About Hype Dance Company

Hype Dance Company was founded in Sheffield in 2004 by Anna Olejnicki with one simple aim: to bring dance to as many people as possible, in as many ways as possible. Twenty-two years on, that’s still what drives everything we do. Anna has since moved to the Lake District for a quieter life, but she still teaches private classes at Hype on Mondays, and we still team up on joint projects. Today, our Creative Director, Paulina Chochulska, oversees all our teaching.

We’re a not-for-profit, so what we earn goes back into our classes, outreach and new dance work.

How we teach

You won’t just be copying the person at the front of the room. Our teachers get to know you, watch how you move and adapt each class to the people in it, so everyone gets the most out of their time with us.

We want every class to feel friendly, welcoming and inspiring. Over the years that’s built a real sense of community at Hype.

“Hype Dance is a place where I feel happy and can just be myself.”

Hype Dance student

More than just a dance school

Alongside our classes in Sheffield, we:

run community outreach sessions across South Yorkshire
deliver CPD training for schools and colleges
create professional dance theatre that has toured nationally
hire out our three studios, including a studio theatre, for rehearsals, classes and events

Everyone is welcome

Whatever your age, level or experience, there’s a place for you here. Some of our students are taking their very first class; others are developing a talent towards exams, auditions or a career in dance. We’ll help you find the class that suits you and support you as you grow.

And dance is good for so much more than learning steps. It builds strength, flexibility and coordination, lifts your mood and eases stress, and gives you an hour where you can switch off from everything else. It’s also one of the best ways to meet people: lots of our students come for the class and stay for the friendships.

Over 22 years, that’s grown into something we’re really proud of: a friendly, supportive community where people look out for each other. Come and try a class, meet new people, make new friends and join the Hype family.

Meet the team

Our teachers are experienced professionals, each bringing something different to Hype. All are qualified in the styles they teach, fully insured and DBS-checked where their classes require it. Above all, they’re warm and welcoming. Click on a teacher to find out more about them.