Dance has been a means and ways for centuries for people (and even animals) to express themselves in both a physical and emotional manner and movement is one of the most powerful stimulators of energy for the entire body. With all the feelings of wellbeing that dance brings, Leora Hart highlights some of the best studios in Joburg for you to find the beat and style of movement that suits you.
Moving Feet Dance and Wellness Studio
Moving Feet’s aim is to enhance a student’s development neurologically and musically by teaching artistry, creativity and discipline through dance. Moving Feet promotes the studies and relationship between music and intelligence and how students naturally respond to music largely due to the rhythmic melody of their mother’s voice whilst they are babies in the womb. Classes focus on spatial-temporal reasoning and teach the student a physical response to musical stimulation in both structured and creative sessions. The studio hosts an annual showcase, this year’s which will be held on the 13th of June in Blue Hills in Kyalami. They compete in the SACOPA, Dance Stars and Dance World Championships and offer ballet, contemporary, modern/jazz and tap classes as well as take part in internationally recognised exams by the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing which is a London based association with accreditation towards certain university studies.
Where: St Stevens Anglican Church Hall, 67 Nanyuki road, Sunninghill
When: Monday – Friday 8am – 5pm – please enquire for your specific classes and times
Tel: 076 276 5616 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @movingfeetdance | Website: www.movingfeet.co.za
Rosenberg Dance
East of Johannesburg lies Rosenberg Dance, a studio that has become family to many a member. Owned and run by mother and daughter duo Sandra and Megan Rosenberg this school of dance focuses on tap, modern, musical theatre and contemporary dance classes from ages three to adulthood. Whether you are looking for a fun extra mural for yourself or your little one, or you are a creative who is studying towards becoming a dance teacher, Rosenberg Dance has the knowledge and years of experience to help you reach your goal. Sandra has dedicated her life and school to the art of movement and is a recognised leader in the arts and culture industry in South Africa. Megan too gives dance lectures and classes at Oakfields College and Tshwane University of Technology weekly. If you’re looking for professional teaching in a family environment then this is the studio for you.
Where: Cyrildene/Bruma Johannesburg
When: Varying classes Monday – Sunday – please enquire for your specific class and times
Tel: 082 442 9822 | Email: [email protected]
Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio – Fourways
If you fancy yourself a set of dance skills fit for Hollywood then Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio in Fourways takes centre stage. Specialising in American Style Ballroom and Latin American Dancing for a social level this studio franchise prides itself on its sixty years of experience in the world of dance. The Strictly Ballroom Dance Studio in Fourways is just one of three. When joining Strictly Ballroom you become part of a family tree of individual creatives rooted throughout Fourways, Pretoria and Benoni. A complimentary private lesson with your own instructor is offered to get you on your feet and assess your level of dance to give you a level of learning and expertise that is individually suited to your needs and you have a choice of taking classes alone or with a partner. Strictly Ballroom Fourways is registered with the SADTA Social Faculty which thus also gives students the opportunity to compete in annual dance competitions.
Where: Office 3-1 (above the Garden Shop) Broadacres Lifestyle Shopping Centre, Cnr Cedar and Valley Road, Broadacres
When: Varying classes Monday – Friday – please enquire for your specific class and times
Tel: 011 706 7557 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @strictlyballroom.fourways1| Website: www.strictlyballroom.co.za
Ministry of Dance
Ministry of Dance in Johannesburg North boasts four dance spaces in one location offering a multitude of dance styles from Jazz and Modern to Acrobatics, Bollywood, Hip Hop and Ballet, to name but a few. Blair Willson and her team of teachers pride themselves on bringing quality and affordable dance instruction to anyone who sets foot in the studios. Ministry of Dance participates in SADTA and SABOD accredited yearly dance exams for each style offered which ensures a quality of standard and learning that is fruitful in the entertainment world. Children love coming here because of the high-energy feel and vibrant atmosphere and adults find it a good place to work up a sweat.
Where: Northlands Deco Park, Shop 22, New Market Road, Hoogland, Northriding
When: Varying classes Monday – Saturday – please enquire for your specific class and times
Tel: 082 941 7278 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @ministryofdancestudionorthriding | Website: www.ministryofdance.co.za
Baila Afrika
A key factor about Baila Afrika’s dance classes is that they aim to teach both the dance style and its history, promoting cultural appreciation and a new respect for dance as a whole. Classes held here are rich in love and diversity as they focus more on the understanding of the movements and how they can be expressed with the music. Whilst all styles of Afro Latin social dances are embraced, Baila Afrika specialises in Kizomba and Semba from Angola and Salsa from Cuba. They are a mobile studio that also organises cultural dance exchange holidays with the next one travelling to Angola (Luanda and Benguela) in May. Private and social classes are on offer to suit your individual preference and Baila Afrika supports the community and other studios by engaging in social classes in different areas of greater JHB and encouraging their students to do the same.
