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Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before joining us. Can't find your answer? Get in touch, we're always happy to help.
Trying Us Out
Can my child trial any classes?
Absolutely! We offer a free trial class for all classes. We offer children's dance classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Drama and Hip Hop/Street.
Do parents stay and watch each class?
We invite all parents into the studio to watch their child's first free trial class. After this, children come into the studio for each lesson without their parent, but you're welcome to wait in our comfortable waiting room. We provide complimentary coffee, and if you prefer, you can drop off and return at the end of class to collect your child.
Can I watch a dance class before enrolling?
Absolutely! We encourage our new parents to come along and watch their child's trial class.
I'm unsure which classes my child will enjoy
Not a problem, if we have spaces your child can try all classes for free! We offer children's dance classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Acro, Drama and Hip Hop/Street.
About Our Classes
What styles of dance do you teach?
We offer children's dance classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Acro, Drama and Hip Hop/Street.
What ages are your classes?
Our dance classes cater for all ages from 2.5 years to adults, everyone is welcome!
Do classes run all year?
Children's dance classes run 40 weeks of the year (term time). Adult dance classes are held 48 weeks of the year.
How do you progress children?
At JA Performing Arts, we progress children step by step, at a pace that suits their age, ability, and confidence. We also offer shows and exams, but these are not compulsory.
What to Wear & Bring
Do I need tap shoes for my free dance class?
No, you do not need tap shoes for your first tap class.
What should my child wear for their free class?
Nothing special is needed for the first class. For ballet, girls can wear a dress or skirt (some exercises involve holding a skirt) and boys shorts and a t-shirt. For all other classes, leggings, shorts or tracksuit bottoms with a t-shirt are perfect. Just come comfy and ready to move.
Do you welcome boys?
Absolutely! We love to welcome boys just as much as girls. Boys dance in all of our styles and are a valued part of the JA family.
What should I wear to my first adult dance class?
Something you feel comfortable in, leggings or tracksuit bottoms are perfect.
What about uniforms?
A uniform isn't required for the first couple of weeks while your child settles into class. When you're ready, all uniforms must be ordered via our shop. We only accept uniforms from our official supplier, so please check with us before purchasing.
Fees & Payments
Do I need to pay a registration fee?
No, we do not ask for a registration fee.
Are classes term-based or pay-as-you-go?
All of our classes are payable monthly, but your first class is always free!
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes, we can offer a payment plan to suit you.
Children & Wellbeing
My child is very shy
A lot of children who initially join us feel very shy. This is why we have a buddy system for all new children to ensure they feel safe and have their own buddy in classes.
My child won't go into class without me
We see this all the time, and our experienced teachers and assistants are here to help! With a little encouragement, children might struggle to start, but within a couple of weeks they go happily into class on their own. Our team is on hand to support a smooth transition.
Will my child have to take exams?
No, exams are not compulsory.
Will my child have performance opportunities?
Absolutely! We hold large shows at the Princes Theatre, Clacton together with various other performance opportunities.
Adult Classes
Do you offer adult dance classes?
We certainly do! We hold classes in Adult Tap and Adult Ballet, both classes offer a free class.
Am I too old to join your adult classes?
Not at all! Our adult classes cater for all ages.
Do you need experience for your adult classes?
Not at all! Our adult dance classes cater for all abilities, beginners as well as intermediate and advanced dancers. If you have danced before, we would love to see you too!
How long are your adult dance classes?
Our adult dance classes are 45 minutes to 1 hour. (Our Wednesday Adult Ballet class is 1.5 hours.)
Extras
Do you offer workshops or holiday camps?
Yes, we do! Keep an eye on our emails and social media pages for our next workshop.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Try any class free, for your child or yourself. No registration fee, no obligation. We'll welcome you from the very first step, no matter your age or experience. Questions? Claire is always here to help.
Book a FREE Dance Class