Chisenhale Dance Space is a dance organisation in Bow, east London, offering a home for contemporary dance, movement workshops and performance. It is a hub for artists and participants alike, hosting classes, rehearsals and live work. The space suits those drawn to alternative and creative movement rather than a conventional syllabus.
Visitors describe a light, characterful space that is well suited to children's lessons, workshops and rehearsals, with a relaxed and creative feel. It appeals to people who want an experimental, community-focused setting, though be aware it is on an upper floor without a lift.
The centre hosts a variety of movement and dance workshops rather than a fixed timetable of styles, so the offering shifts with the programme. For anyone in London curious about creative or contemporary dance, it is worth checking what sessions are currently running. Those searching for salsa classes in London or ballet classes in London should confirm availability, as the focus here leans towards alternative movement. The space is also used for rehearsals, research and performance.
A newcomer can expect an informal, artist-friendly atmosphere and workshops that welcome exploration. Comfortable clothing you can move freely in is the main thing to wear. Do note the upper-floor access when planning your visit.
The space is in the Bow area of east London and sits near a large local park and a well-known market street, making it easy to combine with a wider visit to the area.
Beautiful space for dance lessons, particularly for children, very close to Roman road and Victoria Park. Only problem is a 3rd floor and there is no lift, so people with mobility problems will have a hard time. You can rent it for rehearsals, birthday parties and more.— Ruben Dem
This is a great spot for alternative dance and movement workshops, rehearsal space and live performance. It also has WiFi and cheapest tea and coffee in East London if you need a space to do some research.— Will Huntley-Clarke
Went here for a dance photography session – the dance space is great, with a nice exposed brick wall at the back and plenty of light from the windows on both sides.— Rob Sheppard
The floors are great às they host a lot of dancers but the climb up 3 floors each time does get tedious— Kafil Din
Salsa is approachable at beginner level because the basic step is short and repeats until the timing sticks. If a salsa session runs here, it would start from the fundamentals.
Yes, salsa is learnable with no prior experience, as classes begin with the basic footwork. Anyone can start from scratch.
Many adults take up ballet and enjoy the posture and control it develops. It is worth checking whether an adult class or workshop is part of the current programme here.
There is no age too late to enjoy ballet as a hobby. Its benefits to strength and balance are open to all ages.
Typical basics include the grapevine, the shuffle, kicks, the pivot turn and simple walks. A few combined make up most beginner routines.
Short four-wall dances with a repeating sequence are the easiest to pick up. Check whether line dancing features in the current programme here.