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|MAY24|  Ashton Smith from VCASS | image Danielle Brown  | Special Guest Artists |  Ty King-Wall | Artistic Director In September 2023, the dance world reverberated with excitement as Ty King-Wall, a distinguished figure within the realm of dance, assumed the prestigious role of Artistic Director at the esteemed Royal New Zealand Ballet. Hailing from the picturesque landscapes of New Zealand, Ty’s journey to this pivotal position was adorned with accolades and achievements, notably his illustrious tenure at The Australian Ballet, where he honed his craft and garnered a wealth of invaluable experience. With a career as illustrious as his, Ty’s ascent to the helm of the Royal New Zealand Ballet represents a convergence of passion, As we engage in conversation with Ty, we gain insight into the intricate tapestry of his artistic journey. Delving into the depths of his artistic vision, Ty graciously shares how his formative years in New Zealand and his subsequent experiences at The Australian Ballet have shaped his perspective on dance. His reverence for the art form is palpable as he articulates the profound impact of external studies on his artistic sensibilities, underscoring the importance of exploring diverse avenues of knowledge to enrich one’s artistic expression. One cannot help but marvel at Ty’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of dancers and fostering a culture of collaboration within the dance community. In particular, he emphasises the symbiotic relationship between the Royal New Zealand Ballet and the New Zealand School of Dance, recognizing the invaluable role they play in shaping the future of dance in the region. This steadfast commitment to collaboration and mentorship underscores Ty’s dedication to ensuring the continued growth and vitality of the dance ecosystem in New Zealand. Moreover, Ty’s deep-seated connection to the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the  Artistic Power couple, Amber Scott and Ty King-Wall In discussing his artistic vision for the company, Ty’s passion for inclusivity and exploration shines through. He envisions the Royal New Zealand Ballet as a beacon of artistic innovation, embracing the rich cultural tapestry of New Zealand and celebrating the diversity of voices within the dance community. Central to his vision is the exploration of identity as a thematic underpinning, reflecting the unique cultural landscape of New Zealand and offering a platform for dancers to express their individuality authentically. Looking to the future, Ty’s aspirations for the Royal New Zealand Ballet are as ambitious as they are inspiring. He envisions a company that pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, blurring the lines between tradition and innovation, and captivating audiences with its bold and daring repertoire. At the heart of this vision lies a commitment to excellence and a steadfast belief in the transformative power of dance to inspire, uplift, and unite communities. In assuming the role of Artistic Director at the Royal New Zealand Ballet, Ty King-Wall embarks on a journey that promises to redefine the landscape of ballet in New Zealand and beyond.   image Stephen A’Court
In 2024, Amber Scott steps into the esteemed role of Classical Tutor at the New Zealand Amber’s journey from student to professional dancer to educator has come full circle, embodying a commitment to lifelong learning and a passion for sharing the beauty of ballet with the next generation. At NZSD, she seamlessly  In our conversation with Amber, she sheds light on her teaching philosophies and the evolution of dance education since her student days. Motivated by the challenge of imparting knowledge and nurturing a love for ballet in her students, Amber emphasizes the importance of individualized instruction and effective communication in her teaching approach. When it comes to teaching ballet, Amber adopts a holistic approach, emphasizing movement analysis and progression. She takes the time to Amber’s journey as a mother has deeply influenced her approach to teaching, instilling in her a profound sense of patience and empathy. She views teaching as an opportunity to not only impart technical skills but also to foster personal growth and resilience in her students. Reflecting on the evolution of dance education, Amber acknowledges the greater emphasis placed on wellbeing and injury prevention in modern teaching practices. She highlights the wealth of resources available to students today, from online tutorials to global competitions, which enrich their training experience. For Amber, the ultimate aspiration for her students is to feel empowered and confident in themselves as dancers. She encourages them to embrace challenges, cultivate resilience, and take ownership of their progress, instilling in them a deep love for ballet and a lifelong passion for learning.  image Stephen A’Court Amber’s transition from performing to teaching was a natural progression, driven by a desire to share her passion for ballet with others. Completing a teaching qualification provided her with essential skills and knowledge necessary for effective instruction, instilling in her a mindset of continuous improvement and adaptability. The New Zealand School of Dance holds a special place in Amber’s heart, providing a nurturing environment that aligns with her teaching philosophy. She finds As Amber Scott embarks on this new chapter of her career at NZSD, her dedication to excellence and passion for teaching promise to inspire and elevate the next generation of dancers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of dance education.  
