Sapphira Dance

Stephanie “Sapphira” Heppenstall

Owner and Instructor

Dance

Stephanie has studied and performed dance in the Ottawa & Hull area as a student, soloist, and troupe member under the stage name Sapphira since 2003. With a background in theatre, fashion design, and early childhood education, Stephanie has always found ways to incorporate performing, costuming, and teaching into her daily life.

Education

Stephanie obtained her diploma in Early Childhood Education from Alqonquin College and was awarded the Barbara Cass-Beggs Award for high academic standing and dedication to the music education of young children. She worked with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board as a kindergarten and extended day program RECE for five years. She has experience working with a variety of ages groups, from infant to school age, and supporting children with exceptionalities. 

Business

Sapphira Dance has been a passion project in the works since 2011. It started with a few workshop offerings to school age and high school students, but after moving to Carleton Place in 2020, it has expanded to a business with a growing catalog of workshops and weekly lessons. Most recently, the Little Gems music and movement program has been created with young children in mind; to support their early development and provide a space where they can bond with their families. Sapphira Dance strives, in particular, to connect with newcomers to dance by providing inclusive, beginner-friendly lessons for adults and children alike.