Our Story
Applause Dance Complex, formally known as ABH Dance was established in 1979 by Annette Brownlee Hooper. A former dancer herself, Annette has always had the natural flair of working with children and from a very young age, aspired to teach children to dance. Originally just a ballet school, Applause Dance has evolved into a dance school that provides top technical training in various different styles of dance.
Meet the Team
Applause is a family-run business built on core family values and a shared love of dance! We pride ourselves on keeping our training and qualifications current so our dancers learn from experienced, knowledgeable, and inspiring teachers. Our focus is on helping every dancer reach their potential in a kind and supportive environment!
Annette Hooper
Annette is a highly experienced and respected dance educator with over 45 years as a studio owner and principal teacher. She completed her formal dance training in BBO and BAL Ballet, as well as NZAMD and JDNZ Jazz syllabi. She is currently a fully qualified and registered teacher with APDA syllabus. Throughout her career, Annette has guided countless students in their dance education, many of whom have gone on to successful professional dance careers.
STUDIO COMPLEX
Our studio complex in West Auckland offers top facilities with air conditioning, sprung floors, barres, mirrors, upstairs viewing/waiting areas and free wifi.
Enquire about classes for your future dancer today!
STUDIO ONE
8x9m
Sprung flooring
Mirrors
Built in sound system
2x wall mounted barres
High ceilings for aerial circus classes
Air conditioning
Viewing windows upstairs for parents to watch classes
STUDIO TWO
9x6m
Sprung flooring
Mirrors
Built in sound system
Wall mounted barres
Air conditioning
Cameras connected to our waiting room TV for parents to view classes
STUDIO THREE
9x6m
Studio specially made for our Tiny Dancers
Mirrors
Sound system
Wall mounted barres at lower height
Air conditioning
Pink fairy light backdrop wall
Cameras connected to our waiting room TV for parents to view classes
FAQs
Where are you located?
Our studios are located on the Swanson Ranui border, just 7 minutes off the North Western motorway in West Auckland.
Our studio is placed in a convenient place for dancers travelling from other suburbs including Waitakere, Red Hills, Taupaki, Kumeu, Henderson, Henderson Valley, Oratia, Te atatu, Massey, Glen Eden, West Harbour, Western Heights and more.
Travel against the traffic and come visit us out west!
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What are your reception hours?
Our reception hours vary depending on class times. You can be sure our receptionist is available during the term at the following times:
Monday - Friday 4.00-6.00pm
Saturday 9.30-11.30am.
Alternatively feel free to email any questions you have to office@applausedance.co.nz if reception is unattended.
What do dancers need to wear for class?
We have many dance wear, shoes and merchandise items to choose from available to try on and purchase at reception as well as online via your parent portal app.
Dancers have three weeks to get into uniform. In the meantime they can wear leggings, a close fitting top and bare feet for class.
How do I enrol?
Simply go on our website and click the ‘Register’ button and follow the prompts or visit us at Applause studio reception and we can help you.
What class should I register in?
Once you have signed up on our website, all class options available for your dancer will show when you click the ‘register for classes’ button. Alternatively ask at Applause reception or send us an email for advice.
Can dancers try a class before committing to the full term?
Once you have registered your dancer they can try the class. If you decide not to continue the class simply drop the class on your portal or advise our receptionist and no class fees will be charged.
Do I need to re-enrol every term?
You will be automatically re-enrolled each term during the year, but you will need to enrol again at the beginning of each new year.