Draper Academy of Dance

Draper Academy of Dance, located in Pukekohe, is a renowned dance school that offers a wide range of dance styles for all ages and levels. With a rich history spanning over four generations, the academy has been providing high-quality dance training for 44 years and is now under the capable leadership of Siyanna Skelton.

The academy is conveniently located at 40 Nelson St, Pukekohe, at the corner of Nelson St and John St. The spacious and well-equipped studio provides the perfect environment for dancers to unleash their creativity and reach their full potential.

Draper Academy of Dance offers an extensive range of dance styles, ensuring there is something for everyone. Ballet, which is the foundation of all areas of dance, is taught with a focus on producing clean, co-ordinated, and expressive dancers. The academy offers ISTD, selected NZAMD, and open classes for ages 3 and above.

Jazz, a modern and upbeat genre, focuses on musicality, style, confidence, and strong technique. Dancers will develop incredible muscle awareness through kicks, leaps, and turns. NZAMD and open jazz classes are available for students of all ages.

Tap, a unique dance style, is taught using shoes with metal plates on both the heel and ball of the foot. Tap dancers create unique rhythms, patterns, and sounds, developing a great understanding of music. The academy teaches the Glenn Wood Tap syllabus.

Hip Hop, a modern street dance style, is taught by choreographers who are influenced by current trends in music videos. Open Hip Hop classes are available, led by World Champion Hip Hop teachers.

Contemporary dance is a modern type of dance that expresses movement using the whole body. It emphasises self-expression, gravity, motion, and suspension. The academy offers NZAMD exams in exam contemporary class, as well as open contemporary classes for Junior and Advanced levels.

Musical Theatre, a unique combination of songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance, allows students to communicate stories and emotions through words, music, movement, and technical aspects. It is a form of theatrical performance that provides a holistic entertainment experience.

Acro dance, a style that combines classical dance technique with precision acrobatic elements, is defined by its athletic character and unique choreography. It seamlessly blends dance and acrobatics, offering a dynamic and impressive dance form.

In addition, Draper Academy of Dance offers classes in Stretch Leaps and Spins, designed to develop flexibility, introduce big jumps and leaps, and improve turning technique. This fun and energised class is a great addition to any dancer's training.

The academy also introduced a new Junior Open Modern class, allowing junior jazz pupils to explore all aspects of jazz.

At Draper Academy of Dance, students not only learn the technical aspects of dance but also gain confidence, self-expression, and a deep appreciation for the art form. The experienced and dedicated staff ensure that each student receives personalised attention and guidance to help them grow as dancers.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate, or advanced dancer, Draper Academy of Dance welcomes you to join their vibrant dance community.