Contemporary Dance

We offer contemporary dance classes in Henley, at Harpsden Hall and also contemporary dance classes across our Berkshire dance schools. Classes are structured to develop a knowledge of contemporary style, while also fostering personal progression as a dancer in overall dance technique, flexibility, and fitness. This is achieved through warm-ups, corner work, centre exercises, standing and floor exercises, and learning short sequences and longer dance routines.

Contemporary dance blends elements from multiple genres. Dancers often incorporate fluid movements from modern dance, structured technique from ballet, and grounded motions from styles like African or urban dance.

There’s a strong emphasis on emotional expression and storytelling. Dancers use the body to communicate themes or narratives—often abstract or personal.

Unlike ballet, which focuses on verticality and lift, contemporary dance often uses the floor. Dancers roll, slide, and shift their weight in grounded movements.

Contemporary dance often emphasises the connection between mind and body. Techniques like release technique, contact improvisation, and Gaga movement promote awareness, breath, and sensation over strict form.