Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Trusted Partner for Dance Classes in Melbourne
MarShere Dance Studios has been a leader in dance education for over 40 years, founded in 1981 by Mark and Sheryl O'Donoghue. Our philosophy centers on family, care, and community, creating a welcoming environment where people of all ages learn to dance. We specialise in Latin, Ballroom, New Vogue, and Street Latin styles, offering structured programs for beginners to advanced dancers. Our achievement awards system and annual events foster growth and celebration of student progress. With studios across Melbourne, we prioritise accessibility, flexibility, and a non-judgmental atmosphere.Our qualified instructors, holding Working With Children Checks, ensure safety and professionalism. We extend our passion through school outreach programs and franchise opportunities, empowering others to share the gift of dance. Customer testimonials highlight our friendly staff, social benefits, and transformative experiences. As an industry leader, we combine tradition with innovation to deliver exceptional value to our community.
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Latin Classes
Wedding Dance
Kids Classes
Dance Competitions
Social Dancing
Salsa Lessons
Argentine Tango
DanceFit
Achievement Awards
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of experience in dance education
- Our family-friendly environment welcomes all skill levels
- We teach 4 major dance styles including Latin and Ballroom
- All instructors hold Working With Children Checks
- We host annual competitions and social dance events
What people say
Great people, great environment
Friendly and encouraging staff
Made us feel relaxed
Best medicine for hard week
Addictive dance experience
Services
Ballroom Dancing
Structured ballroom dance instruction covering waltz, tango, and foxtrot techniques. Our classes develop posture, rhythm, and confidence through traditional dance forms. Perfect for social occasions or competitive aspirations.
Wedding Dance
Customised wedding dance lessons tailored to your song and skill level. We create memorable routines combining ballroom and contemporary styles, with options for group choreography and practice sessions.
Kids Classes
Age-appropriate dance programs introducing children to fundamental movement skills. Classes focus on fun, creativity, and basic dance techniques while promoting physical development and social interaction.
Dance Competitions
Annual competitive events including the GrandSlam competition and Aurora Awards. Participants enjoy professional organisation, multiple categories, and a supportive environment for showcasing dance achievements.
Social Dancing
Regular social dance nights for adults featuring various dance styles. These events provide opportunities to practice skills, meet fellow dancers, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere.
People
Mark O'Donoghue
Co-Founder
Co-founded MarShere in 1981 with Sheryl, developing the studio's family-focused approach. Retired as director in 2023 but remains actively involved in franchise events.
Sheryl O'Donoghue
Co-Founder
Established MarShere with Mark, creating the achievement awards system. Retired as director in 2023 but continues supporting the brand's values and community focus.
Shane O'Donoghue
Director
Current director working with Erin to maintain MarShere's standards. Oversees franchise development while preserving the original founders' teaching philosophy.
Erin O'Donoghue
Director
Co-director with Shane, ensuring continuity of MarShere's family-oriented approach. Focuses on maintaining quality instruction across all studio locations.
Courtney Marsh
Wedding Dance Instructor
Specialised bridal dance instructor with multiple positive student testimonials. Creates custom routines that balance personal expression with technical proficiency for wedding couples.
Questions
Do you offer free trial dance classes?
Yes, we provide 100% free trial classes with no commitment required. No dance partner needed.
What dance styles do you teach?
We specialise in Ballroom, Latin, New Vogue, and Street Latin styles for all skill levels.
Are classes available for children?
Yes, we offer kids and teen dance classes designed to be fun and educational.
Do you host dance competitions?
We organise annual events including the GrandSlam competition and Aurora Awards Ball.
Can I franchise a MarShere studio?
We offer franchise opportunities for passionate dance professionals with business skills.
Do you provide wedding dance instruction?
Yes, our bridal dance program includes private lessons and group choreography options.
Reviews (2)
Jessica J.
Jul 14, 2018
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A year ago I was looking to bring more joy into my life. Getting back into dancing seemed like the most obvious way to do it, so I joined MarShere Mornington. It's been life changing for me. I'm fitter, healthier and the happiest I've been in a long time. I feel like I'm part of an incredible, friendly community of teachers and members and my only regret is that I didn't join sooner. I highly recommend coming and checking out for yourself, I'm positive you won't regret it.
Nick Chain
Jun 20, 2013
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I have been attending Marshere dance studios for apx 1 year. It is very good for beginners. Things change when you start to move to a higher levels which are a lot more rushed. The reason for this is that there is a big push to get you to do private lessons, so you are pretty much forced to do so. I found the Aurora social Ball to be a bit of a scam at $190 per head. (2012) The food & wine were ordinary & basically a lot of back slapping for the owners & franchisees. Dancers who do well during the year are graded and obligated to attend the Ball so that they can get their pat on the back also.