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| September24 | 
 | Special Guest Artists |  Tyler Robinson
Tyler Tyler’s training at QNB laid the foundation for his success. In 2019, he earned his Advanced Diploma and gained recognition as a finalist in the Sydney Eisteddfod Ballet Scholarship. Seeking further growth, he moved to Germany to study at the prestigious School of Hamburg Ballet.  Martyn Fleming, Artistic Director of QNB, praised Tyler’s exceptional musicality and stage presence, recalling a moment when Maina Gielgud noted, “Tyler has it. Even with the simplest gesture, you can’t help but be drawn to him.” After graduating in 2021, Tyler joined the Bayerisches Junior Ballett München before making the leap to the Finnish National Ballet in 2024. Attracted by their diverse repertoire, Tyler was eager to join a company of 75 dancers,  Reflecting on his training at QNB, Tyler credits his teachers for equipping him with the skills needed for an international career. As he embarks on this new chapter, Tyler’s first performance with the Finnish National Ballet will be in Tyler Robinson’s journey from Australia to Europe exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of his dream. With a bright future ahead, he is set to make his mark on the global ballet stage.  Brooke Monaghan Brooke Monaghan started dancing at Why ED5? Brooke was inspired by Leslie Bell’s classes at Sydney Dance Company and the success of ED5 graduates. She felt ED5 would push her boundaries as a performer. Favourite Mentors: William and Leslie Bell stand out. William’s industry knowledge and belief in Brooke helped shape her career, while Leslie’s guidance pushed her to achieve more than she thought possible. What Makes ED5 Unique? ED5’s training goes beyond teaching dance, singing, and acting—it prepares students for the entire industry with unique classes like Performance Coaching and mock auditions that build resilience.  How Did ED5 Impact Your Career? ED5 equipped Brooke with the skills and confidence to start her first contract with Celebrity Cruises, making her transition into the professional world smooth. First Professional Job: Brooke started her first professional job in 2022 as a Production Cast Dancer on Celebrity Equinox, sailing the Caribbean shortly after the pandemic. Current Role: Brooke is currently Dance Captain on Celebrity Beyond, enjoying her third contract and embracing the opportunities the company offers. Career Goals: Brooke dreams of performing in musicals like Why Dance? Dance brings Brooke joy and freedom, allowing her to express herself fully and connect with the audience. Advice for Young Dancers: “If you love dance, don’t give up. There will be tough days, but it’s worth it. Always thank those who support you. I’m forever grateful to my mum, who never gave up on me.”  Amber Ivers
Amber Ivers is a Amber holds advanced certifications in dance and teaching, including RAD Advanced 2 and Comdance Diplomas in Classical, Jazz, and Tap. Her expertise extends into directing, producing, and choreography, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Why CPAC? Amber chose CPAC for its versatile training, preparing dancers for long-term careers rather than short-term trends. She credits her sustained success to the strong foundation CPAC provided. Advice for Choosing a Dance Studio Do your research, experience it firsthand, and ensure the studio’s values align with yours. What works for one dancer might not work for another. Thoughts on Dance Competitions Competitions offer valuable performance experience, but Amber warns against focusing solely on tricks, as they rarely translate to professional success. Transition to Full-Time Training Amber transitioned to full-time training at 15, balancing homeschooling with intense dance commitments. Her drive and CPAC’s training helped her build resilience, preparing her for the demands of a professional career. Creating Finesse Burlesque The idea for Finesse Burlesque emerged during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Amber saw an opportunity to bring together talented dancers and create something special during a challenging time. Navigating Trends and Tricks Amber focuses on sustainable skills over fleeting trends, adapting movements to suit her style and long-term career goals. Dealing with Rejection For Amber, rejection is redirection. She believes in self-love and resilience, viewing setbacks as part of the journey and a chance to reassess. Amber Ivers’ journey reflects resilience, creativity, and dedication. From Australia’s stages to Europe’s grand theatres, her success as a dancer, choreographer, and producer highlights her adaptability and passion for the performing arts.  
