Saturn Dance has built a loyal following among adults who arrive as complete novices and stay for years. Reviewers describe the classes as informal, funny and genuinely welcoming, whether you turn up on your own or bring a partner. Taught by Darren and Lucilla, the sessions move at a pace that lets nervous starters find their feet without pressure. Several dancers note that they picked up a broad spread of steps within a few months.
The school is run by a couple who clearly enjoy putting new dancers at ease, and the friendly, unhurried atmosphere comes through strongly in feedback. People talk about the social side as much as the dancing, having met good friends through the classes over the years.
Sessions cover a wide spread of ballroom and Latin styles, with dancers mentioning Foxtrot, Waltz, Samba and Cha Cha among the rhythms they have tackled. Steps are broken down clearly, so beginners build a working repertoire across several dances rather than drilling just one. The teaching leans towards confidence and enjoyment, giving you enough technique to get up and move to different rhythms. Regulars describe reaching a point where they can dance socially to almost any tempo.
Come in whatever lets you move comfortably, with shoes that pivot cleanly on the floor rather than grip. You do not need a partner or any previous experience, since much of the appeal is how easily solo newcomers slot in.
The relaxed, sociable format tends to suit adults looking for a regular evening out as much as a dance lesson.
I'm really glad that we found Saturn Dance; after only 4 months we now know steps of 10 dances. Our range of steps and technique may not be at Strictly level but we can get up and dance to so many different rhythms. The classes are so informal and fun and everyone seems to make surprising progress. There are extra practice sessions once a month, which is ideal for those of us whose kitchens are too small to practice at home. There are monthly social dances: great fun with loads of support from fellow dancers and teachers. There is even a glitter ball! We are now absolutely hooked and real— Sarah Scullion
We’ve been dancing with Saturn Dance for 6 years now and absolutely love it! We started off as very nervous beginners but thanks to Darren and Lucilla’s brilliant teaching we now have the confidence to do so many dances( Foxtrot, Samba, Cha Cha, Waltz etc)
We have met some lovely people in the classes and the Socials every 4- 6 weeks are a great way to practice the steps and get some extra tuition .
If you have always wanted to try ballroom dancing but have felt unsure or shy, I promise you will quickly gain the confidence to dance across the floor and also you will have a lot of fun along the— Moira Herdman
If you have ever even had the remotest inkling or tug of desire that you would like to try dance lessons then you have to go to Saturn Dance. The classes are warm, friendly, funny and welcoming whether you're going alone (as I did) or as a couple.
Before long you'll have a whole load of people you look forward to saying hello to every week as well as regular opportunities to attend the big social dances where all the classes get together to move to music.
No matter what you think about "two left feet" or whatever else you will be able to dance.
One of the most enjoyable hobbies I've ever ha— Tom Beer
I have known Saturn Dance before they were Saturn Dance. When they started I danced with them for a few years after I left University where I first started dancing. For various reasons I then (sadly!) stopped dancing for a few years, however when I got back into it, they were there with open welcoming arms… no judgement that I had stopped, just pleased to see me! That was maybe 6/7 years ago now and my girlfriend, now fiancé, has also started in their beginners class.
Why should you learn to ballroom/Latin dance? It is great fun, is still quite an unusual skill to have (I get looks when I t— Philip Lawrence
Yes. Reviewers specifically mention joining Saturn Dance alone and being made to feel at home, so a partner is not required to get started.
Comfortable clothes you can move freely in are ideal, paired with smooth-soled shoes that let you turn rather than stick to the floor. Bring layers, as you tend to warm up quickly once the class gets going.
Prices vary between schools and depend on whether you attend a group session or book private tuition. It is best to contact the school directly for current rates.
The Waltz and social Latin styles such as Cha Cha are common starting points because the basic rhythms are easy to count. Feedback here suggests newcomers pick up several dances at once rather than being limited to one.
Many adults begin with a slower ballroom dance like the Waltz to get comfortable with posture and timing, then add livelier Latin rhythms. The informal approach here means you can find a style that suits you.
Gentle, regular dancing can support general cardiovascular fitness for many people, but anyone with a heart condition should check with their GP before taking up a new activity.