One Dromore resident’s career has beautifully evolved from being a passionate dancer and performer to becoming a dedicated dance school owner in her hometown.
Her journey in the performing arts began at just 12 years of age when she took the stage in her first professional pantomime. Over the years, she became an integral part of the Banbridge Musical Society and St. Agnes Choral Society, showcasing her talent and commitment to the arts.
Hannah Robinson, a talented dancer and dedicated instructor, hails from the vibrant community of Dromore. Fueled by a passion that has only grown stronger over the years, Hannah’s love for dance blossomed when she joined her first R.A.D. Ballet class at The Wendy Gibson Ballet Academy.
This early exposure set the stage for her diverse training in various dance styles, including ISTD Modern, Tap, Jazz, and Contemporary. After completing her studies at Dromore High School, Hannah pursued further education, earning an HND in Performing Arts Dance with impressive results: two Distinction Stars and a Distinction.
Under the guidance of esteemed instructors like Ann Marie Morgan, Sandy Cuthbert, Jennifer Rooney, Sarah Johnston, Cherie Brammeld, and Stage Coach, Hannah developed her skills and a deep appreciation for the art of dance.
During her HND studies, Hannah’s passion for teaching emerged during a work experience opportunity at a school in Africa and at Dromore Central Primary School.
It was during this time that a fellow student expressed a desire to attend a dance studio, which sparked Hannah’s ambition to establish her own dance school. This dream became a reality, and the student who inspired her is now part of her team, further solidifying Hannah’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers.
Hannah’s impressive resume includes performances at prestigious venues like the Grand Opera House and Waterfront Hall, where she danced as a ballerina alongside Ellen Cent. She also had the incredible opportunity to tour Bangalore and Sri Lanka with Tocatta, further enriching her experience in the world of dance.
Speaking to UrbanABC, Hannah recalls, “I opened HR Dance back in 2015 at Dromore Club one night a week on Thursday nights at the age of 21. As time went on, I wanted to grow my school, but found it difficult as I didn’t have my own premises.
“I then went on a search and finally got my first studio in Dromore Square. I absolutely loved it.”
“As my business was growing, I had to move location to a bigger premises at 3A Gallows Street, where I am based now.
“My school keeps growing every year. I also have the best group of teachers working at HR Dance, who the kids just adore, and for this, I am very grateful.”
The nurturing environment that Hannah has created for young dancers, along with her dedication to providing a fun and safe space, allows children to learn and grow in confidence, making it a special place for aspiring performers.
From dance exams to competitions, Hannah ensures that every child has the chance to showcase their talent and hard work. The excitement of participating in dance showcases and performances for the British Legion and local community-run events not only boosts their confidence but also helps them connect with the community.
“Our dancers have the incredible opportunity to compete at the Dance World Cup, an experience that truly elevates their passion for dance”, says Hannah
Hannah’s commitment to fostering a supportive atmosphere encourages children to express themselves through movement, building both their skills and self-esteem.
Speaking of challenges faced, Hannah admits there have been struggles, none more so than during the Covid pandemic.
“COVID-19 was a massive challenge for me. I had to close my studio down overnight, just like many other businesses in the town. I was genuinely worried that I might never reopen again since my studio wasn’t considered essential.
“To keep my school going, I decided to hold some Zoom classes to ensure my kids could keep dancing. It was a tough adjustment, but it helped maintain a sense of community and continuity for the students.
“Thankfully, everything went back to normal when we were finally allowed to reopen. It was a relief to see everyone back in the studio, dancing and enjoying the environment we’ve worked so hard to create.”
Beyond her passion for dance, Hannah cherishes spending quality time with her family and friends. Whether it’s enjoying a warm cup of tea or taking a leisurely walk with her beloved dogs, Bella and Lady, these moments bring joy and relaxation to her busy life.
In addition to her love for family and friends, Hannah has fond memories of horse riding from her younger years. Although she hasn’t been on horseback in a while, she dreams of returning to this cherished activity someday. This desire reflects her belief in the importance of pursuing passions outside of work, which contributes to a fulfilling and well-rounded life.
Hannah’s ability to blend her professional dedication with personal interests is a testament to her character. By nurturing relationships and embracing her love for nature, she sets a wonderful example for aspiring dancers and anyone looking to find balance in their lives.
As the driving force behind HR Dance in Dromore, Hannah has invaluable advice for anyone considering a career in dance. Her journey has taught her the importance of passion and dedication in this vibrant field.
Hannah believes that to truly succeed, you must love what you do. This passion fuels the hard work and commitment required to thrive in the dance world. She emphasises the need for patience, as growth and recognition often take time.
“Love what you do, work hard, be patient, keep learning and growing, take every opportunity you can. But also have a healthy balance of work and personal life”.