Alumni Spotlight: Lois – Dancing Her Way from Dancenter to London’s Theatre Scene

Dancenter alumna Lois returns from London with stories, memories, and inspiration.

Lois Hogan (right) and her friend Vi An Nguyen (left) at Dancenter

This summer, we’re thrilled to welcome back one of our beloved alumni — Lois — who has returned to Vietnam during her summer break from studying musical theatre in the UK. Lois now trains intensively at Emil Dale Academy in London, pursuing her dream of becoming a versatile performer in the world of musical theatre.

Growing up in a family deeply connected to the world of theatre, Lois’s love for musicals began early. From a young age, she was surrounded by music and stage stories, drawing inspiration from her grandmother, mother, and sisters.

“My childhood was filled with musical tunes,” she shares, “and I was lucky to follow in the footsteps of my incredible granny, mum, and two elder sisters.”

At Dancenter, Lois found a nurturing space to explore and develop her artistic identity. The strong foundation in dance technique, combined with unwavering encouragement from her teachers, gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.

“The trust, care, and support Ms Linh, Ms Sabra, Ms Lex, Ms Danielle, and the whole Dancenter team showed me throughout my time at DC will always remain with me. I will especially remember Ms Danielle’s kind words and patience - it reminded me of my love for dance when I was practicing in the studio on stressful school evenings. Most of all, I will always treasure the way Ms Linh made every class a safe and peaceful place to unwind, explore, and grow. She inspired, challenged, and believed in me - and in all of us - and that is something I will always carry with me.”

Lois is currently enrolled in the BTEC program at Emil Dale Academy, where she trains intensively in singing, acting, and a wide range of dance styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, and commercial. She describes her program in London as both intense and deeply fulfilling.

“Every day challenges me to grow as a versatile performer,” she explains, “and I’m so grateful to spend every day doing what I love.”

Returning to Dancenter this summer brought back a wave of treasured memories. Lois recalls the excitement backstage with TDC (Dancenter Top Dancers Company) - , especially before competitions and annual shows - moments when hard work met pure connection, both with fellow dancers and the audience.

“It was the moments where we felt the success of our hard work, and we got to connect deeply with each other and the audience.”

Being back in class, she’s noticed how far TDC dancers have come - and how the energy at Dancenter is as vibrant as ever. To today’s young dancers at Dancenter, Lois offers this advice:

“Absorb every piece of advice, correction, and feedback your teachers offer. Not only will it help you grow as a dancer, it will help you grow as an artist.”

And to the current TDC team, she sends a heartfelt message:

“TDC is so special - treasure every moment and memory. I am cheering you all on from the UK!”

Welcome back, Lois. Your journey continues to inspire us all.