Michaels Social Dance Review

Prima Stage School

Who:   Julie Hutchings LITDA
                                      
Those of you who read my Review regularly will know that I include a Where/When section.  To list Julies classes would take up the whole Review.  She has classes every day, except Sunday, most weekdays start at 4pm going through too as late as 10pm.  Saturday classes start at 9am finishing at 5pm. I counted a total of 94 separate classes, and I think I have miscounted.  Classes ranging from Pre-Ballet to Adult Tap to Musical Theatre to Drama, to Modern Jazz to Festival and many, many more.  She teaches at Invicta Studios, Larkfield Leisure Centre, Kings Hill Centre, Church Farm Hall and The Granary both at Larkfield.  For a full listing with locations visit Prima's web site. 

With over 300 pupils and 9 teachers this is truly an impressive Stage School and not just because of its range of classes and size.   I attended the Saturday morning classes at the Larkfield Leisure Centre, New Hythe Lane, Larkfield.  A purpose built community Centre with fully equipped dance studios combined with other leisure facilities and a swimming pool, plenty of free parking.  Initially it was slightly overwhelming, the number of students, simultaneous classes and the sheer level of activity.  My first concern was that pupils could become lost.  This concern was quickly put to rest.   Julie and the two other qualified teachers that I observed displayed a commendable level of professionalism and an individual knowledge of each pupil that was impressive.

The classes from dance to drama were a joy to observe.  From drama to dance the Schools underpinning philosophy was evident.  Julie firmly believes that the underlying educational benefits associated with dance and drama, especially for children, should be part of every class.  Self-discipline, team working, concentration and creativity are just some of these benefits that Julie believes should be stressed.  You can even take GCSE Dance at the School and currently there are 6 ex pupils studying dance at University.  A preparation for life through dance and drama that encourages self-reliance and self-confidence, all combined with classes that are full of laughter fun and learning.   I observed this supportive and developmental approach in all the classes. Indeed this approach feeds through into the annual shows that are performed at the Hazlet Theatre, Maidstone.

I had the pleasure of meeting Shannon Harris a senior pupil who with Laurie Flawn have written and are directing this seasons summer panto for the school.   Shannon was also the very next day attending a BBC audition for a part in a forthcoming drama series.  I of course wished her the very best, but a very assured young lady who will go far, she is a credit to the school and its teaching approach.  Regular public performances, competitions and medal tests ensure the Schools high standards are maintained.  A School that has all the advantages of size yet has fostered a real community spirit. 

As you can tell I was impressed and this review fails to do justice to the range of activities, not just classes, that are provided by Prima.  I will leave the last word to Julie.  “Dance and drama is a springboard to life and a range of careers, not just performance.   My staff and I firmly believe in the  educational benefits inherent in all our classes, we strive to combine learning with having fun.  All our pupils are individuals and we treat them as such.”