellow driver in the Canadian Women's Army Corps introduced her to drawing and painting and planted the seed of a lifelong passion. Many years and four children later, Lynda registered as a part time student at the Ontario Collage of Art (now OCAD) the same day that she secured a job working at the art supply store Mixed Media, thus beginning her official career as an artist. Once graduating from OCA, Lynda began teaching adults in her basement. In 1986 Lynda, and her daughter Jane, founded Pegasus Dance and Art Centre. As Pegasus grew, Lynda continued to teach her art classes for adults and children, while building the repertoire for the Exploring Art classes.
In the late nineties Lynda Johnson retired from teaching. She continued her career as a painter and was best known for her still life’s and landscapes.
The children's art gallery on the third floor of the Pegasus Dance Studios building was created in her honour, as well as a scholarship for Pegasus students who need financial support.
In the late nineties Lynda Johnson retired from teaching. She continued her career as a painter and was best known for her still life’s and landscapes.
The children's art gallery on the third floor of the Pegasus Dance Studios building was created in her honour, as well as a scholarship for Pegasus students who need financial support.
Pegasus in the community
At East Lynn Farmer's Market
Pegasus Dance Studios was built in the East Toronto community and we have flourished due to the immense support the community has given to us. We are particularly indebted to Kimbourne Park United Church, Innstead Co-operative Inc and the Danforth East Community Association. We are continually grateful for this neighbourhood and are dedicated to contribute and give back in as many ways as we can. Please contact us if we can participate in your community event!
Below are some schools and organizations we are proud to have supported: R.H. McGregor, Earl Beatty, Earl Haig, William Burgess, East End Children's Centre, Red Door Shelter, Sheena's Place, Toronto East General Hospital, Robin Rocks On, Liam's Light, DECA, East End Arts Organization, East Lynn Farmer's Market. |
|
