Make the Sunshine is inviting children, young people and adults to discover its growing programme of friendly, creative dance classes at its High Street studio in Shepton Mallet – with the chance to come along and try a first session completely free, with no obligation to sign up.

From first experiences of dance for five-year-olds to creative classes for teenagers and adults, the programme is designed to make dance feel welcoming, enjoyable and accessible – whether you have danced for years or have never tried a class before.

Classes take place in small, friendly groups, led by experienced professional dance practitioners who focus on building confidence, creativity and enjoyment alongside developing dance and performance skills.

There are also lots of opportunities for those who want them to perform. Coming up, dancers will have the chance to perform at Christmas and take part in Make the Sunshine's spectacular Fire Show in January, as well as future community events and the annual All the World's Our Playground Festival.

Performing is always optional – young people are equally welcome to simply come along, dance and enjoy being part of the group.

Sunbeams – ages 5–7

Saturdays, 10–11am

Bring your best Saturday morning energy for this fun creative session filled with play and props! Led by Emma-Jayne Gray, Sunbeams is a playful and imaginative introduction to dance for younger children - from robotics to giant stretchy bands this is guarenteed to put the fun into your Saturdays!

ASCEND – Inclusive Dance

Alternate Tuesdays | 5.15–6pm - FREE

Young people with SEND & neurodivergent young people

A friendly, inclusive dance group where young people can move, create and build confidence in a supportive small-group environment. Sessions are adapted to individual needs, with a focus on enjoyment, self-expression and belonging.

JUST 2 SPACES LEFT!

sunRISE – ages 7+

Thursdays, 3.20–4.20pm and 4.20–5.20pm

Make the Sunshine's popular sunRISE programme offers two classes for primary-aged children, giving young dancers the opportunity to develop their skills, creativity and confidence as they grow.

For the 3.20pm class, children attending St Paul's CofE Junior School can also be collected from school and walked over to the Make the Sunshine studio, making it easier for families to access the after-school session.

Rather than focusing only on routines and technique, sessions encourage children to contribute ideas, explore movement and discover their own creativity. Dancers can choose to take part in performances and special projects alongside professional artists, including upcoming Christmas performances and January's Fire Show.

LUMEN – ages 11+

Thursdays, 5.30–6.30pm

LUMEN is Make the Sunshine's dance group for older children and young people, led by experienced dance practitioner Mandy Redmond.

The class provides a relaxed, creative space where young people can develop their own style, learn new skills and tricks, build confidence and contemporary teachnique and enjoy dancing with others as part of a company.

Sunshine Sisters – adult dance

Thursdays, 1.45–2.45pm

Sunshine Sisters is Make the Sunshine's weekly adult dance class – a friendly session combining movement, music, creativity and the simple pleasure of dancing together - whether you come to build strength or build community or just have fun - all are welcome!

You do not need to consider yourself a dancer to join. The group welcomes different levels of experience.

Come and try it for free

Classes cost just £6–£6.50 per session, including refreshments There is no obligation to sign up for a term – the free trial is simply a chance to meet the teacher, experience the class and see whether it feels right for you or your child.

Dance is so much more than learning steps. It can build confidence, friendships and creativity not to mention the many benefits for mental and physical health. Make the Sunshine promises friendly and welcoming groups with expert tutors. There is no expectation to perform - but for those who want to, there are some brilliant opportunities to be part of performances and professional events – including Christmas celebrations and Fire Show in January.

To arrange a free trial, contact [email protected].

Make the Sunshine is a Shepton Mallet-based community arts organisation creating opportunities for children, young people and adults to take part in high-quality creative experiences. Its dance programme sits alongside its work in theatre, circus, visual arts, family learning, youth participation and community arts.