Shanti was born in Tweed Heads and started dancing at the age of 3.

She trained primarily in jazz, tap and musical theatre until the age of 13 when she moved to Danielle's Studio of Dance where she discovered her love for ballet.

After three years of training at our studio, including one year of full-time training, Shanti was accepted into the Senior Programme at Queensland Ballet Academy. In 2021, she progressed to the Pre-Professional Program and soon after earned a coveted Jette-Parker Young Artist contract with Queensland Ballet. Today, Shanti is living her dream as a member of The Royal Danish Ballet, and I couldn’t be prouder to follow her incredible journey and watch her perform!

This gorgeous photo of her was taken by David Kelly.

Myah and Seth, both born on the Gold Coast, trained at DSD from just 5 years of age completing all their exams with Distinctions. Seth successfully auditioned for Level 4 at The Australian Ballet School in 2019 and Myah followed the following year joining Level 5 in 2020.

Both dancers are now in their final year - Level 8. 

I have recently returned from watching them perform in Port Macquarie with The Australian Ballet’s Dancers Tour.

It is so rewarding seeing my dancers grow and excel.

So excited to follow their next steps with pride as they step into professional careers !

Alumni, Taela Paltridge, Demi Soloist in Narodni Divadlo Ballet, Czechia has just performed the leading role in the company’s production of Snow White !

 Taela’s career began at our studio at just 6 years of age where she studied and excelled in all genres.

Taela received offers from 10 European schools before she accepted a place in the prestigious Tanz Akademie Zurich where she completed 3 years of training and graduated with Honours.

Taela’s professional career began at Dortmund Ballet before accepting a contract with NdB and I have travelled to watch her proudly many times.

I also have the great honour of teaching for the company each year when I visit.