Business Details
27 Years
experience
Your Trusted Dance and Fitness School in Whitworth
Established in 1999, Samba Dance and Fitness has become a cornerstone of the Whitworth community, offering a comprehensive range of dance, drama, and fitness classes for all ages and abilities. Founded and led by Samantha Clarke, a Licentiate member of the UKA Dance Association and certified adjudicator for the British Dance Council, our school combines decades of industry expertise with a passion for nurturing talent. We provide structured training in genres such as ballet, tap, Latin, ballroom, street dance, and cheerleading, alongside fitness programmes like Zumba and Bounce Fit. Our commitment to accessibility is reflected in our purpose-built facility, which opened in 2018 and features disabled access, three studios, and dedicated parking. We actively collaborate with local schools and community organisations, integrating dance into primary PE curricula and hosting monthly 'Tea and Dance' events at The Riverside.With a team of experienced instructors, including senior teachers Sally Anne Riley and Josie Kenny, we prioritise both technical excellence and enjoyment. Our students regularly perform at local charity events and mayoral functions, embodying our ethos of community engagement. Whether pursuing examinations, competitions, or recreational participation, clients benefit from tailored instruction in a supportive environment. Our premises also house Squad Dance Wear, providing convenient access to essential dance attire. This enduring dedication to quality, inclusivity, and community has sustained our reputation as Whitworth's premier dance destination for a quarter-century.
Services
Ballet Classes
Street Dance
Cheerleading
Zumba
Breakdance
Drama Workshops
Fitness Classes
Tap Dance
Latin & Ballroom
Acro & Stretch
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer 25 years of dance instruction experience in Whitworth
- Our qualified team includes UKA-licensed professionals and championship adjudicators
- We provide accessible facilities with disabled amenities and dedicated parking
- We deliver curriculum-linked dance programmes to local primary schools
- We host community performances and charity events annually
Services
Ballet Classes
Structured ballet instruction for ages 3+ with graded levels from Baby Ballet to Prelim & Graded Ballet. Classes focus on technique, posture, and performance skills while maintaining a fun atmosphere. Ideal for children seeking foundational dance training or adults looking for fitness through traditional methods.
Street Dance
High-energy street dance and hip-hop classes incorporating breakdance elements for ages 6+. Sessions teach contemporary moves inspired by pop culture while developing coordination and confidence. Suitable for boys and girls wanting to learn styles performed by artists like Usher and Beyonc.
Zumba
Adult Zumba classes combining Latin rhythms with aerobic exercise for calorie burning and cardiovascular health. Sessions cater to all fitness levels in a social, non-competitive environment. Provides an enjoyable alternative to traditional gym workouts through dance-based fitness routines.
Drama Workshops
Youth theatre programmes for ages 6-16 developing acting techniques, improvisation skills, and performance confidence. Classes use scripted pieces and creative games to enhance communication abilities and self-expression. Designed to support GCSE drama preparation and general personal development.
Breakdance
Technical breakdance instruction covering moves like windmills, headspins, and popping/locking for ages 8+. Requires basic dance experience and focuses on developing strength, precision, and style. Classes accommodate both recreational learners and those pursuing competitive performance skills.
People
Samantha Clarke
Director, Proprietor and Teacher
Founder of Samba Dance and Fitness with 25 years' experience. Licentiate member of UKA Dance Association and certified championship adjudicator. Leads curriculum development and community outreach initiatives.
Sam Clarke
Director
Co-leads business operations and strategic development. Oversees facility management and partnership programmes with local schools and community organisations.
Sally Anne Riley
Senior Dance Teacher
Senior instructor specialising in classical dance forms. Delivers ballet, tap, and Latin ballroom classes with emphasis on technical proficiency and examination preparation.
Josie Kenny
Senior Dance Teacher
Experienced teacher focusing on contemporary dance styles. Leads street dance and cheerleading programmes while mentoring junior instructors.
Leah Fisher
Drama and Singing Teacher
Specialist in performing arts education. Develops drama curricula and vocal training programmes for children aged 6+ with focus on stagecraft and musical performance.
Questions
What dance styles do you teach?
We offer ballet, tap, Latin ballroom, street dance, cheerleading, breakdance, Zumba, and drama classes for ages 3+ with both recreational and competitive pathways.
Do you accept complete beginners?
Yes, all classes cater to mixed ability levels. Our instructors provide foundational instruction for newcomers while challenging experienced participants.
Are there facilities for disabled access?
Our 2018-built premises include full disabled access, accessible toilets, and designated parking spaces for visitors with mobility requirements.
Can adults join dance classes?
Yes, we have adult-specific programmes including Zumba, Bounce Fit, and social dance classes for both fitness and recreational purposes.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
Students regularly perform at local charity events, mayoral functions, and our annual showcase. We also participate in regional dance competitions.