Where: Group classes: Carpe Diem restaurant and bar, City Lodge Sandton, Cnr Katherine Street and Grayston Drive, Sandton, JHB.
When: Mondays from 6.30pm – Kizomba | Wednesday from 6.30pm – Salsa – Please enquire directly for exact info and times
Tel: 079 638 7970 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @bailaafrika | Website: www.bailaafrika.co.za
FIVE6SEVEN8 Dance
Five6Seven8 aims to offer a versatile and all-inclusive dance experience for everyone who walks through their doors. From the Middle-Eastern mysticism of Belly Dancing to the sexy sways of Burlesque, fiery Flamenco to beautiful ballet, high energy Zumba to the razzle-dazzle of the musical theatre stage, there’s something for all ages and levels of experience here. Classes are suited to both groups and individuals and the instructors come with more than ten years experience. The studio is hosting a relaunch party on the 7th of March with a swinging 20’s theme from 6.30pm. This is a fantastic time to come view the studio and meet the instructors to see if it’s the right place for you.
Where: Shop u12A, Ferndale on Republic, Republic road, Ferndale, Randburg
When: Monday – Thursday: 12pm – 9pm | Friday – 12pm – 8pm/10pm | Saturday – 9am – 3pm – please enquire for exact info and class times
Tel: 011 791 5997 | 084 842 9295 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @five6seven8ds | Website: www.five6seven8.co.za
Dance Junxion
The Dance Junxion specialises in social and competitive Latin and Ballroom dancing as well as the latest popular dances like Bachata, Kizomba, Salsa and Argentine Tango. For those with a liking for the spicier side of life, this is the place to be. Owned and run by Tony and Marda Vasconcellos, they proudly provide a home of dance for those exploring the art form recreationally as well as those who dance to perfect their art. The Dance Junxion also host events for up to sixty pax at a time as well as venue hire of their studio space. The boutique studio is well situated and air-conditioned with a beautiful wooden floor with ambience and outside area which makes it versatile for both dance events and corporate functions or conferences. The Dance Junxion is also available to help you prepare for that important opening dance on your wedding day. The studio is affiliated with the South African Dance Federation (SADF) as well as the South African Dance Teachers Association (SADTA), ensuring expert knowledge in their field given with each style offered, including Ballet for all ages and levels.
Where: 23 Nancy Drive, Klevehill Park, Bryanston
When: Monday – Thursday 8:30am – 10pm | Friday 1pm – 8pm – please enquire for exact info and class times
Tel: 083 627 5142 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @TheDanceJunXion | Website: www.dancejunxion.co.za
Natasha Academy
Welcome to the true home of dance for students of levels and dancing backgrounds. Whether you are looking to further your craft through competitions or simply looking to have a good time as you move to the beat, Natasha’s Academy is the place to be. The studio is conveniently situated in the heart of Fourways at Pineslopes Boulevard Shopping Centre offering dance classes in acrobatics, ballet, modern, hip hop, jazz, contemporary and lyrical. Dancers of all ages ranging from two years old right through to adulthood are welcome. The dance instructors are very easy to work with as they take on a more nurturing approach to teaching where individuals are encouraged to strive for their personal bests. The environment is relaxed and inviting therefore allowing students to feel calm and at ease to express themselves authentically. The studio is affiliated with The Acrobatic Federation of South Africa (AFSA), Cecchetti Society of Southern Africa, the National Society of Dance Teachers (N.S.D.T) as well as the Association of International Dance teachers (A.I.D.T) which allows students to compete in both local and internationally recognised dance examinations. At Natasha’s Academy, dancing is believed to be a fun and for everyone to enjoy. It helps to encourage an active lifestyle that promotes socialisation and build self esteem.
