MEET THE TEAM
Hayley - Co-Principal
Hayley, co-principal of DH Dance Academy, is a passionate and dedicated dance educator and performer with a lifelong love for the art of movement. Her dance journey began at the age of three at her local dance school, where she quickly discovered her natural talent and deep passion for performing. Over the years, she trained extensively in a wide variety of styles, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Street Dance, Musical Theatre, and Hip Hop—developing into a versatile and expressive dancer with a strong technical foundation.
At 17, Hayley took the leap to pursue dance professionally, enrolling in North London Dance Studios for full-time training. During her time there, she immersed herself in intensive study, refining her technique, expanding her performance range, and successfully completing a series of dance examinations and professional qualifications.
Following her graduation, Hayley enjoyed an accomplished career as a professional performer. She worked with renowned choreographers and artists, and her career highlights include performances in major theatre productions, national pantomimes, charity events, and high-profile televised and live appearances. Some of her most notable credits include Britain’s Next Top Model, performances at The Leicester Square Theatre, Cinderella at The Shaw Theatre, Her Majesty’s Theatre, The London Palladium, Sadler’s Wells, and the Michael Jackson EU Tour, among many others.
Alongside her performance career, Hayley always maintained a deep commitment to teaching. Her passion for guiding the next generation of dancers is at the heart of everything she does. As a teacher, she is known for her nurturing yet disciplined approach, aiming to instill not only strong technique but also self-confidence, creativity, and a love for dance in every student she teaches. She believes in creating a positive, inclusive environment where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential—on and off the stage.
Now as co-principal of DH Dance Academy, Hayley is proud to lead and continually grow a school that reflects her values: excellence, encouragement, and empowerment. She is devoted to making DH Dance a warm, welcoming, and inspiring space for students, families, and faculty alike—a place where dancers of all ages and levels can thrive, dream big, and discover their unique voice through dance.
Holly - Co-Principal
Holly, Co-Principal of DH Dance Academy, brings a wealth of experience, passion, and professionalism to her role as both educator and mentor. Her journey in dance began at the age of 3 at her local dance school, where she developed a solid foundation in ISTD Ballet, Tap, and Modern. Over the years, she expanded her training to include pointework and jazz technique, demonstrating early on a commitment to versatility and excellence in her craft.
As a young dancer, Holly successfully auditioned to become a Musical Theatre Associate at the prestigious Urdang Academy in London. There, she further honed her skills in jazz, contemporary, musical theatre, ballet, and classical repertoire, enriching her understanding of performance and stage presence. At 18, Holly took the next step in her professional development by enrolling in full-time training at North London Dance Studios. During her time there, she achieved her ISTD teaching qualifications in Tap, Modern Theatre, and Imperial Classical Ballet. Her dedication to continuous learning and high standards has remained central to her career ever since.
In addition to her ISTD certifications, Holly has continued to broaden her teaching expertise through further professional development. She is a fully qualified and registered teacher with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD), and is certified in both Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) and Acrobatic Arts – programs that support safe, effective training and cross-disciplinary strength in young dancers. Most recently, Holly has achieved Licentiate Higher Teaching Status with the ISTD in both Ballet and Modern Theatre, a recognition of her advanced knowledge and instructional excellence. She is currently preparing to pursue Fellowship Status, the highest level of accreditation within the ISTD, further demonstrating her commitment to teaching at the highest possible standard.
Holly is passionate about nurturing each student’s individual potential and fostering a love for dance in a supportive and inspiring environment. Her comprehensive background, combined with her enthusiasm and dedication, make her an invaluable role model within the DH Dance Academy community.
Liv - Teacher
Liv has been passionate about dance from a very young age, beginning her journey at just 3 years old. She began her training at The Highstone Dance Academy, where she developed a strong foundation in multiple styles, including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Modern, Lyrical, and Street. From the beginning, Liv demonstrated dedication, versatility, and a natural flair for performance.
To further her training and pursue dance at a professional level, Liv went on to study at the renowned Centre PAC. During her time there, she received high-quality training from industry professionals, gained extensive stage and performance experience, and earned valuable qualifications that have supported her progression into the world of professional dance.
Now an accomplished dancer and committed teacher, Liv brings her energy, experience, and creativity into every class. She is passionate about nurturing young talent and believes strongly in the power of dance to build confidence, discipline, and self-expression. Liv takes great pride in helping her students grow—not just as dancers, but as individuals—and finds joy in watching them develop their skills, reach their goals, and fall in love with dance.
Whether she’s teaching beginners or more advanced students, Liv brings a positive, encouraging approach to her classes, creating a fun and supportive environment where everyone feels empowered to succeed.
Lydia - Teacher
Lydia is a passionate and dedicated performing arts professional with a rich background in both performance and education. Her journey began at the prestigious Susi Earnshaw Theatre School, where she laid the foundation for her training in performing arts. She later advanced her studies at Bird College of Dance and Theatre Performance, earning a BA (Hons) in Dance and Professional Musical Theatre with an Upper Second-Class Honours (2:2).
From a young age, Lydia has had an unwavering love for performing. Her career highlights include an exciting year aboard the Norwegian ‘Epic’ Cruise Ship, where she performed in the hit musical ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’. She also toured extensively across the UK with CBeebies’ ‘In The Night Garden Live’, bringing beloved characters to life for young audiences. Lydia’s on-screen experience includes commercial work for major brands such as BOOTS, UNICEF, ZIZZI, and AMAZON, showcasing her versatility as a performer.
With a wide-ranging skill set, Lydia teaches multiple dance styles as well as singing, drama, and musical theatre. She is deeply committed to creating an inclusive and inspiring classroom environment, where students of all ages and abilities can thrive. Her teaching philosophy centres around blending fun, creativity, and discipline to help students build confidence, develop technique, and most importantly—enjoy the process of learning.
