The Sanctuary is the name of a brand new dance venue coming to Stone High Street in Spring 2023, in anticipation of the opening, we met with the new owners, the Hand family.
The team behind The Sanctury are mum and dad, Karen and Neil Hand and their son Oli Hand as well as Anastasiia, Oli’s dance partner.
The family have lived in Stone for 16 years, and it was exciting to find out more about their new project and what it will bring to the heart of Stone.
Located in the former Home and Colour unit of the High Street, the soon to be 3000sqft dance venue will also host a café and retail space offering dance shoes and accessories. The Sanctuary will also be available to hire.
This new venue will bring a wide range of dance styles, primarily Ballroom, Latin and Salsa, along with Contemporary, Ballet, Acro and a fitness programme.
You can expect dance and fitness classes, private lessons, a children’s dance academy and practice sessions. To complement this, there will also be tea dances and social events.
Dancing has been in the family for decades. Karen’s journey started at the ages of 8 at Syd and Edna Duffield’s in Newcastle, and now her son Oli and his partner Anastasiia, who are British and European Champions, continue to compete internationally representing the UK.
Oli told us:
“We aim to bring a new social side of dancing to Stone, which can be enjoyed by all ages. It provides the perfect excuse to get out of the house and meet new people whilst exercising and learning a new skill. We look forward to welcoming you to the venue soon.”
If you would like to follow the journey of their refurbishment and for further information on classes, give them a follow @thesanctuary_stone
2 comments
Jason
All booked in and looking forward to meeting you all
John Selman
Melanie and I are very interested in learning to dance.
Please keep us updated on your opening , price’s and hrs of opening
Many thanks
John Selman