After participating in a trial lesson at 8 years old in 2013, I discovered Dance Energy and knew it was the perfect studio for me. Loving, caring, helpful and supportive, which are all the things a dance studio should be. After that my love and passion for dance skyrocketed and I couldn’t stand to miss a class.

In my first proper class at Dance Energy hardly anyone knew each other, but we all still managed to have a blast of a time. Looking back now, this was the start of lifelong friendships that today continue to provide constant support and encouragement. Helping each other backstage with quick changes, cheering each other on and just having a bit of a giggle, these are some of the things that makes me really proud to be part of such a great studio.

The two main things I have learnt over the years is that dance isn’t only about your technique, flexibility or how many costumes you own. It’s about having fun and being able to look back and see how far you have come as a dancer and a person. My second piece of advice is that simply if you want to do something – do it. Don’t be scared of what other people will think. For example, if you want to try a new style or do anything new the only person that is stopping you, is you. Just four years ago I knew nothing other than jazz, but I now train in various contrasting styles from jazz and hip-hop to styles such as lyrical, contemporary and ballet.

I am always looking for ways to improve my dancing. I started performance teams when I was 11 as part of under 12’s and under 15’s and this is when I started to see that hard work really does pay off. With all the extra rehearsals and sweat that goes into a dance, it is all worth it in the end. From the first moment I stepped off stage I couldn’t wait to get back on. The atmosphere of competitions is my favourite part. I am also constantly meeting new people that share the same passion as me and everyone is just so supportive!

At the end of last year’s concert (Lights, Camera, DANCE!) I was lucky enough to have been awarded as the 6th recipient of Dance energy’s student of the year award. I was very ecstatic to receive this award as it was a very exciting moment in my life. Receiving this award was always a goal of mine and I am truly grateful. I would like to thank all the teachers and staff, especially Miss Claire for providing me with such an astounding opportunity. Over the past 6 years Miss Claire and all of the Dance energy fam have offered so much support and have always believed in me and all their students. In my view Dance Energy is one of the best studios on the coast. I have learnt and achieved so much, and I cannot wait for my seventh year.