Building Confidence.
Inspiring Creativity.
Uniting Communities Through Dance.
Our Mission Statement
At J'Quo Dance Company, our mission is to empower individuals through the transformative power of dance by building confidence, fostering creativity, and inspiring self-expression. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where dancers of all backgrounds and experience levels feel welcomed, supported, and encouraged to grow both on and off the stage.
Through performance, education, mentorship, and community engagement, J'Quo promotes unity, leadership, discipline, and cultural appreciation while providing meaningful opportunities for individuals who may not otherwise participate in traditional sports or extracurricular activities. We strive to cultivate a sense of belonging, elevate school spirit, and strengthen connections throughout our communities through entertaining, impactful, and memorable experiences.
As we continue to grow, our vision extends beyond the classroom and stage. J'Quo aims to bring together generations of dancers - from toddlers to senior citizens - creating a vibrant community where movement, creativity, and culture unite people of all ages. Through dance, we aspire to develop confident individuals, strengthen communities, and inspire future leaders to pursue their passions without limits.
About J'Quo
J'Quo Dance Company was founded by Janelle Chase, a passionate dancer, mentor, and creative who understands firsthand the transformative power of dance.
Growing up in Kingston, Jamaica, Janelle struggled with confidence and never found herself drawn to traditional sports or extracurricular activities. She spent years searching for something that felt like home until she discovered dance through the dance team at Jessie Ripoll Primary School. What began as an activity quickly became a safe space where she felt confident, empowered, and free to express herself.
For the first time, she found something that allowed her to step outside of her insecurities and fully embrace who she was. Through movement, music, and performance, dance became more than a hobby—it became a source of confidence, joy, self-expression, and personal growth. That experience would later inspire the foundation and mission of J'Quo Dance Company.
Today, J'Quo Dance Company exists to help individuals discover that same confidence within themselves. We believe dance is more than learning choreography; it is a powerful tool that promotes self-esteem, creativity, discipline, leadership, and community connection.
Our classes and programs welcome individuals of all backgrounds and experience levels who are eager to learn, grow, and express themselves through movement. Whether you're stepping into a dance class for the very first time or looking to further develop your skills, J'Quo provides a supportive and encouraging environment where everyone can thrive.
Our training incorporates a variety of dance styles including, but not limited to, African, Dancehall, Soca, Reggae, Hip-Hop, R&B, Contemporary, Jazz, Folk, Theatrical Dance, and other cultural and creative movement forms.
Beyond performance, we promote physical wellness, improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and endurance, creativity, stress relief, and overall well-being. We believe movement should be enjoyable, accessible, and empowering. As a certified Zumba instructor, Janelle incorporates fun, high-energy elements that make fitness feel less like exercise and more like a celebration.
At its core, J'Quo Dance Company is more than a dance program—it is a community. It is a place where individuals can build confidence, develop lifelong skills, relieve stress, embrace their creativity, and experience the joy that comes from moving freely and unapologetically.
We invite you to join us as we continue building a culture where confidence grows, creativity flourishes, and communities unite through dance.
J'Quo's History
J'Quo Dance Company was founded in 2013 by Janelle Chase while she was a freshman at Hartford Public High School's Freshman Academy.
After attending the school's annual pep rally, Janelle noticed a lack of student engagement and excitement. Many students appeared disconnected from school activities, often leaving events early or expressing negative opinions about them. Determined to create something different, she jokingly discussed starting a dance team with a friend. What began as a simple conversation quickly evolved into a movement that would impact countless students for years to come.
With the support of faculty members who were excited to see students taking initiative, J'Quo Dance Company made its debut performance at the Hartford Public High School Pep Rally in 2013. Flyers were posted throughout the school, and students from various backgrounds joined the team, eager for an opportunity to express themselves through dance and become more involved in school life.
Like many grassroots organizations, the early years came with challenges. The team faced difficulties securing consistent practice space, faculty support, and resources. There were moments of conflict, leadership transitions, and periods where participation fluctuated. Despite these obstacles, J'Quo continued to grow because of the passion and dedication of the dancers who believed in its mission.
From 2013 through 2017, J'Quo became a staple at school and community events, providing students with an outlet for creativity, self-expression, leadership, and personal growth. What started with a handful of dancers evolved into a close-knit community that extended beyond performances and rehearsals.
After graduating from Hartford Public High School, Janelle continued investing in the program and mentoring young dancers. While attending college, she expanded her knowledge in communications, production, and media, allowing her to further develop the creative vision behind the organization. The influence of J'Quo continued beyond high school, with former dancers remaining connected to the team and participating in performances throughout the community.
Throughout the years, dancers have come and gone, but the impact of J'Quo has remained constant. The organization has served as a safe, supportive, and empowering space for individuals seeking confidence, friendship, creative expression, and community.
Today, J'Quo Dance Company continues to evolve with a vision of becoming a premier multicultural dance organization that provides opportunities for dancers of all ages and backgrounds. What began as a student-led initiative has grown into a long-term mission dedicated to building confidence, inspiring creativity, and uniting communities through dance.
To every dancer who has ever been part of J'Quo's journey - thank you!!!! Your passion, commitment, and belief in this vision have helped shape the foundation of everything we continue to build.