top of page

OUR TEAM

Administration TEAM:

Nyree Scott - Accounts & Memberships

Sophie Drummond - Communications & Marketing

Eleanor Keating - Admin

Tess Daly - Admin

Caitlin Palmer - Admin

Portrait 3 Kate Buchan.jpg
KATE BUCHAN, Director

Kate started dance classes at the age of 3 in NSW. Early in her childhood she moved to Perth, Western Australia with her family where studied Jazz, Tap, Singing and Acting. Growing up, Kate completed Jazz and Tap exams in ATOD (Australian Teachers of Dance Examinations) Borrovanski Ballet and RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) Ballet. Kate attended John Curtin College of the Arts, Fremantle where she studied in the Performing Arts program specializing in Dance and continuing her education in Ballet, Contemporary, Musical Theatre and Acting and she was accepted into numerous productions with STEPS Youth Dance Company in their annual contemporary productions. Music played a huge role in her life growing up and Kate studied piano lessons at an early age, picking up the Clarinet at age 12 and at the age of 10 commenced private singing lessons focusing on Modern Voice and Musical Theatre. Kate graduated with the prestigious 'Dancer of the Year' award for her achievements in the Dance Studies course. At the age of 18, Kate began teaching dance at a private dance school in Perth and within two years was promoted to Studio Manager. It was her goal to instill a love of dance into every student and ensure they were given the very best dance education in WA. Kate organized interstate excursions for students so they could attend workshops in NSW with some of Australia's top instructors at Brent Street Studio's. In 2007, Kate started a unique cover band in Perth called 'Lady Penelope' and in that she performed lead vocals for two years. Lady Penelope had the opportunity to work with amazing International and Australian acts including: Eros Rammazotti, Leo Sayer & Shannon Noll.

Kate moved to Vancouver, Canada in 2009 and taught dance and musical theatre at Spiral Dance in White Rock & Dance Co. in Vancouver. Kate was also offered an acting position with 'The Tickle Trunk Players' where she performed unique drama plays about the importance and fundamentals of literacy at elementary schools across the Greater Vancouver Area. Kate gained her certification in 'The MethodPilates' at the PhysicalMind Institute in Vancouver in early 2010. She specializes in Mat and Standing Mat exercises which focus on core stability, finding correct neutral spine and also increasing strength and body awareness. Kate incorporates the key fundamentals of pilates training into her safe dance practices throughout all her classes. After finishing her mat pilates certification, Kate returned home to Australia where she completed her Reformer teacher training at PURE Form Health clubs in Coorparoo, QLD. Kate returned back to her home state of Western Australia and in October of 2010, Dance etc. was born! At around the same time as Dance etc. was founded, Kate opened the Cabaret Extravaganza of 'Kitty and the Cabaret Junkies' and continued to perform and direct shows regularly until 2013. Kate still performs for the occasional live production however now mainly features in local TV commercials, Films and TV Series. Kate is also an accredited Level 1 & Level 2 Cheerleading Coach through USASF and an accredited Acro Dance Adjudicator. Kate is currently studying Sports Coaching, Sports Psychology & Nutrition.

In 2013, Kate founded STARZ Dance, which is a unique dance program specially tailored for kids and teens with additional needs. Kate has been successful in gaining funding through the Commonwealth Bank to support the program so that members can continue to enjoy the classes and participate in events free of charge.

 

Having a fast growing dance school fuels the fire inside her to keep setting high goals both personally and professionally. Kate is excited to continue growing and developing the fantastic talent at Dance etc. and paving the way to a healthy and positive future for everyone who is involved. Kate looks forward to dreaming big with you all!

Tine HS.jpg
TINA SABATINO

Tina began dancing at the age of 5. Throughout her life she has been trained by The Commonwealth Society Of Teachers Of Dancing (CSTD) and Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD). Tina has studied in the area’s of Modern Jazz, Commercial Jazz, Acrobatics, Showgirl, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical, Classical Ballet, Hip Hop and Pas De Deux. She began performing at a young age where she participated in State Competitions, Conventions, Telethons, Floorshows, Concerts as well as International Floorshows. In 2011 & 2012, Tina was accepted into the Principal Academy of Dance where she completed a 2 year full time course and received her Cert IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Dance. Since then Tina has gained many performance opportunities around Western Australia. Tina has been teaching for many years now and loves passing on her knowledge of dance to the students at Dance Etc.

