Stagelight School of DanceDance school

Dance lessons for all ages

Stagelight School of Dance used to be previously known as Hertford School of Dance. The school offers exciting dance classes for people of all ages and abilities. The classes are fun, exhilarating and a great way to keep fit. 

Ballet ​

Ballet is the foundation of many other dance forms and teaches poise, musicality, technique and artistry. Stagelight offer ballet classes to students from age 4 upwards teaching the ISTD syllabus and Melody Movement classes from age 3. Students are able to take graded examinations with the ISTD. Stagelight also offer a ballet technique class for adults.

​Modern Jazz​

Modern dance combines elements of natural movement, contemporary and jazz dance. It is a style commonly seen in West End musicals and is an excellent preparation for students wishing to pursue a career in dance. Modern and jazz classes are offered to students from age 4 upwards, teaching the ISTD syllabus. Students are able to take graded modern exams and jazz medal tests with the ISTD.

​Tap

​Tap is a dance style most widely associated with the musicals of Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire. It teaches rhythm and coordination and is a fun workout for all ages. Stagelight offer tap classes to children from age 4 upwards, following the ISTD syllabus. Students are able to take graded examinations with the ISTD. There are also Adult Tap classes too.

Melody Movement

​For 3-4 year olds Stagelight offer Melody Movement classes. These are an excellent introduction to the world of music, movement and dance. The classes develop skills such as musicality, spatial awareness, coordination and balance through imaginative dance exercises and sequences. Each class is accompanied by Melody Bear, the dancing teddy bear and a range of props such as scarves, flags and fairy wands. The class is based on natural movement, with elements of ballet. The classes are suitable for both girls and boys. When they start school, children move up to the First Ballet class. 

​Adult Classes ​

Whether you are looking to take up a new hobby or are returning to dance, Stagelight classes are a great way to get fit, make new friends and learn a new skill. Stagelight currently offer the following classes: Adult Tap (Beginners) Mondays, 7.30pm - 8.15pm at Cowbridge Hall; Adult Tap (Open Level) Mondays, 8.15pm - 9.00pm at Cowbridge Hall; Adult/Student Ballet (approx. Grade 6 level) Wednesdays, 6.55pm - 7.55pm at Hertford Theatre.

​Teachers  

Joanna Heninghem is the Principal of Stagelight School of Dance and currently teaches all classes. She completed her vocational training at Harrison College of Dance, gaining Advanced and Associate qualifications in ISTD Ballet, Tap, Modern and National dance. She later went on to study at London College of Dance, achieving a BA Honours in Dance, and then at the Royal Academy of Dance, achieving Qualified Teacher Status.

​Locations

All of our classes are held centrally in Hertford. We use the following main venues:

​The Dance Studio at Hertford Theatre, The Wash, Hertford, SG14 1PS. 
The studio has a Harlequin dance floor, barres and mirrors. There is a fantastic waiting area with cafe. Parking is available in the adjoining St Andrews Street car park. This is also the venue for our productions.

​Cowbridge Hall, Cowbridge, Hertford, SG14 1PG.
Cowbridge Hall has a large hall, ballet barres and a separate waiting/changing room. Parking is available at nearby Port Vale and St Andrews Street car parks.

​The Guide Hut, 60 West Street, Hertford, SG14 1PG
There is a spacious hall with separate waiting and changing facilities. There is a car park at this venue.

Please contact Joanna for further information or see the Stagelight School of Dance website.