Business Details
Your Premier Dance School in Farnborough
Renton Dance has been nurturing dancers for over 35 years, offering a welcoming environment where students and parents become part of a supportive community. Our curriculum includes RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, alongside Contemporary, Jazz, Commercial, Acro, and Musical Theatre. With a team of industry professionals, including West End performers and certified instructors, we provide grade classes, vocational training, and performance opportunities.Our state-of-the-art facility features a Harlequin Liberty dance floor, ensuring optimal conditions for learning. We prioritise individual growth, offering conditioning classes and tailored audition preparation. Our legacy of excellence is reflected in students' success at national competitions and placements at prestigious institutions like the Royal Ballet School.
Services
Ballet
Contemporary
Commercial
Modern Tap
Musical Theatre
Conditioning
Acro
Highlights and features
- 35+ years nurturing dancers from age 3 to professional level
- RAD and ISTD accredited syllabi with outstanding exam results
- Faculty includes West End performers and industry specialists
- Harlequin Liberty sprung flooring for optimal dance safety
- Performance opportunities with prestigious institutions
Associations and certifications
- Royal Academy of Dance (RAD)
- Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD)
What people say
Friendly welcoming atmosphere
Talented teachers
Excellent results
Welcoming environment
Professional training
Services
Ballet
Our Ballet programme follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, offering training from pre-primary to vocational levels. Students develop technical precision, grace, and artistry through progressive Ballet Technique. Regular participation in the All England Dance Festival showcases our students' achievements nationally.
Contemporary
Contemporary Dance classes focus on expressive movement and technical versatility. Students explore choreography that blends traditional and modern styles, building strength and creative confidence under the guidance of industry professionals with international performance experience.
Musical Theatre
This interdisciplinary class combines dance, singing, and acting techniques. Students receive coaching from West End performers and industry specialists, preparing for stage productions and auditions with practical training in all three disciplines.
Acro
Acro classes integrate dance and gymnastics to develop strength, flexibility, and balance. Structured by skill level, sessions focus on safe progression through acrobatic techniques while maintaining dance artistry and performance quality.
Tap
ISTD-certified Tap classes teach rhythmic precision and musicality. Students progress through graded exams while exploring various styles from traditional to contemporary tap, with opportunities to perform in national competitions.
People
Olivia Willis
Owner & Principal
Graduate of Bird College with First Class BA Hons in Professional Dance. Former Royal Ballet School associate with West End and international performance credits. Holds enhanced DBS and paediatric first aid qualifications. Acquired Renton Dance in 2024.
Senta Renton
Founder
Established Renton Dance in the 1990s. Pioneered RAD/ISTD syllabi training. Mentored multiple award-winning dancers. Recognised for developing national competition champions and fostering industry partnerships with institutions like the Royal Ballet School.
Paula Chalmers
Resident Teacher
RAD-certified instructor with international performance experience across 10+ countries. Former West End cast member of 'Casper the Musical'. Founded 'Destination Dance' company. Specialises in Ballet, Tap, and Modern instruction.
Kate Webster
Resident Teacher
Guildford School of Acting graduate with 10+ years teaching Vocational RAD Ballet. Experienced performer with Darcey Bussell and Rod Stewart. Specialises in Ballet instruction for ages 8+ and degree-level dance education.
Charlotte Steele
Singing Teacher
West End performer in 'Mary Poppins' original cast. Member of country-pop band 'Remember Monday'. Experienced choreographer with TV credits including 'The Voice'. Specialises in musical theatre vocal training.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We provide RAD Ballet, ISTD Tap and Modern, Contemporary, Commercial, Acro, Musical Theatre, and Conditioning classes for ages 3 to adult.
Can new students try classes before committing?
Yes, we offer a 2-week free trial allowing new students to experience any class of their choice before enrolling.
Are your teachers qualified?
All instructors hold professional dance qualifications with many having West End or international performance experience. Certifications include RAD, ISTD, and enhanced DBS checks.
Do you participate in competitions?
Yes, our students regularly compete in the All England Dance Festival and have achieved multiple national-level awards across various disciplines.
What performance opportunities exist?
Students showcase talents in annual productions and collaborate with institutions like the Royal Ballet School. Some participate in professional pantomimes and touring productions.
What facilities do you have?
Our studio features a Harlequin Liberty sprung floor, providing optimal shock absorption and support for dancers during training sessions.
Reviews (4)
Andrea Zschaler
Sep 04, 2021
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Renton is a fantastic dance school with the most dedicated teachers ever. Students are challenged and helped to grow as dancers and the support amongst the students is incredible. Wouldn't want to go anywhere else.
Caroline Keogh
Feb 11, 2021
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I moved my daughter to RDS from another local dance school because I'd heard from others what an amazing dance school it is. Since we moved to RDS my daughter has gone from strength to strength due to the amazing teachers and wonderful choreography they're exposed to. She has recently achieved distinctions in 2 ballet exams and is making huge progress. If you want 100% support and dedication from a dance school, with access to a great studio, then go to RDS. Making the move to RDS was the best thing we ever did.
Vicky Cousins
Oct 17, 2017
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The Renton Dance Studio is the best dance school for miles! Every teacher goes above and beyond and both my daughters love going to there classes. We would recommend time and time again.
5 !
5 !
Sarah Steele
Sep 12, 2017
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Both my children danced at Renton Dance Studio since they were tiny and my eldest still attends the odd lesson even though she is now 24. A home away from home and friends made for life. Highly recommend the teachers and the fun.
