This year marks a milestone of dedication to dance, community and creativity in Woking
From humble beginnings in 1993 as Harmony Dance, to its current status as a thriving dance studio, the journey has been one of unwavering determination, collaboration and passion.
To mark 30 years, Woking Dance Space will host a special Joining Forces Show called Woking Dance Space 30 where dancers and teachers will share the stage with other local dance groups. The event, at The Rhoda McGaw Theatre from 22 – 24 May (Thu – Sat at 7.30, Sat at 2.30) will feature performances from current Woking Dance Space dancers, and a tribute to the studio’s rich history. Tickets are now on sale: https://www.atgtickets.com/woking/.
The story of Woking Dance Space began in 1995, where the studio was originally run by Janet Bland under the name Harmony Dance. It was here that many dancers first met, including Gretchen Fox Kiefer, a teacher at Harmony, as well as long-time studio supporters and current executives Gen Howgate and Pauline Barnes. “The friendships and connections formed during those early years have shaped the studio into what it is today,” reflects Pauline and Gen, who both still play a vital role at Woking Dance Space. “We have danced together, worked together, and grown together, and it’s been a joy to see it all come full circle.”
When Janet Bland decided to step down, the studio faced closure. Rather than letting the beloved community space disappear, Pauline and Betsy Field stepped in to save it. With the help of two other Trustees, they rallied support and raised funds by asking dancers and friends to donate £10 to “buy a brick” and help cover the initial costs. £600 was raised, and Surrey County Council kindly agreed to accept a reduced deposit, allowing the studio to continue its mission.
Under the leadership of Pauline and Betsy, Woking Dance Space became a non-profit community organisation, retaining the Harmony name whilst evolving into a new era. In the early days, the teachers hired the studio and were paid directly by the dancers, nothing was online in the 90’s, and the cleaning duties were handled by Pauline and Betsy every Sunday. Despite these challenges, the commitment to offering quality dance education to all remained at the heart of everything.
In 1995, a turning point came when Lorna Sanders offered her help, bringing fresh energy and vision to the studio. With Lorna’s guidance, Woking Dance Space was born. From there, the studio continued to grow with Lorna offering invaluable support in shaping the studio’s future.
Woking Dance Space has always been a place for everyone, regardless of experience or background. “We’re proud that Woking Dance Space is not for a profit studio ensuing all proceeds go back to the studio,” says Pauline. “Instead, we focus on making dance accessible and fostering a sense of community, where the dancers and teachers come together to support each other, both on and off the stage.”
Over the years, the studio’s facilities have grown alongside its reputation. The original lino flooring was replaced with high-quality Harlequin flooring, thanks to local businesses offering generous discounts. With continued fundraising and hard work, the studio added extra space above the kitchen area for costumes, and even carried scaffold towers up and down fire escape stairs to paint the studio themselves. “It’s been a labour of love, and while we’ve worked hard to get here, it’s all been worth it,” adds Pauline. While many faces have come and gone, several beloved figures remain. Gretchen Fox Kiefer, one of the studio’s first teachers, continues to teach, serve as a Trustee, and direct the studio’s shows. Emma Brewer, a dancer from the Harmony days, later became a teacher with Woking Dance Space and has gone on to create First Dance, with help and support from the WDS Trustees and of course Claire Tabraham, a long time Trustee who started up their first franchise, Eastbourne Dance Space now in its 10th year.
“Though we’ve all been through a lot, the joy of dancing, performing, and working together has kept us going,” shares Gen Howgate, a long-time member of the Woking Dance Space family. “Our shows today are more professional than ever, and we’re thrilled to see the dancers excel in their performances. We still provide costumes for our dancers, and we continue to offer a space where the community can come together to celebrate the joy of dance.”
As the studio enters its 30th year, the work continues. Trustees and teachers still manage behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. The trustees are chaired by Tina Morcom, with the extensive costume collection managed by Gen and Zelda. Financial records are handled by Pauline and Gill, with the shows directed by Gretchen. Operations are handled by Kate, classes by Charlotte, marketing and most importantly social events by Becky and not forgetting Studio Manager Thea, who always goes above and beyond.
“I am so proud that the studio is still flourishing and continuing its mission,” says Gill. “It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of everyone who has contributed over the years.”
As Woking Dance Space moves forward, the studio remains committed to its core mission: to provide an inclusive, creative space where adult dancers of all ages and abilities can discover their passion for movement, grow, and thrive. The studio offers over 20 classes every week in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Lyrical and Contemporary as well as beginner course running every term. A full list of classes is available on the website https://www.wokingdancespace.org.uk/
