Ballroom Dancing Lessons in Plymouth, Totnes & Kingsbridge
Learn to dance the Cha Cha, Waltz, Jive and many more at one of Donaheys fabulous weekly Ballroom and Latin beginner dance classes in Plymouth, Kingsbridge and Totnes.
Dancing is a fabulous sport to enjoy – whilst you’re moving to music you’ll be getting all the health benefits of a great workout, helping keep you fit & healthy – plus our dance lessons are great fun!
Our friendly and relaxed beginner dance classes offer expert dance tuition, you’ll learn all the steps in a fun and enjoyable atmosphere, at spacious venues.
As heard on BBC Radio Devon
The NHS recommends dancing to lose weight, maintain strong bones, improve posture and muscle strength, and increase balance and co-ordination.
Donaheys dance classes are just perfect for helping keep fit and active, help get you ready for upcoming social occasions, plus of course they’re great fun!
Improver classes are also available for those who have danced before – more details below
Brand New Beginner Ballroom Lessons
⭐ Monday 23rd June 2025, 7.30pm ⭐ Plymstock School Plymouth PL9 9AZ
⭐ Tuesday 24th June 2025, 7pm ⭐ Royal Seven Stars Totnes TQ9 5DD
⭐ Wednesday 25th June 2025, 7.55m ⭐ The Woolwell Centre, Woolwell, Plymouth PL6 7TR
Places are filling fast on all our new courses. Payment is in 6-week blocks priced at £69 per person, as of today, Saturday 21st June, places are still available.
Class Flexibility Scheme – A Donaheys Exclusive!
Unique to Donaheys, once you’ve booked your places, if you find you can’t attend one of your regular classes simply catch up at any of our alternative sessions that week.
Since we teach the same dances each week at all classes, it’s easy to stay on track and enjoy the full experience.
You’ll never miss a step, choose from;
✨ Monday 7.30pm – Plymstock School
✨ Tuesday 7pm – Totnes Royal Seven Stars
✨ Tuesday 7pm – Kingsbridge College
✨ Wednesday 7.30pm – Woolwell Centre, Plymouth
Plus If you can’t make a whole week, you’re welcome to double up the following week ✨
Special Offer – Online Lessons Included
Exclusive to Donaheys – FREE Online Dance Lessons with every booking!
Perfect your steps anytime, anywhere with our included online Ballroom & Latin lessons – taught by our expert team. Stream to any device and practice along to a full Big Band soundtrack – it’s your personal dance studio at home!
Paul and Vicki, plus all the assistant teachers, are so good at creating a fun and relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels safe to learn - even my ryhmically challenged husband. And the social nights are great for practising our dances and making new friends. Would highly recommend
We so look forward to dance lessons on a Monday. Paul and his team make the lessons fun, entertaining and have a winning teaching style which makes you feel relaxed, welcomed and unjudged. Take the step and come and join the fun, you certainly won’t be disappointed - Whoosh💃🕺
Paul and the team at Donaheys offer weekly hour-long sessions of group instruction in Latin and Ballroom Dancing from beginner upwards, at several venues around Plymouth. Paul and Vicky are always very clear and encouraging, and demonstrate points of technique as well as the basic steps. Mostly we dance with our own partners, but there are opportunities to pair up if you come alone. I would like the professionals to help us to lead and follow more frequently, as well as encouraging us to copy their moves when they dance solo or in pairs. It is always great fun. The social dances enable us to put what we learn into practice; I hope that more people will get off their couches after Strictly to experience the joy and satisfaction of mastering the moves; and that societies, clubs and wedding venues will revive structured dancing as an enduring alternative to Dad (and Grandma) Dancing at discos. Actually, a sexy rumba can fit quite unobtrusively to pop music on a crowded dance floor... give it a go!
We’ve been learning to dance with the Donaheys team for 3 years and we thoroughly enjoy our weekly lessons. Paul and the team are patient and encouraging and the lessons are great fun. Would absolutely recommend Donaheys if you’re thinking about learning to dance
We would highly recommend Paul’s dance lessons! He makes them easy to follow and great fun, and we feel we’re making good progress after only a few weeks!
