Stars on stage: 28 of Toowoomba’s up-and-coming dancers

Dance teachers from across Toowoomba have nominated some of their top up-and-coming dancers. Here are just 28 of the region’s dancing stars to watch.

Whether it’s jazz, ballet or hip-hop, the Toowoomba region is full of talented dancers.

The Chronicle recently reached out to several dance studios across the region who put forward some of their best dancers to watch.

Some were nominated for sheer skill and ability, while others were recognised for their dedication and commitment to dance.

In no particular order, here are just 28 of the region’s dancing king and queens, to keep your eye on.

Garden City Dance

Principal of the Garden City Dance Jacqueline Hoole said Annabelle Millett has great potential as a classical or contemporary dancer, while Milla lives and breathes dance and has a wonderful stage presence.

“Although Milla and Annabelle are quite young, they both approach their dance studies with dedication, drive and determination,” Ms Hoole said.

“They are both talented dancers and have achieved a lot for their age, but they are also very hard workers in class and an inspiration to our younger dancers.”

Annabelle Millett, 12

From the moment she could walk, Annabelle Millett was dancing, whether it was in the kitchen at home, on the soccer field or bopping along to The Wiggles as a small toddler.

Her excited approach to dance caught the eye of mum Lee-Anne Millett, who enrolled her daughter at Garden City Dance, when Annabelle was five.

Now aged 12, her talents have only further flourished at the studio, where she has remained for the past eight years.

“Annabelle’s dancing journey is something that will always be held in both our hearts,” Ms Millett said.

“She started dancing at the age of five but even as a one-year-old, when she got her first purple tutu, she would dance her heart out to The Wiggles almost every day.”

While the aspiring dancer loves all genres, lyrical, jazz and classical ballet are among the favourites.

During her dancing journey, Annabelle has placed in various Eisteddfod competitions, was mentioned in the Suncorp Big Dream Challenge and has received distinctions in her RAD ballet exams.

The young go-getter plans to audition for the Australian Ballet Company.

Milla Baddock, 12

It hasn’t been an easy road for Milla Baddock, who has overcome many challenges since she entered the world of dance at the age of three.

Initially enrolled at a large studio, the classical ballet dancer found the class sizes daunting, so Milla relocated to the smaller Garden City Dance studio at the age of five and has loved every second spent dancing ever since.

The 12-year-old dancer said she formed an instant bond with her dance teacher Miss Jacqui, who helped her to overcome her fear of performing on stage.

“Dancing is my life and I wouldn’t be able to be here without my teacher who has helped me and guided me so much and I am so very grateful for that,” Milla said.

“I would also like to thank my parents for supporting me for almost 10 years now for all that they do to help me achieve this dream of mine.”

The aspiring ballet dancer said one of the biggest challenges she has faced in dance has been her “flat feet” – something she is proud to have worked on and overcome.

Milla hopes to one day achieve her lifelong dream of pursuing a career as a professional ballet dancer.

“I have been inspired to become more serious with my dancing after seeing Tutus on Tour by the Queensland Ballet, I was drawn to it,” she said.

“The second the dancers began to dance on stage – I knew that’s what I wanted to do as well.”

MFK Academy of Irish Dance

Olivia Richardson, 6

She may be just six-years-old, but little Olivia Richardson has already made a huge impact in the world of dance.

Initially drawn to ballet, before giving hip-hop a crack, the talented dancer has now decided to try something new and enrolled at the MFK Academy of Irish Dance this year.

Olivia’s mum Kim Richardson said her daughter was hoping to start entering competitions and was enjoying the new dance genre.

“Olivia is so passionate about dancing and is always striving to do her best,” Ms Richardson said.

“She practises hard outside of class which doesn’t go unnoticed by her teachers.”

MFK Academy of Irish Dance principal teacher and vice president Michelle O’Neill said Olivia was a natural when it comes to Irish dancing and showed true potential, as well as great sportsmanship.

“She has taken to Irish Dance with all her heart … with only four months training and one class per week, Olivia has already progressed from her new beginner class to the competition-ready class for her age group,” Ms O’Neill said.

“Olivia practices at home and it certainly shows when she comes back to class the next week – she is always beaming, excited and ready to move onto her next step.”

Maeve Morison, 13

Inspired by her own Irish heritage, Maeve Morison has also excelled on the Irish dance stage.

Born in Dublin, she moved to Australia with her family at the age of five – the same age she started Irish dancing.

