Manor Arts is a vibrant and inclusive dance school located in Nottingham, New Zealand. Founded by Catherine Chivers, a highly experienced and passionate dance teacher, Manor Arts provides a happy and friendly environment for both children and adults to learn and develop their creativity.
At Manor Arts, the focus is on nurturing the imagination and enhancing gross motor skills through a variety of dance and drama classes. Mums and carers are encouraged to participate alongside their toddlers in the Baby Dance class (ages 18 months-3) where they will engage in activities such as storytelling, music, dance, and drama. For preschoolers (ages 3-4), the Tots Creative Dance class provides a safe and caring environment for them to explore their creativity and independence.
Manor Arts also offers after-school theatre groups and holiday workshops for primary-aged children, allowing them to further develop their skills in dance, drama, choreography, and performance. These sessions are designed for children of all abilities, providing a supportive and inclusive space for them to grow and excel.
For adults, Manor Arts offers a range of classes including Fitsteps, Mature Movers, and Tap. Fitsteps combines dance movements with fitness exercises, allowing participants to learn Strictly moves while getting fit. Mature Movers offers a gentle seated dance exercise class for seniors, promoting mobility and well-being. Tap classes are available for both children and adults, catering to different skill levels and interests.
In addition to regular classes, Manor Arts also hosts events and workshops throughout the year. Fitsteps classes are held on Wednesdays at 9:30 am and Thursdays at 7:30 pm, costing $6 per class. Baby and Tots Creative Dance sessions take place on Mondays and Fridays, while Children's Dance and Drama classes are offered on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at 4 pm and 5 pm.
Manor Arts prides itself on providing a truly inclusive atmosphere and offers the EveryoneDance group for individuals aged 16 and above, with and without learning or physical disabilities. This group rehearses at the Beeston Youth and Community Centre every week from 5 pm to 6:30 pm, providing a fantastic creative experience for all involved.
Catherine Chivers, the founder of Manor Arts, brings over 20 years of teaching experience to the school. With a degree in Primary Teaching and Dance from Middlesex University, she has worked in various educational institutions and choreographed large-scale musical productions. Catherine is a qualified Ballet and Tap dance teacher and holds certifications in Fitsteps, Fitsteps Tone, and SeatedSOSA instruction. Her love for volunteering and working with individuals with learning difficulties and disabilities further enhances her teaching approach.
Catherine's passion for teaching dance and drama is evident in her dedication to creating multisensory experiences for children and adults alike. Manor Arts aims to inspire confidence and lifelong love for the arts by introducing students to a wide range of music and utilising the power of storytelling.
Whether you are looking to develop your child's creativity, explore your own passion for dance, or simply enjoy a fun and inclusive environment, Manor Arts is the perfect place for dancers of all ages and abilities in Nottingham, New Zealand.