We have been dancing with the Donaheys team for over 3 years and we still really look forward to our weekly lessons! We know we have improved under their excellent team tuition and they continue to make it fun and fresh.
We highly recommend dance lessons with Donaheys. The lessons are perfectly pitched for all ability levels. We benefit from excellent tuition from experienced and friendly Dance Instructors (Vickie, Alice & Paul) with help from Chris, Adam and Andy at Plymstock who coach us step by step and make the learning experience so much fun. There is lots of support and tips and they engage with everyone in the group. The pace of learning is fantastic because you can tailor your level to what you are comfortable with and there is no pressure if you make a mistake (which we often do) but the patience and knowledge we have been given has been great for building our confidence to develop our technique and we really look forward to each dance lesson. If you asked us 12 months ago whether we would feel competent to attend a dance weekend or social dance evening (organised by Donaheys) we would never have believed we would be able to dance such a selection of dances , but we have, through Donaheys outstanding training. Our fellow dancers are a lovely group of like minded friendly people and if you are thinking about it...take the plunge..you won't regret it, it's great!
My partner and I really enjoy our dance class and look forward to going each week. Paul and team are great tutors and they make the lessons fun while teaching us how to glide around the dance floor ( well, in our case glide would be pushing it but we do try.) There’s no pressure and classes are easy going and fun. It’s a great way to get some exercise, and meet new people , our group are a great crowd and we always have a good laugh. I’m so glad we joined. As Paul would say. It’s Mar Vel Ous! Thanks Paul and team.
Great professional friendly lessons suitable for all levels. A great way to make friends with opportunities for social dances and of course potential to develop those moves. Cannot recommend the lessons and teachers highly enough.
Fab, fun classes. We’ve learned so much and look forward to it every week. To top it off we’ve made new friends and enjoy the social aspect of the members evenings too.
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 floor.
Thoroughly enjoying our dance lessons with Donaheys. Paul and his team are great teachers with much patience and a sense of humour which creates a lovely atmosphere. Highly recommend.
We started the absolute beginners class in the spring, as I had always wanted to be able to dance “properly” on holiday or at parties. My partner and I have been going every week and have learnt a huge variety of basic dances. I think it’s fair to say we are not destined to be professional dancers, but we absolutely love it. The teachers are really good- they explain all the steps bit by bit and demonstrate at just the right pace for us. We have really enjoyed learning a new skill together, and we have met some lovely people at the classes. We have also really enjoyed the social evenings. If you are considering it, I would really recommend you take the plunge. It’s a really friendly class, and it’s a new hobby that you can do together that is totally unlike anything else! I am really looking forward to be able to dance with my partner when we go on holiday, and the totally unexpected benefit is that whilst we are there we totally forget about all the stresses and strains of work and chores and get absorbed into the dancing. There is no better feeling that being able to manage the basic steps of a dance together without standing on each other’s feet!
Really enjoy learning how to dance. Paul and his team are very patient and encouraging. Everything is broken down step by step so for a beginner like me it’s ideal, and in 3 weeks everyone is able to do 2 dances. Excellent😊
Paul & I have been really pleased with the professional level of instruction and the really friendly atmosphere. Donahey’s dance lessons and Strictly functions have been brilliant. It is fun and encouraging to progress but also to make new friends. We would throughly encourage anyone to take the first steps on to the dance floor.
My wife and I have been dancing with Donaheys for over a year now, and we both find it great fun. Expert tuition all given in a friendly , no pressure environment. Great for a felling of well-being and a good workout too. Do highly recommend.
A brilliant way to get fit and improve your balance and coordination while having fun with like-minded people. I'd never danced a step before, (of the ballroom/Latin variety), but Paul and his amazing team soon had me hooked and even going along to dances. All the steps are very simply explained and demonstrated, even for the chronically left-footed!
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.
I have been attending the Hyde dance class for a while now, from a person that that never danced, I love it, everyone has made me feel like part of the family and are very good at explaining things for me to understand. It is one of highlights of my week.
Love the beginners course. Attended on my own so have been partnered by the teacher - really enjoying it. For someone who has always loved dance since being a child I'm loving learning the basics all over again. Friendly and relaxed group would highly recommend even if your solo.
