Australia’s Billy Elliot: Minlaton boy Edward Liebelt is dancing his way to a career on the stage

A country dad has given up his man cave and built a dance studio to give his son the best chance of achieving his professional dream 200km from the big smoke.

He’s the 13-year-old Minlaton boy with a passion for dancing and performing.

He may live 200km away from the nearest major city, nothing is going to stop Edward Liebelt from taking centre stage.

“When I was little I always wanted to do cartwheels and stuff around the house so mum put me in an acro class and then I wanted to be put in more classes and I just fell in love from there,” Edward said.

Edward Liebelt has been nominated in The Advertiser’s Best Dancer Compeition. Picture: Tony Collins Photography

The 13-year-old from Minlaton has been compared to Billy Elliot. Picture: Tony Collins Photography

The young dancer completes six to eight hours of dance classes a week with his Yorke Peninsula dance school, Footlight Dance Experience and with dance teachers from Sydney and Queensland over Zoom.

While his story may have some similarities to the tale of Billy Elliot, Edward’s family have supported him every step of the way, with mum, Brooke Liebelt driving thousands of kilometres a year to ensure he makes it to his lessons and competitions.

“When we noticed that Edward was doing more and more dance (my husband) very kindly, gave up his man cave and turned it into a dance studio,” Ms Liebelt said.

“He installed some mirrors and got a piece of wood that Edward uses as a floor.

“It is a huge commitment but as a parent, when you see him have such great passion for being on the stage it is all worth it.”

During his short but successful career, Edward has competed in various competitions across the country, often returning with hoards of medals and trophies.

“It is probably bad me saying this but when I get a trophy I feel very happy because I have worked so hard for this,” he said.

“I just love (dancing) so much and just enjoy it.”

Edward Liebelt with awards after a national competition. Picture: Supplied

While his skills extend across a range of dancing genres, Edward said his favourite styles are musical theatre, lyrical and contemporary and has his sights set on one day joining the prestigious Brent Street dance school based in NSW.

“I would really love to do it full time as a job,” he said.

“I just want to do it all the time.”

Edward has been nominated as the South Australia best dancer for 2024.

If you or someone you know deserves the title, click here to nominate now. Nominations are still open and will close on Tuesday, October 1 at 8am.

Finalists being put to a vote and the winner will be announced at a later date.

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Originally published as Australia’s Billy Elliot: Minlaton boy Edward Liebelt is dancing his way to a career on the stage