Classes

Tap

This has evolved as an American dance form, popularised throughout the world, with debate about its origins coming from African dance, Irish dance and/or clog dancing. The dancer uses their feet to strike the floor, beating out different rhythms, with dancers wearing tap shoes which have small metal plates on the toe and heel to give the distinctive sound. Tap dance is a theatrical art form often seen on stage in musicals.

Following the syllabus of the ISTD and IDTA, children begin at the age of 5 learning basic steps and rhythm. This progresses to more complex steps and rhythm that are difficult to master but when they get it…it’s amazing!!

Classical Ballet

Following the syllabus of the ISTD and IDTA, ballet is perhaps the most popular of all dance forms. Ballet is the oldest form of dance and comes from the court dancing of King Louis. As time passed this form of storytelling through movement has evolved into an art form that is beautiful, dramatic and demanding.

Classes begin at the age of 4 years old by introducing musicality, basic posture and technique and discipline. As the child progresses through the grades they will develop a strong technique along with performance skills, musicality, posture, balance strength and flexibility.

Modern Theatre

Think Wicked, Step up, Lion King and Cats….. Modern theatre is exactly as it sounds a wonderful mixture of jazz, blues, lyrical and street dance. It is 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 need strength and flexibility. This is a highly energetic dance style.

Following the syllabus of the ISTD children begin at 5 years old, learning basic posture and musicality through a series of exercises each with their own story. As the grades progress the children learn the diversity of modern theatre and the many performance styles it provides.

Acting Workshop

Taught by a professional actor, this class encourages looks at the main techniques required of an actor in today’s world of entertainment. Mime, script work, improvisation and specific techniques for TV and stage are explored. Casting directors are linked with the school and students are auditioned regularly for a variety of acting opportunities.

Contemporary

Contemporary is a creative yet challenging dance genre. Students are taught various techniques within this genre from Graham to Release technique and also encouraged to have a creative input into class. A great class for those who enjoy expression and freedom of movement.

Street Dance

A popular choice with students. Move over diversity and flawless..this is where you learn to dance like all the stars. Incorporating the many different strands of street dance, routines are taught to keep those bodies moving. IDTA Freestyle exams can be taken but the emphasis is on fun in this high energy class.

Musical Theatre

Wherever there is a dance it is usually followed by a song!! This class is great fun and allows the children to explore the wonderful world of the musicals. From timeless classics like Oklahoma and South Pacific to the more modern musicals such as Matilda, Wicked and Frozen Following the syllabus of the IDTA , students work on a variety of vocal, drama and physical prep exercises before learning routines that incorporate the 3 disciplines of performing arts, Acting, singing and dancing.

Acro

Acro is a fusion of gymnastics and dance. Students are given and intensive strengthening and stretching work out before learning basic gymnastic tricks that can enhance their dance training. Following the syllabus of the IDTA this class extremely popular with the students.

Cheer Squad

A high energy class which promotes confidence and a great sense of team work in students. Dance routines, chants and tricks are learnt in creative and fun routines. Following the syllabus of the IDTA students can enter exams as a solo and as teams. An excellent social class with the emphasis on fun.

For those wishing to compete in Cheerleading competitions , the Cheer Competition team is available and entry is by audition only. A great opportunity to travel the country and be a part of the exciting and wild world of competitive Cheer.

Mini Ballet

Mini Ballet is specifically designed for our youngest dancers and taught by our highly trained and experienced staff. Each week the children will embark upon a special adventure with Ellie the Elev8 Bear supported by music, picture cards, toys and plenty of imagination. Through these adventures they will develop skills in co-ordination, musicality and basic dance technique providing a great foundation for when they move on into the graded classes.

For information of times please refer to our timetable page.

Pre-registration for these classes is vital.

Drills Class

A high energy and high impact class combining fitness training and dance technique drills. This class is for those who want to improve fitness, flexibiltiy and basic dance technique. there is no time for dance routines in this class just non stop action. NOt for the faint hearted.

Dance experience is not necessary and can be taken to compliment dance training or on its own as a way to keep fit. Suitable for students aged 6 years and up.

Company Class

Company classes are by audition only and are for students who show a particular talent and dedication to their dance training. Company classes offer a more intense form of training in many genres of dance and students are trained in performance and competitive dance. Company students compete at national and international level and are expected to have a strong work ethic.

Competition Class

A class designed for students who participate in competitions. This class is designed as an oportunity to rehearse competiton dances and also work on general technique and performance as a whole group. It is recommended that all students who are involved in competitions attend this class atleast once a week