The Hammond in Chester is a specialist school teaching dance and theatre to a high professional standard. Reviewers describe uncompromising, genuinely professional training, and visitors are struck by the quality of its productions, from scenery and costumes to the cast. The school also stages public performances and holds auditions for its programmes, including degree-level performing arts. It is a serious training ground rather than a casual weekly club.
The Hammond focuses on dedicated dance and theatre education, catering to committed students pursuing performance training. Its work is described as professional and thorough, with high production values on show in its performances. The school prepares students for the demands of the stage.
Training centres on dance and theatre delivered to a rigorous standard, developing technique, discipline and stagecraft. While it is a specialist performing arts school rather than a drop-in studio, families researching ballet classes in Manchester and the wider region may find it of interest for serious training near Chester. Students work towards performances and, at higher levels, degree study. The emphasis throughout is on professional preparation.
As a specialist school, entry typically involves auditions rather than simply turning up to a class. Prospective students should look into the audition process and programme requirements in advance. It is best to contact the school directly about how to apply.
For the Chester area and beyond, The Hammond is a notable centre for serious dance and theatre training. It suits students aiming at a performance career rather than recreational dancers.
Valentine's Day… Was looking for somewhere to take my girlfriend!
She loves Beauty and the Beast, so this seemed a great idea…..
Simply Wow! The whole show from scenery, costumes and of course the cast was fantastic.
This could have been at any theatre and would have sold out I'm sure.
Good luck in the future to everyone at the school and we will be looking out for future shows to attend for certain.
Eddie and Łucja.— Edwin Griffiths
English school as you can imagine: teaching dance and theatre. Without compromise and with a real professionalism!— Jean Daniel Large
Looks amazing !! the setting is lovely, my son here to audition for the BA performing arts.— Julie Parry
Excellent boarding school….brilliant staff— Lisa Payne
Salsa's basic step is easy to start, though the timing rewards practice. Most beginners are dancing confidently within a few classes.
Yes, salsa is regularly taught to complete beginners, with the fundamentals broken down clearly.
Yes, adults can take up ballet, and beginner classes exist for exactly that. It builds strength, posture and coordination at any age.
There is no age limit for enjoying ballet recreationally. Professional training usually begins in childhood, but adults can learn it for pleasure and fitness.
Common building blocks include the grapevine, step-touch, kick-ball-change, pivot turn and shuffle. These recur throughout many routines.
Simple dances that repeat a few steps are the easiest place to begin. An instructor can point you towards a beginner-friendly routine.