The dance school market - France

The French market for dance lessons has grown in popularity with various forms such as artistic, sports, rock, country, leisure, social and pole dancing, mainly taught in dance schools and by tutors. Despite the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sector in 2020, the market has shifted towards online and distance dance courses. In 2020, dance will be the eighth favorite sport of the French, with 17% of the population practicing this activity, i.e. some 11 million people, with a more marked preference among women. The French Dance Federation (FFD) recorded a 5% increase in the number of members, to a total of 84,872 in metropolitan France. The number of affiliated dance clubs fell by 13%, but the southern regions maintained higher rates of participation.

Dance classes are offered in a variety of settings, with prices varying according to location and type of dance, while technological advances such as fitness apps and gadgets have further popularized dance. The dance market is important in the French health and fitness sector, considered to be part of the fitness activities category, contributing to a market value estimated at around 500 million euros. The sector is influenced by the media, digital tools, a wide range of offerings, and social factors such as stress relief and cultural expression, with country dance and dance-fitness such as Zumba being notable trends.

Emerging dance trends and market dynamics in France

France has seen a growing enthusiasm for dance over the past decade, with the number of people practicing the activity doubling. This popularity is reflected in the growing number of dance enthusiasts, with almost 11 million French people taking part occasionally or regularly. Of these, some 3.25 million are considered regular dancers, while almost 2 million are enrolled in dance classes. In addition, the French Dance Federation (FFD) issued over 88,000 licenses, twice as many as in 2008 (around 40,000), testifying to the strong growth of the dance sector. Country dancing in particular is enjoying remarkable success, with around 4 million dancers, the majority of whom are from working-class or middle-income backgrounds. The genre is particularly popular at community festivals throughout France, indicating a trend towards social and leisure dance forms. Demand for dance as a fitness activity is also on the rise. Dance is classed with other fitness activities, such as bodybuilding and combat sports. It is estimated that 22% of the world's 18.5 million fitness enthusiasts, or around 4 million people, engage in dance-related activities. Fitness and dance studios generally offer salsa and zumba classes, the latter being renowned for its accessibility and standardized format that appeals to a wide audience. Although dance is more widespread in the southern half of France, all regions report active participation in this activity.

The reasons for taking up dance are manifold; in addition to the physical aspect, it plays an important role in cultural expression, social interaction, stress relief, therapeutic benefits and improved body image. TV shows like "Dancing with the Stars" and video games like "Just Dance" have influenced young people, fuelling dance culture in France. This shift is driving innovation in the market, with digital trainers and mobile apps blurring the boundaries between traditional dance instruction and technology-based self-study. In conclusion, the dance market in France is showing flourishing trends both in terms of demand and diversification of offerings. The interplay between media influence, fitness integration, accessibility and cultural significance makes dance an expanding segment that appeals to a wide range of participants across the country.

Key players in the French dance instruction market

As the French dance instruction market continues to thrive, several key players have emerged, each contributing to the diverse landscape of dance instruction and experience in the region. These institutions and organizations offer a range of dance styles and cater for different segments of the dance community, from amateurs to aspiring professionals. Below, we explore the main entities shaping the French dance scene.

• Paris Opera Ballet: A beacon of classical dance, the Paris Opera Ballet is a prestigious institution not only in France, but worldwide. With its rich history and reputation for excellence, it not only performs a wide repertoire of traditional and contemporary ballets, but also plays an important role in training the next generation of ballet dancers.
• Conservatoire national supérieur de danse de Paris: This renowned conservatory offers a rigorous program for dancers striving for professional excellence. Offering high-level theoretical and practical training, it paves the way for graduates to secure positions with renowned dance companies and on stages the world over.
• Ballet national de Marseille: A leading company in the south of France, Ballet national de Marseille presents a blend of innovative contemporary dance and classical ballet. The company actively engages with the community through performances and dance education programs.
• Center de danse Chorea, CCL Bihorel, The SCC School: Although less renowned than the national conservatories, these centers are the backbone of local dance education. Offering courses in a variety of dance forms, they enable dancers to hone their skills and communities to engage with the art form.
• Center des Arts Vivants de Paris: A notable association in the heart of Paris, this center offers a plethora of dance classes for amateurs of all levels. It is known for its dynamic community and its contributions to the city's cultural fabric.
• Basic-fit and The Fitness Apartment: These modern fitness clubs have integrated dance into their programs, making dance more accessible as a form of exercise and leisure. They often offer classes in popular styles such as Zumba and Latino, which appeal to those looking to combine fitness with the fun of dance.
• ZumbaFrance: Capitalizing on the worldwide Zumba craze, ZumbaFrance brings this energetic dance and fitness program to Parisians. With exciting classes that blend Latin rhythms and calorie-burning moves, this program offers a fun and effective workout for dance enthusiasts of all ages.

Inforamtion

• Number of pages : 30 pages
• Format : Digital and PDF versions
• Last update : 29/03/2023

Summary and extracts

List of charts

• Pratique de la danse - que ce soit de façon personnelle, dans un club, une association ou une salle ?
• En 2022, avez-vous l'intention de faire plus de sport et d'activités physiques ?
• Sports que les français comptent pratiquer en 2022
• Prix horaire moyen d'un cours à domicile selon le type de danse
• Répartition des licences délivrées par la FFD selon l'âge
• Evolution du nombre de licence en FFD
• Répartition des licences en FFD selon le sexe
• Evolution du nombre de licence en FFD
• Evolution du nombre de licences sportives délivrées par des organismes agréés
• Intentions sur les lieux de pratique sportive à la suite de la crise sanitaire
• Nombre de clubs affiliés à la FFD
• Une préférence des danseurs pour les cours collectifs
• Principales raisons pour lesquelles les français veulent faire du sport
• Lieux de pratique du fitness