With two decades of experience, Leesa boasts a twenty-year teaching career in dance, during which she has held the esteemed role of Principal within her own studio network for the past fifteen years. Her expertise encompasses the training of dancers at all levels in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, and Hip Hop. Beyond nurturing technical prowess, Leesa derives joy from instilling in her students a profound appreciation for the sheer delight of this exquisite art form.
Leesa's influence extends internationally, including teaching and consultancy work through Asia including the Singapore Ballet Company. She has graced the professional dance sphere and conducted nationally and internationally celebrated workshops. Notably, Leesa holds the distinction of being the first fully licensed Pilates practitioner (Australian Institute of Pilates, Stott Pilates) in the western region beyond the Blue Mountains.
Her creative acumen has also been showcased as the mastermind behind a team of instructors who clinched second place in the International Dance Gala in Prague.
Leesa is married to Aaron, together they have two children Phoenix and Ariella.
Bachelor Degree in Training and Development - University of New England
Advanced Certificate in Dance - Queensland University of Technology
Advanced Diploma of Management - TAFE NSW
Certificate IV in Finance - The National Finance Institute
AASCF Level 1 Coach - Allstars Cheer and Dance
The art of dance became a passion for Coralie (Coach Cozi) since she was a child. In high school, she participated in the school Rock Eisteddfod and served as Stage Manager for two years. It was in 2002 that she performed at Disneyland as well as schools in Washington DC.
Since 2004, she has been coaching and training cheerleaders and has accumulated an extensive amount of experience successfully preparing teams for competitions held in Sydney. She has also choreographed many routines for cheer schools and taught at a high level for many years.
Coz believes cheerleading is not just about routines. She wants to ensure that our cheerleaders are strong and fit enough to perform their stunts safely and successfully. To achieve this, she incorporates strength and conditioning into her cheerleading program. She believes this holistic approach helps cheerleaders to be physically and mentally prepared for their performances.
In 2013 she moved to Orange (from Sydney) and had her 4 children (Vinnie, Bowie, Louis & Sylvie). But, there was still something missing! Cheer! She’s excited to get back into the sport and have some fun!
Certificate III and IV Fitness
AASCF Level 2 Coach
Mossa Club Trainer, Blast, Power, Active, Ride/R30, Centergy, Core & Groove
ACE Boxing Skills & Fitness
Ash's passion for dance ignited well before her formal training began at the age of three. From an early start, she immersed herself in diverse genres, gracing the stage with group performances and captivating solos across ballet, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, musical theatre, song and dance, as well as national character routines. Her journey included competing in numerous eisteddfods both in groups and as a soloist, alongside successful completion of jazz, tap, and ballet exams (intermediate RAD).
Since the age of 13, Ash has been an integral part of the Orange Theatre Company, lending her talents to a repertoire of productions including standout performances in "The Witches of Eastwick," "The Phantom of the Opera," "Singing in the Rain," and an array of others. Her creative prowess was further evidenced in her role as assistant choreographer for Orange Theatre Company's production of 'Seussical.'
Ash possesses an abundance of experience and unwavering enthusiasm in cultivating meaningful connections with her students, fostering their unique expressions and confidence within an inclusive and nurturing environment.
AASCF Dance Coach
Acrobatic Dance Association Certification
Lara seamlessly harmonises her passion for movement with a flair for music. Currently embarking on a Bachelor of Secondary Education, with a specialisation in Physical Education, her dedication to learning mirrors her commitment to teaching.
Lara's journey as a performer ignited at an early age, and since the tender age of 18, she has adeptly navigated her career as a touring country music artist. The stage has been her canvas, and her self-management prowess has been the brush that paints her success.
Her artistic journey encountered a defining chapter at 17, when she earned a scholarship to undertake intensive Musical Theatre studies at Brent Street.
Across nine years, she has been a stalwart dance and singing instructor, her expertise spanning the gamut fromKindergarten to High School levels. Guided by the wisdom of her mentor, Aryana Lamont, she upholds the virtues of compassion, dependability, and patience as cornerstones of her teaching philosophy.
Beyond the studio's four walls, her impact reverberates through diverse student profiles, including those navigating autism, anxiety and depression. Her passionate advocacy for mental well-being finds expression in the creation of a nurturing atmosphere, where she serves not just as an educator but as a beacon of positive influence.
In the intricate tapestry of her role as a dance teacher, musician, and educator, her purpose remains unwavering — igniting creative sparks within her students, nurturing their holistic growth, and leaving an indelible mark on their artistic journey here
Bachelor of Secondary Education
Diploma of Musical Theatre
Certificate III in Education Support
From an early age, Gracie's fascination with dance and movement was evident. However, it wasn't until the age of 10 that she discovered her genuine passion when she was introduced to the world of cheerleading.
Since 2014, Gracie has been honing her skills and nurturing her work ethic at United Dance Project. This nurturing studio environment has allowed her to refine her techniques across a range of disciplines including Jazz, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Musical Theatre, Acro, and Cheerleading.
Gracie's performance journey has been diverse, encompassing participation in eisteddfods, concerts, and cheer competitions. Her accomplishments extend to noteworthy appearances in the Nxtgen Project, the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation, and the Cancer Council Stars of Orange Ball.
As a Level 2 cheer coach, Gracie fosters an environment of teamwork, camaraderie, and unwavering commitment to the world of cheerleading.
Gracie's passion lies in igniting a love for cheerleading, acro, and dance within her students
AASCF Level 2 Coach
The Acrobatic Dance Association Certification
At the young age of 4, Maddie embarked on her dance journey, an endeavor that immediately captured her heart with its artistic essence and the valuable life skills it imparted. Since joining the United Dance Project family in 2014, Maddie's passion for dance has only grown stronger.
