The steps and essential style of jazz dancing, originated from the cultural dances of Africans brought to the America in the 18th century. Originally, the term jazz dance encompassed any dance performed to jazz music, including both tap dance and jitterbug.

Over time, a clearly defined jazz genre emerged, changing from a street dance to a theatrical dance performed on stage by professionals. Some scholars and dancers, especially Swing and Lindy Hop dancers, still regard the term jazz dance as an umbrella term which includes both the original and the evolved versions: they refer to the theatrical form of jazz dance as modern jazz.

Our Jazz classes here are a favourite amongst our dance students, new and returning. This class focuses on teaching not only jazz but also lyrical and hip hop. Students are exposed to dance routines from world renowned stage musical 'Chicago', to the choreography associated with a Beyonce music video.  It also teaches the basic elements of performance and dance technique in a fun and energetic manner.  Senior Jazz classes are taught by Annemarie Cahill, and Junior Jazz classes will be taught by Chloe Whelan, and September 2024 classes will be available to book from June onwards.

Click here for an example of the type of routine you can expect from a Jazz class.