Oxford Balkansko Oro Balkan Dance Group, Oxford
The Silhouettes Dance and Cheer Academy, Clacton-on-Sea
Bolly Flex - UK’s No.1 Bollywood Dance Company, London
A dance company is a professional or semi-professional group that performs, tours, and often trains dancers, and this directory lists 634 dance companies across the UK. Unlike a weekly class provider, a company centres on performance work, from staged productions to community and educational projects. This guide helps performers, students, and audiences understand what companies do and how to find one that matches their interests.
Dance companies vary widely, from touring contemporary and ballet ensembles to youth companies, community groups, and outfits specialising in particular styles. Many hold auditions, run training or associate programmes, and offer workshops or outreach alongside their performances. Some welcome adults and recreational dancers into affiliated groups, while others are strictly professional. They suit people seeking performance opportunities, structured development, or simply live dance to watch.
Browse all 634 dance company listings across the UK above.
Decide first whether you want to perform, train, or attend performances, as companies differ greatly in focus. Look at the styles they specialise in, their audition or membership requirements, and whether they run programmes for your age and level. It helps to watch a performance or workshop before applying, and to ask about rehearsal commitments, costs, and how the company supports newer dancers. Checking location and touring schedule matters if you plan to take part regularly.
For newcomers, approachable styles such as ballroom, salsa, or beginners' contemporary are common starting points. If you are drawn to a particular company's work, ask whether they offer beginner-friendly classes or open workshops.
Moderate dancing can be a useful form of exercise for some people with heart conditions, but it depends on your individual health. Seek advice from your GP or cardiologist first and let any instructor know about your condition.
Wear comfortable, flexible clothing and footwear suited to the style, such as soft shoes or bare feet for contemporary work. If you attend a company workshop, ask in advance whether specific kit is expected.
Workshops and open classes run by companies typically cost from around 8 to 20 pounds, though prices vary by length and location. Professional training programmes and intensives are usually priced separately.