Studio Philosophy
Our studio serves as a welcoming home for everyone, from beginners to seasoned professionals, and we are dedicated to a supportive and positive atmosphere for our students, colleagues, and community. Our focus on passion, commitment, and excellence is reflected in the high standards we uphold for our dancers, trainers, and staff.
What to expect at DanceIt
DanceIt Studios is a dance school that is dedicated to providing a welcoming environment for all dancers regardless of their age or skill level.
We believe in fostering a sense of community and family among our students, and we are committed to helping each and one of them achieve their goals.
Our highly qualified and competent teachers have a track record of success, and we are proud to offer high standards of dance training and service.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer we are here to support you every step of the way.
About Us
Since 1984, DanceIt Studios has been more than just a place to learn steps - we are a premier movement hub and career launchpad in South Africa’s dance industry.
Operating across our fully equipped facilities in Glenanda (South of Johannesburg) and Three Rivers (Vereeniging), our training spans from early childhood foundations and syllabus examinations, to high-performance competitive DanceSport, professional performance development, and open social classes.
Backed by a 40-year legacy of IDO World Champion titles and Protea Colours faculty credentials, we believe in building sustainable careers, not just teaching choreography. Our elite team of active industry choreographers and professional performers mentor dancers to transition seamlessly from the studio floor to professional stages, commercial sets, teaching careers and creative entrepreneurship.
Our Mission
At DanceIt Studios, we are devoted to cultivating an inclusive, positive environment where passion meets
long-term purpose.
Our mission is to deliver transformative training that builds technical precision, confidence and realistic, sustainable pathways to professional careers in Dance.
Whether a student is dancing for fitness, chasing world championship titles, or stepping into commercial production, we uphold the highest standard of mentorship - ensuring our dancers develop the longevity, industry literacy and professional resilience needed to thrive both on and off the stage.
Competitions
DanceIt proudly competes in a variety of local and international dance competitions.
Our studios consistently achieve top results, demonstrating our commitment to excellence.
Through our Competition Squad high performance program, we set a high competitive standard,
empowering our dancers to reach remarkable new levels in the competitive arena.
Many of our talented performers have earned official Provincial and National recognition in
Dance Sport awarded by the South African Body of Dance and the
Federation of Dance Sport South Africa.
We are honored to hold numerous prestigious titles, with the International Dance Organization (IDO) World Champion title being our most valued achievement, as it is an accolade achieved across 3 disciplines of dance - Performing Arts & Street Dance. DanceIt proudly claims Inter-Continental, African (Continental), and Commonwealth titles, among many others. With our most recent decorated competitive achievements being:
IDO World Hip Hop Male Solo Finalist - 6th - Silakhe Mlawuli (2017)
IDO World Hip Hop Duo Champions - Silakhe Mlawuli & Tshepang Nathane (2017)
IDO World Hip Hop Group Champions - Havock (2017)
IDO World Hip Hop Female Solo Champion - 4th - Janete Francisco (2023)
IDO World All-Styles Solo Finalist - 4th - Janete Francisco (2023)
IDO World Street Dance Show Solo Finalist - 5th - Amariah Singh (2024)
IDO World Street Dance Show Solo Champion - Janete Francisco (2024)
Inaugural IDO African Solo Champion - Clarishca Viljoen (2025)
A.D.A Ultimate Challenge Winner (South African Regionals) - Kganya Tladi (2026)
Join our Competition Squad!
Exam Syllabus & Teacher Qualifications
DanceIt Studios an affiliate member of the South African Body of Dance (SABOD). We provide a variety of syllabus-based exam classes in Tap, Modern and Hip Hop for students starting from Tiny Tots (ages 4 and up) to our Associate Teacher Qualification exam. We are honored to have supported numerous graduates at DanceIt, helping them achieve Dance Teacher Qualifications through the respected SABOD.
We believe in nurturing talent with precision, purpose, and passion. Thanks to our team of fully qualified and accredited instructors, we are proud to offer official examination pathways in both Ballet and Acrobatic Dance. These exams provide our dancers with structured progression, technical mastery, and nationally and internationally recognized milestones as they grow in their dance journey.
