PERFORMANCE group Freedom of Dance will be wowing the crowds at a family fun day being held at Cowley Recreation Ground on Sunday, August 17. Dance enthusiast Charlene Newell set up the group in August 2005 with nothing but £164 in the bank and a stereo on a finance deal.
Today the dance school, which is co-run by Charlene's sister, Samantha, and their brother, Shane, has more than 100 members ranging from two-year-old toddlers to adults of all ages.
Based in West Drayton, Freedom of Dance offers classes in RAD ballet, contemporary and street dance, for everyone from first-timers to dedicated dancers.
Charlene says: "Passion is what defines our approach to students, developing their individual techniques as well as supporting and encouraging them in fun yet disciplined classes."
The school offers dance workshops and has performed at a variety of venues, including the Hackney Empire and the recent Party in the Park.
With many more performances and competitions booked for this year and next, the troupe is optimistic about the future.
"When performing at or visiting other venues, the squad behaves impeccably and they are a credit to both their families and our dance school," Charlene adds. "Their dedication is unflinching but, of course, many thanks must go out to their parents, who are always there to support them and ferry them to their rehearsals."
* Freedom of Dance will be performing at the fun day at 1pm, 2pm and 3pm. For more information call 07881 690 293.
