A local dance academy celebrated a major milestone after its dancers travelled to Miami to compete at the American Dance Awards (ADA) National Championships, returning home with an impressive collection of accolades.

For Natasha Academy of Dancing, the trip marked the first time it had officially entered group numbers at the prestigious competition, making the results particularly significant. “Taking our first official group of dancers to the American Dance Awards National Championships in Miami was an incredibly special milestone for Natasha Academy of Dancing,” said studio owner and founder Natasha Ehlers.

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While one of the academy’s dancers competed in the solo division at ADA Nationals the previous year, 2026 marked the first official group delegation. The dancers’ achievements included first place overall in the large junior group and first place overall in the young duo. The academy also secured several high-score solo results, including first place in the age seven, 10 and 12 categories, second place in the age eight category, third place in the age eight and 14 categories, and fourth place in the age 15 category.

The dancers received two special awards, four Solo All Star Awards, 15 Gold Awards and three Ultimate Gold Awards. “For the dancers, Miami was about so much more than competition results,” said Ehlers. “They experienced an international dance environment, met dancers from across the United States and other countries, watched an incredible standard of dance and, most importantly, gained confidence and memories that will stay with them for years to come.”

The success was the result of months of preparation, with dancers committing to regular training, rehearsals, technique classes and detailed polishing sessions. “As a teacher and choreographer, you spend countless hours in the studio teaching choreography, correcting details and pushing dancers to be better.

“Then you suddenly find yourself backstage in Miami, watching those same dancers walk onto an international stage. Seeing them perform with confidence, energy and unity made every hour of preparation worthwhile. It was one of those moments where, as a teacher, you simply feel incredibly proud.”

Despite the nerves that naturally come with competing at a national championship of this level, Ehlers said the dancers handled the pressure exceptionally well. “Miami has definitely encouraged us to dream bigger. We have now made our mark on the international stage, and as a studio owner, I am incredibly excited about what lies ahead.”

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The academy is currently preparing for its annual studio show on November 1, which will bring together dancers from across the studio, from the youngest performers to senior and competitive dancers. The academy is also planning to participate in local competitions for the remainder of the year while exploring international qualifying opportunities for 2027.

Adding to its upcoming programme is a collaboration with Rain Dance Horse Stables, whose show takes place on October 10. “Miami was a huge milestone for us, but it is not the destination; it has opened the door to new goals, new opportunities and an even bigger vision for the future.”

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