About JMDS Dance Classes & Performing Arts

Formed in 1983, the Jayne Marie Dancing School gives children throughout Dacorum the chance to learn and enjoy many different styles of dancing, acting, and singing as well as gaining the self-confidence which comes from performing in front of an audience. The school was founded by Jayne Wilson, who was the owner and Principal for 40 years before handing over the reins to its current Principal, Hollie Bishop. Hollie attended JMDS herself from age 3, before leaving at 18 to do her dance teacher training. She returned as a teacher in 2013, and never left!

Classical ballet classes

Classes are held most days of the week by Miss Hollie and her team of qualified, experienced teachers. At the heart of the school's activities is classical ballet. Children are taught the basic positions and movements from the age of three, progressing through the various grades by examinations until, usually as teenagers, they display all the characteristics of an accomplished classical dancer. Some children will take 15 years’ memories away with them and on to other careers, while others may pursue a place at full-time performers' colleges and go on to dance and perform professionally.

Modern, Tap, Contemporary, Commercial, Acro, Drama & Musical Theatre classes

Although children are encouraged to adopt a disciplined and professional approach to dancing, the school's ethos is that, above all, they should enjoy themselves. They can achieve this in classical ballet, Jazz, tap, street, contemporary, commercial, acro, drama and musical theatre.

Choreography Competition and British Arts

Our students learn in groups, but our annual in-house choreography competition enables them to perform on their own or in a duet. For those with a particular aptitude there are categories for character, dramatic art, singing and entertainment. Students can also compete in weekend festival competitions and the annual British Arts Awards competition, culminating in the London finals. JMDS has an excellent record in this national competition. Every year we have several items in the finals, with many winning first place. Several students have been placed in the All Round Performer awards.