Charlene Smith
COORDINATOR, SWINDON STREET DANCE PROGRAMME
Charlene’s passion for dance began at the age of 7 when she started taking jazz, ballet, tap and hip-hop classes at Swindon Dance (then Thamesdown Dance Studios). She went on to join the youth group “Just For Kicks” at age 11 whilst also taking part in the “Texaco Youth Dance” course which is now known as the “Youth Talent Programme” both were forerunners to the CAT.
At age 16 Charlene did her full time training at Swindon dance completing the 2 year foundation course and then went on to receive a dance diploma after 3 years at Bodywork Performing Arts (Cambridge).
After graduating, her career took her to sunny Portugal performing for Belinda King where she was able to use both her dance and singing skills in the production of “Sweet Soul Music”. On returning to England she took almost 2 years out due to a back injury but with the help, support and guidance of Marie McCluskey and Shirley Hancock she went on to tour with RJC Dance Company (Leeds) on the “Mekawe” tour. Following this she toured with Donald Edwards company “Ruff Cut” (Leeds). She has appeared alongside Banxy on many TV shows throughout her dancing life and also music videos with Heartless crew as a student.
Charlene became a mother in 2006 to Reuben so began teaching in and around Leeds for Leeds City Council and also Gipton Together (charity funded) where she had a major role with assisting in admin as well as teaching.
After 11 years in Leeds Charlene has returned back to her home town of Swindon and has been blessed with a daughter (Princess-Nahla). She is now the new Urban Dance Coordinator at Swindon Dance and is ready to pass on her knowledge to the up and coming dancers.