Bev Wood
Founder
The Visionary Behind the Movement: Bev Wood Behind every great dance institution is a heart that beats purely for the art, the discipline and the dancers. For DanceIt Studios, that heart belongs to our founder, Beverley Anne Wood - known and cherished throughout the global dance community as Bev Wood (and remembered historically as Beverley Whitehead, from her early career days). Bev Wood is not simply a dance teacher; she is a trailblazer, a visionary leader and a true icon of South African Dance Sport. Her journey spans decades of undeniable sacrifice and dedication, transforming the landscape of dance from local studio floors to the prestigious stages of the world. "Dance has always been more than the physical movement for me, instead, I see it as the pursuit of excellence, a safe space for expression and a bridge that connects young talent to world-class dreams, where nothing is impossible when you put your heart in it!" – Bev From Studio Foundations to National Leadership The story of DanceIt Studios began with a singular vision, to build an environment where passion meets technical mastery. Originally established as the Bev Whitehead Academy of Dance, the studio quickly became a standard-bearer for dance education, nurturing thousands of dancers across performing arts and street dance. As the academy grew, so too did Bev’s influence across the broader South African dance community. Her vision extended far beyond individual studio doors, she set out to elevate the entire country's dance structure creating the opportunity for South Africans to be recognized on a global world-class stage in the International Dance Organization. Key Pillars of Her Industry Legacy: President of the South African Body of Dance (SABOD): Heading South Africa’s premier stage dance governing body, Bev has championed standard setting, teacher development and competitive opportunities across the nation for generations of dancers. Official South African Representative to the International Dance Organization (IDO): Serving as the official bridge between South Africa and the IDO, Bev has opened doors for home-grown dancers to represent their country on world championship stages across Europe and beyond. Architect of Iconic Competitions: As the lead organizer of the world-renowned Battle of the Giants All Styles Dance Sport Festival at Sun City, Bev helped establish one of Africa’s largest and most celebrated dance festivals, giving thousands of dancers a platform to shine. Mentoring Champions & Protea Awardees: Through her leadership and mentorship, hundreds of dancers have achieved Teacher’s qualifications, Provincial and National Colours for Dance Sport(Protea Colours) and international titles, placing South African talent firmly on the global map. The Birth of DanceIt Studios What started as the Bev Whitehead Academy of Dance naturally evolved into DanceIt Studios - a modern home for competitive, performance and recreational dance. While the name expanded to reflect a growing community and modern dance styles, the foundational ethos established by Bev Wood remains unchanged: 1.Uncompromised Technique: Rooted in classic discipline and athletic precision. 2.Inclusive Opportunity: Welcoming dancers from their very first steps to advanced elite competition. 3.Family & Community: Building a supportive environment where every dancer is encouraged to grow into their highest potential. Continuing the Legacy Today, DanceIt Studios stands as a testament to Bev Wood's lifelong dream. Every studio floor we step onto, every routine we choreograph and every dancer we send onto local and international stages carries forward the passion, standard and spirit of our founder. Whether you are stepping into a studio for the first time or training for a world trial circuit, at DanceIt Studios, you are part of a rich history of South African dance excellence.
Re-Brand
2015
Every enduring legacy must know when to evolve without losing sight of its roots. For our studio, the last decade has marked two pivotal chapters in our story: our bold transformation in 2015 into DanceIt Studios, and the official transition of leadership in 2020 when Bev’s son, Warren Wood, stepped into the role of Director to carry the torch forward. 2015: Rebranding to DanceIt Studios After years of operation as the Bev Whitehead Academy of Dance, 2015 ushered in a fresh, modern era. As dance evolved globally - incorporating versatile fusion styles, high-energy performance arts and fast-paced competitive disciplines - our brand needed to reflect the vibrant, action-driven energy of our dancers. The rebrand to DanceIt Studios was more than a change of name and logo; it was a promise. It distilled our core belief into a simple, powerful call to action: no matter where you come from or what style drives you, you leave everything on the floor at DanceIt. While the new name brought a modern identity, the academy's commitment to foundational technique, discipline, and family values stayed firmly at the centre of everything we do. 2020: A New Era of Leadership In 2020, as the dance world faced unprecedented global challenges and rapid technological shifts, Warren Wood - having grown up steeped in the heritage of the studio and officially took the helm as Studio Director, continuing a proud family tradition of excellence and innovation. Bringing a dynamic, forward-thinking vision to DanceIt Studios, Warren’s leadership has reshaped the landscape for our dancers: •Pioneering Digital Innovation: During critical industry shifts, Warren proved pivotal in keeping South African dance alive, architecting and launching national online competition frameworks for the South African Body of Dance (SABOD) to keep dancers performing and connected, through his roles within the SABOD marketing and competition departments. •The Mastermind Behind Historic Events: As the visionary and driving force behind the historic Inaugural IDO African Championship - Battle of the Giants All Styles Dance Sport Festival, Warren orchestrated a landmark moment in African dance history. By bridging local excellence with international governing bodies, he brought international adjudicators, world-class competitors and global attention directly onto our home floor. •Modernizing the Studio Experience: Blending elite athletic training with modern digital workflows, advanced media production and streamlined studio operations to elevate every aspect of our dancers’ journeys. •Expanding Competitive Horizons: Elevating crews and soloists to national titles and international podiums, ensuring our dancers are constantly challenged by world-class standards. Looking to the Future Today, under Warren’s visionary leadership and guided by the foundational principles set by Bev Wood, DanceIt Studios stands as a powerful bridge between rich tradition and modern dance excellence. “We are proud of where we came from, excited for where we are and unbelievably dedicated to inspiring the next generation of dancers to step up and dream big!” - Warren
DanceIt Team
Driven by passion and excellence, our expert creative and administrative team brings world-class training, choreography, and mentorship to every dancer who walks through our doors.
