Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the questions we regularly get asked. If your question isn’t answered here please contact our helpful Ticket Office on info@dancecity.co.uk or 0191 261 0505
Covid-19
In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, we have had to make a number of changes to the way we conduct our business in order to maintain a safe environment for all. Therefore the FAQs, will be updated as Government legislation, industry guidelines and research develops.
What if I’m displaying COVID-19 symptoms?
If you are displaying the symptoms of COVID-19 (coughing, high temperature, loss of taste/smell) please do not enter the Dance City Building. If you display these symptoms during a class, workshop or performance you may be asked to leave by a member of staff.
Is the DC Café open?
The Dance City Café is now open again to the public. Click here for information about the café, including opening times.
Will I need to wear a mask in the Dance City building?
No, masks are no longer required in the building. However, visitors are welcome to wear a face covering if they prefer.
What is Dance City doing to make the building safe to use?
The team at Dance City has been working hard to make sure that everyone who enters our building stays as safe as possible from coronavirus. This has involved a thorough risk assessment, staff training, and investment in new equipment and facilities. We have stringent procedures in place for cleaning studios and public areas, and have implemented a 30-minute period of sanitisation and airflow renewal between each public class.
We have now made e-ticketing or ‘print at home’ tickets available for all classes to minimise unnecessary printing and surfaces for contamination. When you select this option a downloadable ticket will be sent to your email address that you will be asked to show to your teacher on your phone or device when entering the class instead of a paper ticket.
Please be patient as we all adapt to the new regime, and give us your feedback so we can work to improve your experience.
Can I use the changing rooms?
Yes. The changing rooms are open as normal.
Can I use a locker?
Yes. The lockers are open as usual.
Does Dance City still provide yoga mats/tap shoes?
Yes. Tap shoes and yoga mats are now available to hire.
Booking Online
How can I book classes?
All online classes are available to book on our website at www.dancecity.co.uk or by telephone (0191 261 0505).
Do I have to book in advance?
Yes. All classes must now be booked at least 24 hours in advance so that we can keep accurate registers of who is in the building and when. Tickets will not be available to purchase from Ticket Office on the day like they have been in the past.
Booking with Credit
How do I use the credit on my account?
You can now view your credit on your Dance City online account and use it against the purchase of tickets. You can view your credit by selecting ‘Account Credit’ in the list of options after logging in. To use this credit, go to book the class as you usually would, after selecting card payment, you will be given the option to ‘use account credit’. We have created a simple user guide on how to access and use your credit here.
Classes and Workshops
During lockdown we are only offering online classes to the general public. Our students in formal education, and our professional colleagues may still attend the dance studios.
Zoom Classes
How do book a Zoom class?
You can find our step by step guide on how to book a Zoom class here.
How to I take part in a Zoom class?
You can find our step by step guide on how to take part in a Zoom class here.
CHOOSING YOUR CLASS
I’ve never danced before, do you need to have any previous dance experience to attend a class?
No not at all! We have classes to suit all abilities, from complete beginners to classes that are suitable for all so you are welcome to come along even if you’ve never danced before. If you do have previous experience and are looking for more of a challenge then we do also have classes for intermediate and advanced levels. During COVID restrictions our class timetable is reduced so we may be able to offer the full range of classes. If in doubt, just ask one of our dance experts to help guide you to the best class for you available in person or by calling 0191 261 0505 or emailing info@dancecity.co.uk
Can I join a class at any time during the term?
Yes of course! All our regular classes are run on a drop-in basis so you can book any class on any day/time/ability that suits you. During COVID restrictions you should buy your ticket in advance either online, by phone or in person. Tickets are sold on a first-come first-served basis. Once you have found the best online class for you we offer the opportunity to pay what you feel for the class. Please consider paying something for the class, or choose £0 at checkout to access the class for free.
I have an injury/illness – can I still participate?
It is up to you to decide if you are well enough to participate in a class – you may wish to consult your doctor before participating. Sometimes dancing can help, but always discuss any concerns with your teacher before the start of class to make sure it is safe for you to participate. Similarly, if you have a physical injury, let your teacher know at the start of the class. Dance City has the right to refuse entry to a class if your health may cause harm to yourself or other participants.
Are classes inclusive for people with disabilities?
Yes absolutely, everyone is welcome to any of our classes and we will work with you to meet your access needs. If you can, please discuss your access requirements before the class with the Ticket Office. We also have specific classes for those with additional needs; please speak to the Ticket Office for more details.
Are there opportunities to perform at Dance City?
Under normal circumstances, yes we do have something for all you budding performers! Each term we organise a performance platform in Newcastle, SHINE in the spring, SUMMER DANCE SHORTS in the summer, and SHIMMER in the winter. We offer all classes the opportunity to perform and it is at the discretion of the attendees and the teacher as to their involvement. Unfortunately during COVID restrictions we are unable to stage our community class performances but we will get them back as soon as we can.
What should I wear to an online dance class?
We do not require you to wear a uniform/specific dancewear for classes, but please join the class in something loose, comfortable and easy to move in e.g. jogging bottoms and a t-shirt, and a jumper so you can take layers off once you start to get warm. For some classes we may advise to wear certain footwear but this is not compulsory. Please contact the Ticket Office for more information if you have any queries.
Do you have a latecomer’s policy?
