Established in 2019, Academy Arts Studios was founded by Jalisa and Ebony Phoenix-Roberts, whose shared passion for dance and theatre was shaped by their own early training experiences. From a young age, both recognised the impact a supportive, high-quality dance education could have, inspiring a joint ambition to create a school that offered something truly different.

 

The school is led by Jalisa Phoenix-Roberts, a current industry professional and Laine Theatre Arts graduate with ongoing professional credits across theatre, film, and television, including BBC3, S4C, and Netflix. With strong and active links to Laine Theatre Arts and other respected performing arts colleges, Jalisa brings extensive industry knowledge, professional connections, and a passion for business. Her deep personal connection to Port Talbot plays a key role in shaping the school’s growth, professional integrity, and strong community values.

 

Co-directing Academy Arts Studios is Ebony Phoenix-Roberts, an internationally trained and endorsed popping, animation, and robot specialist, and a member of the globally recognised, artist-driven collective R.U.R. With authentic community roots and direct connections to leaders within these disciplines, Ebony delivers specialist training that is not available elsewhere, offering students access to exceptional expertise and mentorship.

 

Together, the team at Academy Arts Studios provides a dedicated, child-centred environment that combines elite training opportunities with a welcoming and professionally structured atmosphere. The school is widely recognised for blending technical excellence with a supportive culture that nurtures confidence, creativity, and personal development.

 

Academy Arts Studios is proud to hold a 5-star Google rating and to have been awarded Best Dance School 2024. Home to national and world champion competitive teams, students have performed on prestigious stages, including the O2 Arena, as well as internationally in Phoenix, Arizona.

 

Alongside competitive and performance pathways, the school is known for its innovative and exclusive creative projects. These include a yearly drama and film programme in which students collaborate to create an original production and experience the impact of seeing their work screened on a large, cinema-style screen — opportunities not typically offered within other dance and theatre schools.

 

Families choose Academy Arts Studios for the experience, credibility, and industry expertise of its staff, and remain for the exceptional standard of care, professionalism, and strong sense of belonging felt from the moment students walk through the door.

 

At its core, the school is committed to excellence, opportunity, and the belief that dance education should empower young people, create lasting memories, and open doors far beyond the studio.