Donaheys Ballroom Dance School teaches ballroom and Latin dancing in Dukinfield, near Ashton-under-Lyne. It runs organised group lessons and workshops for adults, including couples learning together. It is well suited to newcomers who want to try dancing in a friendly, structured setting.
Students describe well-run sessions with a good floor, a warm welcome and teachers full of knowledge who keep things enjoyable. Couples in particular praise how much fun the lessons are, which makes it an inviting option for partners taking up dancing side by side.
The school covers the ballroom and Latin dances from beginner level onwards, with courses and popular learn-to-dance workshops that get you moving quickly. Lessons are punctual and clearly structured, working through the fundamentals of each dance before building them into full routines. Whether you are starting a six-week beginners' course or joining as a couple, the teaching is patient and geared to people finding their feet.
First-timers can expect a prompt, well-organised welcome, an outline of what the session covers and plenty of encouragement along the way. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that slide and turn easily, and simply arrive ready to give it a try.
Lessons take place in Dukinfield, which is easily reached from the surrounding Tameside area by the usual local routes.
We went to Donaheys learn to Dance in a day workshop at Dukinfield Town hall last Saturday which was brilliant. The dance floor was perfect. We were welcomed by all the staff and the session began on time! Introduction of the timetable was given and it all kept to time. We did the Slow Foxtrot, Cha Cha Cha, Waltz and Jive! There were 4 staff and they helped everyone and everything was explained clearly. We have danced before but this was a great refresher for us before we go on the dance weekend at Alton Towers which I would also highly recommend! The photo below is of the room and dance flo— Lynn Kaye
Me and my fiancé have been attending Donaghey's for a year and a half. We absolutely love our lessons here, we always have so much fun and highly recommend them to anybody who wants to learn to dance as a couple. The teachers are fantastic, full of knowledge and always make you feel warm and welcome. We particularly love the social nights which provide a fantastic opportunity to practise the dance routines we've learned and they are a great opportunity to socialise with the friends you make within the classes.— Rhiannon Mackenzie
Had to write the first review with my first ever review: took a 6 weeks ballroom dance class two years ago and the teachers were very helpful for someone with two left feet. Although I needed more time to find my feet it was quite enjoyable…so if you fancy doing something new what's completely out of your comfort zone give it a go. Time to Tango 😮— Mark W
What a great day of dance. Freda was a really good teacher, clear and precise in her instructions and the 3 others that helped were friendly and polite. My husband has only been dancing a short time whilst I'm 26 years but it was lovely to get our dance shoes on and dance again. Looking forward to the strictly weekends even more now.— Julie Sears
Yes. You do not need to bring a partner to take part, and many students attend on their own and dance in the group.
Comfortable clothing that moves with you and smooth-soled shoes you can turn in are all you need, along with a bottle of water.
Prices differ between single lessons, courses and workshops, so it is best to contact the school for the current rates.
The waltz is a popular first dance thanks to its steady three-count, while the cha-cha suits anyone wanting something a little livelier. A beginners' course lets you sample several.
Adults often begin with an easy ballroom dance such as the waltz or a social Latin like the cha-cha, but the right one is simply whichever you find most enjoyable.
Gentle dancing can be a pleasant, low-key way to keep active for many people, but anyone with a heart condition should get their doctor's advice before starting.