It was at this time she started Irish dancing, but had to start all over again when the family relocated from NSW to Queensland five years later.

“I started doing ballet when I was four, but I didn’t enjoy it, so when I found out there was Irish dancing, I was really excited,” Maeve said.

“(When we moved to Queensland) I had to start from the very beginning because I wanted to compete at Feises (Gaelic for dance competition or festival), but in Wodonga, NSW, there were never any feises or competitions … we danced ourselves at parades and carnivals.”

But the change of pace didn’t impact Maeve with the driven dancer receiving a stunning glass trophy at her first feis in 2019 and taking home the gold prize ever since.

Prior to the academy setting up a base in the garden city, the dedicated dancer would travel to Brisbane every fortnight for lessons – a routine that was disrupted during the height of Covid-19.

“When Covid hit, I had to do zoom sessions at home which was challenging (and) I would go to a Feis with very little time face-to-face time with my teacher Michelle,” she said.

“Michelle has always been so encouraging and positive despite these interruptions.”

Maeve hopes to one day compete in the world championships.

Ms O’Neill said Maeve was not only talented and dedicated but served as a real role model for younger dancers at the studio.

She said while Maeve had only competed in six competition since joining the academy in 2020, she had already progressed to the third and intermediate level of the Irish dance competition.

The 13-year-old is now focused on reaching the open championship level – a milestone her dance teacher has no doubt she will achieve this year.

“This shows Maeve’s potential in Irish dance … she is a beautiful young lady who is keen to achieve her dream of winning her first championship in Irish Dance in the near future,” Ms O’Neill said.

“She is a delight to teach and have in the dance room, dedicated and always happy to fill in a team spot or help another younger child with their steps in class.”

Everdance Studio

Larni Baunach, 9

A natural-born performer and leader to younger dancers, Larni Baunach has been dancing with the Everdance Studio since 2019 and has a particular passion for the modern genre.

Larni’s mum Mandy Baunach said her daughter was happiest when dancing and if she wasn’t making up new dances to perform, she could be found assisting younger dancers at the studio, including her little sister.

“Dance will always be part of Larni’s life – her dream is to be a professional dancer and star in live shows,” Ms Baunach said.

“Larni has a passion for dance and being on the stage and I believe that shines thru every time she attends class, performs on a local level and competes at larger competitions.”

Everdance Studio owner Holly Petersen said her student was a hard worker and very passionate about dance.

“Larni comes to class with the best attitude every week and is such a pleasure to teach,” Ms Petersen said.

“She is always smiling, jumps at every chance to get on a stage and is a valuable member of our competition team … I also enjoy getting updates during the holidays of what dances she has choreographed.”

Indie Mackender, 11

It’s been an exciting journey for Indie Mackender who has only been enrolled at the Everdance Studio since she was seven, but has already made waves in the world of dance.

Keen to follow in the footsteps of her cousin who was already dancing at the studio, little Indie started out doing one class a week and a few competitions throughout the year.

Now aged 11, Indie’s mum Diane Mackender said her daughter joined the studio’s competition team last year and has never looked back.

“She loves it all, but the main genres she dances are modern including hip-hop and jazz and this year she has started an acrobatic class as well,” Ms Mackender said.

“Her dance teacher Holly has been an amazing support, encouraging her every step of the way and I believe she nominated Holly as she has a strong dedication to dance and always gives her performances everything she’s got.”

Ms Petersen said she was grateful to teach students like Indie and watch them grow.

“Being one of the youngest and littlest in her class hasn’t stopped Indie – she has improved her flexibility, taken on an acrobatic class and continues to shine in her classes and competition team,” she said.

“With her big smile and incredible performance skills this year Indie successfully auditioned for a local musical production, and is ready to take her dancing to the next level.”

Indie will perform in the Toowoomba Choral Society’s production of School of Rock, at the Empire Theatre in September.

Dance Central

Sophie Richardson, 13

When Sophie Richardson was born with mild to moderate hearing loss, her mum Melinda Richardson decided to enrol her in ballet at the age of five, to help improve Sophie’s receptive and expressive language skills.

“As many parents I’m sure can relate, her attention span at that young age was still developing … there were many times during watching week when she was still quite young, I would sit there a gasp as she seemingly looked everywhere except where she needed to be focused,” Ms Richardson said.

“Yet somehow when it came to her turn, she knew exactly what she needed to do.”

