While you're here: win a night under the lights
Two tickets to Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty, Dublin, 8 Nov. Joining the newsletter is the entry.
Enter the drawOverview
UNFOLD is Active Dansa's monthly pre-professional programme in Lisburn, for committed dancers who want focused development in technique, performance and artistry. Term One runs one Sunday a month from 13 September 2026 to 17 January 2027, with guest teachers from the industry. Martin Dutton teaches ballet at the first session.
There are two companies: Juniors (P4 to P7) and Seniors (Year 8 and up). The programme costs £45 a month, or £200 for the five-session term. Places are by application through Active Dansa's website.
First session: Sunday 13 September 2026
Active Dansa had a limited number of places left in both companies for the first session.
Junior Company
Ballet with Martin Dutton, 10.00am to 11.30am
Lyrical with Joe Dubas, 11.45am to 12.45pm
Technique and Conditioning with Mira Rendilheiro, 1.00pm to 2.30pm
Senior Company
Ballet with Martin Dutton, 11.45am to 1.15pm
Technique and Conditioning with Joe Dubas, 1.15pm to 2.15pm
Commercial and Lyrical with Joe Dubas, 2.15pm to 4.00pm
Adults can train with Martin the same afternoon at his adult ballet workshop.
Details from activedansa.com and Active Dansa's Instagram, checked 10 September 2026.
Who it's for
Committed dancers in two companies: Juniors (P4 to P7) and Seniors (Year 8 and up). The programme is open to everyone, and Active Dansa looks for strong attendance and punctuality, a positive attitude and consistent involvement in the studio.
Schedule
One Sunday a month. Term One dates:
Sunday 13 September 2026
Sunday 18 October 2026
Sunday 15 November 2026
Sunday 13 December 2026
Sunday 17 January 2027
Term Two runs from February to June 2027.
Important
For the most up-to-date timings, please confirm via the official organiser website.
Workshop essentials
Bloch Zenith Stretch Canvas Ballet Shoes (Ladies, Pink)
The full-sole canvas slipper most adult beginners in Irish studios start in. Soft, forgiving, breathes well in a warm studio.
€26
Bloch Prolite 2 Split-Sole Canvas (Girls, Pink)
The split-sole canvas shoe kids graduate to once a teacher says their feet are ready - more articulation than full-sole, lighter for pointing.
€18
The product picks above contain affiliate links. If you buy through them we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.