by Darci Virtue Fresh from her recent voyage aboard the Carnival Pride Cruise, Maia reflects on her two decades dedicated to dance. With an upcoming contract aboard another Q: Why do you think you remained committed to ED5 International for so long? Maia: It was largely due to the nurturing environment fostered within the ED5 community. It always felt like home—a Q: How would you describe the training you received at ED5? Maia: Attention to detail. Every facet of our training is planned; nothing is random. It’s all designed to mirror the  Q: Do you believe your training has been focused on preparing you for the realities of the professional world? Maia: Absolutely. Things that came naturally to me were skills I acquired during those two years of full-time training. William, Elena, and Mario—they all instilled invaluable lessons that have stayed with me. Q: Which specific lessons from your training have proven most valuable in your current role as a dancer with Carnival? Maia: Understanding the chain of command. It’s important to know who to approach for different issues or concerns. Working in the industry, I’ve learned firsthand how essential it is to respect the hierarchy. Q: Did you have a favourite mentor at ED5? Maia: Elena has consistently been a guiding figure for me. Her influence was profound, both in dance and in the business aspect. Q: What specific dance styles are you drawn to or excelled in? Maia: Tried-and-true jazz has always held the top spot in my heart. Particularly Q: Were cruise ships always at the top of your career aspirations? Maia: I found myself drawn to that path, and now, as I’m entering on my third contract, I realise there’s something about it that resonates with me.  Q: Where have you traveled in the world with Carnival Cruise Line? Maia: My first one was based out of Long Beach, California, where we traveled through Mexico. Recently, I was incredibly fortunate to tour Europe and the Mediterranean, which was a dream come true. Q: Reflecting back on your training, were there any significant milestones? Maia: Landing my first professional contract. Dedicating your entire life to something and finally receiving recognition for your hard work—it’s incredibly rewarding. Q: What are your career goals? I’m excited to pursue more international opportunities. I’ve had my eye on Universal Studios for some time now. I’d love to explore that avenue further, perhaps when I’ve settled down in one place. Q: Why does dance make you happy? Dance continues to teach me something new every day, making me feel like a student in this industry. Q: What is your advice for other young aspiring dancers? Listen. Be a sponge. Learn what works for you.
A perfectionist.   Georgia Clay | by Helena Gjone Meet Georgia Clay, a talented Aussie dancer from the Gold Coast, Queensland, who grasps the significance of expanding Georgia embarked on her dance journey under Shannon Atkins, mastering various styles before focusing on ballet and contemporary at Amanda Bollinger Dance Academy. Under the tutelage of Arna Dess, she polished her technique and prepared for ‘Royal Academy of Dance’ exams.  Arna Dess praises Georgia’s artistry, stating, “Georgia is an established, versatile, and talented dancer who performs with passion and love for her craft.” Despite pressure to prioritize dance over academics, Georgia completed high school at Marymount College, finding equilibrium between education and her passion. Her diligence paid off with a scholarship to the Rock School for Dance Education in Philadelphia, USA, where she adapted to a larger-scale dance environment, enhancing her performance skills. However, the onset of the pandemic in 2020 forced Georgia to diversify her skills. She obtained certification to teach ballet, choreographed for various programs, and found fulfillment in instructing adults.  Reflecting on this shift, Georgia remarks, “Teaching adults offered new challenges and perspectives, enriching my understanding of my craft.” Amid setbacks, Georgia garnered accolades for her teaching and choreography. Now, she’s poised to embark on an apprenticeship with Hudson Ballet Theatre in New York, eagerly anticipating future performances and embracing her expanded role within the dance community. Through seizing new opportunities, Georgia emerges as a more well-rounded and resilient artist, poised for the diverse opportunities that lie ahead. Developing Your Développé
