Who We Are.
We are dedicated to providing high-quality dance education in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our experienced instructors are passionate about sharing their love of dance and helping students of all ages and skill levels to grow and achieve their goals.
Here at Art of Dance, we believe that dance is about more than just steps and technique. It's about self-expression, creativity, and joy. We strive to foster a love of dance in all of our students and help them develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed both on and off the dance floor.
Community.
When you join Art of Dance, you become part of a vibrant and supportive dance family. Our community is built on inclusivity, respect, and a shared love for dance. Connect with fellow dancers, build lifelong friendships, and create lasting memories through collaborative projects, performances, and social events
We believe that a conducive environment plays a crucial role in fostering creativity and learning. Our state-of-the-art facilities feature spacious, well-equipped studios designed to inspire and enhance your dance experience. From professional sprung floors that reduce the risk of injury to mirrored walls that aid in technique refinement, our facilities provide the ideal setting for you to thrive as a dancer.
Curriculum.
Regardless of age or experience, we believe dance is for everyone. Our carefully curated training programmes cater to dancers of all ages, from children and teenagers to adults.
At Art of Dance, we prioritise a well-rounded dance education. All of our staff members are fully qualified and have undergone CRB checks to ensure their suitability for working with our students. Our comprehensive curriculum focuses not only on technique but also on fostering artistry and stage presence. We believe in nurturing the whole dancer, helping you develop grace, strength, musicality, and self-expression.
Company.
Founded in 1992 by Suzanne, Art of Dance began as a humble endeavour in a community centre, evolving into the vibrant school it is today. With its mission being to shape well-rounded dancers, champion kindness, and foster lifelong friendships. Our dedicated team of instructors, including RAD registered and RBS affiliated teachers, NCDTA and PBT qualified educators, and experts in various disciplines, are deeply committed to our students. Two of our instructors, whose passion for dance ignited right here at Art of Dance as children, additionally bring a unique understanding of our school's culture. Our instructors impart their expertise in our exceptional facilities, featuring four mirrored studios with wood and Harlequin floors, a dedicated singing/drama studio, and state-of-the-art equipment, providing the perfect environment for excellence.
Meet the Team.
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Suzanne Stuart-Burke
Founder and Principal
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Rachael Marshall
Dance Instructor
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Alex Mullen
Dance Instructor
Lisa Petrie
Dance Instructor
Danny Ducasse
Singing/Drama Instructor
Opportunities and Experiences at Art of Dance.
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Exams.
At our dance school, we provide comprehensive training aligned with the NCDTA and RAD grading systems. Our students have the opportunity to undertake examinations across all levels, fostering skill development and recognition of their achievements in dance.
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Annual Shows.
At AOD, we curate a transformative experience culminating in two spectacular showcases. Our crown jewel is the annual show at the Customs House Theatre—a year-long labor of love where dedication meets creativity. We merge musicals, tribute acts, diverse dance styles, and captivating solos into an electrifying display of talent and passion. Moreover, our cherished tradition includes a heartwarming Christmas show, opening doors for every AOD student to shine on stage. This inclusive platform fosters growth, unity, and the celebration of each individual's unique artistry, making each performance an unforgettable journey for both participants and audiences alike.
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Competitions and Championships.
We encourage our dancers to showcase their talent and dedication through various competitions and championships. Our school not only prepares them technically but also nurtures their confidence to shine on competitive stages. Click here to view our competitive team.
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Seasonal Parties.
Dance knows no boundaries of age or ability! Our inclusive seasonal parties, be it Easter, Halloween, or Christmas, unite our dance community in joyous celebrations, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
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Can You Dance? and Disneyland Paris.
At AOD, we don't just teach dance; we open doors to incredible opportunities. Every year, we eagerly participate in the prestigious "Can You Dance?" convention—an immersive event hosting industry professionals and scouting prospects. This remarkable gathering offers numerous workshops, providing our students with firsthand insights and invaluable guidance from the best in the business. Additionally, there's a chance to showcase our collective talent through troupe performances, an avenue that, in the past, has led us to triumph and travel to mesmerizing stages like Disneyland Paris!
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Future Prospects.
As part of our commitment to nurturing talent, we offer pathways to prestigious programs like the Royal Ballet School Associates and provide support into entering the professional industry with pathways to the West End etc. Our students receive guidance and support to pursue their dreams in the professional dance world, offering a promising future in the industry.
To ensure a harmonious and enriching experience for all, we have put in place some guidelines that we kindly request our students to observe. These guidelines, which we affectionately refer to as our 'school rules,' contribute to the positive environment that defines our dance community. For a closer look at these principles, we invite you to explore our dedicated 'school rules' page. Your commitment to these guidelines ensures that every step you take with us is in tune with the collective rhythm of Art of Dance.