First came to Donahey's 4 years ago, and never looked back! Very professional, friendly instructors who can help you improve and above all enjoy your dancing no matter what level you are at. Well organised, full of friendly people to dance and socialise with, and most importantly you can stay up to date with all the "Strictly" gossip! I'd recommend these evenings to everyone. 💃👍
Superb way to learn ballroom (and Latin/Jive/rock and roll etc...) progressing from 2 left feet and the rhythmic ability of a deaf sloth to Strictly-ready superstars in as long or as short a time as you dare. Great tuition from infinitely patient teachers. If you’re thinking of signing up, stop thinking and start dancing 🙂
We have been saying for years that we would like to learn to dance properly and when the chance came through a friend we decided to give it a go.So pleased we did as we have had a 'ball', brilliant teachers, friendly atmosphere and exercise that's fun.Everyone gets tuition alone the way from the professionals in a positive way encouraging us to enjoy the evening whatever the mistakes ! Mondays cannot come around quick enough, love it. Linda & Colin
Dragged my husband along as I wanted to learn to dance but now he enjoys it as much as I do! Really relaxed atmosphere and great fun as well as brilliant teaching. Definitely recommend it.
These lessons are great for anyone from beginners to experts. Teachers are very understanding and know exactly what their doing. Relaxed and social atmosphere. If your looking to learn ballroom dancing these are brilliant.
My husband and I decided to give the dance lessons a whirl and we absolutely love it! Relaxed atmosphere, bit of a giggle, great teachers and a lovely way to exercise and meet others. Cant speak highly enough of it. Thankyou x
The beginner's classes are ideally structured to get you into the ballroom dances. Paul is very clear and precise with his instructions and the dance team are there to help you along the way. An hour passes very quickly and you always feel you have learnt something. You will find you can't wait for next week to arrive. A friendly gathering of beginners where we are all there to learn.
Having a ball, we look forward to our class each week, the hour goes so quick , our dance instructors are very professional and very patient, we have a lot of fun , my only regret is that, l hadn't started before now , would definitely recommend it, thankyou Paul and your team x
My wife has wanted to learn to dance for years, I agreed to attend Donahey's with her but did not expect to enjoy myself so much. The instructors are great fun and obviously enjoy what they do. We are having varying degrees of success but are getting lots of support from Paul and his team. We have just signed up for our second course and fully intend to continue with this very sociable and energetic evening.
Friendly informative instruction in a good spacious environment. Easy going, helpful and knowledgeable staff. Well organized and would recommend to anyone.
We love Donaheys! My husband had never stepped foot on the dance floor in his life. After 7 months of weekly classes and a weekend away with the Strictly stars (organised by Donaheys) we were able to perform a Waltz, Tango and Cha-Cha medley at our wedding which our guests were completely amazed with. My husband also used to complain about lower back pains regularly before we started ballroom and since starting the lessons his posture has improved so that he doesn't have this trouble anymore! I came from a ballet background and have enjoyed learning the new styles of dance. The classes are good fun and we also learn a lot at a good pace and the members nights are so enjoyable too!
I’ve tried a few classes in the region over the last few years before coming to Donaheys and this is the best!! Paul’s teaching style is easy and enjoyable, venues are warm; people and heating! There are helpers to dance with singletons (not many classes do this). Keep on dancing 😀
I'm young, and I work as an engineer. No-one expects me to do ballroom dance classes, but i find it absolutely brilliant! Paul and the whole crew are always so much fun and the kindest people you will meet. If you are on the fence about it, personally I would say just give it a go and try it. It's great fun and you do learn a lot along the way!
I can't rate Donaheys highly enough, from the first lesson I was hooked. I was always reticent to take dancing lessons but my wife needed a partner so along I went and 3 years later, still loving it.
Pauls relaxed teaching methods take you along gently, but before you know it you have lovely routines for all your favourite dances.
You just have to look around the dance floor at all the laughing, smiling people to know your in a great place.
Been dancing with Donaheys since 2016 and always had a great time. We've met lots of fun people and enjoyed the dancing as well as the friendly social atmosphere. It's something we look forward to every week!
