Business Details
46 Years
experience
Professional Dance Education in Pontefract
Established in 1980 by Katherine Leydon-Smith, our dance school has cultivated a reputation for excellence in theatre dance education. Following the IDTA syllabus, we provide structured training in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Street/Contemporary for students aged 3 to adult. Our dedicated team of qualified instructors fosters a supportive yet rigorous environment where technical proficiency and performance confidence develop in tandem. With a legacy of producing annual 'Live Show' productions that raise funds for local charities, we combine artistic development with community engagement.Our alumni have progressed to professional dance careers, while many students continue dancing for personal enrichment. The school maintains strong ties with local venues like Pontefract Town Hall and collaborates with Yorkshire Dance Supplies for uniform requirements. Through regular examinations and performance opportunities, we ensure measurable progress while maintaining the joy of dance.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Dance
Modern Jazz
Musical Theatre
Cheerleading Training
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Established 1980 with proven teaching methodology
- IDTA syllabus ensures industry-standard training
- Qualified instructors with professional performance backgrounds
- Annual charity productions develop stage experience
- Progressive pathway from recreational to professional dance
Associations and certifications
- IDTA
Services
Ballet Classes
Our Ballet programme follows the IDTA syllabus, developing technical precision and grace from Pre-School through advanced levels. Students learn traditional techniques while building core strength and posture. Regular examinations and performance opportunities ensure measurable progress while maintaining artistic expression.
Tap Dance
Tap classes focus on musicality and rhythm through precise footwork. Students develop coordination and improvisation skills across various styles from Broadway to contemporary. Regular participation builds both technical proficiency and performance confidence.
Musical Theatre
This discipline combines dance, singing and acting techniques. Students learn repertoire from West End and Broadway shows, developing skills in character interpretation and stage presence through regular performance opportunities.
Cheerleading Training
Our cheerleading programme develops tumbling, stunting and pom routines. Students perform at local events including the X-Factor concert, building teamwork and precision through structured training and public performances.
Adult Dance Classes
Designed for adult learners, these classes offer Ballet, Jazz and Tap in a relaxed environment. Participants enjoy technical development without examination pressure, focusing on fitness and enjoyment through dance.
People
Katherine Leydon-Smith
Principal
Fellow of IDTA with 60+ years dance experience. Established the school in 1980 after professional career in UK and Spain. Specialises in Ballet, Tap and Modern Dance instruction.
Gemma Moxon
Dance Instructor
Qualified instructor teaching Ballet, Tap and Jazz. Focuses on technical development and performance preparation for IDTA examinations.
Melissa Penty
Dance Instructor
Experienced teacher delivering Modern Jazz and Musical Theatre classes. Emphasises creative expression within technical framework.
Claire Sharp
Dance Instructor
Specialist in Street/Contemporary dance instruction. Develops choreography for annual productions and student performances.
Joanne Weathers
Dance Instructor
Instructor for Cheerleading and performance-based classes. Coordinates team routines for public events and concerts.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz, Musical Theatre, Street/Contemporary and Cheerleading classes following the IDTA syllabus.
What age groups do you cater for?
Our classes accommodate children from age 3 through to adult learners, with graded levels for all abilities.
Do you offer dance examinations?
Yes, we prepare students for IDTA examinations held three times yearly, with optional participation based on individual readiness.
Are there performance opportunities?
We stage major 'Live Show' productions every three years at Pontefract Town Hall, plus regular cabaret performances and community events.
What uniform requirements exist?
Specific uniforms apply for each discipline, available through approved suppliers. Adult classes require comfortable dancewear appropriate to the style.
How experienced are your instructors?
All instructors hold teaching qualifications and professional dance experience, with Principal Katherine Leydon-Smith maintaining Fellow status with IDTA.
