Discover how Laura-Jane Fenney is revolutionizing dance education with a focus on growth, resilience, and creativity.
Dance is not just an art form—it’s a transformative experience that requires dedication, skill, and perseverance. Few people understand this better than Laura-Jane Fenney, a seasoned professional who has built a career on both performance and innovation in education. Known for her work with Cirque du Soleil, National & International Tours (GREASE), and Royal Caribbean, Laura-Jane’s impact on the dance world has been profound. But it’s her role as an educator and mentor that truly sets her apart.
A Journey Rooted in Passion
Laura-Jane’s path in dance began at The Royal Ballet School, where she trained and nurtured her passion for movement. This foundation led her to perform in nationally and internationally with some of the most prestigious companies, including Cirque du Soleil and Royal Caribbean. Through each performance, she honed her craft and gained invaluable insight into the demands of the professional dance world. Her choreography has been featured on Britain’s Got Talent, and she has also created work for the National Diversity Awards, further demonstrating her wide-reaching influence.
However, Laura-Jane soon realized that her true calling was not only performing but teaching. She began to see that her experiences could be used to guide the next generation of dancers—helping them grow not just as artists but as individuals.
“I wanted to build a space where dancers could grow, make mistakes, and be supported as they developed their skills,” Laura-Jane says. “In the end, dance is about personal growth as much as it is about technical skill.”
An Innovative Approach to Dance Education
What makes Laura-Jane’s approach to teaching so unique is her focus on both the emotional and technical aspects of dance. Dance education is often seen as a process of perfecting movement, but Laura-Jane believes it’s just as important to develop mental and emotional resilience.
As a judge for the Global Dance Open and a teacher at major conventions like Move It and Can You Dance?, Laura-Jane brings this philosophy into the broader dance community. She encourages dancers to embrace failure as a learning opportunity rather than something to be avoided. It’s this shift in mindset that allows dancers to truly thrive, both in the studio and on stage.
“Excellence comes from perseverance,” she explains. “It’s easy to work hard when you’re feeling inspired, but the true test is when you continue to push yourself, even when it’s hard.”
Creating a Safe Space for Growth
In a competitive and often high-pressure industry like dance, it’s easy for dancers to feel discouraged. But Laura-Jane is committed to providing a safe space where dancers can grow without fear of judgment. This supportive environment encourages dancers to take risks, knowing that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process.
“I want my students to know that it’s okay to fail,” Laura-Jane says. “I want them to feel supported and understand that mistakes are a vital part of improvement.”
This commitment to creating a nurturing atmosphere has helped many dancers find their confidence and break through personal barriers. By combining her experience as a performer with her passion for teaching, Laura-Jane is shaping the next generation of dancers with a strong foundation in both skill and self-assurance.
Moving Dance Education Forward
Laura-Jane’s work across the UK is just the beginning. She continues to challenge the traditional methods of dance education and seeks out new ways to support dancers in their development. Her dedication to innovation, coupled with her extensive experience, ensures that the dancers she mentors are equipped to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Her legacy is not just one of choreography and performance but also of mentorship and education. As Laura-Jane continues to push the boundaries of dance education, her influence grows, shaping not only the dancers of today but the stars of tomorrow.
Connect with Laura-Jane Fenney
To follow Laura-Jane’s journey and discover more about her approach to dance education, connect with her on Instagram at @laurajanefenney and TikTok at @laurajanefenney. Through Mission: Inspire, Laura-Jane continues to redefine what it means to teach dance, emphasizing the importance of resilience, creativity, and community in the pursuit of excellence.