87955966_530853210892353_784276291704376
LAURA BROWN

Laura started dancing at the young age of 3, training in many genres. Her love for dance grew and she started to take part in Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (C.S.T.D) examinations in Modern Jazz, Tap and Ballet eventually completing her major ballet exam and her theatrical teaching certificate. Laura also competed in many local, interstate and international dance competitions and participated in conventions, telethons and floor shows around Perth. Laura has been involved in many corporate functions around Western Australia as a dancer and choreographer. Laura has a strong passion for teaching correct and safe dance technique as well as her love for performing and watching her students onstage. Laura has a love for her students and children and has completed many children and teen specific courses including her First Aid and certificate 3 in childcare. Laura has been teaching for many years and loves passing on her knowledge and passion of dance to future generations.

sophie HS.jpg
SOPHIE DRUMMOND

Sophie has always had a passion for the arts beginning dancing from an early age. She went on to study numerous styles including jazz, tap, classical ballet, contemporary, showgirl, modern and hip hop. Sophie has also completed up to her Grade 6 AMEB piano exam as well as having multiple years of vocal training.

In 2011 she was accepted into John Curtin College of the Arts where she studied Drama and Music Theatre under the Gifted and Talented Education Program. After finishing high school in 2015 Sophie was accepted into a full time dance course at Principal Academy of Dance and Theatre Arts where she graduated with an Advanced Diploma of Performing Arts in 2017. She is currently studying a Certificate in Business & Event Management to further her knowledge of Live Performance Events and what goes on behind the scenes of a Production.

Since graduating Sophie has the opportunity to perform in a number of local events from corporate shows to children's entertainment as a member of The Freedom Fairies. 

Sophie has been a part of the Dance etc Family since 2012 and loves sharing her passion and knowledge with the next generation of dancers.

FullSizeRender.jpg
RUBY BIRCH

Ruby Birch started her dance training in a small school in Rural Esperance, WA studying RAD Ballet & CSTD Jazz. She later moved up to Perth where she was accepted in to the Specialist Drama Program at John Curtin College of the Arts, Fremantle. Whilst studying at JCCA, Ruby continued her dance training in Jazz, Lyrical & Hip Hop at a few dance schools before finding Dance etc. While at Dance etc, Ruby attended the very first interstate dance excursion where she traveled to NSW to attend a week long dance intensive at the prestigious Sydney Dance Company. In 2015, Ruby completed her Cupcakes Training and began teaching her own toddlers and junior classes specialising in Ballet & Jazz. She is also an accredited Acrobatic Arts Teacher and trained in PBT. Miss Ruby is a well respected and loved teacher at Dance etc and is passionate about nurturing her students to improve their confidence and self esteem whilst developing the core fundamentals of dance at this special and precious young age!

megan rennie.jpg
MEGAN RENNIE

Megan Rennie is a dancer & choreographer based in Perth, Western Australia. She began dancing at the age of three, training in the styles of jazz, ballet and contemporary, and has since transitioned to more commercial styles of hip hop, commercial jazz, and heels. As well as teaching at various studios, schools and programs around Perth, Megan has performed and choreographed for events such as the WA Born Fashion Show, Catwalk For A Cause, Perth Pride Parade, Ausdance Dance Week, and Colosoul Magazine’s Sparkle of Youth Charity Ball to name a few. Megan completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Science in 2020 and works to incorporate her knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics into her classes. She has experience in choreographing videos for Perth vocal artists, companies and fashion brands and is constantly updating her training by attending workshops in a variety of styles to incorporate diversity in her choreography. 

georgina.JPG
GEORGINA MATICH

Georgina was born in Wellington, New Zealand and began her ballet training at the age of 4, following in her mother's footsteps. She moved to Australia at 16, training with Prudence Bowen (Gold Coast) and Hilary Kaplin (Sydney) before receiving a placement in Queensland Ballet's professional program, working under the leadership of Artistic Director's Francois Klaus and Li CunXin., where she had the opportunity to both perform and tour with the Company. She joined the West Australian Ballet in 2014 performing in their seasons of Giselle, La Fille Mal Gardee, Snow White and Embraceable You (Balanchine). Through her recent work with young dancers Georgina has discovered a love of teaching, reigniting her passion for all things dance.

