About US
About our principal
My name is Danielle James and I am the principal of Derbyshire Academy of Performing Arts. I grew up and trained at various amateur schools around Derbyshire including Ripley Academy and Vanessa's School of dance, was classically trained in singing as well as doing music theory. I was also a member of the Television Workshop in Nottingham, where I landed a role in many TV shows and then went onto star as 'Trev' in the BAFTA award winning 'This is England'.
I went onto complete my training at world renowned Bird College where I gained a National Diploma in dance and musical theatre. I received the highest quality of professional training at Bird, by the top teachers in the industry. I performed in off West End shows in London and danced with a company at various venues, including Westminster Abbey. I then went onto do another three series of 'This is England' before settling down and starting a family.
I have recently had experience in teaching at local schools and colleges, also choreographing pieces for their shows and have completed my teaching diploma course in dance and musical theatre with new syllabus Ipath.
I have a deep passion for performing and wish to pass this on to my students, ensuring they can do and be anything they dream of.