Nurturing Talent, Embracing Creativity
Founded to provide a fun and safe platform for children aged 5 and up, Dani Harmer Academy is dedicated to making performing arts accessible to all. We believe every child deserves the chance to explore their creativity, build confidence, and experience the joy of performance in a supportive, welcoming community.
Meet Our Team and Join Our Family
Our approachable instructors bring expertise and warmth to every class, creating an environment where children thrive and express themselves freely. Join us to be part of a vibrant academy where fun, growth, and inclusivity go hand in hand.
Meet Actor Dani Harmer
Director & Co Founder
Dani Harmer is a distinguished British actress, best known for her portrayal of Tracey Beaker in the iconic CBBC children's series. Co-founding a theatrical academy for children in May 2013 with her mother Jill, Dani has dedicated herself to nurturing young talent in the performing arts.
With a varied career spanning numerous television, theatre, and film credits, she also made it as a finalist on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, showcasing her dancing and performance versatility. Dani continues to engage with her audience on TikTok, where her passion for acting and the arts shines through. Her commitment to fostering creativity in others reflects her deep love for the craft. Dani has an eye for creativity and is often seen at the Academy sharing her ideas with her staff and producing various numbers for live performances. Dani loves to engage with her students and to share her expertise.
Our DHA Team
Our team consists of highly qualified and motivated professionals, who are all experts in their field. With many years of experience in the industry, they have the expertise to provide comprehensive, first-rate services to our clients.
Jill Harmer
Co Director & Principal
As Co-Founder and Principal & Co Director of our esteemed Performing Arts institution, established in May 2013 alongside my daughter Dani, I have dedicated over 20 years to nurturing the creative talents of young performers. My role extends beyond mere administration; I am deeply committed to the wellbeing of our staff and the safeguarding of our children, ensuring a secure and supportive environment where creativity can flourish. With extensive experience in the industry, I prioritise the holistic development of our students, fostering not only their artistic skills but also their emotional and social well-being.
Jodie Lewis
Vice Principal, Drama & LAMDA Coach
Since joining the company in May 2013, our Vice Principal, Drama and LAMDA Coach, Jodie, has become a pivotal force within our Performing Arts department. With a wealth of experience in various theatrical performances, Jodie has cultivated an exceptional reputation as a drama coach. Along with her dedication to nurturing talent, she has led to numerous students achieving remarkable success in LAMDA exams in both Musical Theatre and Drama, consistently achieving a stunning 100% distinction rate. This outstanding achievement not only reflects her expertise but also her commitment to fostering a passion for the performing arts in every student.,
Ellie Tidy
Dance & Musical Theatre Coach
Ellie trained at READ Dance and Theatre College and brings over 20 years of performance experience to her teaching. She was a member of Berkshire County Dance Company Youth (BCDCY), where she worked with professional contemporary dance companies and performed as an opening act for their shows.
Ellie has performed regularly at South Hill Park in pantomimes and community productions and has been a member of EBOS Musical Theatre since 2020, recently choreographing ‘Rock of Ages’. In 2021, she qualified as a FitSteps instructor and launched her own classes, combining dance and fitness in a fun, welcoming environment.
She loves sharing her passion for musical theatre with the children she teaches and is dedicated to helping every student grow in confidence, technique and enjoyment of dance.
Ashleigh Cassidy
Singing & Musical Theatre Coach
Ashleigh is a graduate of The Brighton Academy, where she received a First-Class Honours Degree in Performing Arts. She made her New York Off-Broadway debut in Treeson: An Eco-Musical at 54 Below and can be heard on the Legends of Arahma cast album (ensemble). Ashleigh is currently originating the role of Ethel Smyth in the new musical FLYOLOGY, which has been performed at venues including The Union Theatre, Camden People’s Theatre, and The Other Palace.
Her concert credits include West End on Sea, Stars of the Future, Empowered: A Night of Female Power, Spotlight on New Musicals (The Union Theatre, London), and Unheard at The Arts Theatre, West End.
Ashleigh is incredibly proud to be the Singing Teacher at The Dani Harmer Academy. She first joined DHA at the age of 16 as Jodie’s assistant, and it is a complete honour for her to now be the singing teacher and watch the students flourish each week.