5 Best Dance Classes in Birmingham for Every Skill Level
You might be looking for a fun way to stay active or are helping your child land a spot in a prestigious academy.
Regardless, picking the wrong studio often leads to wasted money and zero progress. That’s why I hit the studio floors to find the most welcoming and technically sound programs available locally.
Here’s my breakdown of the best dance classes in Birmingham to help you get moving with confidence.
How much do dance classes cost in Birmingham?
Booking a drop-in group lesson usually costs between $15 and $20, while ongoing monthly academy programs average $50 to $85. Private sessions reach about $100 per hour.
| Program Type | Estimated Cost |
| Drop-in Group Classes | $15 – $20 per class |
| Monthly Academy Tuition | $50 – $85+ per month |
| Private Choreography Lessons | $50 – $100+ per hour |
1. Valentine Theatre School
Website: valentinetheatreschool.co.uk
Address: 2220, 2224 The Crescent, Marston Green
Contact: 07590 401534 | [email protected]
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 4:00PM–9:00PM | Saturday 8:30AM–5:00PM
Getting access to extensive performing arts training under a single roof is exceptionally rare. Valentine Theatre School delivers exactly that, blending ballet and tap with musical theatre and gymnastics.
I enrolled my niece here last spring, and the confidence she gained from their supportive teachers was immediate. You’ll also gain direct exposure to prestigious scouting events like the Joffrey Ballet School conventions.
And we heard that their students regularly qualify for the international Global Dance Open and secure roles in major West End tours. Despite that, lessons here remain highly affordable, with standard classes priced around £6.50.
The only minor drawback is their restricted weekday operating schedule. They exclusively run late afternoon and evening blocks. This makes it tough if you need morning sessions.
Quick Progress and Supportive Community
My daughter has been at Valentines for a few months, we was made very welcome from the first time by all the teachers, dancers and parents, the teachers are brilliant at getting the best of your child and the other dancers are so supportive, my daughter enjoys going so much and to see how she has progressed in a short time is testament to the teaching available.
- Louise Udall | Google Reviews
Restored Confidence and Welcoming Atmosphere
My daughter recently moved to Valentine’s from another dance school, and we couldn’t be happier. Only a few weeks in and already her faith in dance has been restored.
Everyone is helpful and friendly, and the communication is amazing. My daughter and I are very excited for her to start her journey at VTS.
Thank you Claire and team for making us feel very welcome ❤️
- Leanne Carter | Google Reviews
2. Adage Dance & Fitness Studios
Website: adagedancestudios.com
Address: Sence Touchbase Pears, 750 Bristol Road, Selly Oak
Contact: +44 7711 120405 | [email protected]
Schedule: Monday 10:00AM–8:30PM | Tuesday 5:30PM–9:30PM | Wednesday 10:00AM–8:00PM | Thursday 5:15PM–9:30PM | Friday 10:30AM–11:30PM | Saturday 9:00AM–5:00PM
Adage Dance & Fitness Studios provides its cabaret groups with real opportunities to perform on global stages like Disneyland Paris and the Royal Albert Hall.
They do that with a teaching faculty that features highly decorated professionals and competitive pole finalists.
Plus, your technical classes align perfectly with the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) syllabus for structured progression. This guarantees you receive certified training from day one.
They’ll also offer a highly specialized adult curriculum that combines pole fitness with dedicated choreography disciplines.
The main downside is their fragmented multi-location layout. They divide their syllabus across two different physical properties in Selly Oak.
If you frequently visit different dance studios in Birmingham, you know commuting between street addresses can disrupt your routine.
3. Penelope’s Dance Studio – Ballet & Contemporary Dance Studio Birmingham
Website: penelopesdancestudio.co.uk
Address: 107 Bell Lane, Marston Green
Contact: 0121 779 3747 | [email protected]
Schedule: Available 24/7
Studying under recognized industry leaders dramatically speeds up your technical progress. That’s why I like that Penelope’s Dance Studio is led by a registered Affiliate Teacher of The Royal Ballet School.
I took a few contemporary classes here last month, and the nurturing approach of the instructors completely erased my initial anxiety. They actively use modern educational research to ensure you get the most out of every single visit.
The studio maintains an impressive historical average of distinction-plus scores during external performance assessments. You can even pursue recognized qualifications with the RAD.
A notable limitation is their strict focus on classical ballet and contemporary styles. You won’t find opportunities to learn ballroom or street routines here.
