Johnny Shentall-Lee

Lisa Scott-Lee

Alice Crawley

Beth Fedorov

Beth Hawkes

Bridgette Angelique

Cyrus Brandon

Eliza Mae Kyffin

Fiona Claire Shields

Hannah Bunes

Holly Campbell

Jake Hankey

Jennifer Tierney

Naomi Stroud

Sarah Sutherland

Vitaliy Fedorov

Johnny Shentall-Lee

A.I.S.T.D
DPA Creative Director and Choreographer

Johnny trained at the prestigious Performing Arts ‘Performers’ College in the UK, gaining his teaching qualifications and a professional diploma in Performing Arts, before going into the commercial dance industry and becoming a successful dancer for artists such as Diana Ross, Robbie Williams, Steps, Atomic Kitten, Five and Sophie Ellis Bexter. He has performed on numerous TV shows such as The Brit Awards, Stars In Their Eyes, Shooting Stars, Abba Mania, CDUK and Top of the Pops, to name a few. Other TV credits include the ITV series ‘Celeb Air’ and MTV series ‘Totally Scott-Lee’.

Following his career as a commercial dancer, Johnny then went into the Music business and signed his first record deal with the band Boom! enjoying a top 15 hit and supporting Steps and Five on their UK Arena tours. He then signed his second record deal with Hear’say, achieving a No.6 hit in the official UK charts, as well as touring and recording in Europe and America.

Johnny made his Musical Theatre debut with the first UK tour of Starlight Express playing Hip Hopper 1 and Greaseball. He made his West End debut in the original West End Cast of Footloose, playing the principle role of bad boy ‘Chuck’ and also understudied and played Ren and Willard. Other theatre credits include the ‘Jack’ in Jack and the Beanstalk, the ‘Prince’ in Snow White for Qudos and the ‘Prince’ in Cinderella for Bill Kenwright.

Johnny has gained extensive teaching and adjudicating experience, including 2 years at London’s ‘Arts Ed’ as their Street Dance Teacher, Head of Professional Diploma dance at PPA Academy UK, along with guest teaching at Performers College, Masters and Guildford School of Acting. He is known for his dynamic teaching style and his classes are very popular with his students, both in the UK and Dubai. His students have gone on to achieve successful careers in TV, Music and the West End, including three of the Les Mis Cast, which recently performed at Dubai Opera in November.

Johnny is Founder of Dubai Performing Arts Academy, fondly known as DPA, with his wife Lisa Scott-Lee from Steps, and also runs his DPA Events company alongside, utilizing his skills and talent as a Creative Director and Choreographer in the music, stage and fashion world. He has produced, directed and choreographed catwalk shows for the likes of River Island, House of Frazer, BHS, La Senza, Porsche Design, Hugo Boss, Salam Stores, Karen Millen and Harvey Nichols. Recent events include Rugby 7’s, UNICEF Charity Gala Ball, Jumeirah Beach Hotel Halloween Flash Mob, Yas Mall Abu Dhabi Fashion Week and lots more. Johnny is able to provide his DPA students with numerous performing opportunities throughout the year, regularly featuring in his professional events with local and international brands, acts and performers.

Lisa Scott-Lee

A.I.S.T.D
DPA Founder and Principal

Lisa is a member of the successful British pop group STEPS, who have achieved worldwide sales of over 20 Million records and performed to audiences over a Million, earning them the prestigious Brit Award amongst numerous awards and Platinum record discs, having achieved global success.

Steps have performed and produced 6 sell-out UK Arena tours and World tours. As a result, Lisa is an accomplished performer with many years of experience in the TV, Radio and Music World, gaining valuable years of experience as a Professional Singer, Dancer, Creative Director and Producer. Over the last 10 years, Lisa has performed over 1000 shows across the UK and Europe, China and Australia as a solo recording artist. She has appeared on, and presented, numerous TV shows.

Steps embarked on their 20th Anniversary celebrations in 2018 to mark their 20 years in the Music Business and the Entertainment Industry, which resulted in 2 further sell out Arena Tours and a No.1 Platinum selling album ‘Tears on the Dance Floor’ and 2 sell out European Arena tours, including a performance at Dubai Opera.

Steps new album What The Future Holds was released 27th November 2020 which enjoyed a No.1 UK iTunes chart position and global success. Steps are looking forward to their UK Arena Tour in 2021 and celebrating their 25th Anniversary in 2022.

Lisa is a qualified Teacher of Dance with the Internationally recognized examination board ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing) based in London and has successfully entered students for Musical Theatre, Dance and Drama Examinations.

