Donaheys Ballroom Dance School

Donahey's Ballroom Dance School has been teaching adults to dance for over 55 years. Founded in 1968 by Patrick and Shirley Donahey, the school is now run by mother and son team Shirley and Paul Donahey. Back in 2018, Donahey's celebrated 50 years of teaching people to dance. The school is recommended by and affiliated to The International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA), a modern and progressive dance association whose entry is by examination only based on detailed knowledge of dance techniques and teaching ability.

Donahey's teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth and Rhythm styles across multiple locations. The main Dukinfield base is at King St, SK16 4LA, and the school also runs regular classes in Plymouth and Kingsbridge. Classes are held in spacious venues chosen for their large expansive ballrooms. Beginner classes run for 1 hour at venues including Plymstock School in Plymouth (Mondays at 7pm) and Kingsbridge College (Tuesdays at 7pm). Over a 3–4 week period, students focus on learning or developing skills in two dance types—one ballroom and one Latin. Once complete, the group moves on to two new dances. Between lessons, students have the opportunity to learn line dances. Payment is in 6-week blocks priced at £71.50 per person.

A unique Class Flexibility Scheme allows students to catch up at alternative sessions in the same week if they cannot attend their regular class. Free social sessions run at 8pm following most classes, giving students a chance to practise what they've learned and socialise with other dancers. The school teaches all steps solo initially for both leads and follows, and instructors rotate partners throughout lessons to prevent bad practices and emphasise the social nature of dancing. Solo dancers are welcome—teachers and assistants partner with solo attendees during lessons.

Donahey's also runs 'Learn To Dance In A Day Experiences' at venues including Dukinfield Town Hall (SK16 4LA), where participants learn Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha Cha and Jive between 11am and 3.30pm. These experiences run in Manchester, the West Midlands and Berkshire, priced at £60 per person and designed specifically for absolute beginners. Course notes and practice DVDs are included. The school also organises 'Dancing With The Stars' weekend breaks at 4* and 5* resort hotels featuring instruction and socialising with Strictly Come Dancing professionals.

You'll be welcomed into a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Classes run for 1 hour, with instructors and assistants on hand to help everyone understand the steps. You'll start by learning movements solo, then partner up with rotating partners to practise. Even without a partner, you'll be looked after by the teaching team. After the main lesson, there's a free social session at 8pm where you can practise and socialise.

The school is run by mother and son team Shirley and Paul Donahey. Classes are led by multiple experienced instructors and assistants who work together to support all dancers. Reviews mention instructors by first name only (Freda is noted as 'a really good teacher, clear and precise in her instructions').

All beginner classes are designed specifically for people who have never danced before, with expert instruction tailored to absolute beginners in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.