Matt Fiddes, erstwhile bodyguard and close friend of the legendary Michael Jackson, is set to open a new children’s dance school in Chard this spring. The renowned martial arts expert and dancer, 46, will launch his MF Dance School on Friday, March 6, welcoming children aged three to 15.
This exciting new location is the latest expansion of Fiddes’ growing dance network, which already includes studios in Taunton, Weston-super-Mare, Bristol, Yate, and Wellington.
Louisa, one of the MF Dance instructors, highlights the positive impact street dance has on young dancers: “Street dance is a powerful way for children to express themselves. We see their confidence build week by week. It isn’t just about learning routines—it’s about teamwork, discipline, friendship, and creating a space where every child feels they belong.”
Fiddes’ journey to dance leader is marked by resilience and passion. After overcoming bullying as a child, he discovered martial arts as a means of self-defense, opening his first martial arts school at just 16 with a modest £100 start-up. By 18, he had turned his passion into a multimillion-pound business.
His path crossed with Michael Jackson in 1998, forging a deep friendship that lasted until the pop icon’s death in 2009. Fiddes has often spoken publicly about their bond, sharing heartfelt stories. He revealed to lifestyle magazine Rolling Out: “I wasn’t employed or paid by Michael. He offered me money, but I didn’t want it. Sometimes he’d call me from Heathrow’s Terminal 5 and say, ‘I’m flying to England, come pick me up and let’s hang out.’”
At the heart of MF Dance is a commitment to inclusivity. The team welcomes children of all abilities and experience levels. Louisa shares, “Dance is about creativity, self-expression, and joy. It should be accessible to everyone, not just a select few. Every child deserves to dance, feel the music, build friendships, push their boundaries, and shine in their own unique way.”
Families interested in joining the new Chard classes can register for free trial sessions online ahead of the launch. Follow MF Dance on Facebook to stay updated.