Sophia Vermaas AISTD LISTD PIA

Director and Founder of DanceTots-Boutique Dance Studio for Tiny People

“Teaching our little ones life-lessons through dance takes time, energy, patience and love.”

Dance was always part of Sophia’s life – she started at the age of 3 and hasn’t stopped! It has always been her passion.

Sophia undertook her dance training in her native South Africa gaining her Licentiate Teaching Diploma in Tap, and her Associate Teaching Diploma in Modern Theatre Dance both through the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. (I.S.T.D) (London)

Sophia was fortunate enough to run her own dance school in South Africa in the 1990’s for 10 years. She taught tap, modern dance, jazz, funk and pre-school ballet – entering students in exams and eisteddfods. Since then she has travelled extensively, teaching in London (Pineapple Studios and private studios) as well as Edinburgh and now in Sydney at various private studios and schools.

Sophia has also completed her basic mat work Pilates Instructor (2004) through the Pilates Institute of Australasia (PIA) in North Sydney. She continues to attend workshops and seminars involving pre school education.

Having over 25 years experience, Sophia enjoys teaching all ages groups from toddlers to adults but her favourite are the tiny dancers who bring so much joy and willingness to learn. Sophia can’t imagine her life without dancing, her hubby and two young children, who also love to dance!

Akane Ishida

Ballet and Jazz Teacher

Akane has been dancing from a young age, predominantly training in Classical Ballet and has completed her Advanced 1 RAD exams under Jane Allyn. Her love of dance and performance has branched out, completing her Bachelor’s of Music (Performance) majoring in Music Theatre at the Academy of Music and Performing Arts. She further expanded her knowledge and appreciation for other styles as she completed the Training Program and the Alumni Program at DUTI studios. Akane has also been overseas and has completed a dance program with the International Dance Academy where she trained in Copenhagen and Los Angeles. She has most recently finished up the Show Business program with the Dream Dance Company under the guidance of Marko Panzic.

Akane has also completed her Certificate IV in Dance Teaching and Management in 2022. Akane has returned to teaching with a wealth of knowledge and eagerness to share her love and passion for dance to students. She endeavours to create a safe environment where students and herself are engaged, growing, curious and of course enjoying dance. She is excited to be joining the DanceTots family.

“My both girls enjoy every moment of being in Sophia’s ballet dance class . Thank you Sophia . My girls couldn’t be happier!” – Arezoo