DANCING schools are back in business and with appropriate distancing, full time classes are being staged.

Each one provided dancing lessons via Zoom during lockdown.

Jane O’Neill, principal of the 100-strong Sale Academy of Dancing, whose classes had been going well, said: “We are working on our show which should have taken place in July but which we hope to put on at Waterside Arts on March 20 and 21,

In normal times, her academy has close links with Sale Nomads, giving pupils an opportunity to audition for shows, pantos and plays. Many go on to study dance at universities and colleges.

The Gwyneth Hare School of Dancing in Urmston, with 140 pupils, has an impressive track record..

One former pupil is on tour with the Lion King whilst another is Principal Ballerina and Assistant Ballet Mistress with the Copenhagen based Tivoli Ballet.

Another girl, who also appeared in the film, played Meg Giry in Phantom of the Opera. Pupils have appeared in eight British and European tours of famous musicals. Two boy pupils, who attended The Royal Ballet School and Central School of Ballet went on to become soloists with the Northern Ballet school.

Gwyneth Hare, the school’s principal, said: “Lockdown was a challenge for certain”

The Stalder Academy in Sale has 380 students using their five studios. Students have appeared in the Manchester Opera House panto, a Disneyland Paris Showcase, a Portaventura Showcase as well as All England Dance in London.

They have also had a student touring with the Lion King in the role of young Nala.

Marina Stalder, its founder, named 11 leading ballet schools across Britain which their students had attended,

The June Rendell School of Dancing in Altrincham, was taken over in 1964 by June Rendell.

Principal Naomi Adam said: “Gradually our 400 students are returning for live classes. To be within the Government’s guidelines, we have to have less than 15 children per class and fewer than six adults.”

Thirty of their dancers performed at the Palace Theatre last November. They also held their triennial dance show and performed for Martin Toal’s evening of popular classics at the Garrick.

One former student presents Channel 5’s Milkshake. Another male student appeared as Fritz in the Nutcracker at the Royal Opera House. A dancer who graduated from the Central School of Ballet, now works as a professional dancer throughout Europe.

Yet another pupil performed in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Lowry.