For the past three years, Newcastle has been home to a UK-born Royal Academy of Dance qualified dancer, Alice Carden, and her unique offering; Silver Swans with Alice.

In 2021, we caught up with Alice to hear about how dipping your toes back into the world of ballet can be incredibly beneficial. Today, we’re chatting about her newest venture; EV Studios – Islington’s dedicated dance studio for adults.

Due to the huge increase in demand, the dedicated space, EV Dance Studios, was created in early 2023 and the doors of their Islington studio opened for the adult dance community.

“Business is booming! There’s a big demand for dance opportunities for people over the age of 18, and Newcastle has such a thriving dance culture but predominantly for children and professionals, leaving a big gap for anyone in between.

“EV Dance Studios is an adult-only studio and focuses on creating a space for people to return to dance, or to learn a new skill they never got to do as a child,” Alice said.

The dedicated adult dance studio is specially designed and taught for adults and older learners. The EV Dance Studio’s classes cater to adults of all ages and abilities - whether you’re a complete beginner or returning to dance.

“Our fabulous teachers can modify and adjust exercises to those who need a little more attention and ensure that our classes are safe whilst still exercising.

“You can attend our classes for any reason, such as simply to enjoy the music, have a gentle workout, challenge the mind or connect with like-minded people. I aim to offer a safe and friendly environment for anyone to attend a class, regardless of age, body shape, gender, etc.”

Still currently offering the Silver Swans with Alice program for older learners, the timetable also covers classes for beginners, intermediate, and advanced level classes. For those looking for that extra challenge, EV Dance Studios also offer dedicated exam classes and pointe classes for those looking for the full ballerina experience.

“This term we have introduced Mums and Bubs classes, specifically for Mum (or anyone wanting to bring bub to class), as well as PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique) – the body conditioning and strengthening program created by Newcastle’s very own Marie Walton-Mahon – and of course, yoga.”

Students can attend classes on either a casual basis or enrol for the full term, with EV Dance Studios’ aim to cater for all kinds of schedules.

“We also offer private lessons for those who want to work at their own pace.”

The Islington studio is currently focusing on offering classical ballet classes, however, have plans to continue the occasional workshop or open class in other dance styles such as burlesque with more varieties available down the track.

“We work hard but we also laugh a lot. We have a wonderful community of students and teachers, partners, family members, kids, and dogs. We catch up for coffee after class and arrange trips to the ballet in Sydney, and big Christmas parties to celebrate the year and everyone’s achievements – with certificates and little trophies included.”

You won’t just be joining a dance class when you enrol with EV Dance Studios, you’ll be joining a fun, inviting, and inclusive dance community. So, what are you waiting for? Is it time to dust off those dancing shoes?