A professional performer, choreographer, singer and dancer, Dolores Kirkwood holds a teaching diploma from the Royal Academy of Dancing, London and is a life member there.

Dolores, who owns and operates the Kirkwood Academy of Performing Arts has been nurturing young dancers for many years. She was among the first teachers of the Royal Academy of Dance in Canada. Many students that have graduated from the Kirkwood Academy are now performing in dance and ballet companies throughout the world, or teaching. Dolores students range from Pre-school to Advanced and have been featured at the Solo Seal Awards as well as the Genee Awards in London, England.

In addition to training dancers for the World stage, Dolores has also been instrumental in bringing world class talent and performances to the local scene. She was a co-founder of the Royal City Youth Ballet Company the only one of its kind in Canada, and the Royal City Musical Theatre Company, considered the premiere amateur theatre company in Canada.

Her life’s work has been to encourage and develop young dancers and performers to help them reach their full potential. That’s why the Royal City Youth Ballet Company means so much to her. It’s a chance for young dancers to see their art in a professional setting and imagine where their hard work can take them.

All these efforts have been recognized both by her peers and the community at large. In 1994 she was awarded the Sam Payne Award; for humanity , intregrity, and the encouragement of young talent. That same year the New Westminster Chamber of Commerce named her "Citizen of the Year" in recognition of outstanding service to the City, and enhancement of life in the community". In 1998 she was inducted into the B.C. Entertainment Hall of Fame with a star on the "Granville Street Walk of Fame".

Whether she is performing, choreographing or nurturing new talent, Dolores Kirkwood ensures that dancers of all ages can reach for their dreams.