The proud mum said this all changed when her daughter watched the movie Ballerina and soon Sophie was twirling every chance she got.

All the hard work has paid off for Sophie who when she’s not at the studio or on stage, practices her dancing on every opportunity she receives.

Her most recent achievements include placing in both her sections at the Border District, performing in The Toowoomba Ballet Theatre’s Little Mermaid Production and being placed in the Merge Dance Theatre’s Intermediate Training Program, after her successful audition.

Sophie will also perform in the Gold Coast next month, for the Brisbane City Youth Ballet’s production of the Wizard of Oz.

Ms Vallette said Sophie had shown considerable growth in her classical ballet techniques and other genres since she commenced at the Dance Central studio in 2015.

“Sophie is a hard working student who pays attention to detail and takes on board constructive feedback,” she said.

“Although still quite young, Sophie is showing great passion and love for all genres of dance and embraces whatever challenges come her way.”

With a passion for ballet and contemporary dance, the 13-year-old hopes to pursue a career in dance, which she considers a way to express characters and tell stories.

“It’s funny how things turn out – I would never have imagined eight years ago that Sophie would be so invested in her dancing,” Ms Richardson said.

“She has had some amazing opportunities with more still to come … her dad and I can’t wait to see where this takes her and look forward to supporting her on her journey ahead.”

Madeline Rohde, 17

Madeline Rohde

Among the growing list of achievements, Madeline received a Kerry Warfield Scholarship at Dance Central this year and was cast as the lead role of Mowgli in Dance Central’s end of year production The Jungle Book, in 2020.

Her mum Karla Obst said while her daughter was a quiet achiever, she is always working hard to build on her skills and is dedicated to the art of dance.

“She danced before she could be walk and I can’t remember an age where she didn’t want to dance,” Ms Obst said.

“I thought it was something she would grow out of because all little girls love to dance but she’s been dancing at Dance Central for 14 years now.”

Passionate about all genres of dance, Madeline’s favourite style is contemporary.

A member of the Dance Central senior and semi-professional company team Velcocity, Madeline has performed in various events across the region.

But her contribution goes much deeper, with the dedicated teen completing all her ballet, jazz and contemporary syllabus exams.

With a Certificate III in dance under her belt and after reaching a bronze level in Ready, Set Dance teaching, the 17-year-old is now focused on obtaining her Certificate IV in dance teaching and management.

Keen to enrich herself in the learning process as much as possible, Madeline hopes to continue studying dance at university.

“Maddy is a student who works hard in class, takes all opportunities provided to her and shows great initiative and passion for dance and teaching,” Dance Central principal Alison Vallette said.

“(She) is a kind and genuine young dancer who has embraced not only the performance side of dance but also the teaching aspects.”

Dancing Stars

Keith Concordia, 16

Male hip-hop dancer Keith Concordia was nominated for his hard work ethic, talent and positive attitude.

The 16-year-old has been dancing at Dancing Stars Toowoomba for just two years, but has already qualified for this year’s senior competition team, who are set to soon compete across the state.

Keith who has spent his entire dancing journey at the Toowoomba studio, has also qualified to represent southeast Queensland in North Queensland, later this year.

Dancing Stars Toowoomba studio director Lauren Fickling said the male hip-hop dancer was a very hardworking student.

“Keith not only does he have an incredible talent, but he has an amazing work ethic, consistently displays commitment and has a great attitude toward his dance learning,” she said.

“He has a goal to become a dance teacher in the future because he wants to share his love and fun of dance with children.”

Keith’s mum Leonisa Ford said she remembers her son used to enjoy watching dancers perform at festivals when he was a young child – something she believes inspired him to pursue dancing too.

“I think (Lauren) nominated my son because he works hard and he doesn’t give up easily,” she said.

SK Studios

Jamie Federoff, 21

She has danced with SK Studios for more than a decade and now the talented dancer has gone out on her own two feet, to open her own Oakey-based studio ABC Dance.

With 16 years of experience in dance and 11 of which have been spent with SK Studios, Jamie Federoff has an extensive background in the field.

And now, the dancer, choreographer, teacher, volunteer and licenced Zumba instructor can add business owner to her growing list of achievements.

In six short months, Jamie co-ordinated and choreographed an entire end-of-year concert, as well as set up a business and open the new studio.

“I started dancing at the age of around seven and haven’t stopped since,” Jamie said.