Lisa has over 150k followers on her social media platforms and is a well known Celebrity and Influencer. Aside this, Lisa is extremely passionate about The Arts and passing on her wealth of knowledge and experience to the youth of today and the talent of tomorrow.

Alice Crawley

Miss Alice is a former DPA student who has been training at Performers College in Essex, UK, and is back to work with us as a singing and performing arts teacher.

Alice also achieved Distinction* as our founder BTEC Student. Alice is so excited to be back at DPA to teach, having been a DPA alumni student here, it’s an honor to now contribute to the community that provided such a remarkable experience.

Alice looks forward to nurturing every student to showcase their incredible personalities onstage for all to admire. Alice takes pride in her ability to instruct across all facets of performing arts. Alice is deeply committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where each student feels valued and empowered to explore their talents.

Through personalised guidance and encouragement, she aims to foster not only their artistic skills but also their confidence and self-expression.

Alice is looking forward to working with DPA Staff, Parents, and Students and joining the DPA family again.

Beth Fedorov

Head of Ballet

Beth is originally from the UK, however commenced her dance training in Cape Town, South Africa in ISTD Modern and Tap, and also RAD Ballet.

Upon returning to the UK, Beth went on to train professionally at The Hammond School in Chester – gaining her National Diploma in Professional Musical Theatre. Throughout her training she continued her Grades in RAD Ballet, and ISTD Tap and Modern.

Upon graduation in 2011, Beth went on to dance professionally across the world working in many shows such as ‘Spirit of the Dance’ (USA and Canada), Puttin’ on the Ritz (USA), New Jersey Nights (USA) and Santa Claus the Musical (Singapore).

Beth then spent 10 years working onboard Cruise Ships as a soloist with companies such as P&O, Cunard and Holland America Line, taking on the role of Dance Captain and Company Manager.

Amongst her performing Beth gained her Teaching Qualifications for Ballet through both RAD and IDTA boards, and Tap and Modern through ISTD. She has been teaching across numerous schools across the United Kingdom and Dubai, as both an RAD and ISTD Teacher whilst entering students into Annual Examinations with 100% Pass rate.

Beth has also choreographed for International Dance Competitions, notably gaining 1st place for her choreography for her Musical Theatre Jazz and Tap pieces in competitions in New York and Paris.

Following DPA’s outstanding RAD Ballet Examination results this year, Miss Beth can’t wait for another year at DPA and to share her love and enjoyment of Ballet and Dance with you all once again.

Beth Hawkes

Head of Dance and ISTD
Beth grew up in London and fell in love with dancing at the age of four, at The Del Sarto School of Ballet, studying Cecchetti with Juan Sanchez.

She went on to train at Redbridge Classical Dance Studios, where she trained to an Advanced Level in both RAD Ballet and ISTD Modern and Tap. Alongside this, she gained her Gold Bar in Latin American and Ballroom with the IDTA competing and medalling in numerous competitions across the country.

At 18, Beth gained a place at the prestigious Laine Theatre Arts in Surrey where she continued her dance training. Beth achieved her Diploma in Dance Instruction in Ballet, Tap and Modern is currently furthering her training studying for her Diploma in Dance Education.

Beth has taught in Dubai since 2014 and is DPA ‘Head of ISTD Tap and Modern Department’. The ISTD are one of the world’s leading dance examination boards with the widest range of dance genres available. The creative and inspiring syllabus provides all rounded training, encouraging students to reach their full potential to create the best dancers they can possibly be. Beth has been entering students with the ISTD for 6 years, entering hundreds of students from Primary to Advanced 2 with fantastic results.

Beth is absolutely delighted to be the DPA team as Head of Dance. She is excited to share her enthusiasm, passion and energy with you all, and she can’t wait to guide the talented students at DPA and see what they can all achieve together.

Bridgette Angelique

Bridgette is a talented, passionate and experienced Award Winning Vocal Coach from Long Island, New York, USA.

With a versatile vocal journey spanning over 30 years between the Music Industry & Performing Arts, Bridgette has established herself as a professional Singer/Songwriter/Recording Artist.

She has also been a Lead Singer for various bands in live entertainment, and in leading actress Musical Theatre roles.

Bridgette is also a music panelist on Dubai Eye Radio 103.8FM.

Bridgette’s musical passions lead to her releasing 2 Solo Albums and collaborative Single tracks with other artists. Bridgette was proud to receive a ‘Global Music Award’ for Excellence in World Music.