In this issue, we feature Lara Smith, a Sydney native who has become a standout showgirl at the Moulin Rouge in Paris. Lara impressed at the Australian auditions, a rigorous process overseen by Janet Pharaoh, the Moulin Rouge’s Associate Artistic Director. Pharaoh recognized Lara’s potential but noted her youth as a challenge in mastering professional choreography. Ultimately, Lara’s contract has Interview Highlights
William John Banks is a name that shines brightly across stages from Broadway to Bollywood. With a career that spans from appearing as Ballet Ken in Career Highlights William’s career boasts impressive milestones. “Appearing as Ballet Ken and Golfing Ken in Dance Training William’s formative years were shaped by his training at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, as well as Balcatta Senior High School and Jody Marshall Dance Company in Perth. “My teachers were both intensely demanding and nurturing, challenging me while encouraging me to seize every opportunity,” he reflects. Career William’s career path evolved organically. “After leaving West Australian Ballet, I explored various dance genres and companies abroad,” he explains. This journey led him to London and allowed him to blend ballet with commercial dance. “I love how my career has unfolded and continues to evolve.” Teaching Philosophy In his masterclasses, William emphasizes authenticity and kindness. “I hope my students learn to embrace who they are and stay true to themselves,” he says. He encourages practicing grace towards oneself and others as crucial for personal and professional growth. Diverse Work William’s work spans movies, music videos, catwalks, and stage performances. “Each medium has its own set of challenges and rewards,” he notes. Film demands intricate details that may be missed in theater, while stage work often requires a broader, more dynamic presence. Fitness and Well-being To maintain his fitness and Advice for Aspiring Dancers William advises students to stay driven by their passion. “Setting goals is important, but staying connected to why you started dancing is crucial,” he advises. Staying Grounded Despite the unpredictability of his career, William remains focused. “My deep passion for the arts and trust in my path keep me motivated and grounded,” he concludes. To follow William’s latest updates and projects, check out his Instagram.  Xavier Ferla Xavier Ferla, a former Principal Artist and Prix de Lausanne winner, boasts an extensive dance background. Trained at Conservatoire De Geneve, Ecole De Serge Golovine, and Hamburg Ballet School, Xavier has taught for over 28 years at prestigious institutions like Dance Theatre International and Alonzo King LINES Ballet. His career includes roles with Bejart Ballet Lausanne and Deruche Opere Berlin, and as Principal Dancer and Teacher with Alonzo King LINES Ballet and The Royal New Zealand Ballet. In April, Xavier visited Australia to lead classes at Tanya Pearson Arts Centre, selecting two dancers, Janaé Kerr and Sophia Hudson, for secondments with the Royal Danish Ballet. On Dance History Xavier values Class vs. Rehearsal vs. Performance Each training segment—class, rehearsal, performance—serves a unique purpose. “Class is for honing technique and exploring movement dynamics, while rehearsal focuses on emotional connection,” Xavier Education and Preparation Xavier’s school, founded by his wife Magdalene Parungao-Ferla, accepts all willing students, focusing on resilience and adaptability over mere technical skill. “We need to prepare students for the professional world, not just for competitions,” he asserts. Technique and Strength Xavier notes a shift towards leaner aesthetics but emphasizes that strength is crucial for executing choreography. “Regardless of gender, dancers should build strength and master technique,” he advises. Artistry vs. Athleticism Ballet should balance technical skill with emotional expression. “Too many performances lack emotional depth,” Xavier says. He believes artistry should take precedence over pure technical prowess. Individualized Learning Teaching dance requires adaptability. “What works for one student may not In summary, Xavier Ferla’s approach combines a deep understanding of dance history, a commitment to nurturing talent, and a focus on both technical proficiency and emotional depth.  to dancetrain in print | Bodywise |
By Susie Bond, Director & Physiotherapist, In this article, Susie Bond, a dance A comprehensive assessment by a dance physiotherapist includes evaluating postural alignment, range of motion, strength, and stability. This process helps identify potential issues, allowing dancers to address Bond advocates for widespread adoption of these pre-course evaluations to enhance students’ understanding of their physical capabilities and support long-term career growth in dance. Understanding Pain By Deb Wright, Director & Physiotherapist, Navigating pain is a critical aspect of a However, pain that persists or worsens during class requires immediate attention. Ignoring such signals can lead to more severe injuries, jeopardising a dancer’s career. Many dancers, driven by their passion and fear of falling behind, struggle with taking necessary breaks. It’s crucial to recognise that addressing minor Dancers often hesitate to take time off due to concerns about missing out on roles or falling behind peers. Yet, taking time off or modifying class activities due to injury can actually offer several advantages. For instance, dancers can use the time to focus on core strength and conditioning, often returning to class with improved physical resilience. They can also concentrate on other aspects of their repertoire, such as upper body strength, which can enhance their overall performance. Additionally, mental rehearsal—visualising choreography—can significantly improve performance outcomes.   