Brendan Burns1.jpg
BRENDAN "BEAST" BURNS

Brendan (aka bboy BEAST) is a dancer with over 18 years experience in competing,  performing and battling on the highest level in the hip hop community both in Australia and internationally.  A member of the "Zou Rock" crew  bboy collective.

Breaking or bboy/bgirling is and dynamic and explosive dance form that is for any ability or skill level . Under the guidance of BEAST, you will Learn the skills layer by layer safely along with the attitude and conditioning required to dance at you're best.

Brendan is the founder of "Breakin' Traditions" which aims to teach the fundamentals, history & culture of Hip Hop.

SOPHIE SUTTON Headshot.png
SOPHIE SUTTON

Sophie has had a love for performing and dance since an early age. She began dancing at age 10 and began to train in styles such as Broadway Jazz, Commercial Jazz, Hip Hop, Ballet, Heels, Contemporary, Lyrical, and Musical Theatre. Sophie has recently performed in several musicals across Perth including Legally Blonde at Crown, Wizard of Oz at Crown, High School Musical at The Regal Theatre, and Moulin Rouge at ECU. Sophie’s resume also includes Telethon (2021), Channel 7 Christmas Pageant (2021), The Shimmer and Shine Show (2022), Perth Royal Show Parade (2021), Kai’s Big Gold Ball (2019), and Joondalup Kaleidoscope Festival (2018). Sophie is also currently studying a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at Edith Cowan University as her passion lies in inspiring young people. She aspires to create a nurturing and empowering environment to learn and grow for her wonderful students at Dance Etc!

image0 (67).jpeg
MADDISON GRANT

Maddy grew up here in Perth and started her dance journey at the age of 9 In all genres. At the age of 11 she started to assist dance classes and hasn’t looked back. In 2020 Maddy moved to Sydney to complete her Diploma of Elite performance focusing on contemporary. The following year she decided to complete a second Diploma in Elite Performance focusing on Performing Arts. While Studying for these two years at Brent Street she also focused on fine tuning her Acro teaching technique while teaching at two big dance schools in NSW.

 

Maddy has her Acrobatic Arts qualification and prides herself on teaching correct technique, strength and flexibility, along with tumbling skills, partner work and balances. Maddy focuses on prioritising a safe and welcoming environment for all our amazing students. Miss Maddy is an energetic, inclusive, progressive, passionate teacher and is very excited to be teaching at Dance Etc.  

britt parker.jpg
BRITT TARAN PARKER

Britt has 10 year's experience in teaching various styles from ages 18 months - 65 years.

Britt holds her Diploma in Performing Arts, majoring in dance, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care, WWCC, she is also CPR & first aid trained.  She has experience in directing a small, non-competitive based dance company, although her real passion lies within teaching & choreographing. Britt is passionate about creating safe & nurturing learning environments for our students, her aim is to inspire each & every student at Dance etc- leaving them feeling empowered after every lesson!