Bridgette also has a passion for mental health and wellness, and is a vocal coach with a modern holistic approach. Bridgette is a certified Mindhacking Lifestyle Coach, in which through learning of the hypnotherapy method, she has learned the importance of mindset and how the subconscious mind plays a big role in singing and performing.

Her mission is to help others unlock the possibilities of their voices not only for singing and performing, but to lead their best lives and spread love and joy through their voices and music.

Cyrus Brandon

Cyrus embarked on his dance journey as a Hip-Hop Dancer, touring the UK’s arenas with the dance group Urban Strides. Driven by his passion for dance, Cyrus decided to elevate his training and successfully earned a full scholarship to the prestigious ‘Tring Park School for the Performing Arts.

There, he secured his Professional Diploma in Dance & Performing Arts, laying the groundwork for his impressive 10+ year career as a versatile performer in London’s West End, Germany, and various global venues.

Cyrus made his West End debut in the musical ‘I Can’t Sing – The X-Factor Musical’ at the London Palladium. After this Cyrus ventured to Germany for ‘Starlight Express,’ where he took on the role of Hip-Hopper 1, a character initially portrayed by Johnny Shentall in the first UK tour of Starlight Express. Returning to the UK, Cyrus joined the cast of the Regent Park Open Air production of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ at the Barbican Centre. Cyrus’ talents has also taken him beyond the stage and appeared in TV commercials for Google Pixel 6. For the past four years, Cyrus has continued to shine on stage with ‘The Roller Boys,’ showcasing his roller skating skills while touring worldwide for prestigious clients such as FIFA World Cup, Disney, Samsung, Hapag Lloyd, and performing for The Royal Family of Bahrain. Notably, they also graced the stages of ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ and, most recently, ‘Holland’s Got Talent.’ While maintaining a thriving performing career, Cyrus has dedicated the past 15 years to teaching and sharing his knowledge with various schools and colleges across the UK. His excitement for the future now extends to joining the DPA team, where Cyrus is looking forward to bringing his enthusiasm to us. Cyrus eagerly anticipates imparting the wealth of knowledge and insights gained throughout his remarkable career to the next generation of performers.

Eliza Mae Kyffin

Eliza grew up in the coastal town of Llandudno, North Wales. From the age of 2, she attended Barton Dance and Drama Academy where she gained her ISTD qualifications in Ballet, Tap, Modern & Disco.

She continued her Dance training at The Hammond School gaining a First Class Degree in Musical Theatre Performance. Before entering her third year, Eliza lived in the US for 4 months where she taught circus skills at Frenchwoods Festival of Performing Arts.

Having graduated in 2020. a challenging time for both the world and industry , Eliza and fellow DPA Tutor Jake Hankey, created their own production company, New AJE Productions. With their company they produced a fully live streamed and COVID safe performance of [Title of Show], organised an agent showcase for Northern graduates and filmed digital media for the Civic Trust Awards and local Manchester band, Madame Claude.

During this time, Eliza featured in the film Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and a popular KFC Advert.

Since turning to teaching, she has taught Musical Theatre and choreographed for productions such as Wind in the Willows. Eliza is excited to continue her teaching journey at DPA.

Fiona Claire Shields

Technical Manager

Fiona was born and raised in the West of Scotland. She took her first dance class at the age of 3 at the Juliann School of Dance. Here she attended classes and completed exams in Latin American, Ballroom, and Freestyle Disco. Fiona furthered her training at the Ian McLeod Theatre School in Jazz, Ballet, Street, and Contemporary to Intermediate level. Fiona graduated from university with a BA Honors in Law whilst completing her professional teacher’s qualifications under the BATD (British Association Teachers of Dancing).

Fiona has been very fortunate to have taught within the UK, across Europe and the Middle East gaining a depth of experience in working with children and adults of all ages and backgrounds. Additionally, Fiona has run workshops, teacher training and adjudicated for the BATD within Scotland.

Upon moving to Dubai in 2016, Fiona joined a school teaching fulltime and heading up the Events within the academy. She organized multiple events throughout the calendar year; annual shows, workshops, and major international trips and competitions such as World Dance Competition, Florida.

Fiona joined DPA March 2021 as Operations Manager. She is thrilled to be on board and is passionate in supporting the teaching team and talented students of DPA.

“I do believe the most rewarding part of teaching will be what you don’t necessarily see, in that the lessons and memories given will be passed on to someone else, the everlasting art.”

Hannah Bunes

Operations Manager

Hannah is originally from a tiny town in the UK called Deal in Kent, on the South East coast.

