Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Dance Classes for All Ages & Abilities
Established in 1972 by Donald and Phyllida McAlpine, our family-run dance school has dedicated itself to nurturing a passion for dance across generations. We provide inclusive, high-quality instruction in classical ballet, tap, contemporary, and musical theatre dance at our studios in Camberwell and Croydon. Our team of professional instructors, many of whom are former students, deliver tailored training for ages 2 to 80, from beginner to advanced levels.Accredited by the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) and ISTD, we combine technical excellence with performance opportunities, including biennial stage productions. With decades of collective experience in professional theatre and dance education, we prioritize individual growth, preparing students for exams, vocational training, or personal enrichment in a supportive environment.
Services
Classical Ballet
Tap Dancing
Contemporary Dance
Stage Club
Adult Ballet
Silver Swans
Online Ballet
Musical Theatre
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- Family-run since 1972 with three generations of dance expertise
- RAD and ISTD-certified instructors with professional theatre backgrounds
- Stage production opportunities and biennial performances
- Specialist Silver Swans classes for adult ballet enthusiasts
- Tailored coaching from toddler to advanced level training
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
- ISTD
What people say
Wonderful life-enhancing dance
Love of dance shining through
Growing into wonderful dancers
Biennial big show excitement
Services
Classical Ballet
Specialist classical ballet instruction following the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. We cater for ages 2 to 80, from toddler beginner classes through to advanced RAD examinations. Our method combines technical precision with artistic expression, preparing students for professional careers or recreational enjoyment while building core strength and posture.
Stage Club
Integrated performance classes combining tap and musical theatre dance. Designed for ages 4 to adulthood, these sessions develop stagecraft skills through ISTD syllabus work and original choreography. Participants gain performance experience through regular rehearsals culminating in our biennial full-scale productions at professional theatres.
Silver Swans
Specialist ballet classes for adult learners aged 55+ focusing on maintaining mobility and artistic engagement. Accredited by the Royal Academy of Dance, these sessions improve strength and coordination while teaching classical technique. Classes available both in-person at our studios and via online platforms for remote participation.
Contemporary Dance
Contemporary dance instruction incorporating modern dance principles and creative movement exploration. Classes emphasize fluidity, spatial awareness, and expressive storytelling through movement. Our faculty teaches stylistic versatility while maintaining technical foundations, suitable for both recreational and vocational students preparing for professional dance careers.
Online Ballet
Live-streamed ballet instruction accessible globally through Zoom meetings. Maintaining the same technical standards as in-studio sessions, our online classes provide flexibility for international students or those with scheduling constraints. Participants receive real-time feedback and can access recorded sessions for supplementary practice and progress tracking.
People
Donald McAlpine
Founder
Award-winning New Zealand dancer and former Sadlers Wells Theatre Ballet soloist with extensive West End experience. Trained under Sigurd Leeder and performed with London Festival Ballet, bringing professional expertise to our teaching methodology.
Phyllida McAlpine
Co-Founder
Graduate of Anna Ivanova's prestigious school with professional experience at Royal Shakespeare Theatre and Cuban National Ballet. Her artistic vision combines classical technique with creative expression in our curriculum development.
Louisa McAlpine
Company Director
Director since 1982 with formal training from The Royal Ballet School. An experienced performer, choreographer, and certified RAD/ISTD instructor who specialises in adapting classical techniques for diverse age groups and abilities.
Questions
What age ranges do you teach?
We teach from age 2 (Baby Ballet) through to octogenarians, with specialized classes for toddlers, children, teens, and adults.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we present full-scale productions biennially and regular showcase events, featuring all age groups and dance styles.
Are exams mandatory?
Exams are optional - we offer RAD and ISTD assessments for those who want them, but many students attend purely for enjoyment.
Do you teach complete beginners?
All our classes welcome beginners, including adults with no prior dance experience through our Silver Swans and general dance classes.
What dance styles are offered?
We teach classical ballet, tap dancing, contemporary dance, musical theatre, and stage performance techniques across all classes.
Are online options available?
Yes, we provide live-streamed ballet classes through Zoom with interactive instruction and feedback for remote participants.
Videos
Reviews (5)
Jennifer Arthur
Nov 25, 2021
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Ms Louisa's love for dance is so evident in her teaching. She is warm and engaging, professional yet relaxed. Wholeheartedly recommend this dance school.
George Chaldezos
Nov 15, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Superb in every respect: encouraging, friendly, witty, untiring expertise. As a teacher myself, I have seen many who teach, but none better! MacAlpine Dance will transform you in the most gentle and fun way.
Superb in every respect: encouraging, friendly, witty, untiring expertise. As a teacher myself, I have seen many who teach, but none better! MacAlpine Dance will transform you in the most gentle and fun way.
Sarah Hind
Mar 07, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
My 8 year old boy loves dancing but would never admit it. The fact that he's still going to dance class, in lockdown, via zoom, is testament to Louisa's superb teaching and infectious love of dance. Not only that but brilliant and responsive communications that put most far larger institutions to shame.
My 8 year old boy loves dancing but would never admit it. The fact that he's still going to dance class, in lockdown, via zoom, is testament to Louisa's superb teaching and infectious love of dance. Not only that but brilliant and responsive communications that put most far larger institutions to shame.
James Lewis
Mar 03, 2021
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
My son attends 'start to dance' and he absolutely adores the class! Louisa is so animated and the class is thoroughly enjoyable for all the children.
My son attends 'start to dance' and he absolutely adores the class! Louisa is so animated and the class is thoroughly enjoyable for all the children.
Sara Rodrigues
Feb 23, 2021
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Excellent dance school!! My daughter has attended ballet classes for over three years now. She absolutely loves her teacher, Louisa! And I could not be happier with the school either. Louisa is a fantastic teacher, everyone in there is passionate about dancing and every child is made to feel special. Thank you!
