ELEANOR Gillott is having a significant impact on people’s lives in Barnsley, through dance.
She runs Ace Performing Arts Academy, for children aged three to 18, three nights a week, whilst maintaining a full-time job.
Alongside this, Eleanor also leads an adults group - Barnsley Burlesque Chair Dancing class, and her impact is huge.
The group was set up in 2015 after Eleanor saw a similar group advertised online, and membership has grown rapidly since, with titr boosting many women’s self esteem and body confidence.
For her dedication and commitment, Eleanor has been nominated by women in her class for the Community Hero award in the Proud of Barnsley Awards.
Eleanor, 45, of Swift Street, Barnsley, said: “I’ve been dancing since I was very young. It’s in my blood - it’s what I know and love. I am a trained dancer and singer - I’ve had my glory days but now I spend my time coaching others to dance, sing and act.
“I absolutely love teaching - seeing the progress, confidence and skills developing in my students is so rewarding. Nothing makes me more proud than to see my students, young and old, on the stage.”
The burlesque chair dancing class members perform shows regularly, and raise money for a number of charities, including The Lullaby Trust, Prostate Cancer and Goldenhar UK.
“I started teaching burlesque chair dancing classes three years ago, and in that time I’ve seen many of the women grow so much in confidence - so much so that many of them perform regularly at shows and events.
“My job is to inspire women to get fit, lose weight, build confidence and have fun! I don’t see it as giving something to the community - I just do it.”
Around 50 adults attend the classes, which run weekly on Mondays (7pm) and Wednesdays (7.30pm), at Barnsley Trades Club.
The next show is Friday June 22 at East Dene Club, Barnsley. Doors open at 7.45pm.
