Former Justice crew member Samson Smith and wife Chantal Curmi expand dance studio program for toddlers

A celebrity husband and wife duo’s popular program to teach preschoolers the art of dance is launching to the rest of the country.

A celebrity couple’s Sydney dance studio that teaches preschoolers groovy moves is ready to show Australia how much fun dancing can be.

Former Justice Crew member Samson Smith and his wife, professional dancer Chantal Curmi - who own Base 181 Studios in Rouse Hill - are launching their popular program Lil’ Groovers to the rest of the country.

The program, which was launched a year ago, focuses on empowering kids to be themselves, be creative, resilient and courageous through seven dance genres.

Besides hip-hop, these kids learn jazz moves, graceful ballerina steps, tip tap, cheer, acrobatics and even some Ninja Warrior moves.

Former Justice Crew member Samson Smith and his wife Chantal Curmi have launched their successful Lil’ Groovers program to other dance studios across the country. Picture: Tileah Dobson

Mrs Curmi said the couple were thrilled with how well received the program had been from both the kids and parents.

“They love it,” she said.

“It’s very uplifting and positive, and with the music the parents can jump on board and they can be a part of it too. Sometimes our daughter is watching something and I’m like ‘do I have to listen to this again?’ It’s not those vibes.

“So I think they (parents) love that aspect of it. It’s not just about dance moves, it’s about education and school readiness. It’s about keeping it light, fun and bubbly.”

Mr Smith, said the program was a way to “give back” to the hip-hop community.

“Especially for the hip-hop community, the goal is to give back to the next generation,” he said.

The program teaches kids dance from seven different genres and styles. Picture: Tileah Dobson

“So that when we get a little bit older, they carry on the hip-hop culture.”

Besides creating the program for other dance studios, the duo also create the music, dance moves and activities.

However each new song or dance has to get their three-year-old daughter Māia Rae’s stamp of approval.

“She is a tough critic,” Mrs Curmi said.

“I have to get her approval on the music. So if she likes it, I’m like ‘okay the other kids will like it’, but if she’s like ‘mm change, next song’ I’m like ‘ohhh’,” Mr Smith said.

“And also dancing at home … we’re creating the music and creating movements. I have to see if she can do it as well.”