FOUNDER
THANDO (TDO) NHLAPO
Thando Nhlapo is a Dancer, Digital creator and Creative entrepreneur with a Diploma in Performing Arts (Dance Major), from the Tshwane University of Technology, Faculty of Arts and Design.
From being a self-taught dancer to acquiring formal dance training, her journey in the industry revealed a gap to her: dancers are often taught how to move but are hardly given access to the knowledge, tools and conversations that help them understand their craft, navigate the industry and develop themselves towards long-term sustainability as a dancer. That gap became the foundation of AXIS.
Thando founded AXIS to create the kind of space she believes dancers deserve, a space to learn from working professionals, ask questions, understand the dance industry, build community and evolve as an artist.
“I wanted to create a space that enriches a dancers mind just as much as the body”
– Thando.
ABOUT AXIS
AXIS is a dance education platform built to expand how dancers learn, train and understand their craft.
Rooted in the belief that a dancers development extends beyond learning choreography, AXIS creates a space where movement is supported by knowledge, reflection and intentional training. Through dance education workshops and creative development tools, AXIS encourages dancers to become more informed, curious and intentional about their mental and physical growth.
OUR PURPOSE
AXIS exists to bridge the gap between training the body and educating the dancer behind it.
Dance training often focuses on what the body can do. AXIS creates room for the conversations, knowledge and reflection that help dancers understand why, how and who they can become through their craft.
THE AXIS APPROACH
LEARN
Gain knowledge that strengthens your understanding of dance, artistry and industry.
TRAIN
Put that knowledge into practice through movement, choreography and physical exploration.
REFLECT
Process the experience, document your growth and become more intentional about your development.
WHAT WE DO
DANCE EDUCATION WORKSHOPS
Practical dance training across various dance styles paired with dedicated education sessions designed to develop both the dancer and their understanding of the craft and industry.
DANCERS JOURNALS
A creative development tool for documenting, training, reflecting on experiences, developing ideas and tracking artistic growth, serving as a companion to a dancers overall development.