Erin Barry- Headshot #1.jpg
ERIN BARRY

Sydney-born and Perth-raised triple threat performer, Erin Barry, trained under
some of the most influential artists Perth has to offer, turning her love of
dance into her career. After graduating with an Advanced Diploma from Principal Academy of Dance, she was invited to join the staff of Principal Academy as the new resident tap teacher and Stage Manager. Since then, she’s gone on to manage events such as the massively influential, “Path of Hope Foundation’s: ‘Phantom of The Opera’ Charity Gala Ball” at Crown Towers, was one of three adjudicators at the DanceLife Unite National Dance Championship in Perth 2022, and due to recommendation, she was invited to adjudicate the Australian Dance Extravaganza Dance Competition in
Geraldton, 2022, as their sole Guest Adjudicator. She is well-known around Perth for her involvement in children’s entertainment, working on live shows such as PJ Masks with Disney, Paw Patrol and Peppa Pig, and was recently scouted by ‘Bluey’, the massive hit TV series, becoming the official Logistics Co-ordinator & Show Host for all future Bluey-related live productions in WA.
Her dance expertise covers a vast range of styles from showgirl to acrobatics,
however she has quite the soft spot for ‘show-tune’ dance styles, such as jazz,
tap, and musical theatre, yet she also has experience in unique specialist art
forms like hoop, poi, and stilt-work. With such a broad range of abilities, she’s
had the pleasure of being cast in a number of successful dance shows &
musicals, cabarets, commercial music videos and corporate advertisements,
as a featured dancer, specialist act, actor and singer. Her most recent
endeavour, being cast as a body/stunt double in an upcoming 8-part TV mini
series, due to be released later this year.

IMG_1734.jpg
ALYSSA DRAGOVIC

Alyssa has been dancing since the age of 3. Dance has been a massive passion of hers ever since. She trained at Dance ETC from 2013-2021 indulging in the styles of jazz, lyrical, and hip-hop and has begun teaching hip-hop this year. Alyssa is currently studying Early Childhood Teaching at ECU which has well equipped her for teaching at Dance ETC. 

 

Alyssa has a wide range of experience including assistant dance teaching at Dance etc for multiple years where she learned the tools needed to create effective dance lessons and how to form meaningful relationships with her dancers. In her final year of high school (2020), Alyssa was nominated as a dance captain for her school. She taught 2 troupes of students ranging from years 7-12, which involved lesson planning, auditioning and pulling together a piece. In 2021, Alyssa performed a professional gig alongside dancers Ramon Israel and Poppy Bristow at the glow freshitval at the court hotel, showcasing their commercial jazz abilities. 

 

Alyssa is very excited to share her knowledge of the art form with her students!

Miss Hannah.png
HANNAH FAIRBURN

Hannah began her career with Dance etc in 2016 with the STARZ program while studying Occupational Therapy at Curtin University. Hannah has a background in gymnastics at Northern Districts Gymnastics Club where she trained for 11 years, following this she became a gymnastics coach for the recreational programs and ran birthday parties. Hannah has always had a passion for individuals with special needs and has worked as a support worker for children and adults with both physical and intellectual disabilities for over 5 years. She experiences so much in joy seeing goals being achieved and smiles being made along their journey. Now graduated, Hannah works with children and young adults to achieve their goals no matter how big or small. Hannah’s special interest within the Occupational Therapy field include emotional and sensory regulation, social integration and developing gross motor skills which she is able to incorporate into the STARZ dance classes.

headshot old.jpeg
STEPH SMITH

Stephanie started to dance at Dance In Perspective at age two, where she continued to dance for 19 years. She trained in multiple genres including tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, broadway, commercial jazz and spanish. Throughout her training Stephanie sat exams through RAD, Glen Wood Tap and CSTD. 

At age 13, Stephanie began as an assistant teacher with Dance In Perspective, where she trained and developed her love for teaching dance. As she progressed through her teacher training she also was voted Dance Captain at Prendiville Catholic College, for their Dance Company. In 2013 Stephanie sat the first of her Performance Examinations through CSTD, where she received high marks for all three of her dances, receiving the 'Performer's Shield.' In 2015, Stephanie successfully completed her Teaching Certificate with the Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dance, specialising in Tap. In 2016 Stephanie completed her final performance examination in CSTD, the Gold Cross receiving exceptional results in all three of her tap pieces for this examination. 

Stephanie has an excellent track record for results. She has choreographed multiple competition pieces for students, with all of her entered competition students placing, and all of her candidates entered in exams receiving pass marks. Stephanie now teaches mainly in her favourite genres; tap, jazz and hip hop, where she can focus on her love of rhythmic patterns and where she can continue to build and develop performance qualities in the next generation of dancers, across multiple dance schools in Perth as well as at Primary Schools across the metro area!  

download (1).png
ELLI O'DWYER

Coming Soon!

download (1).png
KERRIE WHITE

Coming Soon!

bottom of page