“As a child, I always loved creating dances with my sisters and performing them for my family and as I got older, I started to realise that dance is an art.

“It tells stories, it addresses world issues, it can start conversations and it is all through the movement of bodies through a space … this is when I fell in love with choreography.”

With a love for all kinds of dance and a particular soft spot for lyrical and contemporary styles, Jamie said everyday something new inspires her to dance, whether it be music, a person or feeling.

SK Studios founder and co-ordinator Sarah Kay-Huybregts said she started the business 13 years ago to provide a safe and affordable place for young dancers to express their creativity and to help raise funds and awareness for local and national services through performances.

After operating in Oakey for several years, the program is now set to relocate to Toowoomba, while Jamie operates the sister studio ABCDance.

“I nominated her because she has a heart of gold and worked her way from student to lead teacher over the course of 13 years,” Ms Kay-Huybregts said.

“She rarely missed a class or event and was the first to put her hand up to support any of our annual fundraisers for various charities and she has been an influential role model for our students.”

Over the years Jamie has choreographed routines for various local events including Break Free, the Oakey Show, the Australian Dance Festival in Sydney, and opening night of Christmas Wonderland.

She has also lead workshops at the Empire Theatre, Oakey State High School and several childcare centres.

Delta Bizzotto, 18

When Delta Bizzotto was a child, she wanted nothing more than to be just like her big sister, who chose dancing as a co-curricular activity.

In a bid to follow in her footsteps, Delta began dancing at the age of three and over time, fell in love with the style of jazz and the environment that comes with it.

Living in a small country town in Victoria, it wasn’t until Delta moved to Oakey at the age of 12, that she found SK Studios.

“I had no clue where to go as there were only three dance studios in the town and I fell in love with it,” she said.

“While I’ve been at SK Studios, I’ve taught several dance classes and attended several dance competitions including the Australian Dance Festival in Sydney.”

Delta said while she wasn’t sure where dance would take her in the future yet, she considered her dancing community to be like a second family and can always rely on them when times are tough.

During her time at the Oakey dance studio, Delta said she has overcome many challenges in life, excelled in dance and has always embraced every opportunity.

Ms Kay-Huybregts said she nominated Delta for the progress she had made since joining the studio six years ago, her passion, energy and ability to work hard in every aspect of her life.

“Delta is the perfect example of dance being more than moving your body … she is a story teller,” she said.

“She is the first person to tell you that dance was her safe place as a teenager, where she could rely on her mentors to help her through some tough challenges and now she is that same mentor to others.”

Delta has represented the studio at many events including The Smith Family’s SmArts scholarship program, where she volunteers to teach aspiring creatives.

She also performed live on Channel 7’s morning news show Sunrise, which is watched by hundreds of thousands of Australian viewers every day.

Toowoomba Ballet Theatre

Their dance resumes have seen them fulfil the roles of mermaids and fairies and ballerinas Georgia Jess and Ilsa Crosdale are all elegance and grace.

Toowoomba Ballet Theatre director Mia Huston said it was great to see incredible dancers excel, especially when they hail from different studios, with Georgia Jess training at Dance Force and Ilsa Crosdale at Dance Central.

Ms Huston said Georgia had been dancing with the Toowoomba Ballet theatre since 2017, while Ilsa joined the theatre company in 2019.

Georgia was cast in her first lead role with the company in 2021, when she played Clara in the 2021 production of The Nutcracker.

“Georgia was cast as Ariel for our outstanding characterisation skills and beautiful lines,” Ms Huston said.

“She is an extremely dedicated dancer with enormous potential.”

Meanwhile, Ilsa was also cast in The Nutcracker last year and danced the role of the Sugarplum Fairy – a role her dance teacher said was incredibly challenging, even for seasoned professionals.

“Ilsa was awarded the Toowoomba Ballet Theatre scholarship in 2020 – an award which is given each year to dancers who demonstrate outstanding studio ethic, sportsmanship and improvement,” Ms Huston said.

“She is a gifted dancer who has exceptional grit … she has been given two very technically demanding roles and has applied herself beautifully to conquer those roles.”

The talented duo also shared the role of Ariel in the recent production of The Little Mermaid, at the Empire Theatre.

Georgia Jess, 15

At just 15-years-old, Georgia has already achieved more than some dancers do in a lifetime.

Starting at the age of seven, she has performed in the main parade at Disneyland in Hong Kong, competed in various productions and eisteddfods as both a group member and soloist and has even choreographed routines for her school dance troupe.

