Business Details
Your Trusted Dance School in Bradford
A K A Dance Studios has been delivering professional dance and performing arts tuition for over two decades. Our expertise lies in nurturing young talent through structured classes in jazz, street, commercial, ballet, tap, and contemporary styles. We bridge the gap between recreational dance and professional training, preparing students for full-time education or industry careers. Our alumni have achieved notable success in West End productions and professional roles.We prioritise holistic development, helping students build confidence, discipline, and cognitive skills alongside technical proficiency. With locations in Halifax, Bradford, and Queensbury, we cater to children, teens, and adults of all ability levels.
Services
Jazz Dance
Street Dance
Commercial Dance
Ballet
Tap Dance
Contemporary
Cheerleading
Gymnastics
Private Lessons
Performing Arts
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in professional dance tuition
- Our alumni have performed in West End productions and secured professional roles
- We offer age-appropriate classes from toddlers to young adults
- Our instructors specialise in commercial dance and performing arts
- We focus on building confidence and personal development alongside dance skills
What people say
Award-winning tuition
Excellent progression
Supportive instructors
Professional facilities
Great performance opportunities
Services
Commercial Dance
Our commercial dance classes combine technical precision with performance energy. Students learn choreography styles seen in music videos, live performances, and theatre productions. The curriculum develops versatility, musicality, and stage presence while building strong technical foundations through regular assessments and progression pathways.
Ballet
Structured ballet tuition follows progressive syllabi from toddler classes to advanced levels. We focus on posture, technique, and grace while preparing students for examinations and professional opportunities. Classes incorporate pointe work and character dance for older students seeking classical training.
Tap Dance
Tap classes teach rhythm, coordination, and musical interpretation through percussive footwork. Our graded programmes develop speed, clarity, and improvisation skills while maintaining proper technique and injury prevention practices for all ability levels.
Performing Arts
Integrated performing arts training combines dance, singing, and acting techniques. Students develop versatility for stage productions through ensemble work, solo performances, and audition preparation tailored to theatre and television industry requirements.
Private Lessons
Personalised tuition addresses individual goals for competition preparation, audition coaching, or technique refinement. Sessions are tailored to specific needs with flexible scheduling options for students seeking focused attention from our expert instructors.
People
Itziar Mateo Halford
Principal & Founder
With over 20 years in dance education, Itziar established A K A Dance Studios to bridge recreational and professional training. Her expertise in commercial dance and industry connections help students transition to full-time careers while maintaining technical excellence.
Kathryn Halford
Director & Founder
Kathryn co-founded A K A Dance Studios with a focus on holistic development through dance. She oversees curriculum design and teacher training, ensuring classes maintain technical standards while fostering confidence and creativity in students aged 3 to 20.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach jazz, street, commercial, ballet, tap, contemporary, cheerleading, gymnastics, and performing arts. Private lessons are also available for focused tuition in specific styles.
What age groups do you cater for?
Our classes start from 18 months (Tinkie Toes) up to 20 years (Seniors). We group students by both age and ability to ensure appropriate technical development and challenge levels.
How do I choose the right class?
Contact us before booking so we can recommend suitable classes based on your experience and goals. Instructors assess ability during first lessons to ensure proper placement.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we provide regular performance platforms including annual shows. Many students have secured professional roles and West End appearances through our industry connections and training programmes.
Are there adult classes available?
While our primary focus is young people aged 3-20, we offer adult classes in selected styles. Contact us for current availability and timetable options in Halifax and Bradford locations.
Reviews (6)
Joy Wilkings
Sep 01, 2021
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My granddaughter took part in the Summer Camp this year ( the title is a but confusing as they went to the studio 9.15 to 3.15 and didn't sleep there) anyway on the 8th day they put on a performance and l was so impressed by the sheer delight the pupils all seemed to have in it and the quality of the production and costumes in such a short time. I have been to many such events over the years and this really stood out as excellent.
Aaran Williams
Sep 07, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality
I love AKA. I have been going for almost 1 year now and I have seen how much my dancing has improved. Itziar, Kathryn and the team are lovely and work really hard to make AKA the best dance school in Yorkshire (in my opinion). I hope to spend many more years at AKA Dance Studios.
I love AKA. I have been going for almost 1 year now and I have seen how much my dancing has improved. Itziar, Kathryn and the team are lovely and work really hard to make AKA the best dance school in Yorkshire (in my opinion). I hope to spend many more years at AKA Dance Studios.
Gabrielle Williams
Aug 22, 2018
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AKA is a fantastic dance school! I have twin girls aged 14 who have tried so many different hobbies throughout the years and never stuck to it as they lost interest. They both love their dance lessons at AKA and love Itzia their dance teacher. The shows are unbelievable and really worth going to watch. The next one is July so don't miss out!!! X
Chelsea Wright
Jul 16, 2018
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Best dance school in Bradford, all the teachers are fab but Itziar is outstanding at her work and really knows her stuff. Really worth the money and the shows are amazing. Would recommend Aka to anyone wanting to find a dance school.
Darcie West
Jun 26, 2018
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Ive been going to AKA as long as I can remember and being a student i enjoy going and look forward to my lessons, you also learn so many different skills and its a very welcoming place it is also open to all age groups.
Linda O'Donohoe
Aug 03, 2017
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Fantastic . Our Tom loved dancing for AKA. Now he his at Surrey university following his dream. Thank you. X
