JAKS Academy of Dance, Drama & Music is based at Saxon House in Ashby-de-la-Zouch and holds a full set of five-star reviews. Parents describe children who have grown in confidence and performance skill, and who have made lasting friendships along the way. As the name suggests, the academy combines dance with drama and music, offering more than one performing art under a single roof. Reviewers speak of a special, welcoming environment that quickly becomes a second home.
The academy teaches dance, drama and music to children and adults, with reviews highlighting rapid growth in confidence and skill. Pupils perform and compete, and even those who arrive as self-described non-dancers are warmly drawn in. The blend of disciplines gives students plenty of scope to find what they enjoy.
Dance sits alongside drama and music on the timetable, giving performers a rounded start. Street dance features among the styles, with one review noting how much a young boy enjoys the boys' class. Musical theatre draws in those who love to sing, act and dance together, and there are classes suited to a range of ages. Whether a child leans towards dance, drama or music, there is room to explore each in a supportive setting.
Newcomers are welcome to try a class and experience the friendly atmosphere reviewers describe. Wear comfortable clothing you can move in and bring any soft shoes suited to your chosen class. Staff are used to helping first-timers, including those new to performing, feel settled.
Set in the heart of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, the academy draws local families looking for dance, drama and music together in one welcoming place.
My 13 year old daughter joined JAKS Academy 2 and a half years ago and attends various dance, drama and singing classes. Since joining JAKS she has come on in leaps and bounds in confidence and performance skills. As a bonus she has made heaps of wonderful friends.
Whenever there are extra holiday classes or activities, my daughter is always first in line to sign up!
She loves to be a part of the amazing shows that JAKS put together twice a year, as well as competing in various dance festivals around the midlands. JAKS dancers always come away with a mountain of medals and trophies !!!
I woul— Clare Dawson
Two years ago my non-dancer daughters tried a musical theatre class, and were instantly welcomed into a very special dance and drama school. Now it's their second home with classes three days a week and they perform and compete with confidence. We wish every weekend could be a festival or show weekend with our JAKS family!They've learned so much more than just dance, drama and singing – discipline, respect, how to be a team player. The incredible, inclusive teaching staff know how to get the best from every single child with the right balance of support and tough love. My girls have made frien— Nikki Walters
Freddie really enjoys going to JAKS Academy and loves the boys 'Street Dance', he always comes out with a big smile on his face. He has really blossomed with confidence and has learned some brilliant new moves since attending. I would certainly recommend it as the children have lots of fun but also learn a lot too thanks to Miss Kirsty and Miss Becky. Photo is of Freddie with one his street dance pals receiving the 'Star of the week award'.— James Anderson
Jaks is like your own family!! They just care about you and your child, and win a lot of trophies ;)))))))— Gosia Jankowska
Yes. Many of the styles taught here, such as street dance, are danced solo in a group, so you can take part fully without bringing a partner.
Comfortable clothes you can move in and appropriate soft shoes are ideal. The academy can advise on any specific kit for a particular class.
Costs vary by class type, length and whether you pay per session or by term. The academy can give current pricing when you enquire.
It depends on what appeals to you. Street dance and musical theatre are both popular, sociable starting points that welcome complete beginners.
Adults often enjoy starting with whichever style suits their taste, from street dance to musical theatre, choosing the class that feels most enjoyable.
Gentle dancing can be a pleasant light exercise, but anyone with a heart condition should speak to their doctor before starting a new activity.