Classes
Throughout the weekly timetable, we offer a wide range of classes, designed to suit all interests and to encourage a well-rounded dancer. Some classes are designed for those who wish to dance simply for fun, whilst others are suited to the more serious dancer - either way, there is plenty for all! Below is a brief explanation of what you can expect from each lesson.
We also aim to offer many other forms of dance through workshops and summer-schools including break dance, street dance, musical theatre etc. If there is something you are particularly keen to see included, please mention it to us:
Ballet
Often described as 'the key dance discipline', ballet teaches grace, poise, musicality, correct posture, coordination, balance, strength and flexibility. It is one of the oldest dance forms, but is still hugely popular, and beneficial in providing a secure base for all other dance forms. We follow the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus.
Modern
A fun and popular class, that combines the funky, trendy use of isolations found in street dance and jazz, with the solid, technical training of ballet. Modern incorporates many different styles of music, teaches students about rhythms and incorporates stretching, floor-work, strengthening, jumping, turning and leaping. It can include many different aspects of dance-styles from upbeat jazz combinations, to slower lyrical routines and even Latino or Celtic exercises. Modern is a style of dance often seen demonstrated by performers in West End musicals. We follow the ISTD syllabus.
Tap
Tap focuses on making fun and interesting percussive rhythms, and incorporates many different styles of music. From the funky 'Stomp' style of tap, through to the West End 'top hat and tails' variety, there really is something to suit everyone. We follow the ISTD syllabus.
Street Jazz
Our street jazz class, offers a combination of styles - we follow the ISTD Bronze, Silver & Gold Jazz Exam Awards, but also include street dance sequences in the class. Incorporating many different aspects, jazz will normally include a thorough warm up, strength and flexibility work, travelling sequences and street dances taught to popular tunes. Fun and high energy!
Pre-School Dance Classes (Ballet & Modern)
Our Pre-School classes (3yrs +) introduce dance to our younger age range, in the format of a 'parent and toddler class'. Come along, and learn how to move and dance with our favourite melody bear, whilst mums and dads can enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee! A lovely, fun and friendly introduction to the world of dance, that will help your toddlers start to develop the skills of balance, control and coordination, whilst most importantly having fun with other children!
Pointe Work
When students reach a certain level in ballet, they may wish to go 'en pointe'. Whilst the effect is impressive, this specialised part of ballet requires significant strength and training. This class will ensure that all pupils are fully prepared and safely coached when embarking on point work.
Free Work Ballet - Limbering, Pointe & Allegro
A non-syllabus, free-work class designed for all students at grade 5 level and beyond. The class will give you the opportunity to explore moves not covered within the syllabus, experiment with pointe work, leaps and jumps and generally develop as a more experienced ballet dancer. Highly recommended for those who are more serious about dance, to take in addition to their normal syllabus class, or those wanting to study ballet at a higher level but not take exams.
Body Conditioning
A 'must-do' class for those serious about dancing. The class works on toning, strengthening, flexibility, stretching and cardio-vascular training, all crucial in developing a strong dancer. Particularly important for those studying modern from grade 3 onwards.
Company Classes
These classes are for the more serious dancer, looking to pursue a career in the field. Entry is by invitation only or for those enrolled on the Student Intensive Programmes. The class will cover a variety of different styles, work on festival choreography and groups, partner lifts, audition technique, additional strength and stretch, student choreography and improvisation to name just a few elements. If you feel you wish to be considered for this class, please speak to your teacher.
Adult Classes
Our lunchtime adult classes are designed to offer a fun, social lesson, whilst providing a good level of dance training. Come along, and learn to tap, or try some funky modern, jazz, ballet or street dance. We welcome all ages and abilities!
Musical Theatre/Song & Dance
From West-End musicals to songs by your favourite pop-artist, the 'song and dance' classes will encourage a rounded performer. An essential class for those who may be considering auditioning for professional stage school in the future, as competition for places is tough and applicants are now required to be able to sing, dance and act. This class is also suitable for those who simply love to sing and dance for fun and want to pursue their hobby in a supportive and friendly environment!
Contemporary Dance
A class suitable for those above the age of 12 and adults - particularly useful for those studying GCSE or A Level Dance. Contemporary dance is a genre that often employs a compositional philosophy, rather than choreography to guide the movement. It uses dance techniques and methods often found in ballet and modern dance, allows students to explore choreography and dance composition, and often involves floor and contact work.


