About Us

You are about to take your first steps into the wonderful world of dance.

The Marian Lennon School of Ballet aspires to teach children the enjoyment and love of dance. Classes in classical ballet are offered for all ages. Modern dance classes are offered from 7 years upwards. Students can enter examinations in both dance genres.


Teacher Biographies:

Marian Lennon

RAD RTS, Teaching Dipl. RAD Mentor, DDE Tutor, ISTD, PEAI, NCEF

Marian Lennon is a distinguished figure in the world of performing arts with a career that spans theatre, cabaret, television, and film. Her work has taken her across Ireland and internationally to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. In addition to her artistic endeavours, Marian has contributed to the fitness industry, serving as an exercise consultant for Unislim in Ireland and training aerobic teachers at the Dance Institute in Athens.

Marian’s dedication to dance education is evident in her extensive training and qualifications. She completed her Classical Ballet Teacher Training at the National Academy of Dancing in Ireland, earning the Royal Academy of Dance Teaching Diploma. Furthermore, she holds the PEAI Certificate in Exercise and Health Studies and the National Certificate in Exercise and Fitness. In 2021 Marian qualified as a Pilates teacher and she qualified with a Diploma in Yoga teaching in 2022.

Her commitment to nurturing new talent is demonstrated through her roles as a mentor for the Royal Academy of Dance Distance Learning CBTS Programme and a qualified tutor for the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dance in Modern Theatre. Marian was formerly the Course Director of the Dance Studies Course at Inchicore College of Further Education from its inception in 1994 until 2020 when she retired from this position. She also serves as the Head of Ballet at the National Performing Arts School.

The Marian Lennon School of Ballet, established in 1992, reflects her dedication to fostering a love of dance. Since then, the school has thrived, instilling creativity and passion for dance in its students. Remarkably, it now welcomes the second generation of dancers, with many original pupils enrolling their children, a testament to Marian’s lasting impact on the dance community.

Jenny Holman

RAD RTS, ISTD DDI, NCEF

Jenny has been a qualified teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance since 2009. She started taking ballet classes at the age of 3 where she studied under the RAD method from Pre-Primary to Advanced 2 level.

While studying at Inchicore College of Further Education, Jenny completed the Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies (CBTS) in conjunction with the Royal Academy of Dance, London. She also completed the Diploma in Dance Instruction (DDI) with the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing and the National Certificate of Exercise and Fitness with the University of Limerick.

With over 15 years’ experience, Jenny has been teaching ballet for the National Performing Arts School and various other ballet schools for many years.

Jenny is also a Mum of 3 beautiful children that keep her busy and, on her toes, just as much as the Ballet does!


Love, Learn, Dance

Classical Ballet
The Royal Academy of Dance Graded Syllabus
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is the leading international dance examination board specializing in classical ballet. RAD was established in London, England in 1920. Initially formed to improve the standard of classical ballet training in the UK, RAD has become one of the world’s leading dance education and training organizations, boasting over 13,000 members, and operating in 79 countries. RAD is one of the world’s most influential dance education organisations. The exams set standards in classical ballet and we are a global leader in Continuing Professional Development for dance.

Silver Swans Royal Academy of Dance
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) have launched its Silver Swans programme featuring branded ballet classes created specifically for the over-55s and taught exclusively by Silver Swans Licensees. Specially designed for mature dancers, classes help improve mobility, posture, coordination, and energy levels and, most importantly, the love of dance. The Silver Swans initiative has been developed for the older learners so they, too, can take part in ballet classes. Whether you are an experienced dancer, have briefly dabbled or are a complete novice, we welcome all older learners of any ability to try out Silver Swans classes.

Modern Theatre Dance
The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing

The Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) is one of the world’s leading dance examination boards. Modern Theatre Dance is a rhythmic dance style which originated in America before travelling to the rest of the world. It is often seen on the stages of musical productions and is known for its theatrical qualities. The style uses travelling steps, high kicks, leaps, and turns which all need strength and flexibility. This is a highly energetic dance style.

Ballet Examination

Ballet and Modern Dance Examination,
Royal Academy of Dance Ballet Examinations,
Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Modern Dance Examinations
The School enters students for the Royal Academy of Dance Graded Examinations and the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing Modern Examinations.
Although not compulsory, examinations are encouraged, as they provide students with the opportunity to improve their technique and artistry while gaining in confidence.