Yes, latecomers will be admitted up to 10 minutes after the class has started. After this point, admittance will be refused at the discretion of Ticket Office or the teacher. This is because it is essential to take part in the warm-up so your body is prepared for class and the risk of injury is reduced.
Can I take photos or film in class?
No, we don’t allow anyone to film or take photos in class except official Dance City staff. From time to time we may film or take photographs during your class or workshop for publicity and promotional materials and opportunities, whether print, online or broadcast. When you book classes and workshops at Dance City we will ask for your consent for photography and filming. There is an option for you to opt out should you wish.
THEATRE SHOWS AND PERFORMANCES
How are tickets/seating allocated?
When booking a ticket we always give you a choice of seating so you can choose the best available. You can book seats online, in person and by phone. At times we have performances where the seating is unreserved, in these instances the seat allocation is done on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do you offer concession price tickets?
Yes, reduced price tickets are available for senior citizens and those in receipt of benefits. Students and under 18s are eligible for £8 tickets. Proof of eligibility must be provided. Dance City is also associated with the Max Card scheme, on production of a valid Max Card customers can receive £8 tickets for most performances and a complimentary carers ticket. Those studying for an Arts Award can receive up a free ticket per performance.
Do you offer any discounts for carers?
Yes, if a carer is supporting a customer with additional needs then we are happy to offer a complimentary ticket to the carer alongside a paying adult. We have recently extended this offer to carers of children with additional needs whereby a complimentary ticket will be offered alongside a paying child.
Are there any restricted view seats in the Theatre?
All our theatre seating is full view. There are 12 rows of padded bench style seating, with 21 seats per row.
Are wheelchair accessible spaces available?
Yes we have a number of wheelchair accessible spaces available for performances in the theatre. If possible it is advised to book these in advance, please contact the Ticket Office to discuss arrangements.
Dance City does not have any parking spaces available for public use, however if you have specific accessibility needs which would help by being able to park at the front of our building, where possible we will endeavour to reserve a space for you. Please contact Ticket Office for details.
Do you have any multi-buy discounts for performances?
Yes, book more and save with our multi-save performance offer: book 2 or more performances and receive 20% off! Multi-save is only available on multiple shows (not on multiple tickets for the same show) and only when booking multiple shows in a single transaction.
Do you have any group booking discounts for performances?
Yes, Dance City offers a special group booking discount for all professional performances. When you book 10 tickets we’ll give you one of these for free.
Who do I contact to arrange a school group booking?
Simply contact the Ticket Office and we will be able to book you in. We would need to take the name of the school and a contact to liaise with. Payment can be taken by cash or card or alternatively we can arrange for payment to be done by invoice.
Do you have a latecomer’s policy for performances?
Yes, but this can vary as each company decides their own latecomers policy depending on the type of show. This can range from no entry once the performance has started, to after 10mins, during the interval or admittance at anytime. Speak to the Front of House Manager if you have any concerns.
At what age do children require a ticket for performances?
For most performances we consider a babe in arms (up to 2 years old) to be in the constant care of a parent/guardian, and as the child does not require a seat, an additional ticket is not required. This does not apply for performances specifically aimed at children, in which case a ticket for every adult and child is required.
Some of our performances carry age recommendations; please consider this before booking tickets for children.
GENERAL QUESTIONS
Does Dance City provide customer parking?
Sadly we only have a limited amount of staff parking spaces available on site, however there is ample parking nearby. The Grainger Town Multi Storey Car Park is next door, entrance on Waterloo Street. There is also street parking next to the Discovery Museum, and also on Waterloo Street.
Do we sell dance clothing/footwear?
All classes at Dance City do not require any specific clothing/uniform and we do not sell clothing/footwear, however we can recommend other places in Newcastle. Please speak to Ticket Office for more information.
Is Dance City wheelchair accessible?
Yes, our building is fully accessible. We have lifts and accessible toilets on all floors, wheelchair spaces in our Theatre, and a loop hearing system at the Ticket Office. More information on accessibility.
Do you have children’s/adult party packages?
Yes, we offer a range of fun party packages and even the option to create your very own unique party experience. Find more information here or contact the Ticket Office for more details and prices.
Do you sell gift cards/vouchers?
Yes, we offer gift vouchers all year round. You can purchase any amount, and include your own personal message. Vouchers can be redeemed against classes, workshops, performances and in the café.
Do you offer private dance tuition?
Yes, we can create a tailor made programme to suit your needs. Choose your style and let us know what you’re aiming to achieve and we will organise a specialist tutor. Contact the Ticket Office for more details.
Do you provide baby changing facilities?
Yes, we have baby changing facilities situated in the toilets and the disabled toilets on every floor at Dance City.
Do you have wi-fi?
Yes, we have wi-fi available throughout the building, please ask the Ticket Office for the password.
I want to find a company/artist to work with, how can I contact them?
Dance City is in contact with many professional artists from the region and we are able to forward information via our Professional Artist Newsletter. If you would like to submit an advert, please use the following as a guideline.
- Your name and contact details
- How many dancers are you looking for?
- Which style of dance?
- The date, time and venue of the event?
- What is the fee available for artists?
I would like to make a donation to support the ongoing work of Dance City as a charity – how can I do this?
You can simply contact the ticket office by phone or in person and we can process a donation amount of your choice. Alternatively if you are booking tickets for any class or performance then there is always the option to add a donation when booking online, by phone or in person.
How do you find out information about auditioning for the CAT progamme?
Have a look at the Centre for Advanced Training pages on our website.