Georgia’s mum Sally Jess said while her daughter adores classical ballet, she also excels in lyrical and contemporary dance.

“Georgia has always shown an interest in dancing and from a young age,” Ms Jess said.

“She dances with passion and is a dedicated dancer.”

With dreams to one day travel the world as a professional dancer, the sky is the limit for Georgia.

Ilsa Crosdale, 16

For Ilsa, her love for classical ballet all started as a young child, when she watched Angelina Ballerina and enrolled at Dance Central in 2009.

By the time she had turned 13 and started high school, Ilsa began taking her dance lessons more seriously and began taking on new genres.

In 2020, she pushed herself out of her comfort zone by signing up for workshops and summer schools through Queensland Ballet and joined the Toowoomba Ballet Theatre.

Despite the growth she experienced, it wasn’t an easy year for the dancer who along with others, was unable to attend classes at the studio during the Covid-19 lockdown.

“(During Covid), my teachers at Dance Central really supported me and never gave up on my ambitions, helping my determination and hard work to develop further and ultimately shaping my dream to dance professionally,” Ilsa said.

“Mia also nurtured my growing love for performing on stage by giving me the experience of performing roles such as Sugar Plum Fairy in Nutcracker and Ariel in the Little Mermaid.”

While the 16-year-old can spend up to 25 hours a week dancing, she said there is no way she would prefer to be, because of her strong passion for dance.

Ilsa hopes to one day become a professional dancer, as well as a physiotherapist to help educate and assist other dancers in their own journey.

iDance Studios

Marlee Langton, 13

Oakey dancing superstar Marlee Langton has her sights firmly set on broadway and is working her way there one role at a time.

After dancing with iDance Studios for more than a decade, Marlee performed in the dance troupe with Downlands College, allowing her to experience competing with dancers of all ages.

Filling the role of Violet in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the studio’s end of year concert last year, she has also recently performed in her school’s production of The Addams Family, at the Empire Theatre.

Inspired by her dance teacher, Oakey’s iDance Studios principal Carla Tierney and her dancing peers.

“A beautiful dancer, Marlee has amazing dance ability but often just enjoys putting others before herself,” Ms Tierney said.

“She has been working hard as part of our student teacher training program over the last few years and is much loved by the students in her class.

“Marlee steps up and takes on additional roles around the studio and is keen to learn about how the business, classes, syllabus and performances operate.”

While the 13-year-old dancer, who has been dancing since she was two, enjoys most genres, her favourite style is contemporary and least favourite is ballet.

“Marlee is an assistant teacher this year, helping teach tap to younger students at the studio and is currently completing her dance step teaching certificate,” mum Nicole Langton said.

“Time management plays a large role with school study, rehearsals and dancing most nights at iDance Oakey.”

In addition to wanting to become a dancer teacher, Marlee aspires to one day dance on broadway, alongside her best friend.

Erin Fuhlbohm, 7

Watching Emma Watkins from The Wiggles perform ballet on the television, is all it took to inspire Erin Fuhlbohm to dive into the world of dance herself.

The young, but driven seven-year-old has been dancing at iDance Studios for five years, where she has explored the genres of ballet, jazz, tap and aerial acrobatics.

Alongside her mum Sammie Fuhlbohm, Erin is so committed to dance and her studio of choice that they travel to the Oakey studio from Felton South, via Pittsworth twice a week.

“Erin watches and absorbs all things dance like a sponge,” Ms Fuhlbohm said.

“In Prep and Year one, when asked what do you want to be when you grow up, Erin’s response was ‘a ballerina’ – this year in year two her response was ‘an aerial acrobatic performer.’

“Erin has been able to educate her family in the art of dancing, and regularly encourages her father to take part in the father-daughter dance that is held each year as a part of the Showcase evening.”

Through her studio, the young talent has also attended the Dance Around the World Tour with Dance the Magic at Disneyland.

As international borders have now reopened, Erin hopes to participate in similar experiences in the future.

Ms Tierney said she nominated Erin for her natural technique and dedicated spirit.

“In her few short years of dancing, Erin has grasped classical ballet, contemporary, acrobatics and aerial arts with both hands and feet, and puts 100% effort in each and every lesson,” she said.

“She constantly strives to improve and dance like the big girls, often memorising many dance routines from other classes from our end of year performances.”