Achieving a graceful développé in dance demands more than meets the eye. While it may appear effortless onstage, it requires years of dedicated strength and flexibility training. Fortunately, there are exercises that can expedite progress and reduce the risk of hip injuries. Strengthening exercises targeting key hip muscles outside of regular dance classes can significantly enhance your développé. Focusing on muscles such as the hip flexors, turnout muscles, and gluteus medius can improve both the height of your leg lift and the stability of your In addition to strengthening, flexibility is crucial for achieving a high développé. Stretching exercises that target the hamstrings and adductors can help improve the range of motion in your legs, allowing for a more graceful extension. Despite consistent training, dancers may encounter obstacles such as growth spurts or genetic limitations that affect their développé. Patience and empathy within the dance community are essential during these times. Understanding the role of hip morphology in turnout variation can also provide insights into développé challenges. Consulting with a physiotherapist can help dancers identify their individual limitations and develop tailored strategies for improvement.  For dancers struggling with their développé, a physio assessment can offer valuable guidance and support. By addressing specific areas of weakness or stiffness, dancers can work towards achieving their full potential on stage. In conclusion, developing a strong and graceful développé requires dedication, patience, and targeted training. By incorporating strength and flexibility exercises into your routine and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can enhance  Mastering the Split Jeté By Susan Bond, The grand and forward split jeté is a mesmerizing ballet move that demands a perfect blend of flexibility, strength, and coordination. It serves as a culmination of various elements learned in ballet classes, from basic pliés at the barre to intricate allegro sequences. However, achieving the ideal split jeté involves dispelling common misconceptions:
The components of a successful split jeté encompass various aspects:
Prioritizing injury prevention through proper warm-up, cool-down routines, and seeking guidance from qualified professionals is essential for dancers. In conclusion, while mastering the grande split jeté is challenging, with dedication, patience, and a comprehensive understanding of technique, dancers can soar to new heights in their performances.   Understanding Bone Stress Injuries: Differentiating Bone Stress, Stress Fractures, and Shin Splints
Bone stress injuries are prevalent among dancers, often resulting from repetitive mechanical loading and inadequate bone tissue recovery. Distinguishing between bone stress, stress fractures, and shin splints is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.
Conclusion:  | Dance.Ed |  Ashton Smith from VCASS | image Danielle Brown  Dance.Ed image Ashton Smith from VCASS | Eliza Dowie from Overnewton Anglican Community College | image Danielle Brown  Jack O’Toole from VCASS                 Ashton Smith, Year 12 Q: What does it feel like to have your work acknowledged at Top Class Dance? Ashton: It feels exciting. I’m a bit nervous today because everyone is so talented in the room. I’m very excited to get on stage and show everyone what I’ve Q: How long have you been at VCASS? Ashton: Four years now. I joined VCASS in Year 9. Prior to that, I did calisthenics for 10 years. I wanted to transition into dance, and then when I joined VCASS, that’s sort of when my dance journey began. Q: So what’s it like being a VCASS student? Ashton: It’s fun. I am now used to the long days of training (8:30-5:30 pm). We need all this time in the day, and our schedule helps us to keep on track. It’s a full program. Q: What does it mean to you to be able to go to a school like VCASS? Ashton: I’m very lucky that VCASS is in Melbourne because my family’s in Melbourne, so I don’t have to commute too far. It feels like an honour to be at an art school like this. Q: How do you motivate yourself during the hard times and continue to stay connected to your love of your craft? Ashton: I feel like as soon as the music turns on and I start dancing, I just sort of forget about all my Q: Can you talk to us about the choreographic skills you learn? Ashton: Choreographing has been a fun way to get my own ideas out there. It was a new idea for me to start with, but it was exciting because I had so many ideas. As soon as I found my music, the ideas just sparked. Music is first for me. If I can imagine a dance in my head to the music, then my ideas will flow. Q: And do you use video at all to improve your work? Ashton: I always come up with choreography and then record myself. I’ll use this footage to select parts that I liked and join them together. It’s always a long process because I don’t always like everything I create. Q: Is Dance something you Ashton: Definitely, I’m pursuing dance after Year 12. I’ll probably go into a tertiary program. I’m also going to audition for cruise ships as well. I’m going to audition for everything and see where I end up. Q: Why would you recommend VCASS? Ashton: I think our teachers make VCASS really special. They’ve all had careers in the industry. They’re all very knowledgeable, and I think that’s really important to have teachers who have had experience in the field. Getting to work on multiple different styles of dance is really important as well. Not just sticking to one pathway. At VCASS, we have jazz, contemporary, ballet, a bit of everything. That’s what’s different about VCASS. Q: When you started at VCASS did you have a preferred genre? Ashton: I wasn’t sure, I was open to anything. I always thought I was going to do musical theatre, but lately I’ve been leaning towards contemporary. I just enjoy contemporary. I’m more passionate for it, but I’m happy to go into anything that’s what VCASS has taught me, learning all these different styles, so, they’re making me a really adaptable performer. That’s what VCASS does.  