Lara provides a safe and comfortable space for your practice regardless of skill levels. Her classes provide deep stretches and strengthening poses at a relaxed pace! Highly recommend!

I first emailed Lara about starting classes back in 2017. However, as I was recovering from an operation, she advised me to wait until I was fully healed before attending the classes (very sensible as she didn't risk putting my health at risk just to get an extra person in class; I was disappointed I couldn't start, but understood). It took me quite a while to heal and so I had to remain patient regarding contacting her again. A year later, however, I received an email from Lara asking how I was doing and advising they would be starting a new routine a week later if I still wanted to attend. It has always stuck in my mind how she messaged me over a year later. Anyway! I went a few weeks after that message and I have never been made to feel as welcome as I did in Lara's dance class (I attended a different dance class a few years prior and the atmosphere just wasn't the same. I felt like you were forever vying for the teacher's attention and it was a smaller class! It was cramped too and I only went the once). Lara makes you feel welcome from the get-go, taking into account any limitations she will adapt routines to suit you. She checks in with you during class, she knows your name (this sounds like it should be a given, but some places you're seen as just another face), and everyone else is so friendly and welcoming too. The routines and songs are varied, it's so fun and it's great value for money. Lara works so hard as well and always checks up on you to see how you are. She also gives you feedback. I don't think I'd ever set foot in a social place like this in a while due to social anxiety, but honestly, once you walk through those doors, you've done it and it does wonders for your self-esteem. Everyone is welcome!

BRILLIANT BRILLIANT BRILLIANT

I did some photography and film work for Lara and it was an absolute pleasure. The dance classes are absolutely euphoric and Lara takes the time to know every single person. Such an inclusive space filled with wonderful people, and Lara is absolutely wonderful to work with. All round amazing experience.

I first messaged Lara last summer after hearing that she would be returning to teaching classes after things opened up via Instagram. I am so glad I did! I've constantly been made felt welcome, even though I'm profoundly deaf and often needed some minor adjustments. In Lara's classes you're learning to work with music, and learn moves that are often challenging. Lara will break down each step and move many times as you need, even giving you alternative steps or moves if you are unable do an certain move due to limitations. For example in my case, my deafness means I cannot hear certain musical cues so Lara supports me in this by placing me close to her. Another thing I've been unable to do is sudden spins. Not a problem says Lara and shows me an alternative. Lara doesn't make you feel ashamed for being different, having limitations, or having problems that is at home that is affecting you personally. Lara has created a lovely place that is safe for you to come and leave behind whatever you have for few hours and dance away your troubles away. Well I've made myself come so many times after considering cancelling and coming away glad I haven't and feeling miles better. Lara cares about each of her students and it shows, you get people that come back week after week, month after month and year after year! To sum it up she comes very highly recommended and one of best teachers I've come across.

I love the dance classes, they have boosted my confidence so much. Lara is lovely, and makes sure everyone is at ease. Definitely recommend the dance classes to anyone.

It took me a while to pluck up the courage to attend Lara’s classes, but I’m so glad I took the plunge! She is welcoming, inclusive of all and I always return home from her classes feeling empowered with a smile on my face. I would recommend her classes to anyone, even if you have no prior experience. I’m so pleased I got over my shyness and now look forward to her classes every week.

Fabulous night at Cabaret Gothique in an intimate setting. We have been coming to Lara's burlesque and cabaret nights for several years and they are always a pleasure. A fabulous reason to get dressed up and have a thoroughly eye opening, engaging, titillating night of entertainment with burlesque, magic, acrobats and all manner of beautiful creatures.

Couldn’t recommend enough! I look forward to class every single week and love how confident I feel when dancing. Lara has the most amazing aura. She made me feel so at ease during the first couple of classes and her teaching style is so accommodating considering the diversity of people in class. We always have such a laugh and the routines are so much fun! Thank you so much Lara for creating such a safe space for everyone to feel sexy, sassy and confident. I don’t think I will ever be leaving 🖤

Laras class is amazing and full of fantastic people. The choreography is great and Lara really makes sure everyone knows how to do the steps and builds confidence. If your thinking of doing Burlesque, this is defo the place to be ❤️

Lara is a great teacher who looks after her class members and makes every class both yoga and dance fun and inclusive. I started attending yoga class with back problems a few years ago. Lara works with each class member ensuring you work at your own pace taking each individual's injuries and limitations into account. She ensures everyone exercises at a level suitable for them. My strength and flexibility has improved and my back problems have eased considerably. A few weeks ago I took the plunge to join the dance class and wish I had done it years ago. No matter what your dance experience Lara breaks the steps down easily and within no time at all you are dancing as if there is no tomorrow ! Fun fun FUN!

Since the beginning of January 2023 I've been attending burlesque classes here and I'm so glad I'm doing this. Everyone is so lovely and welcoming and Lara is a brilliant and dedicated teacher who is in tune with everyone in the class. If you're thinking of doing this and worry you can't do it, you definitely can! I have had absolutely no dance experience and have completed one dance routine with the class already! I look forward to it every week and can't recommend it enough.

Excellent inclusive classes surrounded by friendly people and a very talented teacher ! Having never attended dance classes before I was a little apprehensive but I’m so glad I chose this one 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

Went to the cabaret gothique and adored it. The acts were so fun and Virgin X had me crying with laughter. Super well organised, cute lil touch with the silver envelopes holding the tickets.✨ Definitely a night to remember!

Being a very anxious person I’m not good at meeting new people and doing things outside of my comfort zone. But the Velvet Burlesque has allowed me to open up and feel exhilarated and excited to try new things. The teaching style is so encouraging and Lara really knows how to make each person feel like they can really achieve these new skills. She is a terrific dancer and the most exceptional teacher. I’ve never been made to feel so welcome in a new environment as I have done here. You could be having the worst week, but coming to these classes for two hours allows you to forget about everything and just enjoy yourself. Lara and the rest of the group are so supportive and I can’t wait to go back every week.

I highly recommend the velvet burlesque! When I first joined I was made to feel incredibly welcome. Lara is an amazing dance teacher, her routines are brilliant and she is very patient, taking time to help if you are struggling with a particular move. I'm so happy to have joined these classes, I feel my self-confidence has improved and I have so much fun!

The best pilates class around! Lara is welcoming and instantly makes you feel at ease. She gives you guidance and support throughout the class helping you to challenge yourself and improve each week.

I had been going to Lara’s classes for a number of years but through family commitments had to stop, i recently started going again. Lara was so welcoming like I hadn’t been away. Lara is an excellent and very professional fitness instructor and classes are always relaxed and fun its a great atmosphere as well as the health benefits that i get from attending her classes. I would highly recommend her yoga and dance classes to all my family and friends and anybody who is thinking of taking up these activities