About Us Debut Dance Academy
Fun and Fundamentals
in Dance and the Performing Arts
Founded in 2021, Debut Dance Academy was created to give children a welcoming space to learn the fundamentals of the performing arts while keeping fun at the heart of every class.
Not every child wants to take exams or follow a strict syllabus, but at DDA we believe every child should have the opportunity to express themselves through dance, drama, singing and performance. Our classes are designed to help children build confidence, make friends, develop new skills and nurture their passion for the arts in a positive and encouraging environment.
We use our own target-based approach to learning, helping students develop strong foundations in dance technique, performance skills and creativity without the pressure of exams. Throughout the year, students are given opportunities to showcase their talents, including taking part in our annual show.
Debut Dance Academy is created and run by professional performers, meaning your child is learning safe dance technique, gaining industry knowledge and developing confidence under the guidance of experienced teachers.
Why Choose DDA?
At Debut Dance Academy, we promote a happy, healthy mindset through our no-exams approach to performing arts training. Children learn to sing, dance and act while developing confidence, creativity, teamwork and self-expression.
Our classes are suitable for children who simply want to enjoy the performing arts, as well as those who may wish to build strong foundations for future training or a career in the industry.
Students can enjoy:
All staff are insured and hold an enhanced DBS. Staff also hold paediatric first aid qualifications.
Meet The Team
Sofia Higham
Founder and Principal
Sofia began performing at a young age before going on to train full time at The Urdang Academy in London, where she gained a First Class BA Honours Degree in Dance and Musical Theatre from one of the country’s leading musical theatre schools.
After making her professional debut as a dancer at Disneyland Paris, Sofia continued working as a performer while also developing her passion for teaching. She has taught dance, drama and musical theatre since 2017 across a range of performing arts establishments and has also gained experience working full time in a London primary school.
After moving to Fareham in 2019, Sofia followed her childhood dream of opening her own dance and theatre school — and Debut Dance Academy made its debut.
Bethany Williams
Class Teacher
Beth began her musical theatre career training at the University of Chichester. Following this, she made her professional debut as a Redcoat Performer for Butlins, where she performed in eight different shows alongside many well-known faces.
Beth brings energy, enthusiasm and experience to the DDA team and loves helping students grow in confidence across singing, dancing and acting. She is especially passionate about supporting students with their singing technique and helping them enjoy performing.
House Rules
Students must be dropped off and picked up from directly outside the studio door, students will not be dismissed unless passed directly to a parent/guardian. Please inform the principal as to who is collecting your child.
Please ensure your child is wearing appropriate foot-ware/clothing for the specific class. i.e. ballet shoes , tap shoes etc.
DDA is a snack-free school so please ensure students come to class with a drink only. In special circumstances regarding this, please contact the principal.
Shows are not compulsory but are advised.
In critical rehearsals leading up to shows and performances, all students taking part must attend. These critical rehearsals will be for 4 weeks before every show. Failure to attend these rehearsals may result in your child not participating fully in the show.
Debut Dance Academy is based in Titchfield, Fareham, Hampshire, with classes held at Titchfield Community Centre.
Phone: 07881 292981
Email: info@debutdance.co.uk
Alternative email: sofia@debutdance.co.uk
