For sisters Elayna and Alexandra Campbell, Highland dance is more than mere tradition – it is a calling within a community.
The co-directors of the Campbell School of Highland Dance (CSHD) in Calgary, Alberta have built a studio rooted in Scottish heritage and heart. With over 150 students, eight instructors, and two busy locations, their school has become a vibrant hub for dancers of all ages and levels.
It all began with a mother’s simple wish to ensure that her daughters understood and appreciated their roots. “It was important to our mom that we have something Celtic in our childhoods,” says Elayna. “Her family is from near Maxville, Ontario, the site of the oldest Canadian Highland Games, and her family’s clans were MacLeod and Campbell.”
As children, the sisters dabbled in everything from Irish dance to bagpipes and drums, but dance was what stuck. “Highland was the thing that ignited a passion,” beams Alexandra. “I loved the power and explosiveness Highland demands, along with the competition. Elayna was drawn to the detail, the precision, and the grace.”
Their early teacher, Sherril Medd, played a significant role in their journey. “She had this unique philosophy that every dancer was worth investment and attention,” shares Elayna. “She believed that if you could find a dancer’s ‘currency,’ you could help them reach their full potential. That approach was rare, but it made us feel valued. We use that same philosophy with our students today.”
That philosophy has shaped a dance school that is more than merely traditional. “We are not your typical Highland dance school,” laughs Alexandra. “We made deliberate decisions to create a supportive, inclusive space where every dancer is celebrated, not just the champions.”
This meant applying non-competitive benchmarks for success, such as offering a junior instructor program to mentor the next generation of teachers, and implementing advanced methods like interval training, stress management, and mental health support. “Whatever can be done with intention and purpose, we do it,” Elayna adds. “We also prioritize supportive friendship amongst our dancers, so that they have an incredible support network, are more resilient, and better prepared for competitions and life.”
The sisters were required to muster up their own resilience during the pandemic, when enrollment across cultural dance programs was sparse. “The year after COVID, we had no new registrations,” Alexandra recalls. “We wondered if there was a future for Highland. But we refused to give up!”
From the beginning, the Campbells have reaped rewards that extend beyond trophies and titles. “Dance was such a positive experience for us,” exudes Elayna. “It transformed us from shy, reserved kids to people who are excited to perform. We’ve seen that same transformation in so many of our students.”
That sense of empowerment and community is what keeps beginners and former students coming back. “We recently had a 75-year-old join our adult intro class,” Alexandra explains. “Our Highland Adults program has something for everyone, whether they are beginners, returning after a hiatus, or still active. They can find their space in our program.”
They also reach the youngest of dancers with their popular Highland Littles program, a playful movement and rhythm class for wee ones. “Children who join get world-class, research-backed instruction that propels them to their best dancing selves in a supportive and community-based atmosphere,” notes Elayna. Parents also receive support. “If parents are willing to try, kids will fall in love with dance. We spend a lot of time ensuring parents feel included and understand the value within the community. It is such a positive experience for the kids.”
The results speak for themselves; their dancers have competed nationally and internationally, performed in military tattoos across Europe, and have earned both scholarships and accolades. “Seeing our dancers succeed is our biggest thrill,” smiles Alexandra.
The studio’s upcoming season reflects the dynamic atmosphere with a “Healthy Dancer” workshop series, featuring experts on mental health, strength training, and injury prevention. Also planned are a Robbie Burns ceilidh with live music and dance, travel to various competitions, and the launch of their new South Calgary location.
Although the approach is modern, the preservation of Scottish culture remains strong. “Our dancers love the stories behind the dances,” says Elayna. “The joy of seeing people delve into the history and culture has been gratifying.”
For the sisters, the Campbell School of Highland Dance isn’t just about learning steps, but about building confidence and connection. “We attribute our success to the vibe we create,” adds Alexandra. “Dance should make you joyful, and it’s our job to ensure that.”
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