Thank you for a wonderful year of dancing, Annabelle has had lots of fun. The concerts were amazing; I went to all the kids showcases and the showcase on Wednesday night. It was inspiring to see the dancing, everything from contemporary to ballet. Mostly I wanted to say that I am truly amazed and happy to find a dance school that offers technical dance (particularly ballet), yet is inclusive of all people and bodies. Ballet in particular has a reputation for encouraging unrealistic body images, low self-esteem and unrealistic discipline in children. I can’t count how many parents I talk to who say they would never let their child do ballet. If only people could see these kids! It goes to show that dance can be a disciplined skill with proper technique, whilst being fun, inclusive and accepting of all bodies. I don’t dance, so I am not very articulate about it, but I am sure you get the gist of what I'm saying! You should both be proud of the school, it is an amazing place.
My daughter has been attending Dance Northside since it first opened in 2007. She has developed from a shy, enthusiastic beginner into a mature, passionate and accomplished dancer, whose love of dance has only increased under Holly and Rebecca's teaching. I have also started taking part in the adults class, inspired by the positive energy and enthusiasm of all the staff. No matter what level you're at there is a class that is a perfect fit for you.
I have been a student at Dance Northside since it first opened in 2007. Initially it was Holly's community focused philosophy that attracted me to the school. I was looking for somewhere fun to take classes, where my potential could be realised and my passion for dance would be further strengthened. Since 2007 the school has grown in both number of students and range of classes offered but the philosophy that "everybody can dance" is still the driving force behind every lesson. The passion, enthusiasm and expertise that Holly possesses is ever present in the quality of work each student produces, and is evident in the happy faces that leave class each week!
While both my children greatly enjoyed their lessons and end-of-year performances, it was the growth in their confidence that I appreciated the most from their experience at Dance Northside. I greatly value the consideration you give to the development of children’s confidence, particularly with relation to ‘putting themselves out there’ and going on stage. I believe my kids felt able to give it a go because they were not judged on their physical ability, and so felt safe and valued for who they are, not what they can do. I also appreciate your approach to adult dance. I remember when I asked if you had space in your class for adults you said that you hate to say ‘no’ to us because you appreciate how much guts it can take for most adults (myself included) to consider doing a dance class (aren't we too old for that?). And I thoroughly enjoyed the classes, again because I did not feel judged and so could relax and have a good time dancing. I’ve talked a lot about ‘judgement’ and that’s because my experience with other dance schools (for my children and myself as a child) is that they are very competitive and judgemental. I believe this is an environment that breeds fear and comparison, which can be very damaging to young minds and bodies. That’s why I appreciate your approach so much. I would not hesitate to recommend Dance Northside to friends of mine - for themselves and their children. Thank you for the good dance times!
After watching how much fun my child had at dance classes, I often found myself wishing there was something for me, even though I had no dance skills. So when Dance Northside started up an adult contemporary dance class, I thought I'd give it a go. What I enjoy the most is that it is a dance class for us "ordinary" people who may not be able to dance but deep down wish that we could. It is perfect for someone like me who is a little unfit and can't face a gym, but it is much more than that. This class sums upDance Northside's philosophy that "Everyone can dance". It is an enjoyable, relaxing class with gentle exercise and stretching as well as good routines where we are encouraged to do what we can and gently challenged to take it just that bit further. It has shown me that you don't have to be young to enjoy dancing!
I'm just about to finish my first year in the Adult Contemporary class and it has been such a great year! I have learnt so much from Holly and met some lovely people in the process. I will definitely be back next year! Dance Northside really does embrace the philosophy that "anyone can dance".
Holly, a huge "Thank You" to you and everyone at Dance Northside. We feel very privileged to be part of Dance Northside, such a lovely warm, disciplined, inclusive outfit. It's refreshing to find a dance school that encourages and supports every child to find their "inner dancer". Both my girls have tried a variety of styles and all their teachers have been wonderful. My husband and I particularly enjoy the end of year concert where every child is given the chance to "star". The concerts are exciting and fun to watch - we love the no-nonsense affordable costumes (that look fantastic), the strict timetable (no marathon sittings), and the look of joy on all the dancers faces! We're proud to say we are part of the Dance Northside family.
It has been one year and I can dance! Well almost. Dance Northside is a fun and enthusiastic place to be no matter your age, build or ability.
I have great respect for what Dance Northside stands for and have had much joy from watching our two children grow in confidence through their learning experiences with you. I think the focus on accessibility together with the non-judgemental approach you take to dance tuition provide a very supportive and fun foundation from which the children learn and grow in their physical awareness and enjoyment. Thank you to all the lovely teachers we have known at Dance Northside.
Boys can and do dance! Finding a dance school that not only welcomed but encouraged and extended boy's dancing has been fantastic. Dance Northside has made dance cool for every young person - girls and boys - and helps my son be proud of being a dancer, despite being in the minority! In the words of an eleven year-old boy "It's way cool - and funky!"