She started dancing as a child in ISTD Ballet, Tap and Modern and then eventually Irish Dancing at the Dean Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA). During her time as a Student, Hannah was fortunate enough to perform in various pantomimes, Ballets and large-scale productions at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury, UK and in the Palace Theatre, London for Stephen Gately’s Memorial Concert.

Hannah showed a natural interest in teaching and choreographing from a young age, and went on to complete my ISTD Diploma in Tap Dance, as well as being Assistant Choreographer for various shows and productions. The students that she taught Irish Dancing to also went around the Country performing at various high-profile events, including The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee concert at the Savoy Theatre London.

In 2013 Hannah took the leap and moved to Abu Dhabi as a Dance Teacher for RAD Ballet, ISTD Modern and Tap, as well as Irish Dancing, before returning to the UK where she undertook her Early Years training. Being in the UK and missing the buzz of the UAE, Hannah returned to Dubai in 2017 to work in Early Years Education.

During the last 5 years Hannah has been Deputy Manager and Operations Supervisor for a leading EYFS nursery here in Dubai, and spent a year as a Nursery Manager in Johannesburg, South Africa. During this time, she also taught various Ballet and Dance classes to younger children.

Hannah is delighted to be at Dubai Performing Arts, where she can put to use her years of experience in the world of Performing Arts, together with Operations and Customer Service skills, as part of the Office Team.

Holly Campbell

Performing Arts Teacher

Holly has recently graduated from Bird College in London with a BA Honours degree in Dance and Performing Arts.

She has been passionate about performing from a young age and has experience in professional work and success at competitive levels.

Holly performed as a dancer in 2 runs of ‘The Real Glesga Dance Mums’ at the Pavillion Theatre in Glasgow, Scotland. She won various championship titles during her competitive dancing years, including Song and Dance Champion and Tap Champion in Scotland, England and Wales.

Holly has also taught in local dance schools, preparing students for examinations and performances, sharing her knowledge and experience.

She is excited and honoured to begin her International career at Dubai Performing Arts and share her passion for Performing Arts with students in the UAE.

Jake Hankey

Jake is from Newton-le-Willows in the North West of England. Having initially aimed for a career in Rugby League and being chosen for the St. Helen’s Academy, at the age of 14 he decided to pursue his love of performing. Jake went on to star in over 30 shows including In the Heights, Starlight Express and Rent.

Only 2 years later, Jake was selected to perform in NYMT’s production of Sweet Charity at Leicester Curve.

Jake began his training at Pendleton Sixth Form College where he gained his Level 3 Diploma in Musical Theatre, and continued at The Hammond School where he gained a First Class (Hons) Degree in Musical Theatre Performance.

After graduating in 2020 Jake co-founded New AJE Productions, alongside DPA Tutor Eliza Kyffin. They produced and appeared in a Live Stream of [Title of Show], organised an agent showcase in the North-West and created digital media for The Civic Trust Awardsand Manchester band, Madame Claude.

Following this he spent 6 months at sea as Lead Production Vocalist for ‘Viking Cruises’, which marked his professional debut. Since then he has starred in Pantomimes across the UK and in TV commercials.

Since teaching Jake had directed youth productions of Wind in the Willows, Madagascar and Fame whilst also teaching vocal technique using the methods of Estill.

Jake can’t wait to get started at DPA!

Jennifer Tierney

Jennifer has been working within the industry for 25 years and most recently was a part of the Original London cast of 4 time Olivier award winning musical “Come From Away”. Whilst a part of the company she was offered several opportunities to represent the production, such as performing for the British Royal family, singing the Canadian National Anthem at Twickenham stadium for Rugby International and Channel 4, and also leading the company at ‘West End Live’ in Trafalgar Square, London. Jennifer is the only cast member globally to play all 6 female roles.

Other Musical Theatre work includes: “Wicked” Covering and playing Elphaba & Madame Morrible, “Shrek” as Mamma Bear & Dragon Dragon, “Mamma Mia!” as Donna, “Chess”, “Godspell”, “Jerry Springer the Opera”, various session work, corporate events & concerts as a vocalist for global companies such as Concerts by Candlelight, BMW, Mercedes, & BAFTA.

Whilst Musical Theatre has predominantly been Jennifer’s career path, she has worked in many other facets of the industry including producing her one woman concert in London, which was nominated for “Best Live Event” at the Broadway World Awards. This progressed in to developing her one woman show, which she performs around the world.

