Dua Lipa blares through your headphones, “Dance the night away; we’ll be dancing till the morning light!” But instead of hitting the dance floor, are you tired of feeling awkward on the dance floor while everyone else is having a blast?
Let’s change that! In this article, I’m excited to share the top five dance classes in Ireland that will help you find your groove and boost your confidence on the dance floor.
Keep reading to find the perfect dance class for your journey to becoming a dance floor superstar!
How much do dance classes cost in Ireland?
Dance class costs in Ireland range from approximately €90 to €300 for a term of classes, with specific rates such as €125 for ballet or jazz classes and €145 for longer sessions.
Families can expect to pay around €58 to €300 for monthly tuition, depending on the number of hours per week. Additionally, drop-in classes may cost about €20 per session.
How We Chose
1. Viva School of Dance
At Viva School of Dance, you wouldn’t believe the level of expertise Marcin and Ksenia bring to the table as world dance champions. Their passion for Latin and Ballroom dance is truly inspiring.
One thing I love about their teaching style is that they make complex moves approachable for beginners like me while still keeping them challenging for more experienced dancers.
Their personalized feedback helped me progress quickly and build my confidence on the dance floor. Also, when I walked into their studio, I felt part of a warm and supportive community.
What’s great is that everyone, regardless of their experience, is there to learn and have fun. This really relieves the pressure and makes the classes enjoyable and stress-free.
They offer various classes, from group sessions to one-on-one lessons, catering to different learning preferences. I’ve also heard they plan to introduce online courses, making their offerings more accessible.
One thing to note is that popular classes tend to fill up fast, so booking in advance is best, especially for specific styles or popular times. That could be inconvenient for those with busy schedules.
It’s also worth mentioning that not all classes are available at every location in Dublin. Depending on where you live, this might mean a bit of traveling, which could be off-putting for some people looking for convenience.
While their instruction justifies the cost, the pricing could be considered a bit higher than other local dance schools. But it’s worth it for the level of expertise and the quality of the experience.
Overall, my time at Viva School of Dance has been amazing. The top-notch instruction, the welcoming atmosphere, and the variety of classes make it a top choice for anyone interested in dance.
Pros
- Expert Instruction
- Inclusive Environment
- Flexible Scheduling
Cons
- Focus on Competitive Dance
- Dependence on Instructor Availability
- Potential Cost Concerns
Fun and Patient Dance Instruction for Beginners
“My partner and I, who both have zero dance experience, had a dancing lesson with Marcin, and I can only say it was a dream! Marcin was fun and patient, making us forget that dancing is not part of our comfort zone.
It’s very sad I don’t live in Dublin; otherwise, I’d definitely be going to his classes regularly!”
– Yuki Bachmann, Google Reviews
Instructors Creating Fun, Learnable Choreography
“Highly recommended! We had a class for our first dance with Martin yesterday, and it was a great experience. He devised a very simple but impressive routine that we can also practice at home. Five stars, guys, a great place to learn how to dance!”
– Anera Lopacinska, Google Reviews
2. Trinity Dance School
At Trinity Dance School, the instructors are highly skilled and incredibly passionate about teaching. I enjoyed learning from professionals specializing in Salsa, Bachata, and Kizomba.
From the moment I stepped into the studio, I felt embraced by a warm and friendly community. The inclusive environment encourages dancers of all levels, making it easy to connect with others who share a love for dance.
The regular parties and social gatherings provided a fantastic opportunity to practice what I learned in class while having fun. These events fostered a sense of camaraderie among students, making the dance experience even more enjoyable.
With classes held at St. Andrew’s Rescue Centre and the Dublin Bar Academy, I appreciated the convenience of having multiple locations. This flexibility made it easier to fit dance into my busy schedule.
The loyalty packages also offered great value for money, allowing me to access multiple classes at a reduced rate. This incentive encouraged me to attend more frequently and deepen my skills.
The classes are only available on specific days (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays), which can be restrictive for those with tight schedules. More frequent class offerings would enhance accessibility.
