BALLET: (ISTD SYLLABUS, AND RAD MAJORS) Ballet technique is the foundation for all other dance styles. This classical dance genre is still as popular as ever and the syllabus has now evolved to promote the English classical style and addresses the changing needs of ballet dancers today.
MODERN: (ISTD SYLLABUS) Modern Theatre Dance is a rhythmic dance style which originated in America before travelling to the rest of the world. It is often seen on the stages of musical productions and is known for its theatrical qualities. The style uses travelling steps, high kicks, leaps and turns which all utilise strength and flexibility. This is a highly energetic dance style.
TAP: (ISTD SYLLABUS) Tap dance has evolved as an American dance form, popularised throughout the world, with debate about its origins coming from African Dance, Irish Dance and Clog Dancing. The dancer uses their feet to strike the floor, beating out different rhythms, while wearing tap shoes which have small metal plates on the toe and heel to give them their distinctive sound. Tap dance is a theatrical art form often seen on stage in musicals.
JAZZ: Our jazz classes offer extra technique and styles to supplement your Modern training. In these non-syllabus classes, you will learn more varying styles and steps from Lyrical to Street, and Musical Theatre to Funk.
CONTEMPORARY: This is the ultimate umbrella term for dance techniques founded in the twentieth century, which worked with ideas outside of the traditional ballet technique. The main feature of contemporary dance is the use of parallel in the legs, grounded movements and the use of floor-work. Some of the main techniques under the umbrella of contemporary dance are Graham, Cunningham and Limon technique.
BODY CONDITIONING & PILATES: Body conditioning is offered to our students to increase their strength and flexibility needed for all types of dance. Core strength is also vital for the growing bodies of our students in order to reduce the chance of injury and to promote overall fitness and, posture and well being. It is so useful for our young dancers to have a good knowledge of how their bodies work to release their full potential. We also have a professional Pilates teacher qualified with the Pilates Foundation, who runs classes for the students as well as group and 1-1 classes for adults.
IRISH: A fun group class for ages 5 through to 14. This is a very sociable class with lots of opportunity for performing at local events and themed days.
COMMERCIAL / LYRICAL: Commercial dance is a high-energy, expressive style often seen in music videos, concerts, and TV performances. This genre combines elements from various dance styles such as hip hop, jazz, and street dance. It allows dancers to develop their unique style while focusing on performance and attitude. Lyrical, on the other hand, is a more emotive dance form that blends ballet and jazz techniques. It is driven by the lyrics and mood of the music, allowing dancers to convey emotion and storytelling through movement. This class will teach students how to transition smoothly between these two dynamic styles, emphasising musicality, fluidity, and expression. ACRO: Acro combines classical dance technique with precision acrobatic elements. It is defined by its athleticism, unique choreography, and seamless transitions between dance and acrobatic moves. Students will develop their flexibility, strength, balance, and coordination, learning tricks such as handstands, cartwheels, and partner stunts while maintaining fluidity and grace. This class is ideal for those looking to enhance their dance technique with acrobatic flair in a safe and supportive environment.
JUNIOR PERFORMANCE CLASS: This class is designed for younger students who want to take their dance training to the next level and perform in various settings. It focuses on enhancing stage presence, confidence, and performance quality across multiple dance styles. Dancers will have opportunities to rehearse and perfect routines for shows, competitions, and events, developing their skills in teamwork and artistic expression.