Lydia brings energy, experience, and enthusiasm to every class, aiming to ignite a love for the performing arts in each of her students.
Elle - Teacher
Elle has been dancing since the age of four, training in a wide variety of styles including ballet, jazz, tap, contemporary, and street dance. Her passion and dedication to dance were evident from an early age, which led her to join the prestigious London Studio Centre’s Associates Programme during her teenage years. Her commitment to honing her craft then took her to the Urdang Academy, one of the UK's top performing arts schools, where she continued to grow as a versatile performer.
Elle completed her BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre and Dance at Performers College, a renowned institution for professional training in the performing arts. While there, she also obtained her teaching qualifications, further solidifying her ability to inspire and educate the next generation of dancers. Since graduating, Elle has gained professional experience in the commercial dance industry, performing in music videos, live shows, and other creative projects. Most recently, touring internationally as a professional dancer with Aida Cruises, showcasing her talent on stages around the world.
Alongside her performance career, Elle is a passionate and nurturing teacher. She brings energy, creativity, and care into every class she leads. Her teaching style emphasizes technique, confidence, and expression, while creating a fun, positive, and encouraging environment for all her students. She finds true joy in watching her dancers grow, not only in their skills but also in their love for dance.
Whether in the studio or on stage, Elle’s dedication to the art of dance shines through. Her students benefit from her wealth of experience, professional insight, and most importantly, her genuine love for teaching.
Beth - Acro Specialist
Beth is our in-house Acro Specialist, bringing a wealth of knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to every class she leads. With an impressive background in Gymnastics and Acrobatics, Beth has trained and competed at the highest levels — proudly representing Great Britain in the 2009 World Games. Her dedication and skill make her a standout in the field and an inspiring role model for the next generation.
Beth’s passion lies not only in her own achievements but in nurturing the talent and confidence of the next generation. She is deeply committed to helping children and teens develop their strength, flexibility, and technical precision in a fun and supportive environment. Her teaching style balances discipline with encouragement, ensuring students feel both challenged and empowered.
Beth leads a variety of group Acro classes designed for different ages and abilities, and also offers private one-on-one sessions for students seeking to take their training to the next level. Whether a student is just beginning their Acro journey or preparing for advanced performance work, Beth provides expert guidance tailored to individual goals.
Shannon - Teacher
Shannon is a professionally trained dancer, having graduated from the prestigious Bird College of Dance, Music & Theatre Performance. With a strong foundation in classical and contemporary techniques, she brings both technical expertise and vibrant energy to every class she leads. In addition to her dance training, Shannon is a fully qualified barre instructor, blending her knowledge of alignment, strength training, and movement into a dynamic and accessible workout experience.
Dance has been Shannon’s lifelong passion, and she is dedicated to sharing that passion with others. Her approach is rooted in the belief that movement should be joyful, empowering, and inclusive. Through her classes, she helps individuals build confidence, improve their fitness, and discover a deeper connection with their bodies.
At DH Dance Academy, Shannon leads the popular Adults Dance Fit Classes, where she combines upbeat choreography, strength-based barre elements, and a supportive atmosphere to ensure every participant leaves feeling stronger and more inspired. Whether you're brand new to dance and fitness or looking to take your practice to the next level, Shannon is committed to guiding you with encouragement, patience, and expert instruction.
Shannon always strives to create a welcoming and safe environment where everyone feels comfortable to move, explore, and grow. Her goal is to help each client find joy in movement and feel empowered in their journey—both on and off the dance floor.
Victoria - Teams Choreographer
Victoria brings a wealth of experience both on stage and in the studio, having worked with some of the biggest names and events in the entertainment industry. Her impressive credits include performances and collaborations with renowned artists such as Dua Lipa, Camila Cabello, Black Eyed Peas, Mabel, Bebe Rexha, Imagine Dragons, Rita Ora, Take That, Robbie Williams, Alexandra Burke, Stormzy, and Kylie Minogue. She has also appeared at major events like the Summertime Ball, Jingle Bell Ball, Royal Variety Show, and prestigious television shows including Britain’s Got Talent, Strictly Come Dancing, The Great Dancer, and The Masked Dancer. Victoria’s versatility and professionalism have also led her to work on high-profile productions such as the MOBO Awards, European Music Awards, and Tina Turner The Musical.
With such a diverse and extensive background, Victoria is deeply passionate about sharing her knowledge and skills with her students. She is a dedicated and inspiring teacher who believes in creating a supportive and enjoyable learning environment. Her fun and encouraging approach helps students to build confidence, develop their unique talents, and achieve their highest potential. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming to refine your craft, Victoria’s expert guidance ensures every class is both rewarding and exciting.
Chloe-Jo - Teams Choreographer
Chloe-Jo began dancing at the age of 3 at Strickland Cook Theatre School and developed her passion by competing in national competitions and championships across the UK. She earned numerous titles and proudly reached the Grand Top 6 in the Miss Dance of Great Britain finals for three consecutive years.
As a professionally trained performer, Chloe-Jo has appeared in acclaimed West End productions such as Mamma Mia, Dick Whittington, and Cinderella, as well as working in television and radio. Alongside her performance career, she is a qualified teacher and an active member of IDTA, ISTD, and LAMDA. With over 10 years of teaching experience, she has worked in schools and colleges nationwide, taught internationally via Zoom, and regularly judges dance competitions and festivals.
Chloe-Jo is also the founder and director of CJ Theatre Intensives, an intensive training programme that connects aspiring performers with Industry Professionals through workshops designed to develop technique, confidence, and industry knowledge.
Known for her passion, professionalism, and nurturing teaching style, Chloe-Jo is dedicated to inspiring and supporting the next generation of performers both on stage and beyond.
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