Bev Wood
Founder | SABOD President
Beverley Wood (formerly Beverley Whitehead) is an icon of South African Dance Sport and the founder of DanceIt Studios, originally established as the Bev Whitehead Academy of Dance. Serving as President of the South African Body of Dance (SABOD) and official representative to the International Dance Organization (IDO), Bev has dedicated decades to building national structures, setting educational standards and championing home-grown talent on world championship stages. Her vision forms the foundation of our studio’s ethos: technical excellence, discipline and lifelong passion for Dance.
Clarishca Viljoen
Senior Choreographer & Trainer | Creative Director
Clarishca Viljoen is an accomplished professional dancer, choreographer, trainer and educator with a formidable competitive and commercial career. As an elite Protea Athlete holding full provincial and national South African dance colours, SABOD Associate qualification for Hip Hop and Pre-Associate for Modern, Clarishca has represented her country on global stages, reaching a historic career peak when she was crowned the Inaugural IDO Africa - Battle of the Giants Solo Champion in a multi-discipline showdown.
Toni Jacobus
Head Acro Dance Instructor
Toni Jacobus is a certified Acro Dance educator qualified under both the Acrobatics Federation of South Africa (AFSA) and Acrobatic Sport South Africa (ASSA). Bringing specialized national accreditation and a strong commitment to athlete safety, Toni leads the Acro Dance department at DanceIt Studios. She combines gymnastic flexibility, core strengthvand fluid floor transitions with athletic precision, helping dancers safely master dynamic tumbling and acrobatic artistry.
Warren Wood
Director & Creative Strategist
Warren Wood is the Director of DanceIt Studios, an experienced choreographer, educator, trainer, adjudicator and an leader in South African Dance Sport with 16+ years of experience locally, while steering teams to the IDO World Championships. Celebrated as the mastermind behind the inaugural 2025 IDO African Championship - Battle of the Giants, Warren pioneered bringing global competitors and international adjudicators to African soil. Combining technical mastery, digital innovation and dynamic creative direction, he is dedicated to driving the next generation of South African dancers into definitive career paths.
Madeline Scrase
Lead Tap Instructor I Modern Dance Instructor
Madeline is a decorated 3-time IDO World Tap Championship medalist, 10-time IDO World Finalist, and the current 3-time reigning SABOD National Adult Female Tap Solo Champion. Holding a BHSc in Sports Coaching and Human Movement Sciences alongside AIDT Teaching Diplomas with distinction in both Tap and Modern, Madeline combines sports science precision with elite competitive experience. Dancing since the age of two and actively performing professionally, she leads the Tap department and instructs Modern dance with a passion for building world-class technique and performance.
Allanah White
Resident Modern Instructor | Three Rivers
Resident Modern instructor in Three Rivers, currently completing her AIDT Modern Associate teacher’s qualification. Allanah brings vibrant energy, technical precision and dedicated mentorship to the studio floor to inspire the next generation of dancers.
Tiffany Wood
Financial Manager I Modern Dance Instructor
Tiffany Wood (formerly Tiffany Adams) brings a powerful blend of high-level corporate acumen and artistic passion to DanceIt Studios. Professionally serving as the Business Solutions Manager at Unitrans, Tiffany applies her expertise in operational strategy and finance to her dual roles as the studio's Financial Manager and interim Administrative Coordinator. Simultaneously, as a dedicated educator, choreographer and trainer, she leads the Modern dance department - instilling technical precision, expressive movement and structured discipline into every dancer she coaches.
Cameron Banks
Head Ballet Instructor
Cameron Banks is a distinguished veteran performer and educator whose career spans world-class classical Ballet, Cabaret, and international production shows. Formerly a Principal Ballet Dancer with the Johannesburg Youth Ballet and a company dancer with the Free Flight Contemporary Dance Company, Cameron spent 7 years as Dance Captain for Royal Caribbean International, alongside feature roles with Dick Foster Productions in Las Vegas and Sun City Extravaganzas. Bringing decades of global stage expertise and refined technical mastery, Cameron leads our Ballet department, inspiring dancers from toddlers to seniors.
Amariah Singh
Resident K-Pop Instructor I Glenanda branch
Resident K-Pop instructor at DanceIt Studios Glenanda. Amariah brings high-energy, sharp choreography and a fierce passion for K-Pop culture to the studio floor. An accredited Protea Dance Sport Athlete and IDO World Championship finalist (2014).
More About Dance . . .
Dance is a fun and efficient form of exercise that allows children to develop in many areas including muscle strength, increased flexibility and improved aerobic capacity.
Dance education allows children to develop gross motor co-ordination and fine motor skills that can be utilised to control the largest and smallest muscle groups of their bodies.
In turn, dance training assists in the cognitive development of children. Dancing improves memory, develops spatial awareness, and allows children the opportunity to develop social skills and problem-solving skills. Through dance classes, students also develop musicality, self-expression and are encouraged to explore their own creativity.
Your child is not only learning to dance, but they are also receiving physical, mental, social, and emotional benefits. They are developing valuable life skills that will benefit them in their daily lives.