Our Teachers

Annabelle Alzalam LIDTA - Principal Teacher

Annabelle began dancing in Grimsby at the age of 2. Over the next 16 years she competed in local dance festivals, shows & events and took her IDTA performers examinations in Ballet, Tap, Modern Jazz and Theatrecraft. After gaining Distinction, Distinction* in BTEC Dance she was delighted to gain a place at the highly acclaimed Phil Winston’s Theatreworks in Blackpool.

It was here she received 3 years dance training in a wide variety of styles from industry leading professionals. Annabelle performed in many shows and events, continuing her IDTA performers examinations. It was here she gained her diploma in dance and her first IDTA qualification which started her teaching journey.

At the age of 21 she graduated & continued to progress with her personal development, attending HDI summer dance camp with workshops from world renowned dancers and choreographers.

She also worked for a local company where she gained valuable experience in many areas of backstage organisation and enjoyed connecting with the N. E. Lincs dance community.

In 2019 Annabelle founded Core Centre of Performing Arts. She continues to expand her professional development to offer the best training she can to her students and offer new and upcoming styles. She hopes to pass on her passion for dance to her students by creating an inviting community to inspire future performers.

  • IDTA qualified dance teacher

  • Enhanced DBS checked

  • Emergency First Aid

  • Pediatric First Aid


From the age of just two and a half, Sophie began her lifelong journey in the world of dance. Introduced by her beloved Nana, early training quickly evolved into a passion, with regular participation in local dance festivals in ballet, tap, and modern disciplines.

At 14, she joined a local dance school, where her love for performing deepened. Each routine became an opportunity to express joy and commitment to the art form.

With a love for choreography and a strong desire to inspire others, she has choreographed for students across various schools, sharing her creative vision and nurturing young dancers. In 2021, she furthered her training by pursuing a BA (Hons) in Dance at Lincoln University, where she honed her choreographic skills and expanded her artistic understanding.

Following years of running a dance school and teaching, Sophie brings experience, passion, and a deep love of dance to Core Centre of Performing Arts.


Born in Middlesbrough, James began dancing at the age of seven with freestyle disco. His dedication quickly saw him rise to impressive heights competing at the World Championships and reaching the finals of Britain’s Got Talent in 2011.

He went on to train at The Hammond School in a wide range of styles including jazz, tap, ballet, and musical theatre, before joining the English National Ballet School. During his time there, James performed in productions such as Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker with the English National Ballet.

After graduating, James danced professionally with Scottish Ballet for seven years, performing in renowned productions like Coppélia, and even co-producing the award-winning short film How Much Squid is Too Much Squid?

His incredible career has taken him around the world, performing in cities like New York, San Sebastián, Washington D.C., and Prague.

Now, James is taking a step back from performing to focus on teaching and sharing his love of dance. He’s passionate about helping young dancers grow in confidence, enjoy their training, and be the very best they can be.

Sophie Marshall - Dance Teacher


James Hobley - Dance Teacher