While the school caters to beginners and intermediates, I did notice a lack of advanced classes for those looking to hone their skills further. This could be a drawback for more experienced dancers seeking to challenge themselves.
During peak times, classes can become crowded, limiting the personalized attention each student receives. More instructors or smaller class sizes could mitigate this issue.
Overall, my experience at Trinity Dance School was enriching and enjoyable. This school is worth considering if you want to immerse yourself in the dance world.
Pros
- Social Opportunities
- Joyful Atmosphere
- Diverse Class Offerings
Cons
- Limited Operating Days
- Potential Overcrowding
- Focus on Social Dancing
Enthusiastic Instructors and Fun Social Events
“Amazing place to get dancing classes. The teacher, Seda, David, Asli, Paolo, Natalia, Mark, and the staff are amazing. They are highly recommended for classes and social dancing. The parties are super amazing, and the vibe is just incredible. Come for classes, and you’ll stay forever.”
– Saurabh Singh, Google Reviews
Patient Instruction from Talented Dancers
“The teachers of Trinity Dance School are all amazing dancers and very nice people to be around. They are very patient and have a real gift for teaching others. They explain very well and in a very kind and respectful way.
I enjoy attending Trinity Dance School classes, and their parties are fabulous.”
– Guylaine Bou Guardiola, Google Reviews
3. ITW Dance Studio
ITW Dance Studio offers various performing arts courses encompassing dance, drama, and singing. I appreciated the variety because it allowed me to explore different disciplines, contributing to my artistic development.
A standout feature of ITW is its emphasis on fostering confidence and creativity. Students are encouraged to express themselves freely, which creates a supportive environment for personal growth.
Participating in the various performance opportunities provided by ITW, from local showcases to international theatre outings, was thrilling and helped me gain valuable stage experience.
The sense of camaraderie among students is palpable. Regular social gatherings and events create a welcoming community that fosters friendships, making the experience more enjoyable.
ITW also has a strong track record of students successfully entering the performing arts field, adding credibility to their programs.
However, the class schedule, primarily on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, may not be convenient for everyone.
Furthermore, the emphasis on performance and competition might not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for a casual or recreational experience. I noticed that some students felt pressured to excel in competitions.
While the quality of instruction is high, the course fees can add up, especially for families enrolling multiple children, which may limit accessibility for some potential students.
Overall, my experience at ITW Dance Studio was overwhelmingly positive and filled with opportunities for learning and growth. However, potential students should consider their personal goals and circumstances before enrolling.
Pros
- Focus on Personal Development
- Opportunities for Performance
- Community Engagement
Cons
- Limited Adult Classes
- Potentially High Commitment
- Trial Class Restrictions
Engaging Classes and Impressive Annual Productions
“My daughter has been with ITW for over two years now and loves it. I enjoy hearing about the creative ways they bring acting to life, and she enjoys the different types of dance. The annual musical theatre productions are amazing. Everyone puts such hard work into them, and they’re well worth the Saturday night out. Very well done, and everyone gets their chance to shine on stage.”
– Zoe Turner, Google Reviews
Nurturing Environment for Children to Develop Confidence
“My daughter adores going to ITW every week. She does speech and drama, singing, drama, and dance. Seeing her blossom into a young actress has made me overjoyed. Her confidence has grown, especially in English, which has helped her in school. She has done so well in her speech, drama, and singing exams. She has made friends for life. All the teachers, including Gillian, Jordan, and Charley, are wonderful.”
– Aisling Dodgson, Google Reviews
4. Metropolitan School of Dance
Founded in 1945, the Metropolitan School of Dance has proven itself a top-notch institution for ballet enthusiasts of all ages, from young beginners to aspiring professionals.
The teachers are not only highly qualified but also passionate about ballet. Their expertise in classical ballet is evident in how they break down complex movements into manageable steps, making it easier for students to grasp the fundamentals.
The school fosters a nurturing atmosphere, encouraging students to express themselves and build confidence. This supportive environment has enabled me to take risks in my dancing, knowing that I have the backing of my instructors and peers.