Ashlinn McLean, Year 12 Q: Why did you choose VCASS? Ashlinn: I like the balance of academics and dance so that I can spend a lot of my time on dance and the academics is like a smaller load. Q: And where did you come from before? Ashlinn: I’m from Geelong and went to Expressions Ballet Academy. Q: Was it a big move to come to VCASS? Ashlinn: I have an apartment in Melbourne. My parents come up sometimes for support, but I originally commuted and it was a two-hour train ride to get to school every morning. After six months I got my own apartment. I love the independence. Q: What is it like being a student at VCASS? Ashlinn: It’s challenging because we have to be versatile in all three styles, jazz, contemporary, and Q: What does it mean to you to have your work showcased at Top Class Dance? Ashlinn: It’s really special because it’s not often you get to perform your own choreography as a soloist on stage at 17 years of age. It is also very special to have my teacher Miss Seal Kiek-Callan in the audience. Q: Can you talk to me how VCE VET Dance has helped you to find your artistic voice? Ashlinn: I feel like the difference between the Skills-Based and Cohesive Composition Solos were really important because it encourages you to find alternate ways to build your solo. Working from an intention-based point of view or focusing on dynamics and height and level, really contributed to my choreographic vocabulary and got me outside my comfort zone. Creating two solos I also had to be mindful about my style and duplicating moves I was comfortable and familiar with. I couldn’t just stick to the one Q: Is it the music that motivated you first? Ashlinn: I like to start with the music. But for the Cohesive Composition Solos I thought of my concept, which is sleep and then found music to go with that. Q: Did you choreograph them both alongside each Ashlinn: I did my Skills-Based Solo in February, March and then my Cohesive Composition Solo in August, September. School life is very busy so we had to get the work done in this time period. Q: Do you have a plan for next year? Ashlinn: I’m Q: Now that you’ve experienced VCASS, can you share with our readers something may not know about the school? Ashlinn: VCASS is a community, being around dancers all day and then joining other creative streams for academics, everyone gets on together. It is a really supportive environment especially compared to a normal school  Charlize Portes-Green, Year 10 Q: What first captivated your interest in The McDonald College? Charlize: When I first joined the After Hours program, I was drawn to the variety of dance styles and the excellent facilities. Transitioning to the College, it was the Q: Could you describe your recollection of the audition process? Charlize: During the After Hours program when I was in second grade, our College Principal, Ms. Maxine Kohler, observed our RAD class. It was actually quite enjoyable, as a young dancer, to have the opportunity Q: Please provide insight into your typical week: the number of dance hours, genres studied, academic lessons, and any preferences you have. Charlize: My week is quite busy! We follow a rotating schedule with “Week A” and “Week B,” impacting our performing arts electives, especially for those of us in Double Ballet like myself in Year 9 and Year 10. I engage in various dance genres such as contemporary, lyrical, Q: How many students are in your year group, and do you find this size favourable? Charlize: There are around 30-40 students in my year group, divided into two classes. I like that each class is small, making it easier to make friends and reducing Q: What aspect of your daily routine do you look forward to the most? Charlize: The best part of my day is definitely when I get to dance. The performing arts classes, especially ballet, always make me feel happy and fulfilled. Q: How pivotal is the performance aspect of the program to you? Charlize: The performance aspect is incredibly significant to me. Being able to perform a full ballet is a dream come true and allows me to pour my heart and soul into each performance. Q: Could you elaborate on your reflections regarding your dance instructors? What specific qualities do you value in them, and how do they contribute to your progress as a dancer? Charlize: I’m incredibly grateful for my dance teachers at The McDonald College. They create a positive and welcoming environment and provide constructive feedback that inspires me to push myself beyond my limits. Q: How would you characterise the overall vibe among your classmates? Do you sense a palpable competitive dynamic among them? Charlize: My classmates are supportive and always ready to help each other. While there’s competition, we cheer each other on and celebrate everyone’s achievements.  