OUR TEAM
Who are we?
We are a group of Professional and highly qualified Dance instructors with many years of experience in both the technical and performance aspects of Dance. As a company, our focus is motivating and encouraging people of all abilities to embrace a love of life and of themselves through movement and expression.
Meet our Teachers
SONIA LEE NAZZER
DIRECTOR OF ACADEMY OF DANCE TARANAKI
At 16 Sonia was gaining recognition as a young talent in the performing arts industry in both dance, Ballet, Tap and Jazz and Drama. As the drama cup recipient for her high school, Sonia went on to pursue further performing arts training through Excel School of Performing Arts. Prior to this Sonia had training in BBO Tap, BBO Ballet, NZAMD Jazz to Solo Seal level, And gained distinctions in her Trinity College of London Speech and Drama examinations up to grade 8 and Performance certificate, studying privately under the tutelage of the legendary Dorne Arthur.
Many years later, Sonia is most proud of her achievement of creating a successful dance studio, in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong. Enjoying the many facets of the job of Director, Sonia thrives in a diverse and open environment where her talents can be put to use. From costume design, script writing, teaching, mentoring, and developing curriculum Sonia enjoys most seeing the kids shine and overcome to become the best they can be. Sonia relocated to New Plymouth with her husband Ben and their 6 children in early 2020.
TEMPANY PAOLA
BALLET, JAZZ, CONTEMPORARY DANCE TEACHER
Tempany has been sharing her knowledge and expertise as a dance instructor at MasterClass Dance Studios in New Zealand before her move to Hong Kong in 2023 to join Academy of Dance Hong Kong. Her teaching repertoire includes RAD Ballet, NZAMD AND APDA Jazz, Hip Hop, Tap, Contemporary, Acro, Stretch, and Strengthen. Additionally, she has excelled in coaching students for competition solos.
Tempany Paola’s dedication to dance, combined with her ability to work collaboratively and independently, makes her a valuable addition to any dance studio. Her passion for continuous learning and desire to help others shines through in her teaching and performances, creating a positive and inspiring atmosphere for all.
TORI SHAFFETT
HIP HOP, TIGER TOTS AND PRESCHOOL DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Tori’s dance journey began at the age of 7, exploring various dance styles before discovering her true passion for Hip Hop. This passion ignited her journey to the World Hip Hop Championships in Las Vegas, where she showcased her talent on a global stage. Back home in New Plymouth, Tori founded her own Hip Hop crew, captivating audiences in countless local performances and competitions.
With a Masters Degree in Psychology, Tori spent her early 20s in the education sector, honing her skills in working with children and young adults. Her experience extends to choreographing school productions and teaching dynamic Hip Hop classes that blend creativity with technique.
Working as the head hip hop teacher at AOD since 2022, Tori has lead our hip hop students to success with a 100% pass rate in all APDA hip hop exams in 2023, including having a student place in the top five worldwide in her Level 8 examination. Tori has also managed two of AODs hip hop crews, leading them to compete at many local and national competitions including PACANZ, Hip Hop International and Hip Hop Unite.
For Tori, dance is not just about movement—it’s a therapeutic journey filled with joy, empowerment, and self-expression. She strives to cultivate a space where students can build confidence, discover their creativity, and experience the sheer joy of dance. At Academy of Dance, we believe that dance is inclusive and transformative, enhancing both physical and mental well-being. Tori embodies these values, fostering connection, belonging, and the growth of healthy minds and bodies through the art of movement.
NEIVE DAVISON
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Tēnā koutou katoa,
Ko Neive Davison tōku ingoa, nō te maunga o Taranaki, nō te awa o Manaia, nō ngā iwi o Ngaruahine, Ngāti Ruanui, Ngāti Rangi, nā rātou au i tukua mai i ngā tūpuna o Tupaia, Ngati Tu, Ngāti Tui-o-Nuku, Te Hapu, nā te waka o Aotea au i āhe.
Neive is a 14-year-old who has been dancing since the age of 7, starting with Ballet as a foundation and then adding Tap, Jazz, Contemporary, Musical Theatre, and Hip Hop to her repertoire.
She embarked on solo competitions at 10 and found immense joy in challenging herself, gaining significant confidence on the way. Initially hesitant about performing on stage, Neive learned that stepping out of her comfort zone can lead to achieving her goals.
Since last year, she has been an integral part of the AOD Hip hop senior Crew APEX, relishing the camaraderie of dancing in a crew, sharing moments with friends, and competing around New Zealand.
Neive’s passion for dance grows with each passing year and new experience. She really enjoys witnessing younger dancers embrace the same enthusiasm and love for dance.
She aspires to continue teaching and assisting in dance while further developing her skills in choreography and performance. Neive looks forward to the exciting journey ahead with her AOD Whānau.
KEIGHLEY ADAMS
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
Keighley Adams embarked on her dance journey at the age of 7, delving into jazz initially and later incorporating contemporary and hip-hop styles into her repertoire. Her passion for dance stems from the freedom it offers, providing a means for self-expression and creativity. Keighley is particularly drawn to teaching, relishing the connections formed with her students and the opportunity to guide and support them.
Throughout her dance career, Keighley has had numerous memorable experiences, including attending workshops with renowned groups like the LAB and Village Nation in Australia, performing at Dreamworld, competing in various dance competitions across New Zealand, receiving a PACANZ nomination, participating in APDA Level 8 hip hop exams, and showcasing her talents in front of large audiences at events like Christmas at the Bowl. Her dedication to dance and her ability to connect with students make her a valuable asset to the dance community.
COCO
DANCE INSTRUCTOR
TBA