Wanna dance?!
The Mini-Apprentices look forward to 4.30pm on a Tuesday all week long. That's when they skip across the road from Tesco Gateshead's car park and up the street to the Trinity Centre, the beautiful historic building that once was a church hall and is now the home of the exciting and engaging Gateshead Studio Project.
This community dance school, founded in 2012, is a Community Interest Company led by a highly experienced and internationally respected team (staff). Its aim is to provide high-quality dance education, training, and opportunities in our home city, and they have an awesome track record (projects) inspiring and encouraging disadvantaged young people through their accredited programmes.
Kids Creative Classes: A Great Introduction to Dance
Miss Mini-Apprentice has been attending the classes for a few months, and we have found the Kids Creative group to be a fantastic introduction to contemporary dance.
Suitable for children aged 5-8 (ages 8-11 class runs 5.30pm-6.30pm)
Welcoming and safe environment
Builds confidence, focus, listening skills, motor skills, creativity, patience, self-discipline, and friendships
Initially, Master Mini-Apprentice wasn't particularly interested, but after seeing the friendly atmosphere and supportive instructors, he tried a lesson and absolutely loved it!
Flexible, Affordable Lessons for Families
Lessons are mid-week, allowing weekends to remain free for family time
Pay-as-you-go sessions (£4/hour) without monthly or termly commitments
No uniforms required; barefoot in the studio
Minimal outlay for costumes or specialized equipment
This approach fits well with our family, giving flexibility while keeping dance as a priority.
Youth and Adult Programs
Youth Dance Programs
Gateshead Youth Dance: Secondary-school aged dancers develop technique and creativity
Phoenix Youth Academy: Elite 13-16-year-olds study in the prestigious Leeds-based Phoenix Company programme
Adult Programs
Adult Contemporary class: Thursdays at 7pm, for professional dancers, teachers, and competent amateurs
Dance Fit: Mondays at 7.30pm, open to all adults
Kickboxing classes: Wednesdays
Passionate Leadership and Community Vision
Martin, Debbie, and Pete are passionate and excited about what they do. They have big plans to buy the building and transform it into a community hub:
Providing the highest standard of dance education
Hosting community groups and meetings
Running an independent café for local residents
The space is currently available for hire for rehearsals, meetings, and other events. Free lunchtime music concerts are also held regularly (events).
How to Get Involved
Contact Gateway Studio Project for questions or information
Support the community by donating to the Trinity Fund to help Gateway Studio secure the building
Kick off your dancing shoes and experience the project for yourself!
Talbot Jones Risk Solutions is an insurance brokerage specialising in Charity and SME insurance. Do get in touch if you'd value a free insurance review, quotation or advice and we'd be delighted to help you.Photo credit © Pete Huggins
