The Stage

Strictly Come Dancing’s Goodman plans school extension

Published Tuesday 14 July 2009 at 16:00 by Matthew Hemley

Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman has revealed plans to expand his Kent-based dance school, saying the BBC1 show’s success has led to a boom in membership.

Goodman, who has been head judge on the celebrity talent contest since it began in 2004, told The Stage that an increased interest in dance fuelled by the show meant he was in the process of extending the Goodman Dance Centre in Dartford, which he has been operating in the town for more than 30 years, in a bid to accommodate more people and extend the classes on offer.

“Because of the advent of Strictly, ballroom - and dance in general - has had a boost, so it’s very busy at the moment. It would not hurt to have another studio next to the one we have already got,” he said.

Goodman said offices behind his current venue were empty and that an application to convert them into studios had been approved by Dartford Borough Council.

Work on developing the site is expected to start later this year. Once completed, Goodman said he would be able to offer more classes and provide private tuition.

The Goodman Dance Centre currently offers classes daily, covering a range of disciplines, including ballet, tap, ballroom and street dance, as well as lessons in acting and singing. It is run by Goodman’s son, James, who is also discussing with his father the possibility of opening up more Goodman Dance Centres around the UK.