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 & fOUNDER

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 - ASSISTANT PRINICPAL

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!

Lucy fearn - musical theatre & DRAMA

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

Ex BTPA student Lucy is teaching our Foundation & Intermediate musical theatre & 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 2026 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.

IzzY BARLOW - ITSY BITSY CREW

Izzi is joining us as a student teacher from September 25’, she is currently in her second year at BTP College and has shown remarkable growth in her journey. Izzi takes every opportunity to learn and refine her craft, bringing energy and enthusiasm to her training at college and we have no doubt that the Itsy Bitsy students are going to thouroughly enjoy classes with her.

Izzi will teach our Itsy Bitsy Crew and Acro and Foundation classes, as well as assisting on Tuesdays.

We’re so excited to see where her passion and talent will take her in the future!

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.

CRISCHAELA MASON - BALLET & LYRICAL

Born in South Africa and raised in the vibrant city of Dubai, Crischaela's journey in the world of performing arts started at Scott and Lisa Marshall’s Diverse Choreography Performing Arts. It was here that she discovered her passion for performing and was inspired by her mentors to share her knowledge through teaching. Her dedication and talent led her to Laine Theatre Arts, where she not only trained but graduated with flying colours, earning a well-deserved distinction.

From flashmobs to pantomimes, Crischaela has graced various stages, enchanting audiences with her performances. Her melodious voice has become a regular feature at the renowned Archer Street in London. For the past three years, Crischaela has been an integral part of Performers College Birmingham, where she not only teaches Jazz and Musical Theatre but also lends her creative touch to choreography for end-of-year productions and in-house musicals.

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