Ava Micallef, Year 9 Q: Can you recount your experience during the audition process? Ava: I’ve been a part of The McDonald College since I was very young, attending dance classes in the After Hours program. I vividly remember our Principal, Maxine Kohler, visiting one Q: Please provide insight into your typical week: the number of dance hours, genres studied, academic lessons, and any preferences you have. Ava: My week is quite busy! I attend school Monday to Friday, where I have a range of dance classes like Classical, Contemporary, Character, Lyrical, Pilates, and Yoga. Alongside these, I study English, Maths, Science, History, and Q: How many students are in your year group, and do you find this size favourable? Ava: There are around 20 students in my academic year group, which I find just right. It allows for personalised attention from teachers and fosters a supportive Q: What aspect of your daily routine do you look forward to the most? Ava: My favourite part of the day is definitely my performance classes. Currently, we’re gearing up for our annual full-length ballet performance in July, and I couldn’t be more excited to be part of The Nutcracker. Q: Ava: Performing is everything to me. It’s where I feel most alive and fulfilled. Being able to participate in full-length ballet performances at my age is a rare opportunity, and it’s something I cherish deeply. It’s like a glimpse into what my future as a professional dancer could look like. Q: Could you provide insights into your experiences with your dance instructors? Ava: I’m incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated and supportive dance teachers at The McDonald College. They create an environment where we feel encouraged to push our boundaries while also ensuring we take care of ourselves physically and mentally. Working closely with Head of Classical Ballet, Jane Kesby, has been especially inspiring for me. Q: How would Ava: Yes, there’s definitely a sense of healthy competition among us, but it’s more about pushing each other to be our best selves rather than trying to outdo one another.  Alex Phoon, Year 12 Q: What initially attracted you to The McDonald College? Alex: I was drawn to The McDonald College because it offered me the chance to enhance my dance skills while still receiving a quality academic education. Plus, the impressive alumni and Q: Could you describe your recollection of the audition process? Alex: The audition process involved a ballet class and an academic test, which I did alongside other students my age. Q: Can you provide Alex: My week is pretty packed! I have academic classes from 8:30 to 2:15 every day, followed by about 13 hours of dance classes each week. We cover contemporary technique, ballet, and even get to work with the Sydney Dance Company once a week. On top of that, I have HSC classes like Advanced English and Legal Studies. I actually really enjoy PDHPE! Q: How many students are in your year group, and do you find this size favourable? Alex: There are around 40 students in my year, which I think is just right. It means we get plenty of attention from our teachers, and we’ve all become pretty close-knit. Q: What aspect of your daily routine do you look forward to the most? Alex: Definitely dancing at the end of the day. It’s like my stress reliever! Q: How significant is the performance aspect of the program for you? Alex: I absolutely love performing! Even though I’ve shifted to the Senior Contemporary Dance Stream, being part of the Ballet Stream’s production of Giselle was incredible. It felt like being part of a professional Q: Can you share your thoughts on your dance teachers? What qualities do you admire in them, and how do they support your growth in dance? Alex: I’ve been lucky to have amazing teachers who really care about us. Ms. Jane Kesby and Ms. Lindsay Ellman-Brown have been so supportive, not just with dance but also with everything else going on in our lives. Q: What is the general atmosphere like among your peers? Is there a noticeable competitive spirit among them? Alex: There’s definitely a positive vibe among us. Sure, there’s competition, but it’s healthy and pushes us to do better. Plus, being around so many talented dancers has really helped me improve.  