Participating in a myriad of guest choreographer workshops, both within the guidance of United Dance Project and beyond its walls, Maddie's dedication has shone. Over the past three years, she has embraced opportunities to contribute, whether it's assisting with teaching, greeting students and families in the foyer, or honing her customer service skills, all while welcoming countless smiling faces into the studio.
Maddie's achievements extend to her successful audition and subsequent selection for the Nxtgen project in 2021. This transformative experience immersed her in a real-time production scenario, attending classes under the tutelage of Sydney's esteemed choreographers. Maddie navigated the pressures of learning and performing, mirroring the challenges faced by professionals in the performing arts industry. Armed with newfound insights, this experience, combined with the nurturing atmosphere of the studio, ignited a desire within Maddie to impart her knowledge through teaching.
As a teacher, Maddie is steadfast in channeling her dance expertise and personal journey into her students' lives. With hopes of not only conveying her skills but also providing them with even more, she follows in the footsteps of her own mentors, aiming to inspire and shape the dancers of tomorrow
Mental Wellness Dance Educator - level 1
The Acrobatic Dance Association Certification
At the tender age of 7, Clare's dance odyssey commenced as she became a part of the United Dance Project Family, instantly falling in love of dance and the nurturing ambiance of the studio. Throughout her journey, she has delved into an array of dance genres, including Ballet, Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Tap, cheerleading and Pointe, honing her skills under the studio's encouraging roof.
Clare's voyage has been marked by a tapestry of experiences. From engaging in group Eistedfodds, solos, AASCF Cheer Competitions and Championships, to embracing the challenges of Ballet and Tap exams, Stars of Orange Ball, Light the Night events, and annual concerts, her journey has been diverse and fulfilling. Beyond these accomplishments, Clare's foray extended to a Music Video collaboration with Megan Woods and Harry Seckold, as well as participation in the Nxtgen Project and her school's competitive dance team.
A quest for learning led Clare to partake in an array of workshops, including the Australian Ballet in Canberra, the immersive Brent Street Intensive Camp and tour, and the Maddie & Mackenzie Ziegler Workshop. These experiences have enriched her knowledge and deepened her understanding of the art of dance.
With enthusiasm radiating, Clare looks forward to charting her future in the world of dance with UDP. Her aspiration includes sharing her profound affection for dance with others, embodying the studio's core values of trust, respect, leadership, thankfulness, and development. This journey also involves pursuing her Certificate 4 in Dance Teaching & Management, affirming her commitment to growth and excellence in the realm of dance
AASCF Level 1 Coach
The Acrobatic Dance Association Certification
Becca's devotion for dance ignited at the age of 3. Since 2010, she has found her artistic home at United Dance Project, guided by the guidance of Miss Leesa. Within this creative haven, Becca has diligently honed her dance abilities through engaging in an array of classes spanning jazz, contemporary, hip hop, ballet, and cheerleading. Demonstrating her commitment to learning, she has also been a vital aid in mini stars and junior dance classes, broadening her horizons in the realm of dance education.
Her journey aligns seamlessly with United's cherished values of trust, teamwork, respect, leadership, thankfulness, and personal growth. Becca's passion is vividly expressed through her teaching efforts, where she strives to empower her students to attain their utmost potential, and to serve as an influencer in their dance pursuits.
Becca's active participation in numerous workshops and competitions is a clear demonstration of her strong desire for personal growth. Her talent has shone on stage at events like the Schools Spectacular and Western Dance Ensemble. Eager to evolve, Becca is currently studying for a Certificate 4 in Dance Teaching and Management. This reflects her dedication to self-improvement and valuable contributions to the dance community.
AASCF Level 1 Coach
The Acrobatic Dance Association Certification
Claudia’s dance journey started at the tender age of 4 years old when she fell in love with this form of self expression. She has not ever stopped dancing since.
Claudia joined the United Dance Project family in 2013 and thrived in the inclusive and encouraging environment. During this time she has been provided many performance opportunities including eisteddfods, concerts and AASCF Cheer Competitions. Claudia also danced in Orange’s Dance for Cancer in 2018 alongside one of the featured “Stars.”
Outside of the United Dance Project Studio, Claudia was a part of the Orange Theatre Company’s production of Legally Blonde, has danced as a part of dance ensembles in the Schools Spectacular, participated in the Western Dance Festival and performed at many school concerts and eisteddfods. She obtained an A in dance for her ROSA, has led a Primary School Dance Development programme and choreographed a number of dance performances.
As a Junior Teacher, Claudia is committed to fostering self confidence, teamwork, friendship, perseverance and a love of the performing arts.
How to begin to describe a person so uniquely special? Integrity, talent, commitment all scratch the surface of this truly amazing person. What we admire most about our beautiful Miss Steph was the love she had for people, living each moment to express her joy for people through the gift of dance.
She had the most amazing ability to enjoy her time with every dancer and allowed each to feel comfortable and free to dance fearlessly. Hundreds of children each week had the pleasure of spending many hours a week with this one of a kind, positive and amazing individual. It has been an absolute joy to be a part of Steph’s life, although much too short, it was a life well lived! Steph was a determined visionary, a faith filled, goal orientated caring person who loved life and all that it offered.
We have so many cherished stories, moments and memories to hold close, we are all so fortunate to have spent these precious years in Steph’s company. One things for certain, there are a whole bunch of United Dance family members excited to share these memories and Steph’s joy for dance with Eiva in the future!
Steph was one of a kind and will be deeply missed as a dear friend, colleague, role model and teacher.
“Forever dancing in high places”
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