The Ultimate Guide to Adelaide's Best Dance & Drama Classes for Confident Kids

Is there a budding star in your house? A child who loves to put on living room shows, dance around the kitchen, and tell imaginative stories? Nurturing that creative spark is one of the most powerful gifts you can give them, building confidence that lasts a lifetime.

Enrolling your child in a dance or drama class is about so much more than learning steps or lines. It’s about finding their voice, learning to collaborate with others, and discovering the joy of self-expression in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. It’s where they learn to stand a little taller and shine a little brighter.

Ready to take centre stage? Here are six of the best dance and drama classes in Adelaide to inspire your child.

ACPA is a powerhouse of performing arts education in Adelaide, offering a huge range of classes for all ages and skill levels, from toddlers to teens. Whether your child is interested in jazz, ballet, hip hop, acting, or singing, they have a fun, high-energy class to suit.

Why You’ll Love It:  The quality of the teaching is exceptional, and the atmosphere is vibrant and inclusive. They offer "Petites" classes for pre-schoolers that are a perfect, playful introduction to dance and movement, building foundational skills in a nurturing way.

•  Location:  37-39 ansmore Street, Adelaide SA 5000

•  Dates:  Classes run by school term. Check their website for trial class availability and holiday workshops.

•  Ticket Information:  Fees vary by class and age group. Trial classes are often available.

• Family Tips:  ACPA is renowned for its incredible end-of-year showcases, which are a huge highlight and an amazing confidence-booster for the students.

For the child who dreams of Broadway, the Adelaide Youth Theatre (AYT) is the place to be. This not-for-profit company is dedicated to providing outstanding musical theatre experiences for young performers. They run classes, workshops, and produce full-scale musical productions.

Why You’ll Love It:  It gives kids the incredible experience of being part of a real theatre production, from auditions to closing night. The sense of community and teamwork is immense, and it’s amazing to watch the kids’ skills and confidence soar.

•  Location:  AYT is based in Adelaide, with rehearsals and performances at various local theatres.

•  Dates:  Holiday programs are running now for the July school holidays. Main productions are held throughout the year.

•  Ticket Information:  Fees apply for workshops and to participate in shows.

• Family Tips:  Keep an eye on their website for audition notices for upcoming shows—it’s a fantastic opportunity for passionate young performers.

With studios across Adelaide, Star Academy offers a fantastic and accessible range of classes in dance, drama, and singing. They are known for their supportive environment that focuses on building a child's self-esteem, no matter their skill level.

Why You’ll Love It:  Their motto is "Inspiring Confidence," and they live and breathe it. They offer a huge variety of classes, including popular 'Acro' classes that combine dance and acrobatics, which kids absolutely love.

• Location:  Locations include Norwood, Unley, and Flagstaff Hill.

• Dates:  Term-time classes and school holiday workshops are available.

• Ticket Information:  Contact the studio for fee structure and trial class information.

• Family Tips:  Star Academy is a great choice if you're looking for a studio that balances skill development with a fun, pressure-free atmosphere.

A beloved Adelaide institution for younger children, Theatre Bugs is all about introducing kids aged 1 to 7 to the magic of drama and dance. Their classes are imaginative, playful, and designed to build social skills and confidence in a gentle and fun-filled way.

Why You’ll Love It:  It's perfectly pitched for little ones. The classes use stories, props, and costumes to capture young imaginations. It’s a wonderful, positive first step into the world of performing arts.

• Location:  Venues in Norwood, Unley, and Glenelg.

• Dates:  Classes run weekly during school terms.

• Ticket Information:  Fees are charged by the term. They offer a three-week trial for new students.

• Family Tips:  Their "Mini Bugs" class is a beautiful parent-child program that allows you to share the fun and learning with your toddler.

For the child who dreams of being a ballerina, the ACYB provides beautiful, classical ballet training focused on artistry and technique. While they are a pre-professional training company, they also offer wonderful workshops and programs open to the wider community.

Why You’ll Love It:  The training is authentic and inspiring, taught by professional dancers. Their open holiday workshops are a fantastic way for any young dancer to experience high-level tuition in a welcoming environment.

• Location:  214-216 South Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000

• Dates:  Term-based classes and school holiday workshops.

• Ticket Information:  Workshop prices vary. Check their website for upcoming opportunities.

• Family Tips:  A great option for children who have shown a specific passion and dedication to classical ballet.

If your child is more into street styles and high-energy moves, Ground Force is one of Adelaide's premier hip-hop and breakdance studios. They offer classes that are cool, current, and incredibly fun, teaching the foundations of hip-hop culture in a positive and inclusive space.

Why You’ll Love It:  It’s a fantastic outlet for kids with lots of energy. The classes are less about rigid structure and more about personal expression, rhythm, and style. The sense of community and crew mentality is very strong.

•  Location:  2/13-15 Coongie Ave, Edwardstown SA 5039

•  Dates:  Classes run for all ages, from kids to adults.

•  Ticket Information:  Casual class passes and term memberships are available.

•  Family Tips:  Check out their "Kids Open Style" class, which is a great introduction to various street dance forms. It's a great way to build physical confidence and coordination.