Finding the right dance school shouldn't be a guessing game

Parents want to know their child will be taught safely, encouraged kindly and given the opportunity to grow. At Ruth Shine, we offer high-standard training in a supportive, fun and inclusive environment, with a wide range of dance styles for dancers of all ages and abilities.

Not sure where to start? Contact us before you book, we’ll help you find the right class.

Students practising ballet at DanceTrax Studios

Why families choose Ruth Shine

High-standard ballet and multi-genre dance for all ages. Supportive, fun and inclusive classes in Blessington and Palmerstown, with the training, opportunities and encouragement to help every dancer progress.

  1. Clear pathways

    Dance for enjoyment, or work towards recognised examinations with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and Irish Board of Dance.

  2. Two Locations

    Purpose built DanceTrax Studios in Blessington and Palmerstown Parish Centre, where we've been part of the local community for more than 20 years.

  3. Teachers who keep training

    Our teachers continue to develop their skills, with Principal Ruth Shine regularly training at The Royal Ballet School.

  4. Real dance experience

    Dancers have opportunities to perform in our Annual Civic Theatre productions as well as events or performances such as Kaleidoscope, Little Picnic at Electric Picnic and our Annual Nutcracker performance. These events build confidence, stagecraft and memories that last long after the class finishes.

  5. A low-pressure first step

    Not sure which class is right? Get in touch, ask a question or book a trial when you're ready. We'll help you find the right place to start.

  6. Opportunities to progress

    Past students have gone on to further training at Trinity Laban, Scottish School of Contemporary Dance, University of Limerick, Fontys and Inchicore College. Dancers also have opportunities to perform in our biannual Civic Theatre shows and other events throughout the year.

Find a class that's right for you

From little ones taking their first steps in dance to adults discovering a new passion, there's a place for everyone. Beginners are always welcome and dancers who want to progress can follow a recognised exam pathway.

  • Young children in a Wobblers and Toddlers class

    Little dancers

    Wobblers & Toddlers, Sparkle Steps and Junior classes give younger dancers a fun introduction to music, movement and dance while building confidence along the way.

  • Students practising ballet at DanceTrax Studios

    Children & teens

    Develop technique, confidence and performance skills across a range of dance styles, with the option to work towards recognised examinations as you progress.

  • A boy in class at Ruth Shine School of Dance

    Boys

    Boys Only programmes in breakdance, contemporary/street dance and acro, plus Boys Only Ballet. A chance to build strength, skill and confidence, with plenty of energy and no pressure to fit a particular mould.

  • An adult ballet student performing on stage

    Adults

    It’s never too late to dance. From Adult Ballet and Silver Swans to Low Impact Jazz, Dance Fitness and Line Dancing, our classes are welcoming and beginner-friendly, with classes that respect your body, whatever your age or ability.

What our families say

photo of a young dancer training at Ruth Shine dance studio

Parent review

“We are so lucky to have this dance studio in our community! Both of my sons, my daughter, and I love attending the various classes offered and learning from such a lovely group of teachers! In addition to the classes, the studio does a great job of helping others in the area benefit from fantastic extra events (culture night demos, bring a friend workshops, super Halloween activities, the Nutcracker each holiday season, a spring recital, St. Patrick's Day parade representation, and camps throughout the summer to name a few)! If you're looking for a new way to get active, strong, and flexible, I highly recommend checking it out!”
— Jacqui Walpole

Parent review

“My daughter has been attending the Ruth Shine School of Dance for 10 years. She has developed such a love of dance through the classes, shows and exams. More importantly she has made such good friends and has such fun all the while learning and progressing through the grades . Couldn’t recommend this school and the hugely talented teachers enough! ”
— Caroline Daly

Parent review

“Our daughter has been going to Mrs Ruth for years now and enjoys every lesson, from ballet to contemporary and acro. Mrs Ruth puts on fantastic performances every year in different venues and all the dancers are involved, it’s always a great day out with the family. I’d highly recommend Ruth Shine School of Dance to my friends! ”
— Kevin Moore

Parent review

“Wonderful dance school, very child focused, Ruth really cares about her dancers and their satisfaction and achievements. I would highly recommend for any child that loves to move :)”
— Katey O'Brien Kulkarni

How to start this term

Find a class now
  1. Pick your location

    Blessington (DanceTrax) or Palmerstown.

  2. Choose a path

    Fun and fitness, exam track, or performance. We’ll help if you’re unsure.

  3. Book a Term, or Trial a class

    Trial classes give students and parents the opportunity to experience a class and decide whether it is the right fit before committing to a full term.

  4. Start the term

    Show up ready to learn. We’ll cover uniform, etiquette, and next steps.

Ready when you are

Join a school that takes technique seriously and treats people kindly, from first steps to Civic Theatre nights.

Book classesContact us

Classes Monday–Saturday · First come, first served · We’ll help you choose the right class

  • Qualified & insured
  • Garda vetted teachers
  • RAD · ISTD
  • Secure portal booking