Toowoomba Physie and Dance

Hannah Lee, 10

Confidence in one’s ability is something that happens over time and with the right support, Hannah Lee has not only conquered her fears, but continued to excel over the years.

Toowoomba Physie head associate teacher Rachel Sanders said her student had shown incredible dedication and determination since she joined the studio.

“Hannah is always working up an age division to compete in team events – this requires her to learn a completely different syllabus with different dancers,” Ms Sanders said.

“She is a well-liked member of our club and our physie community and is always encouraging of her fellow classmates.”

Hannah’s mum Anne Kim said she looked at various kinds of sports for her daughter to try, but decided on dance because of Hannah’s love for music.

After four years of dancing with Toowoomba Physie, Hannah’s confidence has continued to grow.

She was awarded age champion in the girl’s category in 2020 and 2021, was awarded second place in a Brisbane competition and named a finalist in the Queensland zone.

“Hannah is determined, keen to learn and always tries her best,” Ms Kim said.

“Her teacher has always encouraged her, especially when she didn’t want to join competitions, but her confidence has grown and we are so appreciative of Rachel, who found my daughter’s talent.”

Ms Kim said her daughter may grow up to be a dance teacher, but they were focused on the present and not the future.

Charlotte Reynolds, 12

The Reynolds family is filled with talent with Charlotte Reynolds and her two sisters both members of the Toowoomba Physie community.

“Charlotte is a very dedicated and hardworking dancer who is a consistently high achiever and puts 100 per cent into everything she does,” mum Kristy Reynolds said.

“She works hard and puts in the effort to achieve what she has.”

Next year will mark a decade since Charlotte started dancing at the studio, where she has been enrolled since she was four-years-old.

And according to Ms Sanders, her student has been talented since her very first lesson.

Within just a few weeks of her commencement, Charlotte had already received the class trophy and later went on to be selected for nationals at the age of six and 10.

“Charlotte has also been a National Repecharge finalist on numerous occasions, a member of several winning state teams and our Toowoomba Club Champion on more than one occasion,” Ms Sanders said.

“She has a fierce determination for success and works very hard to achieve her goals.”

Now aged 12, Charlotte’s major goals are to make nationals again this year and one day win the competition.

While her long-term dream is to dance on the stage at the Sydney Opera House.

Mayhem Dance Academy

Mayhem Dance Academy owner Allanis Steffens said she nominated Bella Lancaster and Gian Recilla because they both show so much potential, shine on stage and love what they do.

“These two performers always try their hardest in all their dance classes and are always looking out for their fellow dance mates – it is so beautiful to see young dancers so supportive of each other,” Ms Steffens said.

“Both dancers are born performers and are never afraid to step out of their comfort zones … there is nothing better than to watch a dancer that has a strong passion for dance.”

Bella Lancaster, 11

Punctual, hard working and committed are just some of the ways Bella Lancaster has been described by her dance teacher and mum Sam Lancaster.

“Bella is punctual, listens, shows genuine care to her fellow dancers and works extremely hard, both in class and at home to perform at her best,” Ms Lancaster said.

“She is passionate about the confidence she has gained from dance, wants to share this with others and hopes to be able to teach dance.”

The passionate 11-year-old has been dancing with the studio since 2017 and has particularly embraced the hip-hop and contemporary genres.

In 2020, Bella won a choreography competition where she had to create and perform a dance on stage and placed third in a recent eisteddfod with her team at a Kingaroy venue.

“I love my teachers and the students I am around and the environment of the studio I go to,” Bella said.

“Dancing makes me feel calm and happy and I love performing on stage for people.”

Gian Recilla, 17

Hip-hop star Gian Recilla has been dancing with the Mayhem Dance Academy for five years and has achieved a lot in a short amount of time.

The talented male dancer was accepted into the company group for the Creative Generation State Schools for five consecutive years, received a scholarship at the studio in his first year and was the highest marked dancer at Harristown State High School.

Gian said the aspects he loves the most about dance is feeling “so free” and being able to express himself with his “body, mind and soul.”

Dad Darryl Smith said while his son’s favourite genre was hip hop and street dance, he also possessed great talent in contemporary, jazz, lyrical, musical theatre and tap.

“His mother and her cousin encouraged him to start, but he was very inspired through dance videos of American dancers, pushing his passion of dance even further,” Mr Smith said.

“I have watched my son grow in stature as a person, as well as in his dancing, being fully committed to that career.”

