A dance school based in Oldham is celebrating the launch of its new home and "dream" studio.

Rise Performance Academy, which is now situated on Bourne Street in Chadderton, announced to its students earlier this year that it was relocating to the premises in September this year, promising a larger dance floor, easier access and parking as well as a "modern" finish.

The dance academy was first opened by Danielle Leonard and Joanne Carroll in 2019, where the pair teach street dance, cheer, Latin, ballroom, freestyle, rock and roll and wedding dances as well as offering party packages, dance exams, soft play hire and more.

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Now, the pair have settled into their new "dream" studio and have reflected on what has been a "whirlwind" couple of weeks and journey.

Speaking to The Oldham Times, Ms Leonard said: "We've been running for six years and opened pre-Covid, so we had some time closed throughout the pandemic.

"We started out hiring multiple halls to run evening and weekend classes for children in ballroom, Latin and street dance which quickly developed into something more than a little sideline dance school and into something amazing."

The pair opened their first premises in 2021 in Chadderton and described it as a "great start-up" and "opportunity" to learn about becoming business owners and partners as like-minded passionate dancers.

She continued: "This was really the new starting point for Rise Performance Academy as myself and Joanne decided to open a long-term, easily accessible premium studio on Bourne Street off Oldham Road.

"We can now offer multiple services such as parties and hall hire for other community groups and also classes for all ages and abilities in a safe, modern environment.

"Our classes are suited to each individual from competitive dance, showcases to more social dancing and events."

But Ms Leonnard said the plan was made a reality thanks to the community who "really supported the dream of opening our own studio".

She added: "I’ll be forever grateful for everyone who attended a class or supported us in any other way.

"Our dream now is to provide somewhere enjoyable for everyone.

"We would love to welcome our current and new members to join us at rise.

"We really are a dance family." 

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