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Dance School Focus – JLC Dance Ltd Blackpool

Stacey MacNaught |

We recently spoke to Janet and Brian from JLC Dance Ltd, a specialist in ballroom dance classes in Blackpool to find out more about what makes them unique, and what they have to offer to budding ballroom dancers in the UK!

What made you decide to create JLC Dance Ltd?

In simple corny terms: 'for the love of dance'. JLC Dance was opened 25 years ago in Southport when a group of dance teachers got together to create a Ballroom and Performing Arts School - in those days it was know as Dance Steps. Having been based in Southport we opened a Preston branch in 2004 and a Blackpool branch in 2012 but still have connections with our original school in Southport. Now run by Janet Lee Chapman and Brian Porter, Janet has been with the school since it's construction - hence our name. Brian joined the school 13 months ago, having had a long career in the dance and performance industry.

What has been your biggest achievement during the past 14 years?

We have had lots of exciting things happen over the years including: working for the Tate, appearing on radio and TV etc. This year we have been invited to teach as resident teachers at the Tower Ballroom in conjunction with Strictly Come Dancing's visit on the 15th and 16th November.

What qualities do your instructors bring to your classes?

Our instructors are well qualified and have had years of experience in the industry teaching and performing at all levels. This makes our classes technically strong, but we believe dance should be fun as well as informative and we strive to give our schools a family atmosphere.

What makes JLC Dance Ltd different to other dance schools?

Ironically, with Blackpool being the ballroom capital of the world - certainly in competition terms, JLC represents arguably being the only ballroom school in town.

What types of dance do you specialise in?

We specialize in ballroom, Latin and salsa and Janet is a fellow in ballroom and Latin with both the UKA and IDTA. We can accommodate most styles of dance as Brian has a contemporary background.

You offer classes to all ages, what advice would you give to beginners who want to learn how to dance?

Take the plunge, persevere and enjoy.

What do you love most about dancing?

Janet: “I love the way dance can let you escape from the worries of every day life, I can't imagine a day in which I did not dance."

Brian: “Ditto Janet, if you're stressed it can wash away your worries and if you're not it will feed all your emotions.”