Welcome to KBDA
Karen Blackburn Dance Academy is an established theatre dance school in Hook, Hampshire, welcoming children from nursery age through to teenagers and adults.
Since 2000, we have combined strong technical training with creativity, performance and individual guidance. Students can join us to enjoy a weekly class or follow clear examination, performance and pre-vocational pathways as their interests and ambitions develop.
Classes include Ballet, Tap, Modern, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, Acro and Street Dance. Whatever their starting point, every student is known as an individual and supported to make meaningful progress.
Paid trial sessions are available for new students.
Not sure which class to choose? Contact us, and we will help you find the right starting point.
What makes
KBDA different?
At KBDA, students are supported as individuals. Our classes combine clear structure, high-quality teaching and appropriate challenge within a welcoming school community.
From carefully developed early-years classes to recreational, examination, performance, and pre-vocational pathways, dancers can shape their training around their interests and ambitions.
Some students come to KBDA to enjoy a weekly class. Others choose examinations, performances, competitions or more focused training. Whatever their route, we want every student to feel known, supported and part of KBDA.
Ballet
Ballet develops posture, coordination, strength, musicality and control.
Our programme draws on RAD Ballet and The Royal Ballet School’s ATAP, supporting dancers to build secure classical technique and progress at the right pace.
Modern & Tap
Modern and Tap develop rhythm, coordination, strength and performance skills through progressive ISTD training.
Tap builds musicality and clear footwork, while Modern develops dynamic movement, flexibility and individual style. Optional examinations are available.
Contemporary
Contemporary combines Rambert Grade's technical work with improvisation, choreography and creative practice.
Dancers develop strength, control and confidence while exploring their own movement ideas. Optional assessments provide a structured goal.
Acro
Acro combines dance and acrobatic movement, developing strength, flexibility, balance and control.
Led by qualified coaches, dancers progress safely from rolls, bridges and handstands towards more advanced skills, including walkovers, aerials and partner work.
Musical Theatre
Musical Theatre combines singing, acting and dance through triple-threat training. Students explore character, storytelling and repertoire from stage and screen while developing confidence as individual performers and ensemble members.
Training draws on the RAD Musical Theatre syllabus, with optional examinations and performance awards.
Street Dance
Street Dance develops rhythm, musicality, coordination and individual style. Dancers explore grooves, footwork and choreography influenced by styles including Hip Hop, Breaking, Locking and House, alongside freestyle and creative tasks.
Classes can be enjoyed recreationally or as part of KBDA’s performance pathway.
Creativity
We inspire self-expression and innovation, nurturing artistic growth through dance and performance.
Community
We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where friendships and teamwork thrive.
Excellence
We strive for the highest standards in teaching, technique, and personal achievement.
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.
Sunday Studio
Sunday Studio is KBDA’s flexible programme of additional training, offered at selected points throughout the year rather than as a weekly class.
Sessions may include one-off workshops, short courses, longer intensives or focused coaching. They can support examination preparation, GCSE and A-level Dance, solo development, creative practice, Acro skills or areas that need more time than a regular class allows.
Sunday Studio also gives students access to training they may not be able to attend each week. The programme changes throughout the year so we can respond to individual needs, upcoming examinations, performances and new opportunities.