I have been attending Donaheys ballroom dance classes for several years now. Because I was a lone dancer, I initially thought I would just give it a try for a six weeks. But the classes have been so friendly, enjoyable and welcoming that, here I am many year's later, still 'giving it a go'. I would recommend Donaheys to anyone who wants to learn dance routines in a fun atmosphere.
If you are looking for a fun, friendly way to exercise and meet new friends then look no further. There is an added bonus in that you will also be taught to dance by Paul and his team in a way and at a speed that is ideal for beginers and also for those who wish to progress to a higher standard.I recomend giving it a go.
My wife dragged me kicking and screaming to our first Donahey's dance lesson a couple of years ago. I was convinced that my two left feet would make me stand out as a clod-hopping failure, and that I would be mocked and ridiculed by all involved. How wrong I was. The excellent instructors proved to be extremely professional, patient and non-judgmental, and the other students proved to be very friendly and helpful. Everyone understands what it's like to be a beginner as they have all experienced their first lesson, and they can remember how nerve- wracking it can be to walk into the dance hall on that first evening. The nerves soon disappear, and I was utterly amazed at how quickly these amazing people managed to have us dancing around the floor. The basics are taught in a fun and easily understandable way, and in no time I found I was looking forward to our weekly Donahey's sessions, as I was always keen to add a few more steps to our repertoire. While it's true that we may never become the next Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, we can live with that. However, what we have gained, is a lot of pleasure doing something together as a couple (although single people are also equally welcomed and encouraged), along with a lovely group of like minded people. If you've ever thought about dancing, don't hesitate to give Donahey's a go. After all, if you find it's not for you, you can always give it up again........although, if you're like us, you will catch the dancing bug and be in it for the long-haul.
As a Single man, I joined Donaheys Dance Classes at Plymstock School, with a view to improving my dancing for when cruising, and other occasions. In almost 12 months, I have missed only 1 class. Being single was not an issue, as a Partner is always found, and dancing with different Partners contributes to the fun. Donaheys is a well established, welcoming and friendly Dance School, with professional expert tuition in Ballroom and Latin dances. Member's Dances are held regularly at Kingsbridge, giving the opportunity for further tuition, practice and socialising with new friends. If you want to take it to the next level, Dancing with the Stars Weekends, which include Strictly Professionals, receive rave reviews, and is on my " To do list ". Oh, and for those of you wondering why I missed a lesson - England were playing in the World Cup !.
It was such a pleasure to find dance classes in our area, for them to be comprehensive, thorough and also great fun with a lovely mix of Strictly style music. The teaching style is very clear and encouraging, while dancing with both your partner and others in the group makes you realise we all have the same struggles with tricky bits. It is very sociable across a broad age range and that is helped by members dances a couple of times a term. In fact I wish they were more often in order to practice the new learning. Once you have conquered the basics you never get bored, because each time a dance block is revisited a new little sequence is learnt - just wish I could remember them all. Also Paul organises the most fabulous "Strictly" weekends with the Strictly professionals tutoring classes and presenting showcase dances, full on and up close. We never would have thought of going to anything other than a standard theatre performance previously.
This is like having your own strictly journey. We’ve made some wonderful friends to share the experience of learning all the ballroom and Latin dances.
Paul teaches dance in a way that is easy to pick up and no matter how uncoordinated one might be everyone will get a little bit closer to the strictly stars through these lessons.
The dance lessons provided by Donahey's are excellent fun! You do not need a partner to attend, and they offer group dance lessons from beginners to advanced. Furthermore, the instructors are excellent, friendly, and throw in a lot of good light hearted chat. You really can't go wrong in attending Donahey's lessons for fun on a week night!
Lessons are 1 hr in duration. Over a 3-4 week period you will focus on learning, or developing your skills, on two dance types, one ballroom and one latin. Once the 3-4 week set of sessions is complete, you will move on to learning, or developing your skills, on two new dance types. In addition, between lessons, you have the opportunity to learn a line dance or two.
If you are attending the lessons as a single person, then no worries. Not only do a lot of singles attend the classes, but it is standard practice for the instructors to rotate partners around the group every few minutes. This helps to ensure that you don't pick up and maintain any bad practices, plus emphasizes the social nature of the lesson. Plus, as there are always several instructors and assistants present, you can easily get help on something that you are stuck on.
