Based on Russian and European methods this class is proven to enhance your technique (its tough) so not for the feint hearted but if you want higher legs, stronger core and faster turns join (different focus weekly).

A fun class for Girls and Boys aged 8 years* and above to learn this beautiful dance discipline.

Students will improve their musicality, coordination, stamina, fitness, strength and flexibility and make dance friends in a fun supportive environment.

Students will work towards the Grade 3 RAD exam, higher exam or performance award and take this when ready either on their own or as a group at the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) HQ in London. Students may also work towards international dance competitions* and auditions for full time training.

Kids are welcome to drop into the class with the professional dance teacher who will be teaching the course.

Ruth Mair Howard-Jones

An award winning choreographer and teacher, Ruth Mair’s long association with Pineapple began when she was 11 years old at Tring Park.

Initially training in ballet on scholarships to Tring Park (Arts Educational) winning the ballet cup twice, Central School of Ballet, London Studio Centre, further trained at RADA; Academia Teatro alla Scala and The Royal Academy of Dance Professional Dancers Teaching Diploma. Ruth Mair also holds a pilates training certificate and soft tissue therapy which she uses in her strength and technique training.

Her areas of expertise are Ballet, RAD, Chechetti, Vaganova, Jazz, & La Scala. Ruth has built a varied career in the arts, dipping in and out of ballet with experience from world renowned ballet companies to musicals, commercial TV and film. Including live TV, block busting films and stage shows.

As a teacher she has taught several classes at Pineapple from ballet to can can, appeared on Chanel 4 & ITV. With Debbie Moore OBE, Ruth created the Pineapple Masterclass series and staged events such as the Pineapple Live Show at the Hurlingham Club.

Teaching internationally both privately and with her school ‘The Jones Academy’, her students progress to study at top vocational schools, this year students were to be present at the Prix de Lausanne.

As a choreographer, her company ‘The Jones Ballet’, and choreography work brings decades of classical & modern training and experience in working with some of the best directors and dancers across the northern hemisphere. Ruth adds a unique twist of social commentary and modernity of style, fusing moves from modern genres with the strengths of classical form, power and discipline.

Ruth’s last work was featured in The Wonderful World of Dance and prior to that staged at Rambert. She is often found rehearsing in Pineapple or Rambert studios.