Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance School in Ipswich
Established in 1974 by Tom and Pat Lait, our dance school has become a cornerstone of the Ipswich community. With over 50 years of combined teaching experience, our team of qualified instructors delivers expert tuition in Ballroom, Latin, Rock 'n' Roll, and Salsa to children and adults of all skill levels. Our state-of-the-art facilities include a maple sprung floor ballroom and licensed bar, creating an ideal environment for both learning and social dancing. We specialise in preparing couples for wedding first dances, hosting competitions, and offering comprehensive medal testing programs.Our instructors hold prestigious qualifications from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing and have competitive accolades at national levels. With additional locations in Martlesham, Bramford, and Ipswich, we provide accessible dance education across Suffolk. Our commitment to excellence has earned us a reputation as one of East Anglia's most respected dance schools, serving generations of local families.
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Latin Dance Classes
Rock 'n' Roll Instruction
Salsa Lessons
Wedding First Dance
Children's Dance Classes
Adult Dance Classes
Competition Training
Medal Testing
Social Dance Events
Details
- Year established: 1974
Highlights and features
- Family-run dance school with 50+ years of combined teaching experience
- Qualified instructors holding ISTA and ISTD professional certifications
- Specialist wedding first dance tuition with performance preparation
- Maple sprung floor ballroom and licensed bar for social events
- Competitive success with former National UK Youth Latin Champions
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Our Ballroom dance classes teach traditional styles including Waltz, Tango, and Foxtrot. With dedicated programs for children and adults at all skill levels, our qualified instructors provide both group classes and personal tuition. The maple sprung floor in our main ballroom offers optimal conditions for learning proper technique while protecting joints.
Latin Dance Classes
Learn vibrant Latin styles including Cha-Cha, Samba, and Rumba through our structured programs. Former National UK Youth Latin Champions deliver expert tuition tailored to different age groups and ability levels. Classes focus on rhythm, posture, and partner coordination in a supportive environment.
Wedding First Dance
Specialist wedding dance tuition prepares couples for their first dance with confidence. Personalised choreography sessions adapt to your chosen music and ability level. Packages include practice sessions and performance coaching to ensure a memorable display at your reception.
Competition Training
Comprehensive competition preparation for dancers aged 8 to adult. Our coaches with professional competitive backgrounds develop performance skills, technique, and stage presence. Regular medal testing and mock competitions build experience for national event participation.
Children's Dance Classes
Structured dance programs for children aged 5+ in Ballroom, Latin, and Rock 'n' Roll styles. Classes improve coordination, discipline, and social skills while following graded syllabi. Regular performance opportunities include cabarets and public displays at local events.
People
Tom Lait
Founder
With 70 years of dancing experience and 50 years teaching, Tom founded the club in 1974. A former East Anglian Champion, he established Ipswich's premier dance school with his wife Pat.
Pat Lait
Partner
Organiser of club activities and qualified to professional level in Ballroom, Latin, and Freestyle. Former ISTDA Disco Freestyle committee member with decades of teaching experience across all ability levels.
Annette Lait
Partner
ISTA qualified instructor and former National UK Youth Latin Champion. Specialises in Ballroom, Latin, and Rock 'n' Roll tuition for children and adults at all levels.
Bruce Lait
Partner
Fellow of the ISTD and former British National Youth Latin Champion. Trains medallists and competitors of all ages, with West End stage performance experience.
Jenny Worne
Senior Instructor
42-year teaching veteran with dual qualifications in Ballroom and Latin dance. Organises club activities and brings extensive experience teaching all ages and competition levels.
Questions
What dance styles do you offer?
We teach Ballroom, Latin, Rock 'n' Roll, and Salsa to children and adults of all levels, with specialist wedding dance instruction also available.
Are there classes for complete beginners?
Yes, we offer dedicated beginner classes for both children and adults with no prior dance experience required.
Do you prepare couples for wedding dances?
Yes, our specialist wedding tuition includes choreography, practice sessions, and performance coaching tailored to your chosen music and ability level.
Can I take private dance lessons?
Yes, all our instructors offer one-to-one tuition at flexible times, with packages available for specific goals like competitions or wedding preparation.
Are there opportunities to perform?
We regularly host cabarets, public displays, and social dance events where students can showcase their skills in a supportive environment.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounted rates for multiple family members attending classes - please contact us for specific pricing details.
