What are the five styles that make up Latin American dancing?

The 5 styles are Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble and Jive. You can find out more about these dances on ‘The Dances’ section.

Do I have to come with a partner?

It is recommended that you attend both the Latin and Ballroom courses with a partner as this makes a better dancing experience. However, we offer the option of a £2 single weekly supplement to provide you with a dance partner. Alternatively, you can partner with other singles in the group or learn technique alone if this is what you would prefer.

What should I wear?

Each class varies. Adult classes can wear oufits of their own choice. For those in the other groups uniforms are as follows;

Ballet – Black leotard, tights, skirts/shorts, ballet shoes (Beginners Adults may wear more relaxed clothing
but ballet shoes still needed)
Contemporary – Black Leotard, black cut off tights, tracksuit bottoms, vest top, bare feet
Latin American –loose black skirt (up to knee length), fitted top (preferably black), legwarmers and leggings, latin shoes
Street Jazz – more relaxed clothing can be worn however jazz trainers and no jeans are recommended.

Where are you located?

Our studios are located at the Rock-Plex centre behind the Rock Church on Priory Street (off Micklegate). Map

Will I have the opportunity to perform?

The Academy is fortunate to have its own auditorium which seats 650 people. Therefore we produce an annual summer showcase giving students the opportunity to display their skills. The Academy also takes part in the Rocks yearly Christmas Special, where selected individuals are able to perform. We also take pride in producing the choreograohy and dancing
for the Rock's weekly Communicating Life family service.

Am I able to do grades?

The Academy is currently in the process of outworking this and will be able to provide you this service very shortly.

So what are the benefits of training at the Academy?

Not only does the Academy boast of its professional teachers, but also its connection to the current dance industry. The teachers focus on a balance of technical excellence and expressive performance skills. We also offer a ‘STUDENT OF THE YEAR’ award where it gives students the chance to be rewarded for their hard work and dedication.

Do Classes run through school holidays?

Yes, most classes continue up until the Student showcase
in July. We offer a summer school in august for those aged 13-18 and also an intensive programme for adult in Latin American. For more information see News and Events.

Have students progressed onto formal dance training from the academy and what other successes have come out of the school?

Many of the students at the Rock Academy of Dance have gone on to be successful dancers. We have students accepted at both Northern and Scottish schools of Contemporary Dance and also provided choreography for dancers going on to train at Yorkshire Young Dancers. Joel has provided training in Latin and Ballroom for the University of York’s dancesport team who successfully won their regional championships this year. He also trains one of the countries best senior Latin competitors who were finalists at both Stars of the Future and Champions of Tomorrow.
Not only does the Rock academy of dance produce quality dancers, who grow to understand the science of dance, but also focuses on building people to a place of confidence and value. Its an invigorating place to train.