As a teacher, Jennifer has been present on the faculty of various establishments in the UK including: Laine Theatre Arts, Bird College, Trinity Laban, Performers College & London Studio Centre on both Degree & Diploma courses. Estill Voice & singing technique, Acting Through Song, Musical Theatre projects & all round Industry development have been at the forefront of her work, but always with a focus on the mental health and growth of young people as individuals.

Jennifer is truly excited to be joining Dubai Performing Arts and is very much looking forward to working alongside the team to bring her experience both as a Performer and as a Teacher to DPA’s outstanding BTEC courses.

“The development of young people is something I am very passionate about. It is a privilege to support their education and guide them towards their greatest achievements, both as professionals and as people. The Arts offer something unique to all. I consider it an honour to play a part in a Students’ development, and help find their place in the world by encouraging expression and confidence through the Performing Arts.”

Naomi Stroud

Performing Arts Teacher

Naomi began her dance journey at the age of 2 in her hometown of Weymouth, England. At 6, she trained under Jill Tindale at Quay Theatre Arts, studying Modern, Ballet, and Tap Dance through the ISTD syllabus. Over the years, she achieved Distinctions in her Modern and Tap Examinations, up to Advanced 2.

Naomi competed in numerous Dance Festivals and reached the All England National Finals at Hackney Empire, where she performed against top talent in England. She also graced prestigious stages like the Royal Albert Hall, as part of the BBC Proms.

At 18, Naomi earned a full scholarship to Bird College in London, a renowned institution for Dance. During her three years at Bird, she received training from Industry Professionals and performed alongside notable West End artists at the 100th birthday celebration of Park Lane by Hilton. Naomi graduated in 2020 with a Level 6 Diploma in Professional Dance and Musical Theatre, achieving high Distinction.

Following graduation, Naomi worked as a Dancer and lead Vocalist in Ras al Khaimah, she performed in Abu Dhabi and toured the UK with Made to Measure Productions.

Now back with the DPA team, and fondly known as Miss Nay, she is eager to inspire and guide DPA’s young budding performers, helping them reach their full potential and advance in their journey in Dance.

Sarah Sutherland

DPA Operations and Business Director

Sarah has recently joined the DPA team as Operations and Business Director.

Upon attaining her Bachelors in Sports and Exercise Science from Robert Gordon’s University in Aberdeen, Scotland, Sarah was offered the opportunity to make her dream from 14 years old come true; and moved to Dubai in 2011 to set up a swim school.

After 3 successful years for the swim school, the company elaborated and added more sports under Sarah’s guidance, and included sports such as gymnastics, karate and multi-sports camp.

Sarah then moved on to join the team who established the NBA brand in the Middle East where she was an integral part of the team which opened, operated and managed the NBA Basketball School in Dubai. Starting with Camps in early 2018, the team were eager to open a full time Basketball School from September 2018.  Working with a team of knowledgeable coaches and operations staff, the team grew the School from 40 players in September 2018 to 290 players in May 2022. 

Sarah is delighted to be working with Lisa, Johnny and the whole DPA team, and is looking forward to getting to know the DPA students and families. 

Vitaliy Fedorov

Vitaliy’s Dance training began in his home country at the National University of Culture in Kyiv, Ukraine, where he gained a Masters Degree in Choreography and Contemporary Dance.

Upon graduation, Vitaliy went on to perform at the National Ukrainian Musical Theatre as a Dancer and Choreographer. Simultaneously he was teaching at ‘The School of Arts’ on the Crimean peninsula and was responsible for training students in Jazz,

Ukrainian Folk Dancing, Contemporary and Choreography.

In 2006 Vitaliy took his talents abroad and went on to perform in the Xua-Xia Theater, Zhen-Zhen, China in the innovative new concept show ‘Elements.’ A love for travel bought Vitaliy to dance across the world on Cruise Lines including companies such as Cunard Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line as a Dancer/Aerialist and Dance Captain. Where he performed for over 10 years as a soloist specialising in Contemporary, Jazz, Ballet and Commercial Dance.

For the last 4 years Vitaliy has been working in Dubai as a full-time Dance teacher with a focus on RAD Ballet, Contemporary, PBT (Progressive Ballet Technique) and Jazz for several Dance Academies. Across his time here, Vitaliy has prepared students for their annual RAD examinations (Pre-Primary – Advanced 1) with successive pass rates as well as choreographing for several shows, competitions and events such as EXPO 2020.

Vitaliy is a proudly qualified Contemporary Dance teacher with Rambert Grades and cannot wait to bring this knowledge to DPA.

“I cannot wait to share my culture, knowledge and experience in the Performing Arts industry with all the passionate students at DPA!”