Welcome to the May Downs School of Dancing, one of Australia's longest-running dance schools located in Melbourne. Established over 100 years ago, the school has a rich history and has produced numerous successful professional performing artists in stage, film, and TV.
May Downs School of Dancing was founded by May Downs herself and is now led by Miss Renie Ann Martini, who has been dedicated to the school for over 40 years. Miss Renie was honoured with an OAM (Order of Australia Medal) in 2013 for her outstanding contribution to the performing arts, specifically in dance education. She is known not only for her exceptional dance teaching skills but also for instilling important life skills and discipline in her students.
Supporting Miss Renie is the principal team consisting of Mr. Thomas Lacey and Miss Georgia Lacey. Both Thomas and Georgia have been trained at the May Downs School of Dancing since they were just 2 and 3 years old, respectively. They have gone on to achieve remarkable success in the performing arts, including leading roles in musical theatre productions, TV appearances, and performing at the prestigious Moulin Rouge in Paris.
The school offers a wide range of classes that cater to students of all ages, starting from 2-year-olds to adults. The classes include jazz, tap, ballet, musical theatre, acrobatics, contemporary, hip hop, singing, and drama. Students have the opportunity to pursue internationally recognised dance exams in RAD ballet, CSTD tap, and Acrobatic Arts syllabi. Additionally, the school encourages students to participate in various competitions throughout the year at different eisteddfods.
The highlight of the year is the end-of-year concert, which showcases the talent and hard work of the students.
May Downs School of Dancing prides itself on providing a caring and nurturing family environment. This extends from the seniors to the youngest dancers, with a remarkable number of over 60 boys enrolled in the school. The teachers at May Downs School of Dancing are a highly skilled and experienced team, including Renie Ann Martini, Tyrone Anthony, Cindy Delaney, Fiona Lacey, Thomas Lacey, Louise Bell, Angela Hill, Georgia Lacey, Jacquie Clarke, Samantha Kosky, and Rhylee Pin.
For those interested in joining the May Downs School of Dancing, registration for upcoming classes is now open for early 2024. To get in touch with the school, you can contact them at 0407 487 666 or via email at maydownsdance@outlook. Com. The school has two convenient locations: the City Studio located at 239 A'Beckett St, Melbourne VIC 3000, with classes held on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, and the Templestowe Studio at 284 Thompsons Rd, Lower Templestowe, 3107, with classes held on Tuesday.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned dancer, the May Downs School of Dancing has something for everyone. Join their esteemed dance community and embark on a journey of passion, growth, and success in the performing arts.