SHOWS
We have a bi-annual school show in the Summer Term with our production performed in a local theatre. This event bringing our dance family together is the highlight of the school calendar and every child is involved in the preparation and build up even if they are unable to attend the performance weekend.
The shows give the children a wonderful opportunity to showcase their achievements from the studio within a professional performance in costume and experience a full professional theatre setting.
After every show you see a growth in each individual dancer in their confidence, self-esteem and performance and as a class even more of a bond and unity through the experience they’ve shared.
Some of the most amazing moments and memories are created during the show year and ones that are treasured by the whole family forever.
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Over the years the children have been offered numerous performance opportunities in various settings such as school fetes, charity fundraisers and visits to residential homes all of which create experiences and treasured memories for our dancers and the local community.
ASSESSMENTS
Preparations for Assessments are held in class for all students during the course of the academic year and this gives the dancer the time to build and improve their technique to achieve an exam standard before progressing to the next level regardless of whether they choose to enter for the Assessment/Exam Day.
Assessments are not compulsory but we have found that 95% of the school choose to enter as they enjoy learning the syllabus in preparation for the exam and feel a massive sense of pride and achievement when they succeed and are awarded a medal and certificate.
Every child is encouraged to find their own success and gain their own level of achievement, there is no comparison or competition as each dancer is an individual and supported to flourish in their own way.
WORKSHOP / SUMMER SCHOOLS
Every year we offer workshops and summer school dance weeks to all dancers from the age of 6. These events are designed to give children the opportunity to participate in a variety of dance styles and learning dance sequences in a purely fun format.
The action packed day or week includes dance routines, exploring musical theatre, experimenting with choreography, make-up and hair sessions as well as including activities such as prop-making or costume designing that link in to the theme of the course.
The workshops and summer weeks are highly exciting and bursting with energy, allowing the children to share with each other their enjoyment for dance in a fun and stimulating environment and an amazing opportunity to receive training from experienced teachers, West End theatre performers and choreographers. At the end of every event there is the opportunity to showcase their work to family and friends in a mini performance.
The Summer School in particular is such a special week because the children get to build friendships with children across the age groups as well as from different branches of the school and they create a gorgeous bond that builds year after year.
“ My daughter has attended 1,2,Step Dance Academy for many years and there are so many aspects of this dance class that make it special; the shows are amazing, the costumes and choreography make them an occasion far beyond the usual kids class experience. But most of all, I love the fact that Michelle is so inclusive and non-judgemental, she understands that the children have different abilities and priorities, but remains totally professional and committed to maintaining the highest standards whilst keeping the classes fun."
“I love coming to dance every week with the main reason being to see my friends and most importantly Michelle. She always has a smile on her face and makes sure we have a really good dance lesson with fun things planned every week, with a good sporty warm up and lots of laughter along the way. We also do amazing show dances with the most stunning costumes which i have the luxury to wear and perform in on a stage. I’ve been at this dance school since I was 4 so just over 12 years now and I’ve loved every second of it .... from the actual dancing to the lovely atmosphere. I look forward to my Friday lesson every week and would carry on forever if I could!”
“My two daughters (now teenagers) have attended 1, 2 Step Dance Academy since they started school and have always loved dancing with Michelle. Michelle is an excellent teacher and she loves sharing her passion with dancers of all ages. At 1, 2 Step Dance Academy there is a great balance between the understanding of the complex world of dance and the ability to enjoy and express yourself through dance. The shows Michelle puts on are magical for all the dancers, and a joy to be part of as a dancer and as a parent. Michelle’s teaching style is very caring and all about the experience she brings to each individual child. I myself have attended Michelle’s adult tap classes where we have been able to explore the intricate world of tap dancing whilst having fun and exercise amongst friends. I would highly recommend 1, 2 Step Dance academy for anyone wanting to introduce their child to the world of dance in a nurturing, kind and loving way.”
“From my first class at 1, 2 Step Dance I loved it to pieces! As my first year was a show year, the opportunity to learn and perform made me realise how much I loved dance. Michelle is always smiling, always really encouraging and is the best teacher I could ask for.”
We were fortunate enough to join Michelle’s classes when our daughter was 3 and have never looked back. The last 3 years Michelle has helped our daughter flourish with her dance and has always been extremely personable and professional with her approach. There is no end to Michelle’s talent and despite our daughter breaking her foot this year, Michelle was still able to tailor her classes so she could continue to participate in what she loves most with her dance family. Michelle’s commitment and hard work has shone throughout our time with her and we can’t wait till we can sign our new baby girl up to start ballet lessons too. We love our Thursdays at 1, 2 step dance academy!
I have been part of 1, 2 Step Dance Academy for years and have had loads of opportunities throughout my journey. When I first joined I wasn't very good at dancing but with Michelle's help, I progressively learned to improve. I have made several new friends and got the chance to perform with them in our lovely shows
- info@12stepdanceacademy.com
- Wokingham