Juliet Whelan, Year 9 Q: What initially attracted you to Redlands? Juliet: The dance program, and the fact that I could get a full academic education at a highly regarded school while combining that with my Q: Juliet: There was a 1 ½ hour ballet masterclass with Ms Traynor, and we also had to sit the ACER academic scholarship test. Before the audition, you had to submit a dance CV with all of your past dance history, including exam and competition results. Then, I was interviewed by Q: Juliet: I do full academic days from 8:20 am to 3:20 pm. During that time, I do all of the usual subjects: English, Maths, Science, etc. I also participate in Dance as an academic Q: How does Dance as a subject complement your practical dance studies, and why would you recommend it to other dancers? Juliet: This subject complements my practical studies as we learn about the body and the muscles, and how they must interact to create the movements. We also learn about safe dance practice and how to recover from injuries. Additionally, we learn how to choreograph a dance, which is extremely helpful for my dance career as I move forward in my dance journey. Currently, we are learning about what muscles are needed to execute various dance steps, such as jumps, turns, and falls. I find it fascinating to find out how the body   NEXT ISSUE ALERT! (July) Cecchetti Team Australia featuring Overall National Junior Champion, Misa Titcher from VCASS along with other Award Recipients. OUT JULY!   Celeste Robinson from En Pointe Studios, Pre-Intermediate Ballet Winner From February 15th to 18th, 2024, the picturesque town of Waratah, NSW, became the epicentre of artistic expression and inspiration as dancers from across Australia gathered for the esteemed Australian Classical Challenge. Amidst the grace and fervour of the performances, the event bore witness to poignant moments and profound insights that transcended the boundaries of dance. Reflecting on the event, attendees were moved by the heartfelt words of renowned figures in the industry. Paul The distinguished panel of adjudicators, featuring luminaries such as Daniel Gaudiello, Lana Jones, and Fleur Conlon, brought a wealth of expertise and perspective to the proceedings. Their emphasis on mental health awareness and the importance of inclusivity echoed throughout the event, reminding dancers of their inherent worth beyond mere physicality. Behind the scenes, the dedication of event organiser, Sally Wade and her team added an extra layer of warmth and familial spirit to the occasion. Their commitment to prioritising the well-being of participants underscored the nurturing environment fostered by the Australian Classical Challenge. As the performances unfolded, it became evident that the adjudicators were not merely seeking technical prowess but rather that elusive spark of individuality and potential. Each soloist, buoyed by encouragement and In essence, the Australian Classical Challenge was not just a competition, but a celebration of the human spirit and the transformative power of dance. As participants and spectators alike departed, they carried with them not only memories of exceptional talent but also a renewed sense of purpose and possibility, inspired to continue their artistic journey with courage and conviction. Daniel Gaudiello “It’s easy to recognise the technicians and those with flawless polish. But what truly moves me is something deeper. Ballet transcends mere technique; it’s about forging connections on stage. Icons like Margot Fonteyn and Marcia Haydée didn’t always possess unmatched technical prowess, yet their performances were captivating beyond measure.  Shanaya Buddingh from I commend Australian teachers for their exceptional talent and dedication. Our nation boasts world-class teaching, and we should take immense pride in our traditions. As an advocate for mental health in classical ballet, I’ve witnessed the silent struggles of dancers firsthand. Many of our most promising talents are lost to the pressures of body image and eating disorders. It’s time we collectively confront this taboo and embrace self-acceptance. The landscape of ballet is evolving, challenging outdated stereotypes and norms. It’s essential to foster a culture of mental resilience and self-love. We must continually check in with our dancers, ensuring their well-being both physically and mentally. I’ve witnessed the heartbreaking toll of untreated mental health issues in our students. We cannot afford to lose our brightest talents to needless suffering. Let’s break the silence, open the conversation, and prioritise the holistic well-being of every dancer. So, I urge each and every one of you: Are you okay? Let’s embrace our bodies, cherish our gifts, and foster a community of support and acceptance within the world of dance.”  