Located in the heart of Blackburn, Pat Eakets School of Dance and Drama has long been a cornerstone of the local dance community. Now led by Rebecca Herbert, a former student turned qualified teacher with The British Theatre Dance Association, the school offers a blend of tradition and expertise. Miss Herbert, with her advanced qualifications in Ballet, Tap, Modern, Street Dance, and Musical Theatre, brings a wealth of experience, having trained at prestigious institutions like The Central Ballet School in London and Elmhurst Ballet School. Her professional dancing career took her around the world before she returned to Blackburn at 23 to teach.
The school has two convenient locations: The Bureau Centre for the Arts on Victoria Street and Salesbury Memorial Hall on Ribchester Road in Clayton-Le-Dale. It enjoys a stellar reputation, with many students progressing to vocational training, higher education in Dance, and professional careers in Theatre and Dance Teaching. Notably, some have become Associates of renowned institutions like the Royal Ballet School and the Northern Ballet School.
Testimonials from former students, like Jo Thompson, highlight the school as a valued stepping stone to professional success, describing it as a "second home" that nurtured her love for dance. The strong technique taught here has paved the way for many to enter prestigious dance schools.
Pat Eakets School offers a welcoming and supportive environment, with opportunities including festival competitions, pantomimes, annual performances, group presentations, and a summer dance school. There's also the chance to attend a residential ballet course in London.
Photos capturing the essence of the school can be found on the website, taken by freelance photographer and former student Scott David Jackson. Interested individuals can also follow his work on social media.
For more information or to contact Miss Herbert, visit the school's official website.