Welcome to KBDA
Since 2000, KBDA has delivered joyful, high-quality dance education across Hampshire.
From our very first class, we’ve championed creativity, confidence, and individuality, welcoming students of all abilities into a nurturing, inclusive environment. Whether dancing for fun or pursuing a future in the performing arts, our personalised approach supports every dancer in reaching their unique potential. Along the way, we foster self-expression, lasting friendships, and a lifelong love of movement.
What makes
KBDA different?
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At Karen Blackburn Dance Academy, we know that every child’s dance journey is unique. That’s why we provide high-quality, structured training in a welcoming and supportive environment – where every dancer is encouraged to grow with confidence.
From our carefully designed early years classes to our progression pathways for older students, we offer a wide range of styles including Ballet, Modern, Tap, Contemporary, Acro, Street and Musical Theatre.
Whether your child wants to dance for enjoyment, take exams, or work towards competitions or performance opportunities, we tailor the experience to suit them – helping build life skills like focus, resilience and creativity along the way.
Above all, KBDA is a place where your child is known, supported and valued.
Ballet
Ballet develops strength, discipline, and grace, providing a solid foundation for all dance styles. At KBDA, we follow the Royal Ballet School’s ATAP system, offering structured, high-quality training that supports each dancer’s progress and development. Ballet nurtures focus, confidence, and elegant posture while building musicality and expressive movement that carries through every genre.
Modern & Tap
Experience the energy and versatility of Modern and Tap dance through our ISTD classes at KBDA. These styles draw from a rich cultural heritage, blending rhythm, musicality, and theatrical flair. Suitable for all ages and levels, classes build coordination, confidence, and expressive movement. Whether dancing for enjoyment or working towards a goal, our expert-led training supports each student’s progress with creativity, clarity, and care.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance encourages freedom, exploration, and expression. Influenced by diverse cultural and movement traditions, our classes, rooted in the Rambert Grades syllabus, develop fluidity, strength, and emotional connection. We place a strong emphasis on creative practice, improvisation, and collaborative work, helping dancers explore movement in depth and connect as an ensemble. Students are supported to find their voice through dance while building a strong technical foundation.
Acro
Acro at KBDA blends dance technique with acrobatic movement, helping students build strength, flexibility and body control in a safe, structured setting.
Led by our qualified gymnastics coach, dancers begin with fundamental skills such as rolls, bridges and balances, progressing towards more advanced movements including walkovers, aerials and partner work – all at a pace that suits the individual.
As confidence and ability grow, students have the opportunity to incorporate Acro into routines and performances, bringing an exciting, dynamic edge to their dance training.
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre at KBDA combines dance, acting, and singing in a vibrant and supportive environment. Drawing from a wide range of performance traditions, from the West End to Broadway, students develop stage presence, storytelling skills, and confidence. Classes include singing songs from a variety of musicals, exploring the context and themes behind them, and learning to act through song and movement. Alongside this, students build theatre craft and characterisation, gaining a fuller understanding of performance both as individuals and as part of an ensemble.
Street Dance
Street Dance celebrates individuality and cultural expression, with foundations in hip-hop, funk, and urban dance forms. At KBDA, students explore rhythm, style, and musicality in a dynamic and inclusive environment. Classes focus on groove, performance, and creative freedom, building confidence and community.
Events
Find all the latest KBDA events in Hampshire. Keep updated with performance dates, showcases, festivals and competitions featuring our talented dancers. Discover opportunities to support and enjoy local dance, celebrating creativity and dedication in the heart of Hampshire.
West End Wonder is coming to Hook with Jodie Steele!
Wednesday, 27th August 2025
This summer, the incredible Jodie Steele (Heather Chandler in Heathers, Katherine Parr in Six, Elphaba in Wicked, plus TV’s EastEnders & Malory Towers) is leading two unmissable Acting/Musical Theatre workshops for young performers.
Elizabeth Hall - Hall 1, Hook
Wednesday 27th August
12.00-1.15pm: Wicked Workshop (Years 3–6)
1.15-3.00pm: Six Workshop (Years 7+)
No experience needed – just bring your energy, passion, and a love for performing!
Celebrating 25 Years of KBDA
