Reception
Ages 4–5, Super Stars. Where modern begins, on the ISTD Pre-Primary syllabus.
Lucy Lovick Dance Studio
Modern Dance Classes
ISTD Modern Theatre in Sydenham SE26, from Reception through to the senior grades.
What modern looks like at LLDS
Modern Theatre is our most theatrical technique class: dynamic moves, travelling sequences, kicks, turns and jumps, with a little funky jazz and plenty of West End energy.
We teach the ISTD Modern Theatre syllabus, which gives training a safe, age-appropriate structure and a clear route through the grades.
Modern runs at Studio 208 in Sydenham, for dancers travelling from Anerley, Beckenham, Dulwich, Penge and beyond.
What modern builds
Technique
Graded exercises build strength, flexibility, control and clean lines.
Performance
Set work and routines develop artistry, projection and stage presence.
Teamwork
Dancers learn and shape their dances together, which is half the fun of the class.
Where modern is taught
Modern is paired with another style in every class. Each class page has its days, times, fees and uniform.
Years 1 + 2
Ages 5–7, Galaxy Stars. ISTD Modern built around a theme each term, with Ballet and Tap.
Year 3+
Ages 7+, Dynamic Stars. ISTD Modern with Tap: Grade 1 Modern in Dynamic 1, Grade 2 in Dynamic 2.
Inters
Ages 11+, Dynamic Stars 3 + 4. Progressive ISTD Modern, deepening technique and performance quality.
Seniors
Age 14+, senior grades. ISTD Modern for dancers working at Grade 4 and above, taken together with Tap.
Contemporary
Modern pairs well with Contemporary, which adds floor work, improvisation and emotional storytelling.
See every class by age, the full weekly timetable or the fees.
Modern Exams
Modern exams follow the ISTD Modern Theatre syllabus and are regulated by Ofqual in England. They are encouraged but never compulsory, and Miss Lovick and the class teacher agree when a dancer is ready.
What to Wear
Uniform is set by age group, so check the class page before you buy. Super Stars wear the aqua school skirted leotard or a purple school T-shirt with black cycle shorts, and Dynamic dancers wear the turquoise all-in-one or purple school leotard with black leggings or cycle shorts.
Who teaches modern
Our Modern teachers hold ISTD qualifications in Modern Theatre. They include our Principal, Miss Helen Cheesman, who holds the DDE in Modern and Tap and an MA in Musical Theatre Performance.
Start modern in Sydenham
Tell us your dancer's age and experience, and we will place them in the right class and arrange a three-week trial.