Dancers from the Natasha Academy of Dancing (NAD), located at Pineslopes Boulevard Shopping Centre in Fourways, have had an extraordinary year, winning top awards at various national and international dance competitions between July and October 2025.

Studio owner and teacher Natasha Ehlers expressed her pride in her students’ impressive performances and dedication throughout the season.

“From July 15 to 19, thirteen acrobats from the studio participated in the Acro Sport SA National Championships, where they delivered remarkable performances. The team brought home three South African national champion titles, won by Hannah Mangold (elite advanced), Danni-Leigh Slater (elite), and Milan du Plessis (level 5).”

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Hannah and Milan also achieved the highest overall scores in their categories, marking a significant milestone for the academy. Hannah made history by scoring a perfect 10 in the elite advanced category.

Eight acrobats earned their SA national federation colours, and nine dancers placed in the top four for their levels, further solidifying the studio’s reputation for excellence in acrobatic sports.

“On August 9, seven of the studio’s top dancers attended the Acrobatic Federation of South Africa (AFSA) Acrobatic Bursary Awards, having scored 95% or higher in their AFSA exams,” said Ehlers.

“The academy’s success continued at the American Dance Awards (ADA), held from October 3 to 11, where 32 dancers competed against more than 1 800 entries from across the nation.”

The team secured 12 overall solo and group placements, six category placements across different dance styles, and eight special awards. All 32 dancers qualified for the ADA Nationals in Miami next year, showcasing the academy’s consistent level of excellence.

Star performers Taylor Scholz and Hannah received the Ultimate Challenge Award, and Ehlers received a Diamond Choreography Award, celebrating choreography that scores 97% or higher from all judges, for her acrobatic group piece: Black Hole

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Ending an incredible season, three dancers were awarded SA Protea colours by the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee, through the Federation of Dance Sport SA and the South African Body of Dance: Hannah for acrobatics, Taylor for acrobatics and show dance, and Busi Buthelezi for acrobatics.

These talented young athletes will represent South Africa at the International Dance Organisation World Championships in Italy this November, marking a first for the academy.

Ehlers stated that the studio’s achievements show, not only the dancers’ passion and hard work, but also the growing recognition of dance as a competitive sport in South Africa.

“Watching our dancers grow, achieve their dreams, and represent South Africa on the world stage is a moment of immense pride.”

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