our dance & performing arts school

BASED IN DERBY

Passion, practice, persistence… performing is our way of life!

Elevate your child's passion for dance & performing arts at our premier Derby-based studio! Immerse them in a world of diverse dance styles and performing arts classes, including commercial, lyrical, acro, musical theatre, singing, and drama. Our expert instructors foster confidence and skill development in every class, ensuring a transformative and empowering experience for your child.

Born To Perform is run by Shanley Booth - a passionate professional with 17 years of experience running successful theatre schools. The academy was created to build a close-knit local community of talented young performers.

A community that supports each other and believes they can achieve anything.

Want to get involved? We’d absolutely love to have you.
Browse our classes, timetables and pricing - and feel free to get in touch with any questions.

No matter your age or ability, we have a class if you have the passion. Our syllabus includes musical theatre, commercial dance and drama, dance technique, lyrical, singing and acro. We’re also delighted to be able to offer 1-1 sessions in all subjects.

We want to ensure our students believe that anything is possible if they put their minds to it - which means we’ll create a jam-packed schedule full of incredible opportunities. This includes an annual theatre showcase, performances at local events, termly workshops with industry pros, social events for each age group, and an annual awards ceremony.

All our teachers are current or ex industry professionals, who are so thrilled to be able to pass on their knowledge and skills to passionate students.
(All our teachers are DBS checked before running any classes.)

We’re also able to give students who wish to go on to vocational training the best foundation to start their wonderful careers.

MEET THE TEAM

Shanley Booth - Principal

Shanley started dancing at the age of 5 in her hometown of Blackburn at a local dance school. Throughout the years of her childhood she was regularly part of the child cast of the nearby pantomimes and at high school choreographed the productions.

At the age of 16, Shanley auditioned and was offered a place at Midlands Academy of Dance and Drama in Nottingham. Over the 3 years at MADD she worked hard to hone her performing arts skills and left with a 3 year musical theatre diploma.

Shanley worked professionally nationally and internationally as a dancer and singer for many years, and soaked up all the industry had to offer including cruise ships, casino shows and theme parks. She has 15 years of theatre school management and loves nothing more than inspiring children and young adults with her passion for the arts. This is a very exciting time for her and she cannot wait to see sparkle in her students eyes when they come to life through performing!! Shanley incorporates her level 4 advanced Personal Trainer and mindset coach to develop both physical and mental fitness and behaviours.

Megan Watson - dance teacher

The dynamic force ready to elevate your student experience! Megan's journey is nothing short of extraordinary – having honed her skills at Addict Academy , she took a deliberate step back before discovering her true calling in teaching. Her passion for education is not just a profession; it's a purpose.

Armed with a rich tapestry of experiences, Megan brings a unique blend of expertise. From her extensive training in Circus to dazzling audiences across two seasons in "Entertainment by the Sea," she's cultivated a versatile skill set that goes beyond the ordinary.

Megan's teaching prowess is not only grounded in knowledge but also fuelled by a genuine understanding of the student perspective. Having walked the path as a student herself, she is poised to guide you through the intricacies of theory while infusing vitality into your dance classes – especially commercial the technical aspects that make your skills shine.

Her enthusiasm is contagious, and her commitment to your growth is unwavering. Get ready for an immersive and inspiring educational journey, because with Megan, the adventure is about to begin!

Bo liston - commerical & lyrcial

At the age of 2 Bo started dancing at a local school, by age 11 Bo was scouted to dance alongside a professional street dance company. She was lucky enough to compete on Britain's Got Talent where she made it all the way to the finals after receiving the golden buzzer from Alesha Dixon alongside her team Entity Allstars, you may have also noticed her on The Greatest Dancer with her team Unity Uk. Bo has also competed for the UK in many different championships and gained multiple different world, European and British championship titles.

After dancing for famous artists such as Tito Jackson and performing all around the world in places such as Dubai, America and so forth, Bo believed she could build herself a career in dance she then attended a 2 year musical theatre course at Miskin Theatre where she studied dancing, singing and acting after graduating with high grades Bo then went on to study a degree in dance performance at Addict Dance Academy.

Bo has plenty of experience in both teaching and choreography since graduating, she has worked for and alongside many academies and schools to create pieces for shows and

competitions. Bo loves teaching and giving back to the next generation of dancers. She structures her lessons in a way that allows students to adapt and learn comfortably as she believes dancing should be a safe and loving environment for everyone to flourish in their own way.

Lucy fearn - musical theatre

Lucy is currently studying at Performers University on a 3 year Performing Arts Degree.

Ex BTPA student Lucy is currently teaching our Foundation & Intermediate singing & drama.

Her passion for musical theatre and singing is infectious and we love having her share her knowledge with our younger students.

She will be with us until summer when she has her sights set on a Performing Arts University, we know that she will be a West End superstar in a few years.

SHENEA FAWZI-PERRIN - ACRO

images of acro teacher at derby dance school Shenea Fawzi-Perrin

A distinguished 4-time Acro World Champion, a former elite gymnast, a celebrated AcroPad Athlete, and a co-founder of the renowned Acro Dance Mastery. Shenea’s passion for performance continues to burn brightly, and is thrilled to share she recently graced the set of a thrilling Netflix movie alongside some of the industry's most iconic talents, including luminaries such as Mark Wahlberg and Halle Berry.

In addition to her extraordinary performing career, she has been honoured to choreograph award-winning routines for the World Cup. Her expertise has been shared with students at esteemed institutions, schools, colleges, and academies, where she has had the privilege of nurturing the talents of the next generation. Shenea will undoubtedly continue to push the boundaries of excellence in the world of acro and dance.

Izzi Stockford - COMMERCIAL & ITSY BITSY ACRO

Izzi joined us as a student teacher in September 23’ and has shown remarkable growth in her teaching journey ever since. She takes every opportunity to learn and refine her craft, bringing energy and enthusiasm to her classes.

Currently, Izzi teaches our Itsy Bitsy Acro and Foundation Commercial classes, as well as assisting on Saturdays. She’s a favourite among her students, inspiring them with her creativity and technique while nurturing their confidence and abilities.

But Izzi’s ambitions don’t stop there – she dreams of becoming a stuntwoman, showcasing her daring, adventurous spirit and love for action. We’re so excited to see where her passion and talent will take her in the future!

RO JORDAN - MUSICAL THEAtre

Ro brings a wealth of experience and creativity to her teaching. With an Extended Diploma in Performing Arts and a deep passion for theatricality, she is dedicated to helping students develop their technique and confidence as performers.

An alumna of Italia Conti, Ro has worked as a Senior Music Producer and singer/session musician at Fiction Studios, as well as an Artist and Songwriter for Soho Sonic Studios. Her innovative musicianship and creative vision make her an inspiring guide for aspiring performers.

As an artist and musician, Ro has released her own music, featured on international platforms like BBC Radio and Radio Wigwam. She’s earned recognition with BBC’s Track of the Week and is currently nominated for two prestigious awards: ‘Best Female Act’ and ‘Best Live Act’ with Radio Wigwam.

Ro’s journey is a testament to her talent and dedication, and we’re thrilled to have her sharing her expertise with our students!

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