About us

Emma began dancing at the age of 3, studying a number of dance genres and has gained qualifications in classical ballet, tap, jazz, theatre craft, stage, disco and ballroom. Her training and extreme passion for dance naturally led her into the dance profession and she has over 4 years professional experience working in both the UK and overseas as a dancer, choreographer and lead vocalist.

Emma taught dance for 8 years in various schools across South Yorkshire before opening EPDA in 2008. Emma studied at the prestigious bbodance (British Ballet Organization) headquarters in London, where she graduated as a qualified dance teacher. Her qualifications include a Level 5 Diploma in Dance Teaching from bbodance and a BTEC National Diploma in Performing Arts. She is also a certified Acrobatic Arts teacher and holds a certification in Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT) for Junior, Senior and Advanced programs.

Emma takes an active role in the dance community and dedicates most of her spare time to continue her professional development in dance. She is the bbodance North East Regional Representative and a qualified bbodance Examiner.

Ellie began dancing at the age of 4 and worked her way through the bbodance syllabus covering ballet, tap and Jazz. At the age of 18 she began her career touring shows both in the UK and Asia before working onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL). She also danced as part of Vaudeville Productions onboard P&O minicruises, Fjord Line and Page & Moy cruises. Ellie loves teaching all ages but specialises in our EPDA Tiny Feet - Grade 1 levels in Ballet, Tap and Modern.

Alice trained at EPDA for several years in all genres, and taught for a further 3. Through her love of sports, Alice attended the University of Huddersfield where she gained a 1st class honours degree in Podiatry, with a keen interest in the biomechanics of the body and musculoskeletal injuries. After working as a podiatrist for 18 months and setting up a private mobile foot clinic, Alice returned to education to study a Master’s degree in Physiotherapy. Alice has a piqued interest in pointe, ballet and acro dance with regards to the strength, conditioning and technique required for safe performance.

Cordie started dancing with EPDA at the age of 7. During her time as a student, she learnt a variety of genres, her favourites being tap and street dance. She also developed a passion for performing which led her to study Comedy Writing and Performance at the University of Salford. Having recently graduated, she is excited to return to the EPDA family.

Hannah started dancing at the age of 3. Her love of dancing and performing led her to study performing arts through school and at college. Wanting to share the love she has for performing, Hannah began studying Musical Theatre at The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), graduating in 2019. While at university Hannah realised how much she loved to perform and wanted to be able to pass on her passion and after graduating she returned home and began to teach dancing and singing. Performing in and choreographing a recent production of ‘The Queens Nose’ further developed Hannah’s desire to teach. Hannah loves teaching Musical Theatre at EPDA.

After 22 years of working within education with children, Claire joined EPDA as our Office Manager. Claire assists with the running of our office reception at EPDA, helping organise events, preparing for show performances and much more! She is always available during class times to answer questions and help students and parents. Claire is extremely enthusiastic about what dance and the performing arts have to offer children and adults and she brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience of working with children from her previous role.