Business Details
32 Years
experience
Award-Winning Dance Training in Wallingford
Established in 1994, Dance Connection is an award-winning performing arts training centre dedicated to nurturing individual potential through dance. We offer tailored timetables across diverse disciplines including ballet, tap, modern, and musical theatre, catering to all ages and abilities. Our fully qualified, CRB-checked instructors prioritise holistic development, integrating performance opportunities and ISTD examinations with a 100% pass rate.With purpose-built studios and a legacy of producing industry professionals, we combine technical excellence with a supportive community ethos. Our competitive company teams and partnerships with institutions like the Royal Ballet Associates Programme underscore our commitment to fostering both artistic growth and personal confidence.
Services
Ballet
Tap
Modern
Musical Theatre
Technical Jazz
Acro
Melody Movement
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We offer ISTD-certified instruction with a 100% exam pass rate since 1994
- Our faculty includes Royal Ballet Associates Programme trainers
- Purpose-built studios with specialist dance flooring and facilities
- Competitive company teams with national championship success
- Personalised timetables combining technical training and performance
Associations and certifications
- ISTD
What people say
Amazing performance opportunities
Dedicated professional instructors
Supportive family atmosphere
Excellent exam results
Competitive success
Services
Classical Ballet
Our ISTD-certified ballet classes develop foundational technique through co-ordination, musical interpretation, and performance skills. Students progress from beginner to advanced levels, with pointe work assessment from Grade 5. The curriculum prepares dancers for vocational training and professional careers while maintaining accessibility for recreational learners.
Technical Jazz
Our proprietary high-energy jazz syllabus combines flexibility training, acrobatic elements, and contemporary techniques. Four progressive levels build from basic vocabulary to advanced performance skills including improvisation and complex choreography, ensuring students remain current with evolving dance trends while developing core strength and artistic expression.
Competitive Company
Audition-based performance teams provide intensive training in multiple disciplines. Junior and Senior companies compete nationally while participating in charity events and professional collaborations. Members receive mentorship from industry professionals and gain stage experience through regular showcases and external performances, including partnerships with Strictly Come Dancing stars.
Musical Theatre
Integrated training combines vocal technique, acting skills, and dance performance. Students learn to transition seamlessly between dialogue, song, and choreography while developing projection, diction, and improvisation abilities. The curriculum prepares performers for stage productions through practical workshops on theatrical forms and audition techniques.
Melody Movement
Specially designed curriculum for 18-month-olds to school-year 1 children uses storytelling and character-based learning. Through musical movement and foundational ballet/tap techniques, the programme nurtures creativity and motor skills while establishing a structured transition to formal dance education through a graduation ceremony at foundation level.
People
Sam Benson
Director
Founder of Dance Connection with 30 years' experience, ISTD licentiate teacher, and former training tutor. Established the school's vocational pathway and led Team GB Performing Arts at IDO Championships.
Leah Pearcy
Artistic Director
Trained at Margaret Howard Theatre School, former professional dancer, and 18-year teaching faculty member. Co-led Team GB Performing Arts at IDO World Championships in Germany.
Grace Hickman
Acrobatic Arts Instructor
Trinity College Musical Theatre graduate with ISTD Diploma in Dance Education. Leads acro classes after completing specialist qualification, combining technical precision with safe progression methods.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, tap, modern, technical jazz, musical theatre, acro, and Melody Movement for early years, following ISTD syllabi with competitive and recreational pathways.
Do you accept beginners?
Yes, all classes cater to mixed abilities. Our Melody Movement programme starts at 18 months, with progressive levels ensuring accessible entry points for new dancers of any age.
Are exams compulsory?
ISTD examinations are optional but strongly recommended. Our 100% pass rate reflects our commitment to technical excellence while maintaining student choice regarding assessment participation.
How do competitive teams work?
Annual auditions select Junior (10-13) and Senior (up to 18) company members. Teams train intensively across disciplines, competing nationally while participating in charity events and professional collaborations.
What facilities do you have?
Our purpose-built studios feature mirrored walls, sprung flooring, and performance spaces. The facility includes waiting areas, changing rooms, and an air track for acrobatic training.
