Inside the life-changing dance academy 'changing perspectives' of Glasgow kids

Yahoo

24-05-2025

The head coach of a Glasgow dance academy is changing the perspective of East End kids one win at a time.
'Many people believe East End kids have no ambition, but really, they are the most hardworking, talented people,' Paige McGarrity, who is also the director of Volume Dance Academy (VDA) told the Glasgow Times.
Image by Gordon Terris, Newsquest Although it only formed last year, the Bridgeton-based dance academy has already won several first-place titles at a range of contests, including the Full Out Championships. The school also has 96 individual solo and duo winners, of which Paige says she is so proud.
Youngsters at VDA – which takes children from the age of 15 months to 22 years old and teaches a range of dances from street, lyrical and commercial – will compete in their biggest competition at Alton Towers this November.
It comes after the academy sold out their one-year anniversary dance show, which will take place on August 2.
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Paige, who was previously crowned world champion at the United Dance Organisation Competition, said: 'The kids sold out the show in two days and they are just on cloud nine. They can't quite believe it.
'We all cried when the last ticket sold because it felt so special that over 200 people wanted to see them dance. I am so proud of them.'
She added: 'Each dancer works so hard, and they deserve to feel this excitement. I believe in these kids so much, and I couldn't have picked a better bunch to fulfil my dream.'
The show, which is called Enters the Jungle, has been dubbed the school's most exciting production yet. Filled with throwback classics, vibrant-themed dance costumes and an added Rio De Janeiro Carnival feather feature, attendees are in for a brilliant night.
'The show has been hard work, in all honesty,' Paige said.
She continued: 'We did not expect to sell out the show at all, but it has been amazing to see so many people wanting to come and watch these kids perform. We even have a waiting list.
'It's incredible, I'm truly gobsmacked at how fast the tickets have sold out and now the pressure is on to create our best show yet.'
Image by Gordon Terris, Newsquest The show will also act as a celebration, given the ups and downs VDA has experienced within its first year.
Paige explained: 'The first year has been a bit of a challenge as I didn't expect the dance school to blow up like it did and for it to be so busy.
'I'm forever grateful for what we have built together as a dance family. It was tough getting here but I know the struggles - being an East End kid myself. But winning a world title, it got me thinking that I wanted to inspire more young people to do the same.'
And to say that VDA has been inspiring for youngsters in the area seems to be an understatement.
'Volume Dance Academy makes a difference to the East End kids' lives every day,' Paige said.
She added: 'Our studio helps improve mental health as it helps the kids express themselves and teaches them to take control of their emotions. The sport itself reduces stress and helps build self-esteem.
'The academy is a safe place and gives the kids a sense of belonging. It also creates an inclusive environment, builds friendships, and teaches discipline.
"It just shows that with encouragement and support, the youngsters can do anything. These East End kids just need the right place and right support around them and that is what Volume does.'
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The dance academy is currently fundraising to cover the cost of every kid competing at Alton Towers.
You can find out more or donate to the fundraiser by visiting www.gofundme.com/f/get-our-kids-to-a-huge-3-day-dance-competition