When Adele Mason LISTD opened the Academy in 1991 she was fulfilling a long-held dream of running a dancing school.  Now she could pass onto others her passion for dance, music and the theatre. The Academy has grown considerably over the last few years and today also offers children's drama and singing workshops under the direction of Michael Burnie.

While all pupils are encouraged to work to examination level, the ethos of the Academy is centred on performance skills.

Each individual is expected to realise their potential in this area, giving of their best and achieving the highest standards in the exacting environment which is today's theatre and dance industry. 

Training for public performancce is, in itself, an investment for a child's future, laying the groundwork for self-esteem and confidence in interviews, public speaking and every situation where personal presentation is essential.  It has also been known to give a child the confidence to stand up for themselves on that most unforgiving of stages - the school playground!

Everyone who has been part of the Academy pays testament to its positive, yet relaxed working atmosphere.  Above all, learning here is fun! There is great emphasis on developing the ability to work as a team, since this is pivotal to successful performance. 

This brings further benefits, since working together is small groups, pupils have forged friendships across ages and backgrounds with a unique quality, quite different to those relationships formed in the classroom.  Friends made here often stay in touch through school, college and beyond.
 

Recently, Classical Ballet and Modern Dance Troupes from the Academy have been awarded trophies at both the Worthing and Brighton Competitive Festivals.  Awards have been received for the highest marks and for the most entertaining entry! Numerous solo and duet classes have been won.

Every year the Academy is selected to appear at the Dome in Brighton to raise money for the Martlets Hospice.  Every year, students are awarded places at top London full-time Dance Colleges to further their training in the Performing Arts. And last but not least, several pupils from the Academy are currently appearing in the West End Show 'Billy Elliot', one student in training for the role as 'Billy'.

The Adele Academy presents an annual 'showcase' which provides every pupil with an opportunity to step into the limelight.  On these occasions the audience can also enjoy seeing the school in its entirety, with each individual performing for all they are worth