Foot Alignment By Katrina Edwards, Founder & Pilates Instructor, In her article “The Crucial Role of Foot Alignment in Dance: Why Every Dancer Should Prioritise It,” Katrina Edwards, a seasoned Movement Specialist and founder of Aligned for Life Pilates, emphasises the fundamental importance of  The article outlines how correct foot alignment enhances motor skills and increases ankle and hip mobility, thereby improving movement precision and grace. Conversely, incorrect alignment can lead to chronic pain and injuries in the ankles, knees, and hips, potentially cutting short a dancer’s career. Key to achieving optimal foot alignment is understanding its connection to turn-out, a crucial element in dance, particularly in ballet. Proper alignment facilitates  Addressing common misconceptions, the article advises against excessive turn-out, which can lead to over-rotation and injury risks. It underscores the role of teachers in assessing and correcting alignment issues early in a dancer’s training to foster long-term health and career sustainability. Ultimately, Edwards advocates for dancers to prioritise foot alignment not only for immediate performance gains but also for their long-term physical to dancetrain in print | Stars of Studio |                       to dancetrain in print | DANCE NEWS |  Whitney Schofield Dance Academy Students Excel in Recent Competitions Whitney Schofield Dance Academy (WSDA) is proud to celebrate the exceptional achievements of its students in recent dance competitions. Their dedication and hard work have truly shone through. At the Ryde Eisteddfod,  Movements Academy of Dance Celebrates Outstanding Achievements at Recent Competitions Movements Academy of Dance extends a HUGE congratulations to the talented Jasmine for her incredible debut jazz solo at the Light Up The Stage competition today! Jasmine secured 3rd place and achieved the 3rd highest score in the Under 6 category. Fabulous work, Jasmine—we’re so proud of you! Congratulations also go to our 10’s and 12’s teams, who competed at the highly competitive Gold Coast Eisteddfod today. They delivered impressive results in large sections:
A huge well done to everyone involved, and special congratulations to the 10’s on completing your season!  From the Country to Hollywood: Cowra Ballet Heads to the USA Earlier this year, Hayley and her team from Cowra Ballet left rural NSW for an unforgettable LA Dance Tour. A group of 22 dancers, aged 6 to 23, along with their families, traveled to the USA after months of preparation. They met Dance Around The World tour staff at Sydney International Airport and embarked on their adventure. Upon arriving at LAX, the group kicked off their trip with a welcome dinner at Tony The group also celebrated birthdays at Goofy’s Kitchen, enjoyed a Dodgers baseball game, and wrapped up with a team dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Anaheim. After an action-packed 9 days, it was a trip they’ll never forget! www.dancearoundtheworld.com.au 
Since graduating from Reddam House in 2021, Louis Fontaine has achieved remarkable success in the performing arts. He is currently dazzling audiences as a Swing in the Australian production of While at Reddam House, Louis was renowned for his exceptional ‘triple threat’ abilities. He starred in lead roles in school productions of  Ella Southwell from Melbourne Academy of the Arts  Follow Your Dreams: Australian Dance Team Shines at The Dance Works Cup in Prague An exceptional team of 15 dancers from across Australia recently travelled to Prague to compete in the world’s largest dance competition, The Dance Works Cup. The team, which qualified at the Follow Your Dreams Nationals in January, enjoyed an incredible experience at the event. Highlights included the opening ceremony and parade, workshops, auditions, and team activities. The
Led by Team Manager Kylie Drew, the team was thrilled with their success and the opportunity to connect with dancers from around the world. Next year’s event will be held in Spain, with the qualifying event set for January 14 at the Adelaide Convention Centre during the FYD Nationals.  Lane Cove Dance Academy Shines in Competition Season Lane Cove Dance Academy has celebrated a successful competition season, with its dancers thriving in both learning and performance at the Contemporary Dance Open. Dancers Adabelle, Amarlie, Amelia, Eden, Emily, Grace, Hannah, and Kiara had the remarkable opportunity to work with industry professionals Kimball Wong, Daniel Roberts, and Madeline Harms. Special recognition goes to Hannah, Kiara, and Adabelle, who were selected among the top 10 in their divisions and performed in the finals at NIDA last night. The Academy’s Performance Groups also delivered impressive results at The Hills Dance Spectacular:
