The academy was started as a school of dance over 35 years ago and has continued to go from strength to strength ever since.
During that time, we have been fortunate to see many of our students enjoy the benefit of attending a school like ours.
We provide a selection of classes for boys and girls from the age of 2.5 upwards.
Students are encouraged to take part in classes be it just for fun and fitness, or if more serious about their training, we provide the opportunity for them to enter ISTD examinations.
We proudly hold a 100% pass rate for all of our ISTD examinations.
Throughout the year, students are presented with the opportunity to participate in various performances.
All students are invited to participate in our bi-annual show which is held in a theatre.
Many of our pupils, both past and present have gone on to have very successful careers within the world of dance and musical theatre. They continue to win national competitions and be successful in their auditions for full time dance colleges.
Credits include, Billy Elliot, Les Miserables, Shrek, The Sound of Music, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Starlight Express, Disneyland Cast Member.
We also have students who are training with the Royal Ballet.
Our school promotes inclusion, kindness and acceptance, providing students with a safe place to really focus on their training.
We have a fantastic team who teach with passion and dedication. We really support the ethos of self esteem and confidence building within all the students.
Our team all hold qualifications with the ISTD, DBS/CRB checks and First Aid certificates.
Our Principal
Martine Canning, AISTD
Martine started dancing at the age of 3 training locally in Essex under the guidance of Angela Allport and Nicola Barry.
She then went on to further her training at Masters Performing Arts College for a further three years.
Whilst training, Martine was the winner of both the Star Tap Awards and the All England Dance Festival.
She was also handpicked to perform in the ISTD tap dvd to demonstrate the work.
Martine’s training has taken her around the world. Her professional credits include:
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Scrooge The Musical
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Bollywood movies: Jhoom Barabar, (on location in London, Paris and Mumbai)
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Money Hai Toh Honey Hai, (on location in Mauritius)
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Naksha ( on location in Mumbai)
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Bhool Bhulayia. (on location in Mumbai)
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Bollywood music video: Hare Ram, Bhool bhulayiaa
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Various Pantomimes
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Blue Peter
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Party in the Park
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Hair and Catwalk shows on location in Athens
Martine found a love in teaching and choreography. She has taught at prestigious London colleges, Italia Conti and London Studios, as well as many local schools.
During her time in teaching. Martine has choreographed for ‘The One Show’ with Peter Andre and MTV’s ‘My Super Sweet Sixteen’.
She has also choreographed endless pieces for local dance shows as well as DisneyLand.
Martine’s passion for teaching is evident in the work of the students. She is committed to providing the best training for every student conducted in a fun and friendly environment.