New Life for Hasland Village Hall

The Dance Hub

Hayley Draper has been running dance classes at Hasland Village Hall, The Dance Hub, for nine years together with classes in Beighton, Sheffield; it’s kept her extremely busy.

Recent council lead changes resulted in classes halting for a while but when Hayley was approached to see if she wanted to manage the building, she put a plan in place and came back to the council with a proposal. This successful bid has secured the future of the building for the next ten years as ‘The Dance Hub’ and as the important community asset it is, a thriving village hall.

I met up with Hayley at the hall to find out what goes on and to see if we can encourage more people to get involved. “The easiest way to describe what we do is Strictly Come Dancing for everyone,” says Hayley. “When Strictly season starts on TV we get an influx of new dancers looking to see what classes are available, it’s an Autumn event so it’s typically rainy and dark outside and people seek out new ways to stay active.

“Our daytime over 50s dance classes are always popular, we pride ourselves on taking in all abilities, you really don’t need to be a dancer to get involved. It’s all about movement and if people are smiling, we like to think we’re getting it right.”

“We do have classes for those with a bit more rhythm and skill but we have a series of classes available that will suit all abilities.” The Dance Hubs Live Band Social Dances on Sundays bring together a live band, dancing, drinks and cakes, and is a fabulous social event for people to while away the time, this place clearly has community at its heart.

“Hayley was keen to point out that it really is as much about the social side of things as the dancing but it’s the opportunity to move, to connect with each other and those around you.

“Our solo Latin class gives people the chance to reclaim an hour a week away from the kids and pressures of home life or it might be a date night for a couple to get to spend some quality time together.”

Hayley moved to Chesterfield in her 20s and has always danced, she married into a dancing family and has danced professionally competing with her partner. Her son and his partner have continued to compete professionally across the world. “We were training the kids since they were three years old and it’s been fabulous to watch their progress,” says Hayley.

In 2004 she took on the family studio in Sheffield and later started up additional classes in Hasland which proved to be a popular move.

“The team here at The Dance Hub have worked with me for many years, most of them came to dance as children and have stayed to become part of the instructing team. They’re a great bunch and they have that ability to be supporting and offer excellent advice without scaring anyone away. You will always find us welcoming and professional.”

Alongside the classes the hall is available to book out as any village hall should be, weddings, birthdays, celebrations, community events and classes, they can accommodate them all at the hall.

To find out more see the website opposite or scan the QR code on the following page.

The Dance Hub Classes

Children's Classes: Our Mini Dancers sessions for little ones aged 18 months and up, where parents join in too. From age 3, children move into our Mini Movers classes on Wednesdays, and we also run our Mini Stars (age 6+) class on Wednesday evenings.

Our kids' programme combines Cha Cha, Latin and Street Dance – giving that Strictly sparkle alongside high-energy, modern routines. As ballroom and Latin trained dancers ourselves, we're proud to offer something different from the more traditional ballet or tap schools, creating a space that's full of movement, confidence and fun.

Daytime Stroll Classes (Over 50s): Hugely popular and all about keeping active and connected. Our motto is that it doesn't matter whether you get the steps right - if you're moving and smiling, you're winning! We've recently introduced Stroll & Tea sessions, bringing everyone together for dancing and socialising afterwards, exactly what I wanted to create.

Easy Steps (Evening Class): For those who work during the day, our evening version of the stroll class – set to upbeat 80s music and already proving a hit!

Solo Latin Classes: Perfect for anyone who wants to dance without a partner. These fun, confidence-building classes cover everything from Cha Cha, Samba and Rumba to Bachata and Argentine Tango.

Adult Beginners Ballroom & Latin for Couples: Our most popular core class! A weekly "date night" where couples can spend quality time together, learn something new, and have a laugh in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Social Dances: Events throughout the year, open to everyone – whether they learn with us or elsewhere – to celebrate the joy of dancing and community.