There is something genuinely magical about letting go on the dance floor. Whether you are stepping out to master the style and technique of Ballroom and Latin American rhythms, or just looking for a fun way to stay active and make new friends, finding the right teacher makes all the difference.
If you are based around East Dorset—or simply looking for an incredible weekend getaway—Louise Sampson’s school Rhythm & Dance has mastered the art of making dance accessible, professional and above all, incredibly fun.
Based in West Moors, on the outskirts of Bournemouth, this vibrant dance school has become a beloved hub for dancers of all skill levels from hobby dancers to professionals. Here is a closer look at what makes Rhythm & Dance so special and how you can turn a love for dance into a full-on holiday escape.
Meet the Experts Behind the Steps
At the heart of Rhythm & Dance is a team of deeply passionate, highly qualified instructors who believe that anyone can learn to dance. The school offers top-tier private tuition and lively group classes covering an impressive array of styles:
- The Classics: Ballroom, Latin American and Classical Sequence dancing.
- The Alternative Rhythms:, Salsa, Mambo, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Country & Western Line Dancing.
- The Fitness Boosters: High-energy Fitsteps classes designed to get your heart pumping paired with Solo Latin in Line.
The school is led by Principal Louise Sampson, a highly respected Fellow of both the ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing) and the UKA (United Kingdom Alliance). Our talented instructors Heather Row (AISTD), Mandy Helliker (AUKA) and Adele Hooper (AISTD) ensure every class is supportive and welcoming.
Whether you are aiming for competitive medals or simply dancing “just for fun,” you are in expert hands.
From the Studio to the Seaside: The Ultimate Dance Holiday
While weekly lessons and classes at the West Moors Memorial Hall are fantastic for building confidence, Louise Sampson takes the community experience to the next level by hosting unforgettable Dance Holidays in partnership with TLH Leisure Resort in Torquay.
Imagine packing your bags for a getaway where your days are filled with expertly guided dance workshops and your nights are spent dressing up for dazzling social dances in beautiful, spacious ballrooms.
What to Expect on a Rhythm & Dance Break:
- The Perfect Venues: TLH Leisure Resort is famous for its dedicated dance spaces, boasting beautiful ballrooms and superb acoustics designed specifically for social dancers.
- Immersive Workshops: Louise and her team host tailored daytime workshops during these breaks, breaking down new routines and styling tips so you can elevate your dancing in a relaxed, holiday atmosphere.
- Social Evenings: Evening social dances, often themed, are the perfect excuse to put your new steps to the test, share a laugh with fellow dance lovers and soak in the vibrant music.
- More Than Just Dancing: When you aren’t on the floor, a TLH break means you have access to the resort’s fantastic Aztec Leisure facilities—including indoor pool, a luxury spa and great dining—making it a true vacation.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Louise Sampson’s Rhythm & Dance is that first step between everyday learning and unforgetable dance holiday experiences. You can start with a local class in Dorset, and soon find yourself dancing the night away on a beautiful resort ballroom floor by the sea.
If you have been thinking about dusting off your dancing shoes or trying a brand-new hobby, now is the ideal time to step onto the dancefloor.
- Want to learn locally or brush up on your skills? Come along to West Moors Memorial Hall, (Station Road, BH22 0HZ), or contact Louise at [email protected] to find a class that fits your schedule.
- Ready for a getaway? Keep an eye on the upcoming 2026 TLH dance diary to secure your spot on an unforgettable seaside dance break! Louise and her team host Ballroom & Latin breaks with tuition in September and February, a Latin in Line break in March and a Country & Western Line Dance Break in May.