Flamingos Dance, located in the High Barnet area, has been providing ballet classes for boys and girls since 2010. With a focus on creating a fun and inclusive environment, this small and friendly dance academy offers a comprehensive introduction to dance and movement for children aged three and above. The academy follows the Royal Academy of Dance junior ballet grade syllabus, allowing students of all abilities to progress at their own pace.
In addition to regular classes, Flamingos Dance also organises a small ballet recital every other year in a local theatre space. This recital serves as an extension of the students' classwork and provides them with the opportunity to perform in front of friends and family in a non-intimidating setting.
The benefits of ballet tuition for children are vast. Besides improving physical fitness, flexibility, motor skills, strength, stamina, and posture, ballet also enhances overall concentration and social skills through the musical, rhythmic, and technical elements of the dance. Furthermore, participating in examinations and performances help children face fears, meet challenges, foster determination, and boost confidence. Flamingos Dance aims to create an inspiring and supportive environment for all individuals eager to experience the beauty of ballet and the joy of dance.
Flamingos Dance operates classes at different venues throughout the week. Saturday and Tuesday classes are held at The Stable on Salisbury Road, Monday classes at Christ Church on St Albans Road, Wednesday classes at Wesley Hall on Stapylton Road, and Thursday classes at St Gregory's Church Hall on Union Street.
The academy operates on a 10-week term basis, with the autumn 2023 term beginning on Saturday, September 16th, and ending on Saturday, December 2nd. There are no classes during the half-term break, from Saturday, October 21st, to Saturday, October 28th.
It's important to note that most classes have a waiting list. If interested in a free trial class, individuals can contact Meri, Flamingos Dance's main point of contact, for current availability or to add their child's name to the waiting list. There is no charge for joining the waiting list, and there is no obligation to enrol in the classes after the free trial session.
Flamingos Dance offers a variety of classes to cater to different age groups. The Pre-School Dance class, suitable for children aged three to four years, is held on Saturdays from 9 am to 9:30 am and on Mondays from 3:30 pm to 4 pm. The cost for this 10-week term is 75. This class focuses on introducing dance through engaging props, ballet games, mime, improvisation, and teaching the basics of ballet practise.
For children aged four to five years (school reception age), the Pre-Primary Ballet class provides a more structured ballet experience. This class is held on Saturdays from 9:30 am to 10:15 am and on Mondays from 4 pm to 4:45 pm. The cost for the 10-week term is 95. In this class, children learn the basic positions of arms and feet, along with traditional ballet techniques, while still incorporating fun and games.
Flamingos Dance is your go-to dance school in Barnet, offering a nurturing environment and expert instruction for both children and adults. With a focus on ballet, the school helps students develop physical, cognitive, and social skills while fostering a love for dance and artistic expression.