Staff/Instructors
Danielle Flood
Danielle Flood is the Owner and Operator of Safari Dance Studio and serves as the Executive Director of the Captivating Cats Dance Team. A student of the fine arts since the age of 8, she received her foundational training at the renowned Evelyn Ott School of Dance. In 2009, Danielle founded a nonprofit cheer team that grew to over 100 cheerleaders, exemplifying her dedication to youth mentorship and community leadership.
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Over the years, Danielle has mentored and inspired countless young dancers and cheerleaders who are now utilizing their talent on collegiate and professional levels. Her creative vision earned the Best Theme award at the World of Dance competition, further cementing her reputation as an innovative choreographer.
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Deeply committed to giving back to the Norfolk community that shaped her, Danielle continues to inspire the next generation of performers, leaving a lasting legacy through her passion for dance and service.
Daniel Flood
Daniel Flood is the co-owner of Safari Dance Studio and has been immersed in the world of dance since the age of 9. With over a decade of teaching experience, Daniel is an award-winning choreographer and a dedicated educator, known for his dynamic and creative routines. As Creative Director of SDS and Head Coach of the Captivating Cats Dance Team, Daniel leads with vision and precision, inspiring dancers to reach their full potential.
In addition to working with students of all levels, Daniel has choreographed standout performances for NBA halftime shows, Disney events, NASCAR races, and more, showcasing a versatile and innovative approach to dance on large-scale stages. Daniel's passion for dance and commitment to excellence continues to shape the future of the art form.
April Flood
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April Flood began her dance journey at the age of 5, training with Denise Walls Dance Energy before continuing her ballet studies at Safari Dance Studio. As her passion for dance grew, she refined her technique at the prestigious Broadway Dance Center in New York City and later pursued a formal education in dance at Old Dominion University. There, she specialized in Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, and Hip Hop, developing a well-rounded expertise in multiple dance forms.
April’s performance career has taken her to renowned stages, including Disney World and Pharrell Williams' Something in the Water Festival, where she showcased her versatile talents. She has also graced Paul Mitchell’s World of Dance and had the honor of opening for acclaimed jazz saxophonist Sam Rucker.
Currently, April serves as the Ballet, Jazz, and Contemporary instructor at Safari Dance Studio, where she brings her passion and experience to the next generation of dancers. She has also been the Assistant Coach of the Captivating Cats Dance Team since 2021, continuing to inspire and mentor young performers through her leadership and dedication.
Michael Flythe
Michael Flythe is a dynamic and versatile dancer, choreographer, and instructor who began his career in middle school through step and dance. He pursued his passion at Old Dominion University (ODU), where he minored in Dance, developing expertise in Hip Hop, Modern, Ballet, Afro-beat, and traditional African dance.
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Throughout his time at ODU, Michael worked closely with Dance Professor James Morrow, helping to coordinate a "Pre-Collegiate" Dance Intensive for recent high school graduates. He also served as a Hip Hop instructor at ODU's Student Recreation Center and performed a self-choreographed modern solo in ODU’s University Dance Concert.​
As a member of ODU's "Afrosimbas," Michael performed at several prestigious events, including Pharrell Williams' Something In The Water Festival, TACA 757, Norfolk State University, the University of Virginia, and the Hampton Roads Show.
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Currently, Michael serves as the Hip Hop Level 1 & 2 instructor at Safari Dance Studio and has been the Assistant Coach to the Captivating Cats Dance Team since 2020. His passion for dance and teaching allows him to continually inspire and elevate his students' skills and confidence.
Jalisa Butler
Jalisa Butler was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, where her passion for dance began. Trained in hip hop, liturgical, contemporary, and lyrical styles, Jalisa has cultivated a diverse skill set that reflects her love for movement and expression. As a seasoned hip hop instructor, Jalisa has led and coached The Lady RUs and Xclusive Division at Radford University, and also served as the creative director, historian, and choreographer for the Synergy Dance Team.
Currently, Jalisa performs with several local artists and has had the honor of opening for renowned acts such as Monica, Jeezy, Yung Miami, CupcakKe, and more. With an unwavering dedication to dance, Jalisa is thrilled to bring her talents and passion to the Safari Dance Studio family, eager to inspire and share the joy of dance with the community.