Essendon Danse Academy
Family-run ballroom, Latin and contemporary dance school since 1963
Essendon Danse Academy has been teaching dance for over 60 years.
Photo: Towfic Halaseh via Google
Before your first class
The studio welcomes all ages from 4 years up, with classes designed to be inclusive and supportive regardless of skill level.
About this studio
Essendon Danse Academy has been teaching dance for over 60 years. Established in March 1963 by Frank and Glennis South after Frank's successful competitive career in Australia and the UK, the studio is now run by their son Richard South and Samantha Lescure. The legacy continues into a third generation — their daughter Saffron South, a 2024 Dancesport Ballroom and New Vogue Champion, coaches alongside them.
The school teaches a broad range of styles to all ages from 4 years up to mature age. You can train in Ballroom and Latin (including dances like Cha Cha, Samba, Jive, Tango and Modern Waltz), Jazz, Theatre Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop and Commercial, Contemporary, Ballet, Lyrical, Rock n Roll and Jive, and Street Latin (Salsa and Bachata). Classes are available for kids and adults at different levels, from general classes to competition training and medal tests.
Beyond group classes, the academy offers bridal dance lessons where they choreograph a dance to music of your choice. Private lessons are available 7 days a week in any style, whether you're an adult or child wanting to learn, preparing a wedding dance, or training for competition. Adult social dancing is also part of the timetable.
EDA describes itself as a full-time family-run dance school that aims to provide a supportive community for all ages and skill levels. All classes and lessons are described as fun, friendly and inclusive, with a focus on fostering a love of dance.
What to expect
Your first visit
You'll be welcomed into a long-established, family-run studio where all ages and styles are encouraged. Whether you're starting ballet at 4 years old or joining adult social dancing, the atmosphere is designed to be inclusive and fun.
Instructors
Who teaches here
The studio is led by Richard South (Studio Owner and Principal) and Samantha Lescure (Studio Manager). Saffron South, a 2024 Dancesport Ballroom and New Vogue Champion, works as Assistant Manager and coach.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
The studio welcomes all ages from 4 years up, with classes designed to be inclusive and supportive regardless of skill level.
Studio history
Essendon Danse Academy was established in March 1963 by Frank and Glennis South after Frank retired from his successful competitive career in Australia and the UK. The studio is now in its third generation of family leadership, run by their son Richard South and Samantha Lescure, with Saffron South — a 2024 Dancesport Ballroom and New Vogue Champion — coaching alongside them.
Styles offered
18 dance styles taught here
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Essendon Danse Academyhasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Essendon Danse Academy, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Essendon Danse Academy
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Essendon Danse Academy teach?
Essendon Danse Academy teaches Ballroom, Ballroom and Latin, Adult Social Dancing, Medal Tests, Competition training, Bridal Dance and 12 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Essendon Danse Academy located?
Essendon Danse Academy is located in Essendon, VIC. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Essendon Danse Academy offer private lessons?
Contact Essendon Danse Academy directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Essendon Danse Academy teach kids and adults?
Essendon Danse Academy welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Essendon Danse Academy?
The fastest path is to visit Essendon Danse Academy via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.