The lessons are held very much in a social, friendly atmosphere. Come and try. You are sure to have a great time, while learning a new skill.
We started Dancing with Donaheys in Hyde back in April 2018. Never danced before but the class's are fun and friendly. We all make mistakes and we all laugh its a great achievement when we master the steps of the dances. really recommend the class to anyone
Three years ago I was able to shuffle around the dance floor/ballroom but never felt proud of my efforts. After Pam and I have attended the Donaheys Ballroom lessons all has changed, not only are we able to confidently dance Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep and Tango but we have also been taught 4 Latin dances and a host of others including Rock and Roll, and Jive. At the start of this festive season we are learning the Viennese Waltz.
Although retired we are now able to keep up with many of the younger couples who attend - there is no doubt that my fitness has improved dramatically. Thanks to Paul and the Team for the fun of the lessons and the enjoyment of the Social evenings.
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.
Thoroughly enjoying our Ballroom and Latin dance lessons at Donaheys. Great tuition, great fun and we have made some lovely new friends. Looking forward to the next social evening.
My wife found Donaheys when they first started in the south hams, this was after many failed attempts. to be honest Paul was the last attempt. From the very first night it just clicked. Paul has such an enthralling way to teaching that you just can't help but smile even when your feet won't work. We have so much to thank Donaheys for, going that first night was one of the best things we have ever done. If your remotely thinking about dancing then come along you will love it! Thank you Paul and thank you Donaheys
Having never danced before I was a bit apprehensive about joining Paul's classes but now, a few months on, I love every minute. He has taught me the basics of ballroom dances, he has teachers on hand to observe and step in and offer advice as we dance. People thought I would be shy of admitting that I am taking dance lessons (as a retired ship captain) but I am so proud of what I have learnt and will recommend it to everyone.
Dancing – Officialy recommended by the NHS
Strictly Come Dancing champion Ore Oduba has backed a campaign to get people dancing to boost their health and well-being.
The NHS recommends dancing to lose weight, maintain strong bones, improve posture and muscle strength, and increase balance and coordination.
Oduba said: “The thing about dance is that it just makes you feel good, and it can really benefit your physical, mental and social wellbeing.
People should adopt “old-fashioned” methods to stay healthy. Having lots of exercise, mental stimulation and a social network… these are old-fashioned methods, but still work to keep healthy. Professor Sir Chris Whitty, England Chief Medical Officer, 2023 Annual Report.
Learn to Ballroom Dance with Donahey’s
One of the best things about dancing is that while you’re having fun moving to music and meeting new people, you’re getting all the health benefits of a fabulous workout.
Regular dancing is great for losing weight, maintaining strong bones, improving posture & muscle strength, increasing balance and co-ordination and beating stress. It’s proven Dancing provides physical, psychological, and social benefits galore, so put on your dancing shoes and get yourself along.
Dancing is good for your body & mind…
Speaking on the link between mental health and dance, Kate Silverton reveals “I now realise how addictive dance is… the endorphin levels, it reduces cortisol. It just makes you feel good to be alive and you are getting fit, what’s not to love?” Kate Silverton Speaking to Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid on GMB show
Plus, Donahey’s hold fabulous monthly practice evenings exclusively for class members, where you can come along and enjoy a fabulous evening of dancing – perfect for practicing all those moves in a nice relaxed fun environment.
Locations of Donahey’s Dance Classes
Plymstock School, Church Rd, Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 9AZ
The Woolwell Centre, Darklake Lane, Woolwell, Plymouth PL6 7TR
Improver Ballroom Dancing Lessons
Mastered the basics? Our fab Improver Ballroom dancing lessons offer you the natural progression. The classes are especially designed for those who have learnt the basic steps, we build on your knowledge, developing core routines, rhythm, technique, leading & style.
We teach in spacious ballrooms, all with a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere throughout.
We have some great weekly Improver Ballroom dance lessons available
✨ Wednesday 8.30pm – Woolwell Centre, Plymouth PL6 7TR
During our Improver classes we’ll focus on 4 core Ballroom & 4 core Latin dances; Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Tango; Cha Cha, Jive, Rumba & Samba. Plus over time we introduce Argentine Tango & Salsa into our programme – so you can enjoy a great range of social dances.
