Elevating Dance: Highlights from Term 1’s Inspiring Workshops and Masterclasses
With the start of a new year and the Dance Stream, it’s been wonderful to see our students working diligently to hone both their skills and artistry. With a renewed focus on technique and exploring various choreography styles, our students have been elevating their potential and embracing new, diverse techniques.
This term, Dance Stream students participated in improvisation workshops, mock audition classes, and self-devised choreography sessions under the expert guidance of Mr. Michael Hughes, Head of Dance for 2025.
We’ve also been fortunate to welcome not only highly experienced guest artists but also incredible teachers and mentors who connect with and inspire our students on an individual level.
Industry Insights
In mid-March, we were thrilled to host a special Industry Guest Teacher, Nicole Vella. As a versatile choreographer and performer, Nicole has worked on high-profile productions such as Elvis the Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, and The Wedding Singer. Nicole shared her expertise with both Junior and Senior students, teaching choreography in Broadway and commercial jazz styles. Her inspiring journey and valuable insights have undoubtedly motivated our students to strive for excellence.
Later in the term, we invited Chima Valavanis to deliver a Contemporary Dance Horton Masterclass at the College. Chima is one of the few qualified instructors in this technique in Australia, and we were incredibly honored to have her lead this experience. The workshop included HSC Dance, Classical Ballet, and Dance Stream students.
Chima, a highly sought-after dancer and choreographer, has trained at the prestigious Alvin Ailey School in the USA and choreographed for companies such as Bangarra Dance Theatre, Locreado Dance Co, and Dance Doctor Co. Her masterclass provided an unparalleled opportunity for our students to learn from her expertise.
Both Nicole and Chima have shared invaluable industry insights, leaving a lasting impression on our students throughout Term 1.