They also treat examinations as simple learning markers rather than aggressive commercial industry preparation.
Reassuring Teachers and Quality Lessons
So delighted with the quality of the lessons our daughter has received at this school of dance. At first she was nervous and unsure but both Miss Penny and Miss Kate were so reassuring that she now joins in with confidence and ease. She has learnt a lot since starting and we are very impressed with their online tuition. They are great value for money and have responded promptly to any questions I have asked. I cannot recommend them highly enough.
- Helen George | Google Reviews
Amazing Teachers and Proud Moments
This is the most amazing dance school ever! My daughter has been going for a few years now and absolutely loves it! She does all styles of dance! The teachers are incredible with her, they really connect with the children and bring out the best in them. I especially like that each child gets their moment to shine in shows, for me as a parent the sense of pride at that moment is the best and overwhelming! Absolutely amazing! 10/10!
- Jenna Butcher | Google Reviews
4. The Swing Era
Website: theswingera.co.uk
Address: Chantry Rd, Moseley
Contact: [email protected]
Hours: Monday 7:00PM–10:00PM | Wednesday 8:00PM–9:00PM | Thursday 6:45PM–9:00PM
Walking into a new class without any prior experience can feel intimidating. The Swing Era eliminates that, intentionally operating as a community-focused institution that welcomes absolute beginners.
They specialize in vintage social dances from the jazz era, including Lindy Hop and Charleston.
And we love that you don’t need to bring a pre-arranged partner to participate in their events. Their accessible beginner series eliminates advanced technical requirements and focuses heavily on social enjoyment.
Plus, they host regular weekly social dances to help you practice consistently.
The primary drawback is their limited technical specialization. They restrict their curriculum entirely to vintage social styles. This means you’ll need to look elsewhere for competitive commercial routines or graded examination pathways.
Fun, Inclusive, and Welcoming Classes
We completed the first two modules of Lindy Hop level 1 with the Swing Era, and it seems like we cannot stop dancing anymore! The classes are really fun and inclusive, both teachers and dancers are extremely welcoming and I cannot wait for the next class every week! The classes also come with a free 30 minutes social/practice with dancers from all levels. Experienced people are always keen to dance with beginners and in a beginner-friendly way which is amazing and very rewarding!
- Marine Cambon | Google Reviews
Wonderful Experience and Welcoming Atmosphere
I had an amazing time at the spring dance! The evening kicked off with a fun, low-pressure class that allowed us to meet everyone and feel comfortable right away. The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, especially for newcomers, and it was easy to get into the spirit of the event. The music was fantastic, a dj DJ and the band were nice to dance to. Overall, it was a wonderful experience!
- Portsmouth Lindy Hop | Google Reviews
5. Steps Dance Academy
Website: stepsdance.co.uk
Address: School Lane, Yardley
Contact: 0791 744 7143 | [email protected]
Schedule: Tuesday 5:45PM–9:15PM | Friday 5:00PM–7:50PM
Organizing students into a custom house framework actively promotes community teamwork. Steps Dance Academy uses this unique system to boost peer progress across all age groups.
Their early-years curriculum uses a fun sticker card system and treasure bags to maintain toddler engagement. Older dancers, on the other hand, can join a specialized training track that prepares them for professional teaching exams.
They even offer an unconditional one-month happiness guarantee to give parents complete financial peace of mind and allow their kids to explore different artistic hobbies, much like touring local music schools to find the right coach.
The most significant downside is their highly constrained weekly schedule. They only run physical classes during limited evening blocks and Saturday mornings.
They also require long-term financial commitments instead of offering flexible single-session drop-ins.
Friendly Class and Growing Confidence
If you want a friendly dance class which puts no pressure on the children then look no further. My Daughter has been learning to dance with Steps for 18 months and has grown in confidence. Although she’s not yet taken any dance exams, she has been part of a show last December with no sign of nerves. She enjoys her weekly sessions and learning new moves. So pleased we chose this dance class.
Thank you Steph, Beth and the team for making learning so enjoyable and dance fun xx
- Sharon Jones | Google Reviews
Friendly Teachers and Family Atmosphere
Steps Dance Academy is not just a dance school, it’s like a family – the teachers are so friendly and really care. They make time to get to know each child and parents too. Over the years my daughter has developed friendships and her confidence has grown in so many ways. Thank you Steph, Beth, & everyone at the Academy.
- Oenca Fontaine | Google Reviews