Gian who has also helped to teach students at the Mayhem Dance Academy for two years, also choreographs routines and is able to show others step-by-step.

When the 17-year-old graduates from high school, he plans to go to a studio on the Gold Coast and aspires to become a professional dancer who travels the world.

Dance Force

Lucinda Love, 15

For Lucinda Love, there’s not a question more difficult to answer than what her favourite genre of dance is, but when pushed, she will say “maybe tap of jazz.”

Lucinda’s mum Sharon Hemsworth said her daughter began dancing at the age of three, after watching her big sister Elouise.

“She liked to watch videos of her sister dancing and attempt to replicate the moves … especially tap,” she said.

“Her dancing journey began in Tasmania and it’s structured very differently down there … we moved to Toowoomba when Lucinda was in grade 4 and this is when she began dancing with Dance Force.

“She loves dancing there and wants to stay until she gets her 10-year jacket.”

Dance Force Toowoomba owner and principal Sarah Hoyling said Lucinda who has been at the studio for seven years, was “one to watch” because of her determination to always try her best.

“Lucinda is a dedicated student who has perfect attendance and dedication to her dance lessons,” Ms Hoyling said.

“She is the perfect student for many reasons including her attitude, performance, sportsmanship and beyond.”

The 15-year-old dancer has also participated in six of the Toowoomba Ballet Theatre’s productions, including The Little Mermaid and two soloist performances.

At the age of just six-years-old, she won first place in her first ever solo for a jazz routine she performed in an eisteddfod in Hobart.

Most recently, she was awarded Age Champion at the Border District Eisteddfod in Stanthorpe.

Lucinda is now looking into dance school options, where she intends to apply when she graduates from high school.

“The discipline and dedication she has learnt from dance will be useful wherever she ends up,” Ms Hemsworth said.

Annie Costigan, 12

Ever since she watched her sister’s dance classes and performances in awe, Emily Costigan knew she wanted to follow suit.

Her mum Emily Costigan said Annie began dancing at the age of three and as she has grown up over the years, her confidence in ballet, contemporary and lyrical dance has too.

“Annie has put much effort and many hours into her dance practice this year, most recently preparing for a jazz exam and a role as a specialist dancer in her school musical,” Ms Costigan said.

“Throughout her years of training, she has attained high results in ballet, jazz and tap exams and she has been the recipient of an acrobatics award.”

Ms Hoyling said while Annie dances all styles, she really shines in her jazz and ballet work.

“Annie has shown amazing improvement in all areas of dance, especially in the last 12 months,” she said.

“Her drive and dedication to her dancing is so wonderful to watch as it grows and blossoms.”

Annie’s has been dancing at Dance Force Toowoomba for seven years.

Her dream is to study dance and dance professionally in the future.

Bluerhythmix Dance

Bluerhythmix Dance owner and principal Danielle O’Sullivan said she put Elena Stahlhut and Micah O’Sullivan forward as they are lead performers with eye-catching techniques and they both have an incredible stage presence.

“Elena and Micah have undertaken technical dance training in Melbourne and Brisbane to improve their knowledge and technique, and have attended in-service training in order to teach dance classes,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

“They are involved in planning concerts, designing and building sets and props, choosing and fitting students’ costumes, designing performance hairstyles and applying stage make-up.”

In addition to studying classical ballet, jazz, tap, hip-hop and contemporary dance through the Highfields dance studio, the pair are also learning the Australian Teachers of Dance curriculum.

Elena Stahlhut, 21

She’s progressed from the role of dancer to teacher and even dabbled in producer from time to time.

Elena Stahlhut lives and breathes the world of dance and has been enrolled at the Highfields-based studio since she was three-years-old.

Starting out in ballet, the now 21-year-old has broadened her experience to include many other genres.

With enthusiasm to give teaching a go, Elena began assisting with classes at the age of 13 and started teaching younger students by the time she was 15.

Fast forward to the present day and the driven leader now teaches eight classes in total, while continuing to balance her own dance classes and studies.

Elena’s mum Ingrid Stahlhut said her daughter will also be dancing in the top level of many genres at the Southern Federation of Dance syllabus next year.

“Elena has always loved dance … her passion and dedication to the studio shines through the work and effort she puts into classes, performances and the organisation of our annual dance concert,” she said.

“The students adore her outgoing and loving personality and we are confident that her passion for dance will never die.”

Elena is set to graduate with a Bachelor of Education from the University of Southern Queensland this year.

