Business Details
Dance Classes for Children and Adults in Kent
Shimmi Shake has been nurturing confidence and creativity through dance for over 30 years. Founded by Sue Mahoney at 18, our studio combines technical excellence with emotional growth, offering classes from ballet to street dance for ages 3 to adult. We prioritise individual progress through IDTA-accredited exams and bi-annual performances, supported by a team of experienced instructors many of whom trained here themselves.Our three Kent locations in Bromley and Orpington provide accessible, inclusive spaces where students develop not just dance skills but lifelong self-belief. With flexible booking options and a free first class, we make dance education welcoming for every family.
Services
Ballet Classes
Tap Dance
Street Dance
Musical Theatre
IDTA Exams
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of dance instruction experience with IDTA-accredited qualifications
- Our team includes performers with West End and BRIT Awards experience
- Free first class with no obligation to continue
- Bi-annual professional stage productions for all students
- Three convenient locations across Bromley and Orpington
Associations and certifications
- IDTA (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing)
Services
Children's Dance Classes
Structured dance programs for ages 3-18 develop technical skills and self-confidence. Classes combine ballet, tap and street styles with musical theatre elements. Instructors focus on individual progress through age-appropriate exercises and group performances.
Adult Dance Classes
Vibrant dance sessions for adults of all experience levels improve fitness and coordination. Classes feature street and commercial styles in a supportive environment. Participants benefit from professional choreography and community building through movement.
Musical Theatre Training
Integrated singing, dancing and acting classes prepare students for stage performance. Curriculum includes character development, ensemble work and solo opportunities. Regular showcases build stage presence and performance confidence in a professional setting.
IDTA Dance Examinations
Biennial IDTA-accredited assessments measure technical progress from beginner to advanced levels. Exams evaluate musicality, technique and performance quality with detailed feedback. Achievements are celebrated through formal certificates and progression pathways.
Performance Opportunities
Bi-annual professional productions feature all students in fully staged shows. Participants wear theatrical costumes with optional makeup, performing on professional stages. Events create memorable experiences while demonstrating technical progress and artistic growth.
People
Samantha Cramer
Principal
Principal dancer turned educator with IDTA teaching qualification. Combines dance expertise with business acumen to lead studio operations while maintaining hands-on teaching involvement.
Sue Mahoney
Founder
Established studio at 18 with 35+ years teaching experience. Developed confidence-focused methodology that has nurtured generations of dancers, many becoming professional performers or educators themselves.
Blythe Couldridge
Assistant Principal
Alumni success story with BRIT School and Performers College qualifications. BRIT Awards performer brings professional stage experience to choreography and youth mentorship programs.
Jessica Wright
Musical Theatre Teacher
West End performer with distinction in Professional Musical Theatre. Translates stage experience into dynamic teaching methods that develop versatile performers across multiple genres.
Lydia Murfitt
Teaching Assistant
Long-term student specialising in street dance. Embodies studio values through personal journey of growth and achievement, serving as relatable mentor for younger students.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, tap, street dance, musical theatre, and contemporary styles for ages 3 to adult.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes, your first class is completely free with no obligation to continue.
Where are your studios located?
We have three locations in Bromley and Orpington: Chantry Studios, GEA Hall, and Oakley Fitness.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Yes, we stage professional productions every two years featuring all our students.
What uniform is required?
Students wear branded uniforms available through our online store, varying by class type.
Are exams available?
We offer IDTA-accredited dance exams every two years from beginner to advanced levels.
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