Lana Jones “The entire intermediate experience has been truly enchanting for me. I’ve revelled in every moment and witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and passion poured into every performance. The meticulous attention to detail, technique, and artistic expression has been awe-inspiring. It’s gratifying to see students absorb feedback and effortlessly implement adjustments on stage – a testament to I deeply admire the commitment and passion exhibited by each dancer. Amidst the backdrop of Newcastle’s vibrant dance culture, I’ve been profoundly moved by the exquisite artistry and conscientious technique displayed. It’s a poignant reminder that true excellence in ballet transcends flashy tricks and turns; it lies in the artist’s soul and the mastery of technique. I firmly believe that those who possess these qualities are destined for  Holly Robinson from Paul Boyd, To the students, I urge you to I’ve seen many young talents rush their careers, only to burn out prematurely. While ambition is admirable, patience and perseverance are equally vital. Enjoy the camaraderie of the studio, learn from your teachers and coaches, and relish every moment. Being a dancer is a remarkable privilege, and the joy of the journey is unparalleled. Training is the bedrock of success in our profession. Like top athletes, dedication to training is paramount. Never shy away from revisiting the basics; they form the building blocks of greatness. It’s crucial to understand that success in ballet is subjective. One choreographer may adore your talent, while another may not. Stay true to your training and remember the invaluable lessons learned in the studio. I want to commend the boys for their bravery and courage. The journey of a dancer, especially for young men, can be challenging. Mental health was often overlooked in my time, but it’s heartening to see a shift in awareness today. To any struggling dancers, seek help; your well-being matters. A career in dance, regardless of genre, is an act of courage. Embrace your passion, persevere through challenges, and know that you are embarking on a remarkable journey. To all the young boys out there, pursue your dreams with unwavering determination.” Paul Malek “For the past three years, coming here after the pandemic and everything we went through in Melbourne, these people, the seniors out there, and the individuals I’ve met have truly changed my life. They’ve reminded me of the passion I have for dance because look at the talent standing on this stage.” to dancetrain in print 
Dance Dr., a seasoned dance company with over a decade of artistic contributions, has recently expanded its offerings to include incursions. In contrast to excursions, where students travel to an event, The excitement surrounding Dance Dr.’s inaugural incursion at Southern Cross Catholic College (SCCC) on November 28th, 2023, was palpable. Dancetrain’s editor eagerly attended the event to capture the essence of this groundbreaking Making effective use of the outstanding facilities at SCCC, Dance Dr. commenced the incursion with a captivating excerpt from their 2023 work, “DECA.” This performance, a celebration of Dance Dr.’s cumulative artistic journey, unfolded in the SCCC theatre. The students thoroughly enjoyed the spectacle, their appreciation evident in audible sighs of delight. Post-performance, the dancers invited the students onto the stage, fostering a circle of interaction. Melanie Fayd’herbe de Maudave The conversation delved into the significance of individual artistic preferences, with Lucy highlighting the collaborative and evolving nature of dance creation within the company, saying: “That’s an interesting part of the process too, I think in any dance creation is you have this intention, like how it will start and you think, you know what it will end up looking like.” As the discussion unfolded, the dancers, well-versed in the challenges faced by Year 11 and 12 students, shared valuable insights into the creative process. Lucy emphasised the importance of simplicity in composition and encouraged students to explore concepts freely, noting: “So I think thinking really like less is more the simpler, you put something down to it, you can always add things to make it more complex, but if you get stuck, I think either the best thing you can do is move on and come back to it or try to tone it down by a hundred.” The students actively engaged in the conversation, probing into the motivation behind each component of the company’s work. One student inquired about the dancers’ stamina, prompting Shae to share diverse training approaches within the company, stating: “Everyone’s a bit different. So some of the girls are still doing dancing outside of school in a studio. So they’re doing that training upwards of 20 hours a week.” Niki Trifon, After the enlightening Q&A session, the company dancers and students transitioned to SCCC’s state-of-the-art dance studio to learn an excerpt from the showcased work. Interviews with students reflected their enthusiasm and newfound perspectives.  Lachie Harkness Brandon Santos Melanie Fayd’herbe de Maudave “Dance Dr. presented a stunning body of work led by Artistic Director Lucy Eaton. Students were inspired by the talent and technical precision of the company dancers, who performed a selection of contemporary pieces from Dance Dr.’s foray into incursions marks a significant stride in enriching dance education, bringing artistry directly to the students’ doorstep and leaving a lasting impact on their creative  | DANCE NEWS |
