Dancing to New Heights | Audrey Metcalf | Wenona

A Year 11 student from from Wenona

In this interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Audrey, a dedicated dancer and student at Wenona. Audrey shares her journey of growth and development through the dance program at Wenona, reflecting on how it has shaped her technique, performance, and academic skills. She provides insights into her favourite aspects of studying dance, the support she receives from her teachers and peers, and the memorable experiences that have enriched her passion for dance. Audrey also discusses the challenges she faces in balancing schoolwork with her dance commitments and looks ahead to her future aspirations in the dance world.

Audrey, how has your experience dancing at Wenona influenced your growth as a dancer and as a student?

My experience at Wenona has significantly influenced my growth as a dancer as it has strengthened my technique, performance quality, versatility, and overall enjoyment of the art form. The variety of classes that are offered within the extra-curricular program has allowed me to experience and choose from a range of different styles, and the academic subject has enhanced my understanding and appreciation of dance in a variety of different ways. The transferable skills I have been able to learn and develop through these programs have also contributed to my growth as a student.  

What is your favourite aspect of studying dance at Wenona?

Studying dance at Wenona has given me the opportunity to incorporate my passion into my academic program in an encouraging, supportive, and enjoyable environment. My favourite aspect would be the one-on-one nature of the class due to the smaller class size, as my peers and I have been able to become quite close. This has also allowed for more personal feedback and assistance, enabling us all to develop our skills and overall performance within the subject.  

How do your teachers and peers at Wenona support your passion for dance?

Both my teachers and peers at Wenona are very supportive of my passion for dance which has enabled me to grow and develop as both a student and dancer. Each teacher offers different perspectives, ideals, and lessons surrounding dance, and provides constructive feedback that has helped improve my technique and performance. Wenona’s academic course, in particular, offers countless opportunities for personal feedback, and my teachers continuously support me and help me excel. Being able to interact, collaborate, connect, and perform with my peers, who all share the same passion as me, is one of my favourite aspects of Wenona dance. Through everyone’s kindness, support, and encouragement, we’re able to create an inspiring atmosphere that really drives my passion for dance.  

What are some of the most memorable performances or events you’ve participated in through Wenona’s dance program?

Through Wenona’s dance program, I have participated in numerous performances and events, one of the most memorable being an academic dance excursion which included a jazz workshop with Sydney Dance Company, and watching Bangarra Dance Theatre’s performance of ‘Yuldea’. Other highlights include our regular extra-curricular and academic dance showcases, as they have provided authentic performance experiences for Wenona dancers.  

How do the skills and discipline you learn in dance at Wenona translate to your academic studies and other aspects of your life?

The numerous skills and disciplines that I have learnt from the Wenona dance program have allowed me to flourish in other aspects of school, and have significantly influenced multiple facets of my life. Choreographing my own dance has allowed me to develop my creativity and time-management skills, while also testing my perseverance when managing a project. I can apply these disciplines to my academic assignments and everyday work ethic. The performance aspect of dance has also provided me with a strong sense of confidence, expression, and adaptability. In addition, the appreciation component of the academic course involves written responses, strengthening this essential skill that is integrated into almost every one of my other  subjects.

Can you share any challenges you’ve faced while managing both schoolwork and dance, and how you’ve addressed them?

Maintaining a balance between schoolwork and dance has been quite challenging, especially since moving into Year 11 as my school workload has increased. One of the main obstacles has been time management as I dance after school three days a week which makes it hard to stay on top of work. I have addressed this by trying to be more organised so I can work more productively in the time I do set aside for schoolwork. Getting tasks and assessments done in advance has helped too.  

What are your favourite dance styles to perform at Wenona, and why do you enjoy them?

My favourite dance styles to perform at Wenona are commercial and contemporary. I have only just started commercial this year and I look forward to every class because it is such an enjoyable atmosphere, and the style itself is very vibrant and incorporates a lot of the other styles into one. Contemporary has always been one of my favourite styles and as it is integrated into Wenona’s academic program, this has provided a greater focus for me and has enhanced my enjoyment of the movements.

How has dancing at Wenona prepared you for your training at Ecole Ballet and Dance Theatre?

Dancing at Wenona has greatly assisted my training at my dance studio, Ecole, as the program offers multiple learning opportunities that the studio doesn’t have the facilities to provide. The academic curriculum in particular has allowed me to really understand aspects such as the way the body moves, the process of building choreography, analysing and appreciating dance works, and creating meaning in movement to enhance performance quality. I can apply all of this into my dance training at my studio.

Looking ahead, how do you see your dance journey evolving through your remaining time at Wenona and beyond?

Looking ahead, I know that my dance journey will evolve through my remaining time at Wenona as I move into Year 12 and continue to participate in extra-curricular dance as well as progressing to the HSC dance course. Beyond school, I know that dance will always be a part of my life whether through potential career paths or continued involvement in classes. Wenona dance has allowed me to build the foundations to reach my full potential as a dancer, as well as enhance my immense passion and love for the art form that I know will continue to evolve throughout my life.  

Audrey’s journey at Wenona is a testament to the profound impact that a supportive and enriching environment can have on a young dancer. Through the various opportunities provided by the school’s dance program, she has not only honed her technical skills but also developed invaluable life skills that extend beyond the dance floor. As she continues her dance journey into Year 12 and beyond, Audrey’s passion for dance and the strong foundation she has built at Wenona will undoubtedly lead her to new heights. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours and look forward to seeing where her love for dance takes her.