Locals dance their way to the top

Locals dance their way to the top

1 April 2012

DANCE Den has done it again, with girls bringing home 10 first places from the 2011 Ulster Masters held recently in Fermanagh.

Bernie Lenaghan, who runs Dance Den classes throughout the district alongside husband Brendan, has 30 years of teaching experience.

Originally teaching dance to adults, in 2005 the couple realised there was an opportunity for children to learn all styles from hip hop to waltz. Since then the members of Dance Den have been qualifying for championships such as the Ulster, All Ireland, Universal, European and UCWDC World.

“Dance Den is not just about ‘competition’, its about children coming together, heightening new friendships, giving kids a purpose, encouraging and developing new talent within the arts, and socially taking part to enjoy weekly classes,” said Bernie.

“Classes are targeted at fun whilst learning. Competition classes are where you will get the more serious work.

“A couple of weeks ago the Ulster Masters just proved how dancers can achieve not just in competition but in other areas of life. Thanks to Brendan, James and Kylee, who are all part of the Dance Den coaching team and to all the girls who put the work in.”

Next year Dance Den hope to put on the Anna Lee Big Dance Show in June and are enrolling children for social classes in Downpatrick and Newcastle now for January/March. Due to the recession there is a special offer of £35 per term, plus three children taking part from one family means one attends free.

Telephone 07815823789 for more details.