Lesley Hand School of Dancing runs classes in Barnet, holding sessions in a local church hall that gives the school a friendly, community feel. It has earned praise as one of the few places in North London to offer ballet for grown-ups alongside its other classes. Dancers describe the teaching as genuinely enjoyable and the atmosphere as good fun. It suits anyone in the area looking to take up dancing without travelling into central London.
The school is led by Lesley, whose classes have built a loyal following among Barnet residents. Reviewers single out the quality of instruction and the sense that lessons are as much about enjoyment as technique. It is a small, personable set-up rather than a large commercial studio.
Ballroom dancing in Barnet is a core part of what the school teaches, covering the partner dances that form the backbone of social dancing. Ballet classes in Barnet are a real draw, offering adults a rare local chance to work on line and poise. Line dancing in Barnet appeals to those who like to dance without a partner, and wider dance lessons in Barnet give newcomers a route into whichever style catches their interest. Dance classes in Barnet here tend to prize warmth over formality.
Wear something you can move in comfortably and bring a pair of shoes suited to a smooth hall floor. Getting there a little ahead of time lets you introduce yourself and mention any styles you are keen to try. You will not need a partner to join in.
Barnet and the surrounding North London area have an active social dance scene, so what you learn in class can be put to use at local gatherings and tea dances.
Best dance school in North London and one of very few to offer adult ballet classes. Lesley is a brilliant teacher and all her classes are great fun!— Natalia Curylo
The usual starting point is a beginners' class where an instructor introduces one or two dances and their basic steps. From there you build up a small repertoire before adding more styles.
Many people begin with the waltz because its slow, even rhythm makes the timing easy to feel. The social foxtrot and the quickstep are also common first choices.
Yes, and adult ballet is one of this school's specialities. Classes are designed for grown-up beginners and focus on posture, control and steady progress.
It is never too late. Adults of all ages take up ballet for its benefits to strength and posture, and lessons are adapted to suit the individual.
The grapevine, shuffle, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and heel dig appear in many beginner routines. Learning these makes it far easier to pick up new dances.
A short four-wall routine with a repeating sequence is the gentlest introduction. Instructors break the counts down slowly so newcomers can follow along.