The Dancers Journey with Danzart

Dear Miss Kellie,

It's been just over a year since I've moved to the United Kingdom and there have been so many wonderful, new experiences I've had. I’ve travelled to 13 countries and 55 cities. I’ve made some wonderful new friends, as well as strengthened some friendships from home. I’ve lived in three different parts of London and have changed jobs four times.

... I consider the main achievement of my time here so far to be securing the role of touring physiotherapist with Dirty Dancing the musical. On reflection of this, I realised I could not have achieved this goal without your mentorship.

….I quickly saw that my time at Danzart had prepared me well. I was able to combine everything I was taught at university, with all the things I learnt from you at Danzart Studio.

Working with these professional performers made me realise how lucky I was to be taught by some amazing teachers. Even though most of the cast have been to drama school and received some form of high level, intense dance training, it's amazing how often certain basic technique principles are forgotten. Something as simple as backward port de bras technique becomes so important in a show like Dirty Dancing with all the backbends, and yet, despite them being amazing dancers and looking incredible on stage, many of them have very little awareness of this. This is just one example, but not a day passes that I don't draw on something I learnt at Danzart.

Spending my youth juggling general life, study, work and dance has given me other skills too. I am able to efficiently manage my time and prioritise so that I can get my work done efficiently. I am able to work independently as well as within a team and communicate clearly so that everyone is on the same page. I have learnt the importance of commitment and dedication and enjoy the feeling of delayed gratification. The sense of accomplishment that washes over you when you finally achieve a goal you have worked so hard to attain is amazing.

I cannot thank you enough for all the effort you put into our development, Miss Kellie. The countless hours of planning, rehearsals, competitions and exams, as well as regular classes, have all contributed to who I am today. You have provided us with so many wonderful memories and life lessons that will stick with all of those who have become part of the Danzart community for many years.

Thank you for pushing us to our full potential, for giving us a space to express ourselves, and for giving us a sense of community. Thank you for your drive to deliver a dance studio with great teachers and students who understand the importance of good technique. Thank you so much for your dedication, commitment and passion. I am so grateful for everything and wouldn't be where I am today without you. You're an amazing woman and an excellent role model in life.

….thank you once again from the bottom of my heart. Keep inspiring those young minds to follow their dreams.

Kind regards,

Grace

Grace Williams

BPhty (Hons) APAM MCSP
Physiotherapist

Grace graduating from University of Qld

Grace dancing on Hollywood Boulevard Danzart on tour 2012

Grace with the cast of "Dirty Dancing".  Physio to the company.