Micah O’Sullivan, 18

Ms O’Sullivan who is also the mother to Micah, said her daughter started out at the studio as a ballerina, before finding a love for jazz and other dance styles.

The 18-year-old student who has also received external training to further assist with her technique, has been cast as the lead character Rapunzel at the studio’s end of year concert this year.

“Micah‘s dance quality, technique and ability to teach will mean she has a promising future in dance,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

“She is planning to move to Brisbane to further her career next year and we see a bright future ahead.”

The Toowoomba dancers to watch list includes Micah O’Sullivan.

Starlite Dancers

Tayla Maguire, 14

Starlite Dancers’ Tayla Maguire has a promising future in ballet ahead of her.

Studio director Shandell Reisenleiter said Tayla had been dancing at the Gatton studio for many years and started out dancing in the young ‘Twinke’ stars age group.

Now aged 14, Tayla has gone on to receive an honours for her major ballet exam.

“Tayla is very graceful and very elegant and easy to watch on stage,” Ms Reisenleiter said.

“She has danced in many ballet productions on stage at the Empire Theatre.”

Amber Reisenleiter, 14

Meanwhile Amber Reisenleiter, 14, excels in ballet, jazz, tap and contemporary dance.

The young and driven dancer has been enrolled at the Starlite Dancers studio since she was just three-years-old.

Ms Reisenleiter said Amber would be considered a dancer to watch because she “performs on stage with ease and her style dazzles” audiences.

Pinnacle Dance Academy

Georgina Simpson, 17
Dancing has led to many different avenues for Georgina Simpson who has performed in musicals and now teaches other dances.

The 17-year-old has been dancing with Pinnacle Dance Academy for three years and has impressed studio owner Brittany Ryan, with her dedication and skills.

“Georgina is an incredibly hard worker in each of her classes and outside studio commitments,” she said.

“She has a very keen eye for attention to detail which makes her a brilliant dance and circus student.”

Her growing list of achievements includes her recent casting of Wednesday in The Downlands College production of The Addams Family, placing second in the Toowoomba eisteddfod for a self-choreographed piece and receiving a performing arts scholarship.

Georgina’s mum Rose Simpson said her daughter’s journey with dance started when she was just three-years-old and living in Charleville.

Since relocating to Toowoomba, the talented dancer has competed in cheer, hip-hop, jazz and contemporary dance competitions across the state.

She also assists with teaching circus and contemporary dance choreography classes at the Pinnacle Dance Academy.

Georgina is currently applying for university courses for next year and is tossing up between a musical theatre or dance degree.

Pole Angels

Hayley Beare

Training in gymnastics while she was in school, Hayley Beare has been dancing for close to a decade, but it was years later she would discover her true passion was pole dancing.

The natural performer began taking pole dancing lessons and by 2019, she was entering competitions.

Her most recent win was the Amateur Champion for Pole Expressions in Brisbane and when she was selected as a finalist in Miss Pole Dance Queensland.

But when she’s not taking to the stage herself, Hayley is teaching and empowering others through her own pole dancing studio business Pole Angels.

“I teach beginners through to elite pole dancers,” she said.

“I really enjoy teaching and particularly enjoy choreographing competition routines for my students.”

Grace Lim

You would think classical ballet and pole dancing are polar opposites and in many ways they are, but Grace Lim has managed to excel in both genres.

The classically trained ballet dancer began performing as a contemporary dancer after she studied dance full-time at university.

Then she discovered pole dancing and the incredible skills and talents involved in the genre.

“I started pole dancing almost two years ago and fell in love with the diversity of this genre, the strength it gives you both physically and mentally and the amazing community of women that I gained through it,” Ms Lim said.

“Starting at Pole Angels Toowoomba was one of the best decisions I made since moving here … Hayley and her team as well as the supportive group of angels there helped me gain back confidence in myself and I have grown so much since then.”

Pole Angels director Hayley Beare said she put herself forward as well as Grace, as they were the studio’s most recent pole dancers to win first place in competitions.

“Grace started pole dancing lessons with Pole Angels in November 2020,” Ms Beare said.

“She developed and progressed very quickly (and) recently won an amateur champion at the Hardcore Pole Dancing Championships in Sydney.”

The talented pole dancer plans to continue competing and hopes to one day teach classes too.

Originally published as Stars on stage: 28 of Toowoomba’s up-and-coming dancers