Business Details
36 Years
experience
Expert Dance Instruction for All Levels in Bishop Auckland
At Richardson's Dance Studio, we have dedicated ourselves to the art of dance instruction for over three decades. Founded by professional dance teachers Gary and Sue Richardson, our studio combines global competitive experience with a passion for teaching. We offer a comprehensive range of adult dance classes including Ballroom, Latin American, Salsa, and Sequence Dancing, alongside private tuition and wedding dance choreography. Our state-of-the-art facility in Bishop Auckland features a sprung Canadian maple floor and comfortable amenities, complemented by satellite locations across the North East of England. With a focus on both technical excellence and enjoyment, we cater to complete beginners through to advanced dancers.Our weekly social dances and special events create opportunities for practice and community building. The studio's commitment to quality is evidenced by our qualified instructors and tailored teaching approach. Whether pursuing dance for fitness, social engagement, or performance, our students benefit from structured progression pathways. We maintain strong connections to the local community while upholding international dance standards. Our teaching philosophy emphasizes accessibility, ensuring everyone finds their rhythm in a welcoming environment.
Services
Adult Dance Classes
Private Tuition
Wedding Choreography
Social Dance Events
Solo Latin Fitness
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of professional dance teaching experience
- Our instructors hold international dance teaching qualifications (FIDTA)
- We provide tailored private tuition for individual progression
- We operate across multiple accessible locations in the North East
- We guarantee qualified instructors for all lessons
Services
Adult Dance Classes
Structured group dance instruction covering Ballroom, Latin American, and Salsa styles. Classes combine technical training with social dancing practice. Suitable for couples and singles aged 18+, with progression pathways from beginner to advanced levels. Sessions include music interpretation and partner work.
Private Tuition
Personalised dance instruction tailored to individual goals. Available for couples or solo learners, covering any dance style. Ideal for accelerating progress, mastering specific techniques, or preparing for special events. Hour-long sessions with expert feedback and customised lesson plans.
Wedding Choreography
Custom choreography for wedding couples, blending personal style with technical excellence. Sessions focus on creating memorable routines that match chosen music. Instruction includes timing, spatial awareness, and performance confidence for your special day.
Social Dance Events
Weekly Friday night social dances for practice and networking. Events feature mixed dance styles, with opportunities to meet fellow dancers. Regular themes and music variations keep the atmosphere engaging while reinforcing classroom learning in practical settings.
Solo Latin Fitness
High-energy Latin dance fitness classes for individual participants. Combines dance moves with cardiovascular exercise, suitable for all fitness levels. Focuses on rhythm development and solo performance techniques without partner requirements.
People
Gary Richardson
Co-Owner & Professional Dance Teacher
Internationally qualified FIDTA dance professional with 35+ years teaching experience. Former World Amateur Ten Dance Champion. Specialises in technical instruction and competitive preparation.
Sue Richardson
Co-Owner & Professional Dance Teacher
FIDTA-qualified dance instructor with specialist qualifications in dance exercise and educational instruction. Focuses on beginner progression and social dance development. Holds AQA/NSAP teaching accreditation.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialise in Ballroom, Latin American, Salsa, and Sequence Dancing for adult learners.
Do I need a partner to join classes?
Partner required for Ballroom and Latin classes; Solo Latin fitness classes don't require a partner.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, we offer dedicated beginner classes starting every autumn term at multiple locations.
Can you help with wedding first dances?
Yes, our expert instructors create custom choreography for wedding couples.
Where are your dance studios located?
Main studio in Bishop Auckland plus venues in Darlington, Hexham, Bardon Mill, and Spennymoor.
What should I wear to classes?
Comfortable clothing; we recommend non-marking indoor shoes for dance floor protection.
Reviews (1)
Sarah Holmes
May 04, 2018
Report
Sue gave us some amazing tuition for our wedding first dance, she was a very kind, patient and encouraging teacher (even when we went wrong lol) she bought out the best in us as amateur dancers, our wedding guests were amazed at how professional we danced,this was due to Sue's encouragement, she made our lessons fun and productive.. If you need someone to fulfil your first dance dream then Sue's your lady... Thank you sue x