Lucy Mangion, a professional dancer hailing from Spectrum Dance in Melbourne, Australia, is set to embark on a new journey in New York City later this year, aiming to make her mark on Broadway. With an impressive resume, Lucy has graced stages alongside renowned Australian and international artists such as The Kid Laroi, Sean Kingston, Joel Corry, Topic, and Havana Brown. Beyond her performances, Lucy has established a  
The Dance Academy is thrilled to have seen a mix of familiar and new faces grace its studio throughout Term 1! Embracing both returning dancers and newcomers, the academy takes pride in extending its warm dance family welcome to all. For those still considering joining, there’s good news! Enrolment for Term 2 is still open. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just starting out, The Dance Academy invites you to become part of its vibrant community. Interested individuals can reach out via message or email at info@thedanceacademy.com.au to embark on their dance journey with the academy. The Dance Academy eagerly awaits the opportunity to dance alongside you with your enquiry… 
The students at Excite have been immersed in an incredible 8-week musical theatre bootcamp with the wonderful Lachie Dearing. On his short break from Hamilton, he has been back at Excite sharing his expertise and empowering our dancers to further develop their singing, acting, and dancing skills. Excite is truly the place to be! To find out more visit their website at  Aria Mitchell from Maks Ballet Studio image Enpointe Productions 
Huge congratulations to the Teresa Johnson Ballet School’s Senior Ensemble for performing in the YAGP 25th anniversary finals in New York. TTJBS students, Mia, Lily, Harriet, Juliette and Georgina will be performing ‘Imperial Green’ choreographed by Antonia Johnson. Well done to everyone involved! 
Lane Cove Dance Academy extends heartfelt congratulations to Emily for her remarkable achievement in reaching the finals of the Australian Classical Grand Prix. Emily’s dedication and talent have propelled her to this prestigious milestone in a remarkably short period. LCDA are immensely proud of Emily’s accomplishments and the dedication she has shown to her craft. Her success 
Quinn, Aria, and Charlotte from Movements Academy of Dance recently participated in a full day of classes with Joffrey Ballet School at the Thomas Dixon Centre in April! This marked Joffrey’s inaugural workshop in Australia, and the girls were honoured to be part of this historic event. The academy is proud to have supported their participation in this unique opportunity, 
Joanne Williamson Dance Academy proudly congratulates Ally Durbin for her remarkable achievement in securing the National Champion Dancer title for 2023 at Follow Your Dreams. Ally’s dedication, talent, and hard work have propelled her to this prestigious accolade, showcasing her outstanding abilities on the national stage. Her commitment to  Join us at AMPA for a spectacular day of dance! Dive into inspiring classes led by our international faculty and get a taste of the enriching dance education we offer full-time. Plus, don’t miss our exclusive Q&A session with the Head of Dance. It’s a golden chance for budding dancers, choreographers, and dance teachers to explore the world of tertiary education and discover how it can shape their future in dance. WHEN  
Pirouette Ballet School Melbourne proudly congratulates Milla for her outstanding performances at the Time To Shine Dance Competition. Milla’s dedication and talent were on full display as she received an emerald & Diamond award for her remarkable variation & classical solo. We commend Milla for her exceptional achievement, which reflects her hard work and 
As the new dance year unfolds, The Dance Establishment is delighted to witness the enthusiasm and talent filling its studio. ENROLMENTS Still OPEN! The Dance Establishment extends an invitation to all aspiring dancers to join its vibrant community. Whether seasoned performers or newcomers, there’s a place for everyone to shine. FREE TRIAL Class Available! Prospective dancers are encouraged to Contact us today to celebrate your DANCEnews with our readers 
Whitney Schofield Dance Academy proudly congratulates Sophie, Ayano, Ollie (pic), and Kyra for their exceptional performances at the recent dance finals. Ollie stood out as a finalist in Pre-Intermediate Contemporary and a semifinalist in Classical, receiving the class award in Contemporary and a scholarship to @transitdance. Kyra advanced to both Classical & Contemporary finals, earning the 
Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge (BPAC) marks its 20th Anniversary with a vibrant celebration from May 17 to June 10, encompassing various venues across Brisbane. This dynamic event welcomes the next generation of performing artists to showcase their talents across diverse genres, competing for enticing prize packs aimed at enhancing their professional growth and providing pathways into elite training and the wider  |NEW PHOTO GALLERIES JUST ADDED| It is free to share our images on socials!         
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