Denise Walker Dance Academy

09/09/2026

What a wonderful teacher. My love and passion for ballet started with Miss Irvine!! Dancing first in Waipukurau and then Dannevirke, thank you for the wonderful memories 👏👏

Joan Irving - Ballet Teacher
Joan Irvine: Taught ballet dancing through until her 80s.
"As a school leaver aged 18 in 1940, with a bank loan guaranteed by her father, Joan established a school of dance in Dannevirke, and would teach there for 68 years. The studio was the focus for dance for generations of youngsters in the town, and she also travelled into rural areas to teach, sometimes hitching a ride in the mail van on its circuit, later driving her little Baby Austin around country roads.
Joan always had sizeable classes of male pupils, including boarders at Dannevirke High School - Dick Werry (owner of Lighthouse Cinemas) was among these, and one of a number of her pupils who later joined The Royal New Zealand Ballet. Prominent among these were Emmett Hardie, Matthew Lawrence, Stephen Nicholls, all of them developing into strong dancers with a pedigree training evident in their performing." - Jennifer Shennan
https://www.stuff.co.nz/dominion-post/news/obituaries/4191166/Born-into-a-life-of-ballet

09/09/2026

The programme focuses on the principles of movement, incorporating the definitions of technique as required in ballet, while embracing musicality and artistry. Classes are small and the ballet training is supported by allied subjects. The level of technique and the frequency of classes increase annu...

08/09/2026

27/08/2026

23/08/2026

Day 1 - RAD Vocational exams begins. 🎉🧑‍🩰❤️

15/08/2026

Silver Swans Workshop Days – Bookings Now Open!

Join us for a wonderful day of dance, connection and fun at our upcoming Silver Swans Workshop Days.

Whether you're already enjoying Silver Swans classes or simply love to dance, these special workshops are a fantastic opportunity to learn, move and connect with other dancers in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The day will include:
Ballet
Repertoire
Musical Theatre
Time to connect, relax and enjoy the day with fellow dancers

Wellington | Auckland | Christchurch | Rotorua (NEW FOR 2026)

Bookings are now open
Places are limited, so secure your spot and come along for a day of dancing, friendship and fun.

Book your place today: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/en-nz/dance-classes-and-workshops/become-a-silver-swan/

We can't wait to dance with you!

02/08/2026

Registrations are NOW OPEN for RAD New Zealand Summer School 2027

Ready to kick-start your year with a week of inspiring dance training, new friendships, and unforgettable experiences?

Whether you're joining our Grades or Vocational programme, Summer School offers the opportunity to learn from experienced tutors, build confidence, and immerse yourself in a supportive and inspiring dance environment.

18–23 January 2027
Te Whaea: National Dance & Drama Centre, Wellington

Whether you're returning for another incredible summer or joining us for the very first time, we can't wait to welcome you!

Secure your place today – registrations are now open!

Register now via the link https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/en-nz/dance-classes-and-workshops/summer-school/