Where: Pineslopes Boulevard Shopping Centre, Office BB FF01, Corner of the Straight & Witkoppen Road, Pineslopes, Fourways, Gauteng
When: Adult Classes Tuesday, 9:00 am – 10:00 am. Please refer to the timetable for the full schedule
Tel: 082 293 7975 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Natasha Academy of Dancing | Website: www.natashaacademy.co.za
Dancemore Dance Studios
Take your dance moves to the next level with Dancemore Dance Studios, a family owned and operated business that was founded back in 1992 by Maureen De Silva. The studio offers dance lessons for a wide audience from group classes to private lessons, wedding dances, competitive classes and more. Dance instructors are highly qualified and well experienced in their respective styles making learning the steps a breeze. They are both open and easy to work with making your dance experience as smooth as possible. Although the studio offers competitive and private lessons, social classes still remain the most popular category often chosen for its fun and relaxed setting. Couples are shown through a number of ballroom and Latin American dance routines that are available at beginner, beginner-intermediate, intermediate and advanced levels. Styles covered include the Argentine Tango, Cha Cha, Salsa, Foxtrot, Quickstep and many more. The studio teaches two dance routines a month and rotates through the total twelve dances within the six month period. Social classes require a partner in order to participate with the one hour classes taking place in the evenings and afternoons. For specific times, please see timetable details below.
Where: Bedfordview Branch -107 Van Buuren Rd, Bedfordview, Germiston, 2008 and Fourways Branch – 35 Swallow Dr, Fourways, Sandton, 2055
When: Dance times dependent on class timetable
Tel: n/a | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Dancemore Studios | Website: www.dancemore.co.za
Katz School of Dance
Join the revolution as Katz School of Dance prepares to transform the manner in which Dance and Production companies operate in South Africa. The studio has plans of partnering up with some of the top dance companies in the country to ensure that student s are up to date with the best dance education in all disciplines. The process will be gradual and will include a larger and improved dance space and affiliations. Katz School of Dance offers classes a variety of styles including tap, ballroom, salsa, break dancing, modern, contemporary, drama and musical theatre as well as many more. With a team of experienced dance instructors available to help you with every step, dancers can rest assured that they are in good hands.
Where: Hurlingham, Sandton, 1st Floor Floor, Sandhurst Centre, 61 Woodlands Ave & Republic Rd and Sunninghill, Sandton, Sunninghill Village Shopping Centre 97 Edison Cres
When: Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 8:00pm
Tel: 068 214 1454 | Email: n/a
Facebook: Katz School of Dance | Website: www.ksdance.co.za
Red Robynne Studio
Red Robynne Studio is a dedicated dance establishment nestled in Bedfordview. It is guided by the love of dance coupled with a professional approach and prides itself in creating a safe environment for its students to fully express themselves through the art form of dance. Red Robynne Studio has their doors open to dancers of all ages starting from three years old right through to adulthood. Students are free to explore numerous class structures that include group classes, private classes, fitness classes and competition training for those wishing to further their dance careers. The studio offers a range of diverse dance styles such as modern, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, contemporary, ballet, tap, acrobatics and so much more. Classes are fun and engaging inspiring students to step out of their comfort zones in order to grow and flourish within the discipline. Red Robynne Studio provides a dynamic space for students to learn from the dance instructors who are all highly experienced in the field of dance. Teachers are both open and supportive in their approach and work hard to push students to achieve their personal best performances. It is a fantastic environment that inspires personal growth which will see students through the beautiful dance of life.
Where: 103 Boeing Road East, Bedfordview, Johannesburg
When: For further details on times, please refer to the timetable
Tel: 084 5113 0918 | Email: [email protected]
Facebook: Red Robynne Studio | Website: www.redrobynne.co.za
Dance Central South Africa
Whether you have two left feet or been dancing for years, Dance Central South Africa has something to offer everyone who is looking to explore the creative art of dance. Dance shouldn’t be complicated and the studio makes it easy to get started by just following a few steps that will have you moving like a pro in no time. Start by booking your free introductory lesson in the dance style that peaks your interest. After getting a feel for the style of your choice you can then proceed with selecting the most suitable package for your dance goals and budget. Next step is to make your first payment, book your first class and enjoy your dance journey. Dance programmes vary from social dancing to competitive dance and performance arts. You can select from an extensive list of styles including Salsa, Boogie, Rumba, Samba, Waltz, Tango, Ballroom, Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Jazz and many more.
Where: Shop 2 Blueberry Square, Corner Braam Street and Cranberry Street, Honeydew, 2040
When: For further details on times, please refer to the timetable
Tel: 078 169 1098 | Email: n/a
Facebook: Dance Central South Africa | Website: www.thedancestudio.co.za
