“I’m a mom, I get it. I understand what it’s like to drop your children off at activities. I have seen firsthand the effects that positive and negative coaches and environments can have on my children’s lives. This is why it is so very important to me to provide a space that helps kids flourish beyond the dance floor.”
Jennifer Mercer, Studio Director
Our story
Welcome to Jennifer's Jazz It Up Studio of Dance! Our journey began 25 years ago in Brooklyn, Ontario, and five years later, we found our home in Port Hope, Ontario. Founded by Jennifer Mercer, who discovered her passion for dance after a career in competitive gymnastics and trampoline, JJIU has always been driven by a mission to create the best possible environment for young dancers.
Jennifer's professional dance career spanned a decade, performing all over Ontario, and she has poured that experience and passion into building a studio that offers once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for our dancers. Over the years, we've won countless awards and accolades, a testament to our dedication to excellence.
Most recently, Jennifer was honoured with the Outstanding Citizen Award from the Municipality of Port Hope's Civic Awards, recognizing her hard work and dedication not only to our dancers but also to the community.
As a mother of two very active boys, Jennifer understands the importance of balancing her professional and personal life. Her eldest, Kallaway, 22, attends Laurier University and plays on their hockey team after a successful career in the OHL. Her youngest, Crosby, 13, is a talented hockey player and a successful professional actor, having filmed all over, including South Africa, and starring in the lead role of a short film, The Two of Us, which was a hit at many film festivals.
Jennifer's dedication extends beyond being devoted to her family as well as her JJIU dance family. She is the owner of Empower Talent Management, Empower Music, Empower Sports, and most recently, Empower Hypnosis, helping to truly empower her athletes, entertainers, and dancers from the inside out.
At JJIU, we offer high-quality dance classes with qualified teachers in a state-of-the-art facility, but what we truly provide is a supportive and vibrant community. Join us and become part of a legacy of passion, creativity, and excellence in dance.
Changing the Culture
. At Jennifer's Jazz It Up Studio of Dance, we're committed to changing the culture in everything we do. Our focus is on fostering a positive, inclusive environment where every dancer feels valued and inspired. We believe that dance is more than just movement—it's a way to build confidence, creativity, and lifelong friendships. Our approach goes beyond technique; we nurture each dancer's potential, helping them grow both on and off the stage. Join us at JJIU and be part of a community that celebrates excellence, supports each other, and creates unforgettable experiences. Together, we're transforming the world of dance, one step at a time.
At JJIU we are extremely professional but also so much fun. We are known to elevate the vibe everywhere we go.
This was a totaly spontaneous photo taken during a recent photo shoot. Look out, a random dance party could break out at any time when JJIU is around.
The Secret to a great year of dance…….
Join JJIU Today!
Join JJIU Today!
25 years of excellence.
Building kids up since 1999. Join the legacy that thousands of dancers have had the absolute pleasure of being a part of.
“JJIU truly changed my life. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it. It helped me find my voice and the confidence to grow which helped me not just in dance, but in school, my career and life. I am forever grateful for Mrs. Jennifer and the JJIU community for helping shape who I am today.”
Former compeitive dancer and JJIU Alumni