The curriculum is well-structured, catering to various levels from Pre-Primary to Advanced 2 and Pre-Professional. This clear progression allows students to set goals and track their development effectively, which has motivated me.
The opportunity to perform on the renowned stage of the O’Reilly Theatre is a true highlight. These performances build stage presence and create memorable experiences that I cherish.
Beyond just teaching dance, the school emphasizes qualities such as grace, musicality, and core strength. I’ve noticed improvements in my overall physical fitness and coordination since enrolling.
While the focus on age groups is beneficial, it can sometimes feel limiting for older beginners who might want to join classes with younger students. This structure might discourage some adults from pursuing ballet.
The commitment required for ballet training can be intense, especially for those balancing other responsibilities. The expectation to attend regular classes and rehearsals may not suit everyone’s schedule.
The primary focus on classical ballet means that students interested in other dance styles may not find what they want. This specialization can be a drawback for those wanting a more diverse dance education.
While the Royal Academy of Dance examinations are excellent for tracking progress, the pressure to perform well can be daunting for some students. This may detract from the joy of dancing for those more focused on the experience than the results.
Overall, expert instruction, a supportive community, and numerous performance opportunities make it a standout choice for anyone serious about pursuing ballet.
Pros
- Inclusive for All Ages
- Focus on Classical Ballet
- Performance Opportunities
Cons
- Potential Competitiveness
- Commitment Required
- Cost Considerations
Welcoming Environment with Engaging Teachers
“Brought my son for his first dance lessons. Warmest welcome, and he’s taken a shine on the teachers. Couldn’t be happier with how he’s doing.”
– Aisling O Leary, Google Reviews
Detailed Instruction in a Supportive Environment
“Mairead Langan & Her team expertly & lovingly pass on Their passion for
Ballet. Every student Benefits from Their positive Attention to Detail. I Highly recommend The school.”
– Elaine Herbert, Google Reviews
5. Olympus Dance and Music Academy
Olympus Dance and Music Academy, an extension of the Natalya Ballet Studio, offers various dance classes, including Russian Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Hip Hop, Ballroom, Tango, and Salsa.
The instructors at Olympus are experienced and highly qualified. Thanks to their personalized attention and constructive feedback, my child’s technique has improved noticeably.
The modern and well-maintained dance studios with mirrors and proper flooring provide a great environment for learning. The spacious studios enhance the overall experience and make classes enjoyable and safe.
One aspect that sets Olympus apart is its emphasis on character development alongside artistic skills. This approach has positively impacted my child’s attitude towards learning and performing.
Moreover, Olympus offers music lessons and art classes, which makes it a one-stop shop for creative education. This comprehensive approach has allowed my child to explore various artistic avenues, fostering a well-rounded skill set.
On the downside, the cost of classes at Olympus can be higher than at other local dance schools. Offering more flexible payment options or discounts for multiple courses would be beneficial.
Furthermore, while the academy excels in catering to children, the offerings for adult classes are limited. As a parent, I would love more options for adults interested in dance or music.
The emphasis on performance can sometimes create pressure for young students. While I appreciate the opportunity to showcase skills, my child initially felt anxious about performing in front of others.
One area for improvement for Olympus is communication. There have been instances where communication regarding class schedules or changes was not as timely as I hoped.
Despite some minor drawbacks, the overall experience has been overwhelmingly positive, and I look forward to seeing my child continue to thrive in this nurturing setting.
Pros
- Diverse Course Offerings
- Comprehensive Education
- State-of-the-Art Facilities
Cons
- Competitive Environment
- Potential Cost Considerations
- Limited Locations
Positive and Professional Learning Environment
“My daughter has been doing ballet with Natalya for four and a half years. She loves it. Staff are friendly and professional here.”
– Yiwei Lu, Google Reviews
Nurturing Ballet Program for Beginners
“Our five-year-old daughter attended the ballet lesson for the first time and loved it! She is getting the required attention, determination, and expertise to progress.”
– Richard Weber, Google Reviews
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