A Macclesfield dance school is encouraging boys to give it a go.

Throughout February, Sylk Dance Academy are celebrating their male dancers and teachers, highlighting their achievements and sharing how dance has positively impacted their lives.

As part of this, they are offering all boys the opportunity to attend a free class.

Principal Amy Mayers said: "Our dance school has always attracted a large number of boys, thanks to the styles we offer and the strong presence of male teachers.

"Street dance — especially breakdancing — is particularly popular with boys as it's energetic, powerful, and full of exciting tricks and skills.

"We want to keep this momentum going and show boys everywhere that dance isn't just for girls."

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Sylk Dance Academy are offering free classes to boys throughout February (Credit: Sylk Dance Academy)

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Over the last 15 years, male dancers in the media — including Britain's Got Talent and similar shows — have helped change perceptions.

TV series like The Next Step and films such as Step Up have made dance feel exciting and 'cool' for both boys and girls.

Social media and the rising popularity of musicals have also seen more boys eager to get involved.

Amy added: "Dance offers so many benefits for everyone, including improved mental health, confidence, creativity, and social and emotional skills.

"While the stigma around dance being a 'girls' activity' has improved over the years, it still exists — and sadly, this can stop some boys from giving dance a try.  

''At Sylk Dance, we are incredibly proud of our boys.

"We want boys to walk into our studios and see just how amazing our male teachers and dancers are.

"There's a world of opportunity waiting, and we hope many boys in Macclesfield will come along and give dance a try!"

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Boys at Sylk Dance take part in a wide range of styles, from contemporary and breakdance to gymnastics.

Amy's own son is exploring career opportunities in dance, including teaching, judging, and performing on TV and in theatre.

Simon Aggersbury is father to two sons who attend classes at Sylk Dance Academy.

He said: ''For my eldest, dance is a sanctuary for his ADHD and autistic mind.

"It gives his high energy a beautiful purpose and offers a low-pressure social setting.

"My younger son finds dance a joyful expression of his soul, and watching them both at the studio is a masterclass of how movement heals and connects.''  

One of Simon's sons (Credit: Sylk Dance Academy)

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