Each week we focus on one Ballroom & one Latin dance, over a 3-4 week period, with full revision videos available too. Plus you’re able to join us for our fabulous & exclusive members evenings. When you book, simply state Improver classes.
Dancing is good for you
Dancing is a great way to build physical & mental activity into our lives; evidence shows that having an inactive lifestyle has a negative impact on our health.
The British Heart Foundation agrees that dancing is a great way to stay in shape. Regular dancing can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and cancer. And you’ll enjoy yourself so much you’ll forget you’re exercising!
Our easygoing relaxed adult beginners Ballroom & Latin course run’s for 18 weeks altogether, and partners aren’t essential. During these weeks you’ll learn how to dance 6 Ballroom dances & 6 Latin dances. Our course is broken into 3-week segments; each covering one Ballroom & one Latin dance.
Once you’ve completed your initial 6-week pre-paid block we hope you’ll continue with your strictly dancing & sign up for the following 6-week block. Your 6-week consecutive block commences the week you begin the course. Unfortunately though, missed/lost weeks other than for vacation holidays are strictly non transferable.
Once the 18 weeks are complete, the course will then repeat itself to cover the dances for those that have joined mid-course. For those of you that are interested in reviewing the dances already learnt you are more than welcome to stay on the course, and for those that would like to extend their knowledge of the dances learnt, you may join one of our Improvers classes.
Ballroom & Latin Dancing Course Companion DVD
We have available our popular Donahey’s Ballroom & Latin Dancing Course Companion DVD.
Featuring all 14 dances taught on our beginners course; Ballroom, Latin, Argentine Tango, American Smooth & much more all shown step-by-step, filmed at Ashton Town Hall by Paul & Amy Donahey. The DVD benefits from a full practice soundtrack, it really is a Donahey’s exclusive – your ideal practice companion.
This DVD is priced at just £25 and is exclusively available to Donahey’s members who are currently enrolled in our beginners Ballroom Dancing Lessons.
Intermediate Ballroom Dancing Lessons
Ready to extend your choreography? Our Intermediate Ballroom dancing lessons offer you natural progression from Improvers. The classes are especially designed for those who feel confident with their dancing, building on your knowledge, developing routines, rhythm, technique, leading & style.
We have some great Intermediate Ballroom dance lessons available
Monday 8.30pm Plymstock School, Plymouth PL9 9AZ
Tuesday 8pm Kingsbridge College, TQ7 1PL
During our Intermediate Ballroom dance lessons you’ll learn routines taught by the stars of Strictly Come Dancing at Donaheys Dancing With the Stars Weekends – fab social routines choreographed by the Strictly Professional’s themselves.
All our dance classes are group lessons and would not be suitable if you have previously competed, performed or taken high-grade dance examinations. All our classes are aimed at social dancers, who enjoy going out dancing.
Limited places are available on each course, once we receive your payment your place is confirmed and you can commence your course. Payment is in 6-week consecutive blocks priced at £69 per person, starting from the first week you attend.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I’ve never danced before, are your dance lessons suitable?
All our courses are especially designed for absolute beginners so don’t worry we’ll be teaching you to dance one step at a time.
What shall I wear?
Something comfortable, flattish shoes preferably not trainers. No high heels, flip flops, steel heels or toe caps please.
You are very welcome to join us without a dance partner. During our lessons we teach all the steps solo for both leads & follows. You’ll benefit from learning all the dances, style & technique plus of course have a great fun workout for the mind & body.
Our team of dance teachers and dance assistants are on hand throughout each lesson to partner with solo dancers. If you and other solo dancers are happy to partner together you are very welcome to do so.
Do you change partners?
I confirm you will dance with your partner for the duration. During all our lessons, we start by teaching the steps solo, then partner you up together.
We have a great team of experienced dance teachers and assistants that will look after you during the lesson. As a team we may occasionally offer to dance with you if we think it may help, acceptance is of course completely upto you – definitely no continuous changing of partners with Donaheys. I hope this helps reassure you.
How long do the Lessons last?
One hour.