Congratulations to all the dancers for their outstanding achievements!  The Dance Establishment Students Shine at Sydney Eisteddfod and Ballet Gala The Dance Establishment is thrilled to congratulate Advanced student Jess for her outstanding performance at the Sydney Opera House in the Australian Youth Ballet’s production of   JPC Success Stories: Lou Cox’s Remarkable Dance Achievements John Paul College is thrilled to announce the success of our Year 12 Academic Dance student, Lou Cox, who has achieved outstanding recognition in the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF)’s annual Creative Arts competition. Lou’s two choreographic submissions captivated the judges, earning her both 1st and 2nd place in the highly competitive Dance category for Year 12. With  Toi Toi Toi Summer! Congratulations to 17-year-old Summer Duyvestyn from the Amanda Bollinger Dance Academy (ABDA), who will begin the Trainee Program at the Joffrey Ballet in Chicago this September. Summer, who trained at the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet School at a young age, had to return to Australia two years ago due to an injury. With the dedicated support of the ABDA faculty and the team at Inform Physio on the Gold Coast, Summer has worked hard to regain Photo by Stephan Bollinger  Academy X Grand Opening: Tailored Education for Elite Dancers Academy X, developed in response to the needs of Excite’s top dancers, offers a unique blend of high-quality education and intensive dance training for Western Sydney’s elite performers. Recognising the stress traditional schools place on talented dancers with demanding homework and exams, Academy X provides an environment that supports their creative learning styles. Mornings at Academy X are For more information, visit  20 Years of Dance Taking Shape at Shilleena’s Dance Academy Shilleena’s Dance Academy is off to an exhilarating start this year. The academy’s performance troupes have just wrapped up an impressive eisteddfod season, captivating audiences across Brisbane. With the annual Choreography Competition on the horizon, students are gearing up for a magical night where they can showcase their creativity. The winning choreography will even feature in the For more details, visit  Soraya Sullivan Set to Join English National Ballet School and Compete in Prestigious Ballet Competition Soraya Sullivan, a dedicated dancer currently training at the Kim Harvey School of Dance in Canberra, ACT, is preparing to embark on an exciting new chapter in her ballet career. This September, Soraya will begin full-time training at the prestigious English National Ballet School in London. Adding to this remarkable achievement, Soraya has been selected as a  Danceworks Sydney Students Excel at International Summer Intensives and Local Achievements Danceworks Sydney proudly recognises the remarkable accomplishments of its full-time students, both internationally and locally. This summer, several Danceworks Sydney students
Meanwhile, in Sydney, Mary Schaefer successfully completed her RAD Solo Seal, marking a significant achievement in her dance journey. Additionally, Aliya Bernardo delivered a captivating performance in Simonne Smiles’ ballet Photo: Akasha Hopwood Craig at Brussels International Ballet School  JPC Success Stories: Lara Stevenson Shines in ADC Youth Ensemble John Paul College are incredibly proud to highlight the achievements of Lara Stevenson, a Year 12 Academic Dance student who has been making waves as a member of the Australasian Dance Collective (ADC) 2024 youth ensemble. Throughout this year, Lara has had the unique opportunity to work closely with industry professionals, focusing on enhancing her individual development as a dancer while also  The Teresa Johnson Ballet School Celebrates Olivia’s Outstanding Achievements The Teresa Johnson Ballet School (TTJBS) extends huge congratulations to student Olivia for her remarkable accomplishments over the past year. Olivia began the year by being accepted into The Australian Ballet School’s ITP Program. She then became a finalist in the RAD Joan and Monica Halliday Awards, received a scholarship at YAGP Sydney, and was accepted into the Royal Ballet Contact us today to celebrate your DANCEnews with our readers  WILD SWAN BALLET CHARITY CONCERT FOR CHILDREN’S TUMOUR FOUNDATION Epiphany Dance & Co Ballet Collaboration Sydney, NSW | November 10, 2024 The Sydney Town Hall will host the Wild Swans Ballet Charity Concert on Sunday, November 10, 2024, from 2 pm to 5 pm, raising awareness and funds for the Children’s Tumour Foundation, which supports children affected by neurofibromatosis (NF). The event will feature performances by the NSW Police Band, Musicáno Fusion Ensemble, Inner West Youth Orchestra, Sophia Ballet, Epiphany Dance & Co, and Maxwise Academy, offering an enchanting blend of classical music and ballet in support of a meaningful cause. This concert marks the first full production of the Wild Swans ballet since its premiere at the Sydney Opera House 20 years ago. Students interested in participating are encouraged to enroll through the Inner West Youth Orchestra, Maxwise Academy, or Epiphany Dance & Co. Composer Elena Kats-Chernin will conduct a pre-performance workshop for participants. Attendees are invited to enjoy an afternoon of elegance and philanthropy. Tickets will be available online in the coming months. Contact:  Charlotte Johnson from Joanne Grace School of Dance | Company Spotlight | 
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