Words: John Baron
A professional dancer who has appeared in some of the West End’s most successful musicals has launched a new fitness and dance studio with his wife in Pudsey town centre.
Kade Ferraiolo, 34, is a professional dancer, yoga instructor, and personal trainer with a passion for mindfulness and fitness – and is looking forward to his biggest challenge yet – running Studio 87 in Pudsey.
He trained at the prestigious Hammond School of Dance and Drama in Chester for 15 years graduating in 2006, before working with the English National Ballet and The Royal Opera House, before transitioning to West End musical theatre shows.
He’s been lucky enough to work in London and all over the world, touring with some of the West End’s most successful musicals such as Disney’s Aladdin, Mamma Mia!, We Will Rock You, Chicago, Oliver!, Nativity the Musical, Mack and Mabel, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. He told West Leeds Dispatch:
“It was while travelling through South East Asia with Mamma Mia International Tour that I picked up my passion for mindfulness and yoga, working with some of the best yogis and gurus I could ever have wished for.
“It was not just yoga and meditation that was a real asset during my performing career – to be a professional dancer it is extremely important to maintain the highest level of fitness. This led me to be really passionate about all aspects of fitness and go on to get a Personal Trainer qualification.”
Mr Ferraiolo said he is excited to open Studio 87 in Pudsey, where he lives with his wife Laura, 30, who runs the business side of the venture. He added:
“Laura is originally from here and we actually met each other eight years ago as dance partners in Mamma Mia! I want to bring something special to the community for every level whether that be somebody who has never been to a fitness class before or a budding future professional dancer.
“At Studio 87, it is my ambition to help you feel healthy in body and calm in mind. I offer a variety of classes for all levels including dance, yoga, HIIT, strength training, ballet fit, meditation and more.
“What makes us unique is that we’re the antithesis of a gym, where people might be scared to enter as they’re FILLED with testosterone. I want to put the fun back into fitness, be inclusive for everyone and have no barriers to entry – if you haven’t danced before then don’t worry, we’re here to support you and you’re very welcome. There are no barriers here.”
Studio 87 Pudsey opens today on the refurbished second floor at Pudsey House, Market Place, Pudsey.
“The Pudsey community has shown fantastic support,” Mr Ferraiolo said. “We aim to support all parts of the community are are aware there’s not always a lot for young people to do in the town centre on an evening.
“Tonight we have West End Workout Kids, where youngsters can learn a fun dance routine from Aladdin! We aim to expand our offering for youngsters as we go along.”
More details and bookings can be made on the Studio 87 website.