Do i need to pre-register?
Yes, you’ll need to reserve your place & make full course payment in advance in order to be sure of a place in our Ballroom Dancing Lessons.
Are Donahey’s dance teachers qualified?
Yes, our team of highly experienced dance teachers are qualified with & recommended by the world’s No 1 dance organisation, the International Dance Teachers Association.
Which Ballroom Dances will I learn?
Social Foxtrot
The perfect dance to get you started on the dance-floor.
Easy to pickup, this dance will have you up & dancing around the dance-floor in no time. We dance the Social Foxtrot to all the wonderful Big Band sounds. You’ll love this social dance, especially for all your Social Occasions such as Weddings & Cruises.
Music Suggestions; Robbie Williams – Swing When You’re Winning Westlife – Allow us to be Frank
Waltz
The Modern English Waltz is a slow graceful dance that glides effortlessly around the dance floor.
Characterised by graceful turns, a gentle sway and a rise and fall, once you have learnt how to dance the Waltz, you’ll really feel as though you are dancing. Waltz is one of the most popular Ballroom dances, and danced to some romantic ballads.
Music Suggestions; See The Day – Girls Aloud Under the bridges of Paris – Shall We Dance Soundtrack
Quickstep
The quickest of all the Ballroom dances, a fun, lively and energetic dance – you’ll especially love the music to this dance. Combining steps from the Rhythm Foxtrot, once you’ve learnt how to dance the Quickstep, you’ll really start to get the blood pumping, plus it’s a fab dance for burning off those calories!
Music Suggestions; BBC Strictly Come Dancing Album Robbie Williams – Putting On The Ritz & King Of The Swingers
Tango
Originally from Argentina, Tango is the dance of passion and drama. Characterised by its instantly recognisable music and staccato action, learning this dance is fun – with music to inspire you.
Music Suggestions; Ross Mitchell Ballroom Dancing BBC Strictly Come Dancing Album
Argentine Tango
Featured on Strictly Come Dancing in the past few years, Vincent & Flavia with their flawless performances of the Argentine Tango have really brought this passionate dance to the attention of everyone. A slow dance, with some good basic steps
Music Suggestions; Marks & Spencer Argentine Tango CD Beginners Guide to Argentine Tango
American Smooth
Another dance most recently featured on Strictly. We’ll teach you some nice Foxtrot based Smooth, which includes dancing in close & open hold – you’ll love the showmanship of this dance, great fun and a fab 1st Wedding Dance!
Music Suggestions; It had to be you – Harry Connick Jr Fly me to the moon
Which Latin Dances will I learn how to dance?
Cha Cha Cha
A bright cheeky dance all the way from Cuba, Cha Cha is the most popular of the Latin dances. The energetic rhythm makes this dance a firm favourite for many dancers, once you’ve picked up the basic cha cha steps, you’ll really enjoy dancing this to many popular songs.
Music Suggestions; Pussycat Dolls – Sway to the Rhythm Duffy – Mercy
Samba
The dance from Brazil, a bright bouncy dance with a true carnival atmosphere! The music is fab with lots of exciting rhythms, you’re sure to have plenty of fun learning how to Samba.
Music Suggestions; Gloria Estefan—Rhythm Of The Night Hot Hot Hot
Rock ‘n’ Roll
A dance floor-filler, this lively dance is always popular at special occasions, especially when the band fires up. Rock ‘n’ Roll is a slow tempo version of the Jive, with lots of great hits, you’re sure to enjoy learning this dance.
Music Suggestions; Shakin Stevens – This Old House, Oh Julie, Marie Marie Showaddywaddy -Dancin Party
Rumba
Originating from Cuba, Rumba uses many of the basic Cha Cha steps. Rumba is a slow dance often referred to as the dance of Love, some nice music can really help you learn how to Rumba.
Music Suggestions; Beyonce If I Were A Boy Robbie Williams Something Stupid
Jive
Originating in America, Jive is a combination of Swing dance Jitterbug and Lindy hop. It’s certainly one of the fastest Latin dances with lots of energy, bounce and turns – sure to get your pulse racing!
Music Suggestions; Reet Petite Jackie Wilson Slow Boat To China Bette Midler
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