OUR FACULTY

EMMA TATE

Emma has been teaching dance in Education for 18 years and in 2013 joined GEMS Wellington Academy and is currently the Academy Dance Programme Manager.

Teaching and developing Dance pathways is Emma's passion, constantly striving to engage and inspire children of all ages and abilities, encouraging them to explore their personalities through movement, enabling them to be creative and imaginative.

Emma is the driving force behind UDO Academy Dubai’s flagship school, creating the "Centre of Excellence in Performance & Theatre Tec." at WSO, to inspire and nurture students in a fun and friendly environment where everybody is welcome.

UDO Syllabus (Grades 4-6), Trainee Instructors Academy, UDO Street Dance Styles

GEMMA HODDY

UDO Syllabus (Pre Primary – Grade 3) , UDO Street Tots, UDO Street Dance Styles

Gemma is a renowned artist from London UK specializing in hip hop theatre, street dance styles & choreography.

Her performing credits include the original cast of Boy Blue Entertainment’s hip hop theatre triple bill BLAK WHYTE GRAY (world tour), RHIANNA & Drake debut performance of ‘WORK’ (Brit Awards London), Global Village pro cast (Dubai), RED show (Ferrari World (Abu Dhabi), Pro cast/ dance captain Olympics Opening ceremony (London 2012), EXPO 2020 (Dubai) and an original cast member of Levi Roots’ brand new Musical production ‘SOUND CLASH: Death in the arena’ which completed its debut run at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this summer.

She has also performed with likes of Rita Ora, Lemar, Big Shaq, Dizzee Rascal, Emile Sandé, Maya Diab, RED ONE & Dj Kaboo whom she has also choreographed music videos & live tours for.

Gemma is a head judge & street dance syllabus examiner for UNITED DANCE ORGANISATION and she has travelled the world delivering workshops ensuring the quality of training in these styles is upheld for the following generations.

Gemma is delighted to be collaborating once again with UDO Academy Dubai in this role of Adrenaline Youth dance company artistic director to oversee the dancers’ growth and progression in the next stage of their training.

MARVIN LOPEZ

Marvin Lopez, also known as Marvin Shockwave, a highly experienced and accomplished professional dancer and freestyler with an impressive career spanning over 12 years. Originally hailing from the Philippines, Marvin now resides in the UAE, having previously taught in Thailand. His dance repertoire is diverse and includes styles such as Locking, Krumping, Hip Hop, Choreography, and Freestyle.

Throughout his journey, Marvin has not only been an influential teacher, inspiring countless students in the Philippines and Thailand, but he has also proven his skills as a competitor, winning numerous awards in local and international dance battles. Notably, he has been a key member of two successful Filipino dance crews, including “Hybrids of Freedom” and “I got colours” and most recently, the “Desert Ninja's” based in the UAE.

CARMEL BONDSWELL

Carmel began her professional dance training in Contemporary Ballet at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance at North Greenwich University In London.

During her time, Carmel began to discover different styles of dance which inspired her to branch out of her Contemporary Ballet training. She was highly influenced by Hip Hop and Commercial dance which propelled her into working in the commercial dance industry. Carmel has worked with International artists such as PSY (Gangnam Style Man), FUSE ODG (Best African Artist) Katy B and Ms Dynamite and more. Carmel has also performed on T.V. shows such as ITV, ‘Britain’s Got Talent’.

ALEXANDRA PRUZAN

Alexandra is an accomplished dance practitioner hailing from Belarus and currently residing in the vibrant UAE. With a solid foundation in classical dance, Alexandra has a passion for movement that has taken her far. Her journey in the world of dance has been enriched by participation in various dance competitions and attending prestigious dance camps across the globe, including France, Poland, Italy, Shanghai, and more.

Alexandra’s artistic exploration extends beyond classical dance, as she continually hones her skills in diverse styles like Hip Hop, House, and Contemporary. A true seeker of knowledge and growth, she has had the privilege of learning from a distinguished array of mentors, including Catelyn Watson, Kerry Milne, Diana Matos, Shay Latukolan, Andye J, Ola Papior, Devin Solomon, Tonny Tzar, and many others.

DWAIN WHITE

Dwain has over 20 years’ of experience Dwain 'Talent' White has featured and appeared in movies and commercials such as 'High strung' choreographed by Dave Scott (SYTYCD,Step UP), Virgin Trains and Boohoo to name a few.

Dwain has also choreographed for the popular food delivery app 'Just Eat'. Dwain is very active within the 'battle' scene in the UK and U.A.E. claiming a few titles in both countries. Dwain is also a DJ and music producer (Whiteboy) and performs regularly in clubs and events held in the U.A.E.

Dwain continues to share his knowledge and love for all forms of dance and continues to learn and compete at the highest levels possible. Dwain has won several titles within UDO UK - such as top dance school and many world titles.

LETICIA SIMPSON

Letitia is a highly experienced professional dancer with a remarkable career spanning over 25 years. Originally from the UK, She has graced the stage alongside renowned artists like Kelly Rowland, Alicia Keys, John Newman, and the Miami Band.

Letitia's exceptional talent also earned her the esteemed title of a Nike Freestyler, representing and empowering women in dance. Alongside her captivating performances, she shares her wealth of knowledge as a dedicated dance teacher and mentor, inspiring the next generation of dancers. Letitia journey continues to be a beacon of inspiration in the world of dance.

UDO Syllabus (Pre Primary – Grade 3) , UDO Street Tots, UDO Street Dance Styles