More than dance classes.
Learn to really dance.
Authentic Latin & Brazilian dance on the Gold Coast
Brazilian Zouk • Bachata Sensual • Urban Kiz • BachaZouk
Founded and led by internationally acclaimed Brazilian dancer, teacher and choreographer Jorge “JT” Mariano, bringing more than 20 years of international dance experience to the Gold Coast.
Southport • No partner required
We don't just teach steps.We develop dancers.
Learn technique, connection, musicality, body movement and lead & follow — so you understand how to dance, not simply memorise patterns.
From complete beginners to experienced dancers, we develop confident, connected and versatile dancers.
Discover JT Dance AcademyReady to dance?
New to dance
Beginner Starter Program
Up to 18 hours | 6 weeks | $160
Come to as many classes as you like. Start anytime. No partner. No experience required.
Start hereAlready dance
$39 unlimited trial week
Experience unlimited eligible classes at your level for one week.
Start my trialFind your dance.
Brazilian Zouk
Fluid. Connected. Completely unique.
Discover one of Brazil's most beautiful partner dances with specialist Brazilian Zouk training from beginner through to advanced level.
Explore Zouk →Bachata Sensual
Connected. Expressive. Addictive.
Explore the connection, movement and musicality of Bachata Sensual — from strong foundations through to advanced partnerwork, body movement and musical interpretation.
Explore Bachata →Urban Kiz
Smooth. Technical. Connected.
Urban Kiz is offered as a specialist 2-hour Monday course over one month — a focused format that lets you build connection, control, lead and follow, technique and musicality progressively.
Explore Urban Kiz →
Brazilian roots.International experience.
Jorge “JT” Mariano
Founder & Lead Instructor
Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, JT is an acclaimed Brazilian professional dancer, teacher and choreographer with more than 20 years of international experience.
His career has taken him across Brazil, Europe, Russia, Australia and around the world, teaching and performing at leading dance congresses and sharing his knowledge with dancers at every level.
Renowned for his musicality, precision and attention to detail, JT's teaching goes beyond steps and patterns to develop technique, connection, movement and genuine understanding.
More than a dance school.
JT Dance Academy was founded by Jorge “JT” Mariano and Estelle Abela from a shared love of dance and a vision to create something special on the Gold Coast.
Together, they wanted to build a place where exceptional teaching, authentic culture and genuine community came together — where people could learn, challenge themselves, make friendships and feel part of something.
JT leads the artistic direction and teaching, while Estelle works largely behind the scenes. Together, they continue to shape an Academy built around the things that matter most to them: quality, authenticity, connection, culture and people.
More than classes.
Courses • Workshops • Practicas • Socials • Special Events
There's always something happening at JT Dance Academy.
Workshops & Intensives
Focused training designed to take your dancing deeper.
Specialist Courses
Structured programs that allow you to develop skills progressively over several weeks.
Practicas
Dedicated opportunities for members to practise, connect and consolidate what they're learning in class.
Loved by our Gold Coast dance community
“Best partner dance classes with focus on technique and style. JT is very experienced in many styles, an inspirational performer and teacher in many countries — we are lucky he has chosen to build a foundation here on the Gold Coast!”
“The community is super friendly — it's like joining a dance family. Whether you're just starting out or looking to polish your style, you're in good hands here. 10/10 would recommend.”
“I never imagined having the opportunity on the Gold Coast to take classes with a teacher with Mariano's level of technique, style and experience. The classes include personalised feedback, which is a great tool for improvement.”
“Jorge is an incredibly talented dance teacher who brings both passion and professionalism to every class. He breaks down complex movements in a way that's easy to understand and creates an atmosphere where everyone feels confident.”
“I'm loving the zouk, bachata and kizomba classes. Jorge and Tiago are top class, international level dancers and teachers. The cost and plans are very reasonable — a bargain considering the level of teaching.”
“So happy to have JT's dance academy on the Gold Coast. This level of teaching is rare. Come and join the community, there is so much to gain.”